Blog: Social Media Tip of The Day – Build Relationships, Not Just Followers

Social media can seem like a numbers game—all about who gets the most followers and who can do it the fastest. But, in truth, it’s not the numbers that converts them into customers; it’s the relationships. A sense of trust is hard enough to establish in real life, let alone online.

Keep it real

• Transparency is highly valued by social media users. Be authentic, open and invite readers in. 
• Talk about a new project you’re working on.
• Share stories.
• Be honest about your own mistakes. Own them, before someone else does

When your audience gets a sense that they’re seeing the real you, that’s the first step towards friendship.

Listen

• Pay attention to what they say.
• Ask questions.
• Respond to their content.
• Share their stories.
• Get a better sense of what they like and be prepared to provide relevant content.

Good listening skills are Friendship 101. Show other social media users you genuinely care.

Be Generous

• Look for ways to reach out and give to your audience.
• Answer their questions.
• Promote the projects they’re working on.
• If someone leaves a thoughtful comment on your site, email him or her a personal response.

A person who has friends must show themselves friendly.

Keep the conversation going

• Look for ways to engage your audience on a regular basis.
• Vary the method(s) you choose.
• End some posts with questions.
• Reach out for feedback.
• Run surveys and/or polls.

Reaching out to followers once is good; reaching out to them regularly is better.

Theres obviously lots of variables that come into play. If you have a serious tone established for your page and so forth. Get to know your people and embrace them. The good ones and the bad ones. WeShareMedia welcomes everyone to engage and ask us questions. Much like in real life.

How well do you know your audience?