Communication is a key skill for any employee, especially when it comes to your manager. But how can you use social media to enhance your communication and build a better relationship with your boss? In this article, we will share some tips and best practices to help you leverage social media platforms to improve communication with your manager.
Not all social media platforms are created equal when it comes to professional communication. Some are more formal and business-oriented, such as LinkedIn, while others are more casual and personal, such as Facebook or Instagram. Depending on your manager's preferences and expectations, you may want to choose a different platform to communicate with them. For example, you can use LinkedIn to share industry news, insights, and feedback, or to congratulate them on their achievements and endorsements. You can use Facebook or Instagram to show your personality, hobbies, and interests, or to comment on their posts and stories. However, be careful not to cross the line between friendly and intrusive, and always respect your manager's privacy and boundaries.
Use the right platfrom. There platforms meant to improve communication with managers and colleagues. Use Slack for internal communication, whatsApp group for personal coordination, Discord etc
Choose the right platform, taking into account the formality of platforms such as LinkedIn or the more personal nature of Facebook or Instagram. Ensure your choice aligns with your manager's preferences. Leverage direct messaging features for more private and direct communication, especially when discussing sensitive matters or seeking specific feedback. I would additionally seek feedback professionally through social media, being open to both positive and constructive criticism.
One of the benefits of using social media to communicate with your manager is that you can show them who you are beyond your work role. This can help you build trust, rapport, and engagement with your boss. However, to do this effectively, you need to be consistent and authentic in your social media presence. Don't try to impress your manager by pretending to be someone you are not, or by posting things that are not relevant or aligned with your values and goals. Instead, be yourself and share what you are passionate about, what you are learning, and what you are proud of. This way, you can demonstrate your value, skills, and potential, as well as your personality and character.
Moreover, consider strategically showcasing your professional achievements and milestones on social media. Share highlights of your projects, accolades, or professional development experiences to subtly reinforce your dedication to your role and career growth. Balancing personal authenticity with a focus on your professional journey creates a well-rounded online presence that not only strengthens your connection with your manager but also positions you as a dedicated and accomplished professional within your social media community.
Firstly, you have to check for the other person's preference for communicating and his or her style as well. Pick the right platform. Always be respectful and professional regardless when communicating in any social media platform. Your platform is your branding and it's how you present yourself to the world.
Another way to use social media to improve communication with your manager is to engage in meaningful conversations with them. This means not only liking and commenting on their posts, but also asking questions, sharing opinions, and providing feedback. By doing this, you can show your interest, curiosity, and appreciation for your manager's work and perspective. You can also learn from their experience, insights, and advice, and gain a deeper understanding of their expectations and goals. Moreover, you can create opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and problem-solving, by exchanging ideas, suggestions, and solutions.
While social media can be a great tool to communicate with your manager, it can also be a source of misunderstanding, conflict, and frustration. To avoid these pitfalls, you need to respect the etiquette and boundaries of each platform and each relationship. For example, you should avoid sending your manager too many messages, especially outside of work hours, unless it is urgent or important. You should also avoid posting or sharing anything that is inappropriate, offensive, or confidential, such as gossip, complaints, or sensitive information. Furthermore, you should avoid getting into arguments or debates with your manager or other colleagues on social media, as this can damage your reputation and credibility.
This is where so many lost it. Do not FaceTime or video call colleagues without prior notice and approval. Stick to official means of communication. Always be respectful.
Finally, one of the challenges of using social media to communicate with your manager is to balance the personal and professional aspects of your relationship. While social media can help you connect with your boss on a more human and emotional level, it can also blur the lines between your work and your life. To maintain a healthy and productive relationship with your manager, you need to balance the personal and professional interactions on social media. For example, you can share some personal details, such as your hobbies, interests, and achievements, but not too much, such as your personal problems, opinions, or preferences. You can also show your support, gratitude, and recognition for your manager, but not too much, such as by flattering, praising, or agreeing with everything they say.