Connect Beyond the Likes.
Since launching my personal website and blog a few days ago, I’ve noticed way more LinkedIn requests -especially from people of color, which excites me. Some were from people I knew, some were from people I recognized as social media connections, and some, I didn’t recognize at all; but was happy to add after checking their profiles to see that they are doing their thing in the professional world.
I always message new connections to ask what they’re working on and to let them know I’m available if I can ever be of assistance to them (more on that later). And in the response from one of my newest connections today, he said:
“Your link on your IG page led me to your LinkedIn (proof that your funnel works!)”
I gave myself a little pat on the back, because although it is somewhat innate for me to lead people to LinkedIn (my second favorite social network after Twitter), he was right in that it’s important to have a funnel in place and to know where you want to lead people with your online presence.
Where does your funnel lead? Do you even have one in place? Where do you want the people who come across your social media pages to end up? You may want them to check out your website, your music, connect with you on another platform -or you very well may want to build up your community and followers on the social networking site where you engage them.
For me, even though I’m a business owner, my funnel isn’t about selling stuff. I’m not directly leading people to a course, product, or to purchase consulting sessions (although rent is due on the 5th and I have some space to take on a client or two 👀). I am genuinely looking to build more community.
So many of the people I’m connected with on social media; and in some cases have been connected with for YEARS, are doing some really cool things. Things I had no idea about until I saw their LinkedIn profiles after they clicked on the link in my bio to connect.
Just today I was inspired by my girl Jazmin out here doing big things with her boutique advertising agency, Lizzie Della. And then there’s Travis, who I didn’t even realize is a social science researcher and strategist with a focus on race, religion, and culture. I’ve been following and talking to these folks for the longest, and I’m just now really seeing their work, what they care about, and how their goals align with mine. Not only am I excited to find ways to collaborate; I can’t wait to send them work and connect dots wherever I can.
Quite a few of my social media connections are now people I brainstorm with regularly and send client work to; and it feels really good to help build each other up and keep those dollars within our networks.
If you took a moment to go through your follower list on any given social media platform, there are probably SO many talented people right in front of you. What are you doing to connect beyond the likes?
I encourage you all to make deeper connections. Find ways to give value and collaborate. Definitely hit me on LinkedIn. I am absolutely loving learning more about what my followers are working on. In fact, as I said at the beginning of the post, that’s what I ask everyone once we connect. What are you working on? Is there any way that I can bring value? Don’t be afraid to link up and have real conversations. Let’s take these likes and comments to the next level and build real communities doing real things to support each other.
See you on LinkedIn!