*I originally wrote this in 2016. All of it is still relevant, but I added some additional thoughts since 7 years have passed!
I’m a storyteller. I discovered this from my husband, who told me indirectly. See, when I have something to share, the point of what I’m sharing is usually prefaced by a couple minutes of set-up. My husband is a more direct type of person, after a couple of minutes I can see him becoming impatient so I jump to the point. I realized recently this is not just me droning on (although sometimes I imagine it is), but telling a story. I don’t think he knows he has given me this realization. Thank you honey!
Over the years, and particularly on social media, I have learned which platforms and content are best used to share a short and long-form version of stories. I have documented in this blog, but with social media being the number one place people go for any information, I could copy/paste this entire text on Facebook. Video has also become enormously important over the past 4 or 5 years, and this could easily be a video.
Every business has a story. From the origins of a product idea, to the continuing day-to-day activity, on social media you should be sharing your story.
I share tons of information on my social pages, but I try and put a personal twist on what I share. Always answer the “why”: Why are you sharing this particular link, photo, or video?
The answer to the “why” is your post. If you know your business and what your goals are, the why is easy. The “why” is your story.
Yes, you can throw in something more direct if there is something you’re selling or promoting, (I believe there’s an entrepreneur out there who called them “right hooks.” in 2016) but always come back to the story. Be personal, yet professional. Show the struggle, show the successes, tie it into the information you’re sharing. Show how others have benefited from your product. Ask others to share their own stories.
Social media is storytelling.
Answer the “why.”
Tell your story.
As I prepare for a sabbatical while we make the big move across the country, I will be documenting my progress. Business and personal. You never know when someone is going to find what you share relatable and useful in their own journey.