Article by Wendy McCance
Get a pen and some paper ready because I am about to pass along some FREE advice. I write out proposals when I get asked about handling someone’s social media platforms. When I put my proposal together, I just don’t explain what I can do for someone along with a price, but tear apart their social media presence and tell them what they are doing that is right and wrong and what fixes need to be made. After awhile, it doesn’t matter if I am dealing with a big company or an individual looking to maximize their presence, the same mistakes seem to be made over and over.
You might wonder why I am writing this article and passing out a ton of good information for free. Honestly, it’s what I have always done on this website. Go back and check out other articles and you will see loads of advice to help you navigate your way through social media, freelance writing, product reviews, blogging and more.
I do offer online image consulting services by phone where I will tear apart a person’s website, social media presence or how they are putting together a freelance writing business. It is an individualized program where I answer the questions a person is struggling with. I also offer many other services such as website content and social media management that you can look over on this page: http://www.searchingforthehappiness.com/pricing-chart/
Basically, why not? I have a thriving business and have no problem sharing some knowledge that I know will help you out.
Below, I have put together a top ten mistakes people make and how to fix them when trying to promote themselves on the web.
1. There should always be a link to your website or blog (use it even if it links to the company you work for). People want to know more about you, show them where they can find out more. The business you work for will be happy that you are proud enough about where you work to link to their site.
2. There should be a way to contact you. Email address, phone number or both.
3. The LinkedIn profile should be completely filled out including a photo.
Search Engines
4. Search for yourself under Google and Yahoo. If your name doesn’t flood the first page, you are not relevant. People shouldn’t have to guess which person is you or have difficulty finding you.
Google+
5. Add a Google+ profile. It will raise you up in search rankings and provide a nice box on the side of the search page with all relevant info and a picture so people know it’s you.
6. Make sure you have a link to your website or blog when you create your Google+ profile.
Directories
7. A quick way to raise your name up in search rankings. Fill out profiles with a link to your website or blog in any directory you find relevant.
Social Media Platforms
8. Not having a presence on Facebook and Twitter is a mistake.
9. If you don’t use your social media sites regularly and interact with followers, you will look like you don’t care, don’t understand social media and most likely went out of business.
10. Show off what you know with good content. Write articles on a website, blog, Tumblr etc… Doesn’t matter where you decide to show off your skills as long as you pass the information along so others will see it. Share on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn or any other place you find the information would be valuable to share.
For more detailed information in a scheduled online image appointment or to hire Wendy McCance to manage your social media platforms, email her at: [email protected]
Wendy McCance
To contact Wendy McCance about a writing or social media assignment, interview or speaking engagement, please email her at: [email protected]
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Thank you. I’m old and not computer savvy. In fact, this is my wife’s computer. I think that maybe I better get computer savvy.
I write documents for a large construction company. They call me their writing guru, but they pay me poorly.
I wrote a book of poetry, which I copyrighted. I write poetry for family members and friends. They seem to praise my work. I have some college journalism experience. I write short stories. I feel compassion simply for the richness of our language. I would love to write for a living.
Am I too lazy, or is it possible to acquire writing assignments without a social media presence?
If you are great at networking in person and have friends who will mention you, you could get writing assignments that way. You could also apply for jobs for writers. I don’t know how many projects you will get without a social media presences because I have never tried it. I do know that having a social media presence is like the cheapest advertising you could ever do for yourself. It’s free and will always be there on the web. Good luck.
I appreciate the advice and guidance.
Thanks so much Gary.
Great article Wendy. So true. Any recommendations for directories?
I’m so glad you liked the article. Here is a great link to use for directory sites if you have a business website. . http://www.yext.com/blog/2012/09/the-most-important-local-business-directories-for-seo/
Thanks Wendy, but it looks like that directory is for USA businesses and I am in the UK.
Oh, whoops. Sorry, being in the USA, I’m not sure what to suggest for the UK.
Hi Wendy, not a problem. A lot of people think I live in the USA. It probably has something to do with my quirky/energetic/lively personality and what I write sometimes. I don’t mind, I love the lively USA culture. Sometimes my stats show I have more people viewing me from the USA than anywhere else, including the UK.
Great tips
Thanks so much Joanne.