Hello, my name is Will and I no longer Tweet. Before you start lobbing venomous word bombs regarding my disconnect from social media let me explain.
I truly believe in the power of social media, and Twitter is a powerful and useful tool for the right people. I was hooked when the veil of Twitter ignorance was first lifted from me and I saw how 140 characters could connect a community. I evangelized its use, trolled for followers, looked for relevant content to share, started discussions, introduced followers, went to tweetups and even converted a few non-believers. I bought the t-shirt and wore it at the event.
This is where my story will be hard for some of you to continue, but please try. I have not Tweeted in over two months.
Professionally I have clients that I advocate – no insist – the use of the power of Twitter. But after working with them to set up accounts, build followers, and just get them used to the idea they take off on their own. I still monitor their tweets and offer council when needed, but I can’t be them and for social media to work they have to be fully engaged and participate on their own.
Personally, I have three kids. The oldest is five. And they do not tolerate when my attention is not on them. Especially when I trade their one-on-one time for time with my social network.
Is social media important? Yes. Do you have to use every social media tool available to be effective? No. What you need to consider are what social media tools help you achieve an effective balance in reaching your goals. If you can’t answer that question for yourself then it’s time to call in the professionals.
Image from Toondoo.com
