7 Easy Ways to Put the "Social" Back Into Social Media

A recent study by VitalSmarts shows that social media nowadays is becoming more and more anti-social. If you take a closer look at what’s happening on Facebook, Twitter, or any of the other major social networks today, you won’t be surprised at the findings.

Truth be told, many people, especially business owners, using social media seem to forget the “social”, the most important element of social media. They fill up the Twitter or Facebook newsfeeds with too much self-promoting junks, unwanted ads, spammy links or text messages that aren’t helping people.

If you want to put the magic back into your social media put more emphasis on the “social” part, and start building lasting relationships with these seven smart tips below.

1. Never forget the human element of social media

Pay attention to your readers and be nice to them. Always. Listen for what they need and how you can help them. Put a real face to your brand and don’t just use automated tools that allow you to update your pages regularly without any real engagement with your audience.

Respond to their comments to let them know that you hear them and you appreciate their time for leaving a comment.

2. Follow your loyal readers on Twitter

Look for those loyal readers or commenters that you can also follow on Twitter. All you need is just a click of the “follow” button.

3. Respond to the emails

Keep in mind that people who sent you an email took the time and effort to find your email and send you a message. Exercising the “social” part on social media strongly suggests that they deserve a response.

4. Answer questions in the comments

One of the best ways to start a good discussion on your social media pages and keep it going is by answering and asking your own questions in the comments. This can also spark a good blog post or new article for your website.

5. Take a poll

Poll your readers to know their stand on certain issues related to your business. Again this exercise can also generate a good topic for your next blog post.

6. Arrange to meetup in person

Ask one of your readers or the whole group if they're interested in meeting with your in person. You can invite them for a cup of coffee at a nearest coffeshop.

7. Ask for their opinion

Make your audience feel that you value their opinion. This is one of the essential aspects of social media – sharing of opinions.

Following those tried-and-tested tips above and being sociable on social media can truly pay off big time in the long run.

How about you? Are you “sociable” on social media? What’s your secret for building relationships on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn? Tell us about it in a comment below.