Do you consider yourself a social businessperson? What exactly is a social businessperson? Right now we are looking specifically at how professional you portray yourself on different social media platforms. How professional do you think you come across on LinkedIn and Twitter?
Take a look at your LinkedIn and Twitter pages right now…do you come across as more laid back, or slightly professional? The majority of people use these social platforms to touch base with their friends, and don’t even stop to consider the possibility that the content within these profiles are largely considered by potential employers.
Having a fun profile picture, or having a large amount of “followers” or “friends” does not mean you are doing it right.
So look again…is your profile in tip top shape?
Numbers, numbers, numbers, it really isn’t about them! Some believe that the more friends or followers the better, which isn’t the case. Find friends that will improve your relations with surrounding businesses or community as well as help you network your skills.
Your profile picture is everything. Sure you think you look good in your profile picture, everyone does…but does it look good to potential employers or clients? Make sure your picture is appropriate and professional.
List your credentials! Somewhere on your page you should have all of your credentials listed. Make sure they’re noticeable and don’t forget to share your interests…they make you approachable.
Do you go on and just read, or do you post as well? Posting is a crucial part of being a social businessperson. If you’re not posting, you should be. Engross yourself in the conversations that is being held between your networking groups. Post and re-share comments and interesting content, this brings more attention to your profile. View the infographic below from PeopleLinx for how often you should be posting.
Also, here are some additional statistics on posting to consider. These were taken from a recent New York Times study on social sharing:
- 75% say sharing helps them better understand and “process” news they’re interested in
- 85% say the responses they get from posting to a social media site provide more thought
- 94% consider how helpful a link would be to another user before posting it
- 68% share as an advertisement for themselves, to give others a better sense of who they are
- 73% say it helps them find people with common interests
The most important thing to take away from this is to always remember that when you are posting something on a social media platform, you are speaking on behalf of yourself and/or the company that you work for. Anything and everything you say is a direct reflection on those who employ you, and if you’re looking to become employed, think with the mindset of an employer. What would you say about an employee whom is posting the materials that you were going to post?
Now it’s time to reflect, after reading this and viewing the infographic below, would you consider yourself a social businessperson?
