Crafting Your Social Media Leadership Brand Persona: 5 Essential Steps
Maria Pietroforte, CPM, NAAEI Faculty
Multifamily Consultant. Leadership Coach. National Speaker. Trainer.
Today, I want to delve into a critical aspect of your professional image – your social media leadership brand persona. In this digital age, what you convey through your social media accounts can significantly impact how the world perceives you. It's a platform where you can showcase your values, beliefs, attributes, priorities, and promises. So, let's talk about what your social media presence is telling the world about you and how you can enhance it.
The Power of Social Media
In the past, many of us separated our social media profiles into personal and professional categories. We thought LinkedIn was strictly for business, while platforms like Facebook were reserved for personal matters. However, this division is no longer accurate. People use various social media platforms to form judgments about your personal and professional life, so it's crucial to consider what they might find.
Your Google Search Results Matter
Conduct a quick Google search of your name and see what comes up. Often, your social media profiles will be among the top results. It's essential to recognize that people will use this information to form impressions of you. Let me share a personal experience. When I assumed a senior leadership position, my new team members decided to research me before my first day. They discovered pictures of me riding my Harley at Sturgis, which, for some, sent the wrong message about my leadership style. Your social media presence matters, and it's time to take control of it.
Five Steps to Enhance Your Social Media Leadership Brand Persona
1.???? Choose the Right Profile Picture: Your profile picture is often the first thing people notice. Ensure it accurately represents you and your current image. Avoid using outdated photos from high school or images that don't reflect your true self. Think of it like a dating profile picture – it should match the person they'll encounter in real life.
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2.???? Share Your Contact Information: Surprisingly, many people neglect to list their email addresses in their profiles. This oversight can cost you opportunities. People often seek instant communication, so make it easy for them to reach out. If you choose to use a personal email address, be vigilant about checking it for potential business contacts.
3.???? Provide a Phone Number: Listing a phone number, preferably your cell number, is essential for those who prefer to connect through a quick call or text message. It demonstrates that you are accessible and detail-oriented.
4.???? Keep Your Profile Updated: When you achieve milestones like promotions or company changes, update your social media profiles promptly. Inaccurate information makes you appear less detail-oriented and less credible. Your online presence should reflect your real-life accomplishments.
5.???? Consistent Posting: To build credibility and a loyal following, maintain a consistent social media presence. Consider posting at regular intervals, such as once a month, on a specific day and time. CEOs and company leaders can benefit from highlighting their team's achievements, showcasing the company's ethical values, and promoting a culture of appreciation.
Conclusion
Crafting a compelling social media leadership brand persona is crucial in today's digital world. Your online presence can significantly influence how others perceive you, personally and professionally. Start by taking these five steps to enhance your social media image, or even just one if that feels more manageable. You'll find that these efforts can make a significant difference in shaping the perception of your leadership and your company's reputation. If you need assistance with developing your brand or coaching your team in this area, don't hesitate to seek professional guidance.
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