Social Media Isn’t Sea Monkeys – It’s a Long Game
People in need of a quick fix to their business problems often expect [insert social media platform here] to produce instant results.
Social media is media (read: technology) used for social reasons (read: connections). Unfortunately, there’s no short-cut to that.
There is no “instant” in social media, only in oatmeal.
“Sea Monkeys – The amazing live, instant pets.”
I been known to exclaim, sometimes loudly, that Twitter isn’t Sea-Monkeys. In fact, it’s more like a salt-water fish tank with its complicated steps, wait time, three-week nitrogen cycles, bacteria, continual care and testing and that’s before you add your heavily-researched fish.
Your social networks are cultivated communities who respond in kind.
What kind of work is involved?
In no particular order, here are some things to consider.
- Post good content.
- Use correct grammar.
- Start conversations.
- Be nice.
- Be real.
- Build trust.
- Protect your honor.
- Be responsible.
- Be humble.
- Respond to others.
- Muster up courage.
- Tap into your passion.
- Use common sense.
- Have fun.
- Be consistent.
- Chase ideas.
- De-junk.
- Make introductions.
So you see, there is a lot involved. Put time in your schedule to handle this fragile ecosystem or outsource it. But remember, above all, social media is a commitment. It’s a long-game.
Love,
Bridget
When I was a kid, I ordered sea monkeys, expecting little creatures dressed like tiny mermaids and mermen. Instead, I got brine shrimp–not nearly as fun (they don’t even wear clothes!). Maybe that’s the difference between the real deal and people who want insta-sea monkey success. Your hopes are bound to be dashed if you’re expecting the pretty picture on the box. Thank you for this post. Wonderful, as always!
Great story and analogy. Thank you so much.
Another great post, Bridget! It is a long journey … and I am not sure the focus should be on “success” anyway – how many likes or followers or whatever. Focus on building new and stronger relationships with your community; that’s the gauge I use.
Exactly, Tess!
Concise and clear, I have been having fun in this long game though 🙂 Great post Bridget
Thank you!
[…] many people think social media (or blogging) will produce and instant community like Sea Monkeys. It’s not Sea Monkeys. It’s not instant. I mean, you can buy followers, but those aren’t […]