Whatever industry your personal brand is based in knowing how to use social media to increase awareness is important. Social media is an amazing tool that can be used to gain exposure and a loyal following in a few simple steps. Consider these steps below as you use social media to build your brand.
1. Be Friendly & Approachable
Far too often people share overly candid remarks and opinions on the web. Perhaps is the anonymity of cyberspace that feeds their bullying tendencies, or maybe they feel untouchable behind their laptop. Whatever the reason - don't let yourself become one of those people. Building your personal brand means that you'll need to show off your amiable side. You'll attract more flies with honey than vinegar and the great thing about flies is they generate quite a buzz when they've found something they like. Put a smile on and get to know that people on the social media platforms that want to support brand.
2. Remember to Share
Here's a prime opportunity for you to shine. Share what you know or what you do best with others. If you're an expert in your field, or if you want to become one, using social media to communicate credible and helpful information is one of the best ways to boost your personal brand. Social media is exactly what its name implies - social. People are connecting with others to learn, exchange and network. Reach out to your Twitter followers, Facebook fans and blog readers and supply them with honest to goodness valuable content and information. The more relevant your shared material is the greater the chances are of it being shared with others and the more likely your supporters will stick around for the long haul.
3. Promote Authenticity
Politicians call it 'shaking hands and kissing babies' but in social media transparency is everything. Be authentic in your conduct and approach. If you're using social media to rope 10,000 groupies in a single swoop versus the slow build of meaningful interactions with individuals, chances are you'll be left high and dry in the end. Social media takes time and requires patience, but the end result is well worth the wait. Just remember that people are not sheep. They will not follow for the sake of following. Take a genuine approach to your personal brand and position it as such among your audience. Say what you mean and mean what you say and don't forget to do it with originality.
4. Don't Be Everything to Everyone
If only it were so simple to win the hearts and minds of everyone with your personal brand. Sadly, this will never happen. Find your niche and stick with it. Once you've figured out who you are and what you stand for you can find your social media audience. For instance, if your personal brand appeals solely to women with a finger on the pulse of technology, you might want connect and network with members of Kirtsy, a social media site for women. Your personal brand should connect with the right people through the right social media channels and not to the world. Streamline your branding efforts to yield better results.
5. Grab Endorsements
Use social media to collect feedback about your personal brand from clients, customers and colleagues. Being able to share reviews and praise demonstrates the integrity and capability of your personal brand. Gathering recommendations and posting them on social media sites like Yelp, Merchants Circle and YellowPages.com will work to build credibility and respect for your personal brand much more quickly than a brand without any.
6. Associate Yourself
Use what you've got. If you've guest blogged for a well-known blog or if you're connected to industry experts then leverage those relationships with your personal brand. You're not bragging, you're showing networking achievements and accomplishments that can enhance your personal brand. People like to see who you know and what your credentials are. Mentioning some of the more well-known ones can give your personal brand a leg up.