Hello all!
So recently I've been pouring over websites, blogs, Facebook pages, and page after page of Google searches trying to learn more about social media. I'm a new author, and as I read and learn more and more, I realize, a rather naive one too. I'm starting to get the hang of things though; live and learn, ya? Facebook was by far the easiest platform for me to advertise and build a following. Twitter, while easy in concept, seems much slower to build.
The main thing I found about all of the social media sites in regards to building an audience and marketing a brand is this: The best relationships are build by simply helping out others with no expectations of reciprocation. Like in life, social media is about building friendships, and friendships only last if both parties have something to give. A one way relationship is doomed to failure from the start. Also, just like in a relationship, someone has to put themselves out there first, namely you! Your best bet is to get out there and start helping others.
There are so many great sites out there filled with people at all levels of experience. Below is a list of resources that I've found very helpful, but the bottom line is, like I stated before, do for others first, and don't expect anything in return. When you find someone that appreciates what you've done, hold onto them, and keep building on that friendship. Keep helping them in any way that you can. Be honest about your expectations, and abilities. People will respect you more for it. Don't be afraid of asking, but realize that there are only so many hours in the day, and you might just get a No. It's ok. Keep going, and eventually you'll find the Yes.
So recently I've been pouring over websites, blogs, Facebook pages, and page after page of Google searches trying to learn more about social media. I'm a new author, and as I read and learn more and more, I realize, a rather naive one too. I'm starting to get the hang of things though; live and learn, ya? Facebook was by far the easiest platform for me to advertise and build a following. Twitter, while easy in concept, seems much slower to build.
The main thing I found about all of the social media sites in regards to building an audience and marketing a brand is this: The best relationships are build by simply helping out others with no expectations of reciprocation. Like in life, social media is about building friendships, and friendships only last if both parties have something to give. A one way relationship is doomed to failure from the start. Also, just like in a relationship, someone has to put themselves out there first, namely you! Your best bet is to get out there and start helping others.
There are so many great sites out there filled with people at all levels of experience. Below is a list of resources that I've found very helpful, but the bottom line is, like I stated before, do for others first, and don't expect anything in return. When you find someone that appreciates what you've done, hold onto them, and keep building on that friendship. Keep helping them in any way that you can. Be honest about your expectations, and abilities. People will respect you more for it. Don't be afraid of asking, but realize that there are only so many hours in the day, and you might just get a No. It's ok. Keep going, and eventually you'll find the Yes.
LINKS
Facebook:
http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/20-ways-to-promote-your-facebook-fan-page/
This was a great resource for Facebook. Well written in a clear concise manner that even a newbie like me could easily grasp.
Twitter:
http://michaelhyatt.com/12-ways-to-get-more-twitter-followers.html
There are tons of these little blogs about twitter, but I liked this one by Michael Hyatt the best.
Linkedin:
http://smallbusiness.chron.com/create-relationships-via-linkedin-business-11174.html
When I first started networking I knew little to nothing about this great business resource. This was the first blog I found in regards to it. It is short sweat and to the point.
Blogging:
http://www.problogger.net/31-days-to-building-a-better-blog/
A resource rich page on everything you could want to know about building a better blog.
There are tons more... way to much to include here. If you find this information helpful make sure to Like, Tweet, and share via comments. As I said, I'm new to all this, so comments with resources you've found would be wonderful.
Facebook:
http://www.socialmediaexaminer.com/20-ways-to-promote-your-facebook-fan-page/
This was a great resource for Facebook. Well written in a clear concise manner that even a newbie like me could easily grasp.
Twitter:
http://michaelhyatt.com/12-ways-to-get-more-twitter-followers.html
There are tons of these little blogs about twitter, but I liked this one by Michael Hyatt the best.
Linkedin:
http://smallbusiness.chron.com/create-relationships-via-linkedin-business-11174.html
When I first started networking I knew little to nothing about this great business resource. This was the first blog I found in regards to it. It is short sweat and to the point.
Blogging:
http://www.problogger.net/31-days-to-building-a-better-blog/
A resource rich page on everything you could want to know about building a better blog.
There are tons more... way to much to include here. If you find this information helpful make sure to Like, Tweet, and share via comments. As I said, I'm new to all this, so comments with resources you've found would be wonderful.