TODAY'S THOUGHTS: "THINK BEFORE YOU TYPE!"

I got this in an email from Lena Bjorn. Is certainly worth thinking about, I think.

From Lena Bjorna

Did you know that social media can greatly hinder your chances of success if you don't know how to use it correctly?

You already know how effective the social networks can be in helping you build relationships with potential customers... All good.

But here's the flip side: Hardly a day goes by when I don't see a networker post something on someone's Facebook wall that basically constitutes shooting themselves in the foot.

I'm not even talking about pitching, as much of a turn-off as it may be. The "come check out my website" or "my product is the best product under the sun" type of stuff. I'm talking about the more subtle stuff.

Like leaving a comment on someone's Facebook wall that goes something like this, "Congrats on all your success! I can't wait till I achieve the same results", or, "You are an inspiration, you give me hope!"

Now, there's nothing wrong with the first part. As long as it's done with sincerity, it is always a good idea to edify others. It makes them feel good, and it makes you look good for making them feel good. It's a in-win.

It's the second part that's problematic. If you write stuff like that on my Facebook wall, what you're doing is putting me on a pedestal and making yourself look inferior. You're announcing to everyone that you haven't yet "figured it out".

It's okay that you haven't, but there's no need to broadcast it to the entire world. A rookie is obviously not what your prospect is looking for, they're looking for a Leader. Who do you think your prospect is likely to sign up with in this case - you or me?

Now, what if one of my new reps posts a comment on my Facebook wall (as they often do)...and instead of displaying their insecurity and inexperience for everyone to see, they say something like this: "Hey Lena. Congrats on your award. It was great catching up with you at the event and sharing ideas."

It may seem subtle but it really is the difference between night and day. In this last example here, what the newbie does, because they know how to play their cards right, is they are using their association with me...but they are doing so legitimately.

There is no deceit. They have simply made a decision to relate to me as an "equal". It's not that "it was great catching up with you at the event and learning from you." No, "it was great catching up with you at the event and sharing ideas."

The implication is that it was a conversation where we both contributed with something of value. And the person who reading the comment will in their subconscious mind draw the conclusion that you too are a person worth listening to. I call this "Success by Association."

Of course, one comment won't mean 'do or die' for your business. My point is simply that wherever you go online, you leave footprints. And those footprints are often permanent. So, next time, think before you type! ;-)

Regards Joachim Pettersson (Samurai Marketer)