I've had this blog post in my head for a while, but haven't found the time to think it through or make it happen. Yesterday, I had a work meeting with my good friend and client, Sarah Otts. Sarah is a talented artist (follow her on instagram @sarah_otts_paintings). Her work is gorgeous! I respect her opinion, and we were talking social media. I asked what motivated her to step-up her social media game, and her answer was pretty simple: the more you share the more business increases, if it's done well. I've seen this first-hand too, but sometimes I go into a rut. She encouraged me to go for it. What's there to lose?
Every time I speak with a client, especially small business owners and artists, social media comes up. Most clients feel overwhelmed by it. I can tell its personal and that it bothers them, and I feel the same way lately. It has changed our ways of thinking and how we do business. “Our feed” represents us in a very public and vulnerable way.
Here’s some of what I tell my clients: Everyone is different. Don’t force anything. Be you. That works. If you’re overwhelmed put it down. If you find it fun and want to share, do it. Don’t overthink it. It’s social media. But at the same time, if you post regularly, do think it through. What do you have to lose?
But, sometimes it's easier to coach than it is to play. And quite honestly, social media is a tough beast to figure out. I struggle with it all too, and have by NO means mastered it. I have a love/hate relationship with it, especially when it comes to my business. It’s confusing to know which way to go. I'll be honest, sometimes I say screw social media. I second guess myself, become insecure and think: “What if no one likes it? No one cares. It's annoying. It’s too much of a distraction from all of the work I have to do. It isn’t perfect … Blah blah blah. This negative talk makes it overwhelming, and I'll just put it down.
And other times, I’m more carefree and enjoy sharing my work and inspiration. I have so many projects I haven't shared, and I take pictures of everything that inspires me creatively, so why not share some? When I worry about boring people with my logos and design work, I remind myself that they can easily unfollow the page. This is a design page for people who are interested in graphic design and branding. Just like when you follow a painters page, you follow because you want to see painting and it inspires you.
My goal is to be intentional in my business posts. And to enJOY it too. The bottom line is, the more you share, the more new business you get. The more emails that come in. So, I like that part. It’s free, it works and it can be fun. So, my advice is to GO FOR IT. I hope I do the same. And most importantly, I hope this helps at least someone get out of their comfort zone and pursue their dreams. It can be scary, but very rewarding too.
This year, I hope to write more about various subjects to help other designers, freelance artists and small business owners. I’ve learned a lot over the years and am still learning every day. Oh, and please kindly ignore any typos. I tried my best to spell check and proofread, but I have kids to pick up and deadlines to make now. :) Thank you for reading!