You share a funny video on Instagram.
You come up with a witty comment and tweet it.
You post about a hike you took over the weekend on Facebook.
Then you wait and watch.
You refresh.
And you wait some more...
What kind of response are you hoping to receive from the ever-growing world of social media. Sitting around waiting for that bell to ring... we have become one of Pavlov's dogs waiting for our treat.
And here's the thing, it has become even more of a conditioned response this year. 2020 has been incredibly isolating. Interacting less in person, means we are missing human connections. So understandably, more people are turning to social media as a way to reclaim some of what they have lost.
But I have to wonder, are people really being social on these platforms? Does a heart, thumbs up, or a like establish a friendly interaction? What does a split second decision regarding a double-tap before scrolling on have to do with being social? Why don't more people take the time to leave a comment?
Why does this even matter?
How do you feel when someone takes the time to respond to a piece that you worked on?
How do you feel when someone reshares something of yours to their followers?
How do you feel when you open a message from someone saying that your art made their day a little brighter?
A Sociable Challenge. Try this out today on one of your social media accounts and see what happens.
Start with...
Today, when you double-tap on a post, leave a comment. Not an emoji, an actual comment. Share your thoughts or reaction to their post, or ask a question about it. Do this with 5-10 accounts that you follow. Leave a friendly comment and interact with the person behind the account.
Now try this...
Be gracious when someone leaves a comment on your account. Take the time to respond. Answer the question, or simply say thank you. And yes, I know that this is harder for someone with thousands and thousands of followers. It would take hours unless you have your own personal social media team... but what if you committed to respond to the first 20 comments? Or replied to the comments that were really heartfelt?
One more thing...
Follow someone NEW. Pick a person that inspires you - someone that puts a smile on your face. Maybe that person shares amazing art, positive quotes, or helpful tutorials... whatever it is that would add a bit of sparkle to your day, add them to your mix.
One last tidbit about being social and friendly. While it's lovely when someone you follow responds to your message, retweets a post, or follows you back - understand that it won't happen all the time.
Putting oneself out in the world is scary. And yes, the desire to grow a following is strong but don't assume a certain result. Don't retweet because you expect the same. Don't follow an account for a follow back. Do it simply because that post (or person) sparked something and you want to see more. If a person reciprocates, fantastic, enjoy the moment. Let it be an unexpected bonus, the extra dollop of hot fudge to your already tasty sundae.
Be polite, be kind, be friendly. That is what being on social media SHOULD be about.
Show up as your wonderful, authentic self and you will attract the same in return. Those friendly, supportive folks are your community and they’re the ones who matter most. Let me know how your Sociable Challenge goes. You can email me or reach out on Instagram or Twitter, my social links are below.
If you’re looking for more positivity and cheer, check out the Creative Crew. Join for free and receive a monthly Pep Talk (with printable Art Hug) plus access to the Crew’s Nest resource library.
