One of the things I love the most about social media is the fact that authenticity is supported and encouraged. Social media tools are really designed to let you share your life, who you are, and your business. They allow you be a real, 3 dimensional person online and this has tremendous value.
Going back to the fact that people do business with people that they know, like and trust. The first step is know – you have to allow people to get to know you. And social media tools offer you many ways for people to get to know you. But, only if you let them. It is important to share not only your business side, but also some of your personal side – the part that makes you who you are! Share photos, talk about the TV shows you are watching, the songs you listen to, the books you are reading. These are the bits of information that will connect you to others. There are many real estate agents who know what you know, but you are the only one who loves Glee, like me, and enjoys mystery novels, so you are who I want to work with. Because we have a connection beyond I need to sell a house, and you sell houses. Now, you still have to show me that you are knowledeable, and professional, and know what you are doing – but on top of all of that, also show me some of who you are outside of work.
It is kind of like when you are applying for college – and the schools want to see you are a well rounded student – you have to have the grades, but also extra curricular activities and volunteer work and whatever else that sets you apart from all the other students with the same grades. This is what social media does for your business – gives you the tools to show you are well rounded. That you are a real person. And I think that is pretty awesome!
