Alright, let’s be real for a minute. Ever been thrust into the spotlight unexpectedly? For me, that was practically every birthday during when I went to kids camp in the July school holiday. Every year, I’d be at kids camp for my birthdays (ages 12 to 16), where I was hoisted up onto a chair, in the dining hall at camp while everyone sang “Happy Birthday.” Cringe, right? I hated it. I mean, I tried to be grateful, but I hated the attention.
Yet today, I run a business helping people just like you make digitally “stand on a chair” on social media. Funny how things turn out, hey?
I think it’s easy to fall into the trap of assuming that being active on social media means just churning out posts. Maybe beautiful graphics, perfectly airbrushed headshots, and professionally edited videos. But that’s not all it’s about. It’s about really being there, showing who you are, sharing what you stand for. When you post your thoughts, join in on conversations, and yes, even show your face, you’re doing something huge. You’re building real connections, not just a follower count (although we do love it when we see our follower count growing!)
We live in a time so different to any time in history. We all have access to a stage for voicing what you believe in. And it’s not just about dropping facts and professional advice. It’s about having real conversations that build trust and make you someone people look to. More than just a voice in the crowd, you become a go-to person, a part of their social media routine, and almost a part of their social group (even if it’s virtually).
Think about it. When your content contains photos and videos, it allows people to see the real deal behind your brand. It’s about more than just putting a face to a name. This is about letting people into your world. And that? That turns passive scrollers into active fans.
And it doesn’t need to be fancy. A quick video of your team sharing a tip, or a snapshot from an event, a selfie with a tradesperson. It’s like giving your audience a backstage pass to your business. This is how your followers start to feel like they’re part of your crew.
So yes, stepping into the spotlight can be nerve-wracking. But remember my camp birthdays? Just like back then, it might feel awkward and uncomfortable at first. But with a bit of practice, you’ll open doors to new opportunities, new conversations, and yes, even new business.
Being active means really engaging, not just posting and ghosting. It’s about being there, ready to chat, share, and connect, just like you would at a real life networking event.
Here’s the thing: when you truly engage on social media, amazing things happen. Your influence grows, your engagement rates soar, and you build strong, lasting connections. By stepping into the spotlight, you’re also lighting the way for others to join you. And that’s a good feeling.
Starting can be the hardest part, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Begin with a plan. What do you want to achieve? Who do you want to reach? These questions are the foundation of your social media strategy.
So here’s my advice:
- Set Clear Goals
What’s the end game for your social media presence? More landlord leads? Establishing thought leadership? Growing your referral network? - Understand Your Audience
Dive deep into what your followers are looking for. What questions are they asking? What problems do they need solved? Tailor your content to meet these needs. - Keep It Consistent
Whether it’s the style of your posts, the quality of your content, or the frequency of your updates, consistency is key. It builds trust and keeps people coming back for more.
It’s been a while since I thought about those awkward camp birthdays, I see now they were prepping me for this—stepping up and owning my space (but this time on my terms). Social media is just another stage, and guess what? You’re holding the microphone.
Every post, every video, every comment, it’s how you get more visibility and impact. In today’s world, being noticed isn’t just about being seen, it’s also about being remembered and being a part of the local community.
And if you’re feeling a bit hesitant about stepping into that digital spotlight, think of it like those camp birthdays. Maybe a bit daunting at first, but ultimately a huge opportunity to make your mark and be heard.
Want more help building your personal brand on social media? Download my Personal Brand Starter Kit here.
