Giving is on my mind lately, with the tragedy still unfolding in Haiti. Rob Key, CEO of social media marketing and communications agency Converseon, says you should “lead with altruism” and “come bearing gifts.” He’s referring to the use of social media by businesses, but I think the same rules should be applied when creating and maintaining your personal brand.
Twitter (and other similar platforms)
1. Share articles and blog posts you believe followers will find interesting and/or helpful
2. Retweet whenever possible
3. Answer followers’ questions if you’re knowledgeable about the subject
4. Give followers advice in your area of expertise
5. Connect followers when you believe it will be beneficial for both parties
6. Add a Twibbon or two to your avatar
7. Add the LinkedIn Answers application to your homepage, and respond with your expertise
8. Join Groups, and take part in discussions and post job opportunities and news items
9. When appropriate, introduce your connections to one another
10. Provide your connections with recommendations, even when you haven’t been asked
11. Support a cause
12. Include helpful links and information in your status update
13. Become a fan
14. Join Groups, and take part in discussions and post job opportunities and news items
Blogs
15. Write for your readers, not just yourself
16. Give some “link love” in your posts and blogroll
17. Comment on other people’s blogs
Offline Networking
18. Remember and recognize birthdays and anniversaries
19. Offer your advice, personal experiences and expertise
20. Pay it forward – share job opportunities, event announcements, discounts, etc.
