Chances are that you are not a blogger. But chances are relatively high that you like the idea of being one.
During my last 100 or so presentations, I asked the audiences if they blog: only a sprinkling of hands typically go up. When asked if they like the idea of blogging, most people put up their hands immediately. The reasons for this aren’t surprising – doing a blog is tough:
- Takes too much time during the day
- Not skilled at writing
- Not able to commit to regular posts
- Not sure what to say
- Not interested in debate or being ridiculed
- Other higher priorities
- Questionable ROI
- and so on…
Yet, the benefits can be huge: personal or corporate profile, business-building, connection, improved search engine ranking, etc. Inevitably, clients ask the question about balancing these competing pressures, and if there is a way to improve the “return”, while reducing the downsides. The answer is yes.
This week’s action plan: Whether you decide to blog or not, now is the time to explore the possibility in greater detail. Even if you never write a word, understanding how to do it means that you can ask great questions of those in your organization who do.
For our clients and friends: We’ve put together a six-segment series on Strategic Blogging, designed for senior executives, professionals, and marketing pros. Check it out (There is no cost.)
Note: The Make It Happen Tipsheet is also available by email. Go to www.RandallCraig.com to register.
Randall Craig
www.RandallCraig.com
www.ptadvisors.com
www.ProfessionallySpeakingTV.com
Wake up, wash, dress, and eat breakfast. Scan the headlines, scan LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Blog comments. Read and respond to comments in your communities. Then start the day. Check voice mail. Check email, and respond to emails from LinkedIn groups, Facebook, and Twitter direct messages. Then see if there are any comments on YouTube. And write your daily blog post. Then Tweet.
In this day of social connection, it doesn’t take long for your Social Media “obligations” to quickly expand to fill any and all available time. As we layer more and more complexity, we become enamored by the exciting advances in Social Media functionality, and shiny new Social Media sites.
Here’s the fundamental question: Is it time for you to wipe the slate clean and start again from first principles?
- Who are you hoping to engage with?
- What business or profit (or personal) goal are you hoping to achieve on Social Media?
- How will you measure success?
- How much time each day/week/month will you devote to the endeavor?
- Can you afford the time to do so? And if not, what is plan B?
This week’s action plan: Where has your momentum taken you? If you’re like most, you have either done far too little, or far too much in Social Media. This week, go back to the basics, and make sure that the time you spend is getting you where you want to be.
PS: Go behind the scenes each week as I interview another of the nation’s thought-leaders. I send out a quick note each month with links to each interview. Subscribe on the PSTV home page.
Note: The Make It Happen Tipsheet is also available by email. Go to www.RandallCraig.com to register.
Randall Craig
www.RandallCraig.com
www.ptadvisors.com
www.ProfessionallySpeakingTV.com
