The Reluctant Social Media Poster: My Top Three Lessons

Hi friends! We have a special guest blog today form Akua Nyame-Mensah (www.akuanm.com). Akua is an Executive Coach, Strategic Advisor and the founder of Alternatively, an ‘incubator’ and alternative solutions service for global-minded leaders. She has and continues to create containers of trust for leaders and their teams, to rise in confidence and thrive harmoniously, using alternative approaches (because let’s face it, the traditional hasn’t worked yet).

Let's hear what Akua has to say about her journey with Social Media:

I’ve never been crazy about social media.  Other than rapidly consuming content, I’ve avoided posting for the most part.  I have come to love how social media can connect you to amazing people and have made many new friends, connections, and found clients through posting content.  I have also shifted my mindset to think of social media as one medium to touch base and learn about my ideal clients.

Here are three of my favorite tactics that have helped me develop relationships and engage with potential leads. 

Be super helpful.

I try to do more than just market on my posts.  My first thought is to provide information – inform and be thought-provoking.  I typically do this by sharing my experience and trying to show how I understand what my client might be going through.  Being able to empathize is key to establishing a relationship with a potential lead, client, or collaborator. When I’m posting anything, I always ask myself on behalf of the post viewer, ‘Why should they care?’

CTA is key. No, actually your intention is vital.  

Post success means different things to different people. Some people want likes and an increased following.  I want a bit of this, but most importantly I want to start a conversation. I want comments, I want people to send me DMs, and I want people to leave behind their email address so that they can get more information. Why? I use my social media posts to qualify potential clients and as a way to test my messaging and possible services and products.  Based on the response I get; I rework my copy and update my emails. Take a second to think through what you want from your posts and how you can make sure your content is helping you get there.

Give more than you think you should.

For the last few months, I have been putting a direct link on some of my posts to give people access to schedule a one-on-one session.  I make sure the days and times are specific, but for the most part, people can take advantage of me for no cost and without going through a lengthy application process.  When I first did this, I was sure that I would be bombarded with meeting requests. That was a false assumption. I am not sure where I picked up this particular tactic from but what happens is that the most interested and (usually close to ideal client types) get in touch.  Here is what I left on one of my most commented posts: “Interested in learning more about my thoughts on how to be more intentional and get the most from working with your team or direct reports? DM me or leave your email below and I will send you my presentation with notes.”  The email I send with the content always includes an invitation to sign up for a free 30 minute follow up conversation and a link to join my newsletter list.

Let me know if Akua's message was helpful or you in the comments, or if I can help you in any way. 

Xoxo