As a professional in social media, I will confess there are moments of my workday where I want to just throw in the towel. But for each instance that those thoughts cross my mind there are double the instances where I can revel and embrace what I do.
Careers in marketing or public relations are demanding, fast pace, and stressful-it is a known fact. Now add social media into the mix, when disconnecting or taking a break just isn't an option for us; overwhelming is only a slight understatement.
So why at the end of the day can I say that I love my job and being in the social industry?
Social media is the current catalyst for all the change that is occurring within the digital spectrum. As humans we have come a long way, how often is it that you are a part of something that ignites and welcomes discovery. How often is anything truly "new" anymore?
We are at the precipice of the unknown and it is up to current professionals to build the standards for social media marketing, community management and content curation that will shape the future. And that is pretty exciting.
Explaining to people what it is I actually do can be annoying, especially when my answer falls to skeptical ears. But I am confident in my industry and the potential behind effective social media practice for businesses and brands. And I am certain that very soon when digital becomes the dominant medium, we will be the experts who were at the center of it all.
My job is fun. How many jobs allow you to combine critical thinking, strategic analysis, and innovation? We need to ignite engagement and because of this, creativity and interaction are necessities.
My profession allows me to indulge my inner geek. I love technology and gadgets. I also love that we have managed to influence a culture into shifting the definition of "geek" and now associate it with the "cool."
I am always the first to know. One of the benefits of the hours of research and browsing I do during the day, I tend to know things before anyone in my circle does. And I take pleasure in that!
I am fortunate to be working in an environment that encourages me as an individual and a professional. So glad that the stereotypes of my industry don't include the words: "boring," "catty," "superficial," "dull" and so many other that I feel other careers are unfortunately known for.
Why do you love what you do?