How does the saying go?"No man is and island unto himself."
The idea could not have been more accurate in the world of social media. Why else would someone join the social media sphere if they were not planning on being social. The idea of becoming social leads users into an online world where ideas are exchanged, shared, commented and referenced in a matter of seconds. The world within social networks is a bustling metropolis of millions upon millions of conversations.
Conversations are the key to success in the social media sphere. Listed here are 1o reasons why they are so vital.
1. Conversation reveals your identity: In other words, through connecting within the network, you establish your online persona that should accurately reflect who you are in real life, this is called transparency.
2. Conversation promotes community: Who enjoys going to a party where people are just standing around? Who likes mixers where people are quiet and staring off into space? Conversation brings people together!
3. Conversation gets you involved: Your digital footprint is determined by how involved you are in the networks you participate in. You don't get points for lurking on the sites, participation is key.
4. Conversation builds expertise: Interaction with others on topics you are well versed on establishes your credibility as the "go to" person on certain topics. People will put more value in your content and share with others.
5. Conversation opens doors: More and more often I'm hearing of opportunities being offered to individuals active with their online social networks. Whether it's an invitation to be a speaker at an event, provide consulting expertise, so simply be a guest on a site or a show, their conversation was heard and people are responding.
6. Conversation creates conflict: Too often people have a negative connotation of the word conflict. Not all conflict is bad, and can be utilized to promote effective change, increase awareness, or provide a healthy discussion. Either way, don't be afraid to share your voice.
7. Conversations provide content: I can't tell you how often conversation has provided me ideas for content on my videos, my blog, and my podcasts. I take what piques my interest and build on it, developing the idea to further build on the conversation.
8. Conversation attracts attention: If you're new on the scene and you're looking to be noticed, jump into the conversation, whether you're commenting on blogs, leaving video of yourself on YouTube, or writing your own blog, it's the quickest way to make a splash!
9. Conversation can generate profit: Are you in business? What's the best form of free advertising? Word of mouth! Conversation can generate a buzz on a product or service for any brand willing to take the opportunity to extend itself into the world of social media.
10. Conversation builds understanding: There are a lot of problems in our day and age that are not just issues of national concern, but of global concerns. Conversation breeds understanding to develop answers and make progress in finding solutions for the future. The President-elect, Barack Obama, has utilized social media as a tool to build understanding between himself and Americans.
Conversation truly is key, and by continuing to participate you fuse yourself into key roles whether you know it or not.
Photo Credit netzkobold, Daniel F. Pigatto
