Social networks are amazing tools for growing one’s business. However, it is possible to do more harm that good on networks like Facebook, Linkedin or even Twitter. Here are the top five ways to actually lose clients on social networks:
- No profile picture– Let’s be honest here, talking to a faceless person is just plain strange, if not spooky. In fact, that is very much like showing up to a networking event with a ski mask on and handing out business cards. Those without pictures on social networks are very often rejected when they send friend requests.
- Murky description– It is imperative that professionals provide clear and concise information about the organizations that they represent on social networks. Be clear, post links to the website and even media such as video or pictures when appropriate.
- Not being “social”– Simply logging on once a month and making a few updates is not going to cut it. Anyone that is not making genuine connections online is simply wasting their time.
- Inappropriate Comments– This is a big one. While the point of social networks is to be “social”, one should keep in mind that they are opening themselves up to the ENTIRE WORLD. I’ve seen status updates on Facebook and Twitter that have been amazingly inappropriate made by business professionals and even future political figures. Professionals should assume when writing anything that they have a huge bullhorn in a large crowd. Furthermore, statements are recorded forever. I personally know of many individuals that have tarnished their image with online networks and they likely do not even know that they have driven potential clients away that were either offended, or generally lost respect for them.
- Hard Selling– Say it with me- “SOCIAL networks!” No one wants to be advertised at on social networks. There is nothing wrong with promoting a business, but it should not be in the 1980’s method of billboard advertising of just plain being repetitive. No one wants to develop a reputation as being “that annoying guy” that is always trying to sell someone something. Those people are constantly deleted, unfollowed (Twitter) or even marked as spammers. Professionals on social networks should always aim to be one or more of the following:
- Interesting
- Entertaining
- Informative
Be likeable, be clear and ad value!
On point. I especially agree with #4.
Great info
Crystal,
Thanks so much for this post. I posted something a few weeks ago that I thought might not be a good idea. It wasn’t terribly tacky in anyway but what I did think about was how others may have perceived the post. This reaffirms for me how careful I need to be. I think some of it for me is the fact that so many of my facebook friends are either relatives or personal friends. With that probably being the case for many business owners the lines sometimes get murky or we just get way too relaxed. Thanks
@ J Falls- great point. That’s why a decision has to be made in the very beginning…Is this social network being used for strictly social purposes or to grow a business? If it is to grow a business, you may have to censor comments made to friends and family. Furthermore, you may have to delete or not add certain friends and family!
“#1 – In fact, that is very much like showing up to a networking event with a ski mask on and handing out business cards. ”
That’s the funniest thing I’ve heard in 5 days !! HILARIOUS !!
The information was very helpful, I will keep it in mine especially #4 and #5. Thanks
Hey Crystal. Great article. It’s funny that you mention #5. Yesterday I had a conversation with my 18 year old sister about the same topic. She was complaining about someone who “tries to market himself” but ends up sounding rude and unprofessional.
Just goes to show that social media tools can be used in a variety of ways and which ever method you so choose, choose wisely and be ready for whatever consequences may come.
Very true!
You hit the ball outta the park with this one! I blocked a person’s comments from appearing in my status feeds because he was a chattering influx of spam mail. I find that for myself, after I find a person interesting, then I wonder “what does this person do?”
Also, Facebook now has a feature that you can direct posts to certain individuals, while blocking others from seeing it. Now that’s what I call mixing business with pleasure!
Thank you!
Thanks Nakia! Social media spam is just as annoying, if not moreso than email spam.