The title of this post says it all.
When I first started using social media to promote 4dancers, I did so grudgingly. I joined Twitter and scratched my head at how I was supposed to use it. I certainly didn’t think I’d enjoy it.
Using Facebook as a tool also lacked appeal for me. After all, the majority of my friends on there were actual friends and family.
LinkedIn seemed to make the most sense. After all, it was more of a “professional” site, designed to showcase your resume and develop connections.
So what happened?
The unexpected.
I wound up forming some pretty decent bonds with people in the dance world on Twitter–despite my lack of enthusiasm. I found a real sense of community there, and met up with those I probably would never have come across otherwise. I learned about newer dance styles, such as krumping, and met dancers outside of the mainstream. And it was wonderful.
Facebook actually wound up being fun in a different way. I found that my friends and family would comment on my posts and stay more in touch with what I was doing. It’s nice to know that they are out there, and it’s also an easy way to keep them updated on what I’m up to.
LinkedIn? Well, surprisingly, out of the three I use it the least. The site that I figured would be the most useful as a business tool is actually the one I find a chore to keep up on. The part I enjoy the most is the Dance Writers group that I started and manage, along with David from Ballet for Men and Henrik from Tights and Tiaras.
So I guess what I’m saying is that if you’re not using Facebook and Twitter to advance your career–you might want to give it a shot. You can do a little at a time like I did and learn as you go. I’ve found I really enjoy my time on these two sites. You might be surprised to find that you do too.
If you haven’t already, join up with 4dancers on Twitter and see what I’m talking about…
HI, Catherine. Love your post! I just joined Twitter recently (something I never thought I would do either), and I have also found it a wonderful experience. I’m still getting the hang of it but am interested to see where it goes. I share some professional things with friends on Facebook, too, but am wondering if I should start a separate fan page…in case they don’t want to hear about all my dance and writing endeavors 🙂
Hey Kerry–thanks! Yes, it IS fun isn’t it? Check out my followers on there to see some great peeps worth hooking up with (if you aren’t already following them!) As for FB, I do both–I have a separate page for 4dancers, but I also update my blog feed to my personal page. It’s actually not bad if you don’t blanket people with information about your professional activities. 🙂 In the end, it’s up to you….
Are you on LinkedIn?