The Avenues of Social Media
There are three popular branches of social media that business professionals can take advantage of: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Facebook and LinkedIn are very similar in setup and purpose, except LinkedIn is reserved for professional use and Facebook is open to everyone on a personal level. The purpose of both LinkedIn and Facebook is to share history, interests, and information with like-minded people. Networking through both of these channels is easier than ever. Twitter is a conversation tool where users post 140-character thoughts, links, and tid-bits throughout the day to their followers.
How to Create a Successful Social Media Profile
Building a strong profile is paramount to success. Remember, when members of a potential network access your profile this is their first impression of you. Professionalism as opposed to goofy is always preferred, even though being accessible and friendly is encouraged. For more extensive systems like LinkedIn and Facebook, which give you opportunities to express yourself and link to other areas you influence (such as a website or blog), write informatively and intelligently. Give viewers the opportunity to realize that you are an expert in your area. For a social media tool like Twitter, it is important not to get bogged down in fun or asinine updates, but rather to strive for informative and intelligent messages. Linking to interesting articles, writing about an event, asking questions and starting conversations are better for business than telling your followers you just drank a cup of coffee.
Stay Active
Creating profiles in Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook is only the first step. Having a strong profile is going to get your nowhere if it is stagnant. Working with your social media should be integrated into every day, just like answering emails and scheduling meetings. Follow people and seek out networking opportunities. Remain a presence in topical conversations; have an opinion. You will appreciate where these opportunities lead.
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About the Author:
Emma Wilson is a social media maven who works closely with Trump University (known as Trump U).
