Being in Austin at SXSW Interactive has given me the opportunity to talk to some amazing people in the social media space. I’ve chatted with some of the most influential internet celebs, marketing masters, and social media pros such as PR Sarah Evans, Sloane Barrent, Shauna Causey, Chris Brogan, Brian Solis, Julia Roy, and Jolie O’Dell.
These folks all have one thing in common: an enormous online audience. They’ve built communities, are passionate about their area of expertise, and know how to harness the power of social media. So why should you care? Is there anything nonprofits can learn from their success on the web?
But of course!
I’ve put together a list of 5 tips that have resonated with my conversations with these folks and here’s how they translate to you and your nonprofit organization.
- Good Old Fashioned Face-to-Face Time is Key.
Building an online community doesn’t mean spending your entire life on Twitter or Facebook. Engaging with your network of supporters IRL (“in real life” as the cool kids say) should be a priority for your organization and your social media strategy. - Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is.
If you want to be influential, you have to build your street cred. How can you build your street cred if you’re not really doing the things you say you’re going to do? And what better way to show those actions than through social media? - Define Your “3 Things”.
PR Sarah Evans asked me a simple but very powerful question. “What are the 3 things you’d want people to know you for?” Ask yourself and your organization that question, and write it down. Defining what you want people to know you best for is key to building a successful blog, brand, social media interactions, or whatever tool your organization is working with. - Listen, Listen, & Listen Some More.
Since social media is so in your face, you can’t hide behind vague communications, scripted responses, and constant overselling. Social media should be SOCIAL! Be transparent with your network of supporters. Ask them (appropriate) personal questions, get to know them, include them in your decision making, and have fun! - Embrace the Spontaneity of Random Conversations.
Don’t be afraid to go outside of structured exchanges. You can find some of the best people, conversations, and networking opportunities when you can engage openly, spontaneously, and on the fly.
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Tags: Brian Solis, Chris Brogan, Julia roy, Shauna Causey, Sloane Barrent, social media tips, SxSW
Great post Kerrie! Taki TTaking your
Thanks Noland!!! You’re taking my advice? You’re a smart man