Tell me what makes you scream

Ice cream. We scream for ice cream.

Of course, there's no judgement if you answered otherwise!

Hello again, and welcome to a fresher looking "Getting Social".

I've been learning that an investment cannot be done in half measures - whether that's your branding, eating a bacon sandwich or self care. Somethings just need time, careful attention and thought.

So we've got pink and spots, just like the rest of my profile.

You just wanted the ice cream didn't you? Ok, let me tell you more...

Natwest Boost at Froginwell

Each month in the South West, James Court organises an incredible event, with an inspiring speaker, in a room full of small business owners at a lush venue.

I mean, come on ?? Does it get any better than that?!

This month was no exception.

We were joined by Amanda Ringelberg , MD and Owner of Granny Gothards ice cream . And she brought samples...

Now if you know me, you know that the fastest way to my heart is with food.

Well, sufficed to say that I was hooked.

Sharing stories of her resilience, positivity and bravery, as well as how she's grown the business into an international sensation, had the whole audience eating out of the palm of her hand...or tub, in this case.

What did I takeaway to share with you all today?

1. Have an "Yes we/I can" attitude
2. Don't lower your prices/undersell yourself
3. Be willing to take risks - that's easier to do when you work alone
4. You don't need slides if you speak from the heart
5. Don't let me sit at the front!

Definitely get yourself connected with Amanda and James for more content.

Back to LinkedIn Land. Why impressions are a trick.

Earlier this year, I was VERY cross when I noticed that suddenly, my posts weren't getting the reach that they had been. I took it really personally, and I'll admit - I really let it get me down...until I found out that others were experiencing the same thing. In my indignance, I logged a ticket. The reply from LinkedIn made for interesting reading.

So I thought, why not share it?

Here are their top reasons for a reduced reach:

• User expectation is too high - once viral doesn't mean ALWAYS viral. Soz and chips
• The Relevance algorithm (didn't realise this was a thing) - a post is scored directly on quality and then distributed to the feeds of followers or those with a high relevance score > something that is determined by their previous activity, similar pages followed, profile information, when they are likely to be online etc.
• User tolerance - if the person didn't engage last time, they aren't likely to engage this time. Further non-engagement = poof! You're outta their feed faster than you can say 'Buncha Munchy Crunchy Carrots'
• Freshness - New content is more likely to be distributed than older content. Makes sense, no one wants stale bread. That's why you need to be progressive and consistent...who knew?!
• Frequency - Post too much = reduced distribution. Post too little = less overall traffic. Better to keep things moving! (and if you're creative constipation is ruining your flow, let me know)
• Posting the SAME thing - If you shared it once, then repurpose it to share again soon after, LinkedIn won't show it to the people who engaged the first time. I mean, let someone else have a turn right?

What I HAVE worked out is that impressions grow more over time now, instead of being an instant success. So, don't be deflated if your posts isn't an immediate success.

We went live - and we were really honest.

The last two weeks of Talk the Talk have been SO valuable and insightful for small business owners using the platform. We've spoken to Daniel Plume about marketing strategies and feeling overwhelmed, and we've discussed getting your Ooomph and building a community with Tom J. . Both are EXCEPTIONAL gents with so much knowledge to share so PLEASE get connected.

You can find Daniel's show recording here

And Tom's recording here

Each is roughly 30-50mins long so make yourself a brew and get involved.

I posted my first video on LinkedIn yesterday...

Ok, so I cheated and made the video in Instagram, but still. This is a BIG step forward for me because I really struggle with videos...

So why did I step outside the comfort zone?

1. It's a really good way of connecting with my audience
2. It's authentically unpolished and unedited
3. I was given support to do so

If you've been holding back from trying something new in your business, find a comfortable alternative that still moves you forward in the right direction. If I can help, or refer you to someone specific, let me know!

How you look online matters.

I'm not talking about naked faces or "the plunge". I'm talking about making sure that you are always showing up as your best where it matters > your profile page. I had a fantastic 1-2-1 with my favourite optimisation oracle, Darren Pallatina , who definitely helped me stand out and changed my perspective on social media SEO.

I highly recommend asking him to share the latest goss on what's hot and what's not when it comes to your online presence.

Would YOU read your content?

When I speak to those who are struggling to create content, they tend to talk a lot about themselves.

"I don't like reading content like this, so my audience probably doesn't either"

"Nobody is interested in what I do"

"I can't see the value in sharing something personal on a business platform"

The real question is...how do you know?

Write your content with your audience in mind and you can't go wrong.

Be:

• Thoughtful
• Concise
• Intentional
• Clear
• Genuine

That's all.

It always takes time to get really good at something, so be patient and give your audience a chance to respond.

Just each time, try and get a little braver, a little bolder and continue improving by learning from others around you.

And most importantly - BE RECIPROCAL

You like my post, I'll like yours. It's the way the platform wants you to work. Add frequent engagement across the platform and watch your reach grow.

If you're struggling to write content, drop me a DM.

If you need a strategy to write your content with purpose, chat with Daniel Plume (mentioned above).

If you see the value in engagement, but you don't think you have the time, talk to Jo Humphrey ???? (who I met for the first time this week - she is LOVELY!)

And finally...

My first official speaking gig (outside of Sidmouth).

If you are based in Dorset, or are able to travel to Bridport, join me and a host of lovely business owners for an open conversation about content writing.

? WHEN: Thursday 13th July starting at 6:30 pm.

?? WHERE: Woodman Pub, Bridport - in the skittle alley!

Speak to Valerie Marcelli for more information or click on the image to get yourself a ticket.

I hope that this newsletter has given you lots to think about, and perhaps a few things to try for yourself but as always, if you need help, please give me a shout!

If you would like Researched - Written - Done content for your small business each month, I have one space opening up in September. Book in a call with me here.