So, you're convinced of the benefits of social media. You've read the endless blog posts, emails, newsletters, case studies and even books about it. The theory is all there, but somehow, when it comes to actually drafting a post or recording a video, you just can't do it.
Don't worry - it's perfectly normal to be concerned whether what you have to say is interesting, up-to-date, or correct. Submitting our ideas to scrutiny ranks right there alongside public speaking for some. Fear of ridicule, vitriol or just plain obscurity is rational, understandable and frequent. Plus in 'meatspace' if you're a little shy until you get to know people, then why wouldn't you be reticent in sharing your views online?
Well guess what? Perhaps you're right. And yet millions of others have overcome this fear. Here are a few things to to help you overcome social media stage-fright:
Convincing yourself it's fine1. You're more interesting than you think - when things are familiar, we tend to forget how interesting they are. Most people probably aren't exposed to all the fascinating experiences you have every day, so share them.
2. If you're not interesting, no-one will care - they'll just move on. There is lots of great content, so if yours turns out to be banal, the worst that will happen is you'll be ignored. You won't be vilified, you'll be overlooked. Wasted effort, perhaps dented pride, but no lasting damage.
3. Most people don't comment - only a small percentage of people say anything. Most of us are consumers not contributors.
4. Most commenters are people just like you - and so will say something rational, fair and helpful.
5. Some commenters are trolls - and will craptalk you regardless of whatever you said. Ignore them.
Minimizing the risk of failure1. Start small - update your Status on your social network once a day. Just say what you are doing, even if it's a TV program you are watching or going to the gym.
2. Comment on someone else's post - this gives you a chance to air your views amid the comment stream where it's less prevalent and won't be indexed. Comment anonymously if you must, but get used to contributing and sharing your views.
3. Draft a few posts, but don't publish them - this will get you used to the writing style. It'll also help you compare with other relevant bloggers. Did they write about the same topics? Were your views aligned or constructively different?
4. Contribute to a multi-author blog - perhaps your company has one with a generic author title. For instance, my agency has a 'LEWIS Team' name for general updates and infrequent contributors. While I strongly believe that an opinion worth having is one you'll put your name to, the security this provides will enable you to post and see the response without feeling exposed.
5. Select a safe topic - stick to something factual, such as a news-related post. Don't offer an opinion, just update your audience on something they might find relevant. And source the information. You can't go far wrong with this.
6. Publish and be damned - like that tricky email, at some point you just have to hit Send. Put your tin hat on, stuff the phone directory down your pants and put it out there. Chances are it'll fall on deaf ears. I'm sorry but awareness is earned so it's likely many people won't notice your golden prose. But some will. And then some more the next time. Be patient.
Building confidence1. Publish, publish, publish - once you've got over the initial post, podcast or whatever stage-fright, just keep going.
2. Get back in the saddle - at some point you'll come a cropper. Just like your father said when you learned to ride a bike, dust yourself down and get back on quickly.
3. It never truly goes away - so get used to it. In fact, if you don't feel some angst when you publish, you're probably not pushing yourself enough. Take risks or be ignored.
I hope this helps. If not, please let me down gently ;)
