One of the first questions I was asked Monday night during my talk at the Wilton Library was about social media–how much to participate and which venues to show up in. I drew from the wisdom of my daughter Lindsey who is not only a successful businesswoman, but also a whale (she has thousands of followers) on the social media scene. She advised, “If you’re not comfortable doing it, don’t.”
Today there’s an article in the Arts section of the New York Times about Woody Allen’s newest technological venture since “his invention of the orgasmatron.” He’s recording some of his works as audiobooks. This is a stretch for the auteur who is quoted as saying: “I don’t own a computer, have no idea how to work one, don’t own a word processor, and have zero interest in technology.” Gee, he seems to have been fairly successful without all that.
An additional article caught my eye in the same issue of the paper today. The front page, below the fold, featured the best horseshoe thrower in America. Color photo and four columns across. He’s being recognized in the world’s greatest newspaper for what he does best.
If you’re doing what you love and are really, really good at it, the world will beat a path to your door. I’m still dabbling in the social media waters, as I know they’re not subsiding, but focusing most of my time on the things I do best and letting the word spread as it will. I encourage you to do the same at whatever speed you travel.
Great advice, Jane. Thanks for giving me permission not to feel guilty about avoiding the social media scene right now. And sorry to miss you at the library; I had hoped to welcome you to Wilton but had a client meeting conflict. Horseshoes, anyone?!
@Terry
Clients trump library visits in my book. Yes, let’s play horseshoes!
You’re right, Jane. I know that what keeps me going, and generates interest is that people can see that I love what I do. We all move at different paces, and while I know it is good to push outside our comfort zones, I think there is a lot to be said for going at our own speed.
I am also learning to be more intune with myself. When I am deliberately being wishy washy, or avoiding something, deep down inside I know what I am doing.
And, after a little bit I give myself a mental kick in the butt 🙂
Jane,
I agree that not everyone is well suited to dabble in all social media venues. However, I would ask a client if the discomfort is from a lack of understanding about how the social media tool works or from having engaged and decided it is not for him or her. You are correct that social media is moving full-speed ahead. People who insist that they don’t need it may not (now), but risk being left behind.
Your point that you MAY be recognized without being involved in social media is well taken. However, it is important to consider all of the implications of deciding to opt out. When I encounter resistance when coaching entrepreneurs and job seeking clients regarding social media, I ask:
“Do you want to tell your own story, or let someone else tell it for you?”
If you are not participating online, someone else is telling your story, and Google is listening. I agree that you are more likely to achieve success by doing what you love, but knowing how to choose and use the social media tools at our disposal may certainly pave the path so the raving fans can find your door.
@Miriam
Looking back now I see that I hadn’t responded to this comment when you wrote it. Now that I’ve been to the mountain, i.e. BlogHer 10, I take your point more to heart. Thank you for your honesty and knowledge on this subject.