5 Ways to Best Use Social Media

10+ years ago we were so blessed with the great technological manifestation of social media.  It really is quite fascinating that we can be there with our loved ones for pivotal moments and in some cases, real time.  To take in life through photographs, articles, blogs, videos and so much more is truly a revolutionary act for all generations.  We, millennials, are good for something.  We are bringing teaching our ancestors and our predecessors the ways of the world, from various perspectives that older generations couldn’t even imagine and newer generations haven’t quite figured out how to best practice.  In light of that notion, social media often gets used for the portrayal of our finest things and the best of our lives.  Moreover, it often gets used in questionable ways by users who could simply use some social media usage tips.  I’ve been working in social media for more than six years and have seen major brands and small brands scrutinized for how they utilize social media.  The power of it is exponentially astounding in its effect.  Therefore, I present to you: 5 Ways to Best Use Social Media. 

1.    Share Positivity 
Breaking News is happening every day.  It may be tough for your audiences to deal with so much negativity.  Be sure to shine your light in this world.  Focus your social media content on being real, but finding the silver lining.  For example, for 9/11, try posting something personal, yet commemorative.  

EXAMPLE:  “I remember sitting in my 7th-grade class, not really understanding the truth of the moment, but feeling the moment through my teacher’s actions.  It was also my sister-in-law’s birthday, but my young mind stayed steady in the moment as I watched smoke blare from the twin towers.  It wasn’t until I got older that I learned to be extra cognizant of acknowledging both occasions appropriately. My thoughts and prayers go out to those who lost loved ones.  September 11th was the day I learned to hold mine a little tighter and love a little harder."  

2.    Use it as a tool to Learn
According to Inc.com, top business leaders, such as Oprah, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett and more often spend five hours per week doing deliberate learning.  That includes reading, reflecting, practicing and more.  Use social media to learn something new.  Take a twitter poll.  Make a poll.  Ask a question to be enlightened on a matter.  Share LEGITIMATE articles.  

3.    Minimize Hounding People 
Don’t get me wrong, Social Media can be used to sell things but only on appropriate channels and in appropriate ways. Show your audience how your products have worked for YOU!  Then, just share a link of how they worked for you!  Don’t “SPAM” people by tagging them in things over and over again or hassling them.  

4.    Refrain from Bragging 
It’s okay to represent yourself and your lifestyle.  Be tasteful in how you showcase material possessions.  A bag or your body is not all you have to offer.  You may be great and 99% perfect, let your audience decide that, not you.  Share real moments!  

5.    Keep Your Personal Life Personal
A picture and a caption are my rule of thumb for social media.  Keep it general.  The things going on with you, your family and friends, GOOD or BAD don’t have to digress on social outlets.   It often leads to cyber bullying and negativity.  

P.S. I don’t write the rules.  P.S. I don’t “right” the rules.  Do what you will with what you want.  No judgments on my behalf.  I serve as a consultant.  

Love, 
Your Favorite Social Media Manager 
Jasmine Hockett 

Triple P.S. I am taking clients if you’d like help self-branding or business branding.  
Send inquiries to  socialbusiness@agency24.org