We had a lively discussion about Social Media!
Upon suggesting that a corporate client seriously consider trying out Twitter and Facebook, quiet people in the room suddenly became very vocal with their opinions. The negativity expressed toward trying out the new medium was quite surprising, and it wasn’t necessarily due to age!
The fear was based on potentially negative people online; spies looking for inside information about the company; and the thought it’s for everyone else but not for them.
Leading the conversation, I addressed their concerns. However, I believe they missed the point, how do you know whether something will or will not work unless you try? Additionally, if there is a potential for social media to work in your favor, isn’t it better to be in the forefront than trying to play catch-up? Five years ago most people did not shop online, but now they do. It will work to your favor to adapt a positive mindset toward new ideas and implement early.
Being in business whether employed or an entrepreneur, requires that you take calculated risk. Their worst fears stated above did not pose, in my opinion, enough risk to say “no” to the idea of trying the medium out. You have to be willing to try new ventures to see which strategy will benefit your business the most. If they were to take a deeper look, they would recognize social media is marketing at its best – you have the ability to communicate worldwide or narrow the field – all at no cost, just some time.
When you enroll in a major new effort, your leadership qualities come shining through and you are perceived as the expert. This alone will attract new audiences and help turn prospects into clients. Letting go of the fear and communicating you are ready to move your business forward will greatly enhance your business development. This is precisely how you attract attention from prospects, clients and new audiences. This type of sale is the definition of a Smooth Sale!
P.S. A friend of mine, Adee Swanson wrote a blog provoking similar thought you might enjoy: TheIngeniusLife
