I find a lot of my clients and friends truly have no idea what the term Social Media means, or what it means to be engaged in Web 2.0 practices.

While the possibilities are vast and seemingly endless, and the correct application and usage of the tools and services available can be elusive, the fundamental essence of Social Media is quite simple.

The biggest thing to remember with YouTube, and as well Twitter & Facebook: They are called Social Media for a reason! They are interactive communities. Think of them as a house party. The same rules apply:
if you stand in a corner and don’t talk to people you won’t make any friends
if you only talk about yourself and don’t engage in real conversation, you won’t make any friends
if you are the loudest one in the room, chances are you’ll annoy people
if you leave a bad impression, people will probably talk about you once you go
The flip side!
if you engage with like-minded people and can foster genuine conversation you’ll probably leave with a new friend
if you’re honest with people, you’ll start gaining trust in their circle
if you leave a good impression, people will probably talk about you once you go

The key thing to remember when engaging with Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, or any of the maaaany other social media communities and tools: They are called Social Media for a reason! They are interactive communities. Think of them as a house party. The same rules apply:

  • if you stand in a corner and don’t talk to people you won’t make any friends
  • if you only talk about yourself and don’t engage in real conversation, you won’t make any friends
  • if you are the loudest one in the room, chances are you’ll annoy people
  • if you leave a really bad impression, people will probably talk about you once you go

The flip side:

  • if you engage with like-minded people and can foster genuine conversation you’ll probably leave with a new friends
  • if you’re honest with people, you’ll start gaining trust in new circles
  • if you leave a really good impression, people will probably talk about you once you go

If you follow the simple House-Party Rules, you’ll do well in social media. If the house party analogy doesn’t jive with you, imagine a sandbox. Get it now? Good. ;)