I’m not a social media expert

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And I would be weary of anyone who claims to be one. However, there are a few points I can make for anyone who is interested in the topic:

Experience the website

Use the website, whether it be Twitter or YouTube or whatever, as it was intended to be used. When you have a meaningful, enjoyable experience on the website you will then understand how to reach others in the same way.

If you don’t have any experience on a social website, don’t try to use it to reach others for the sake of some “Web 2.0 social media strategy.”

Social = People

People. This concept seems to be the first thing forgotten in the so-called “Web 2.0 social media strategy.” All the focus is on the media part of it.

People have grandmas, pets, favorite foods, ambitions, faults and bad days. Just because there is friendly talk doesn’t mean you are really establishing meaningful relationships. Remember the Golden Rule and enjoy the people you encounter.

Take your time and get to know people whether it be via their presence on a blog, Twitter, YouTube etc. It’s not about the number of followers or subscriptions, but perhaps appreciation.

A good name

A good name is more valuable than money, skills, resources, fame or a number of followers or subscribers. This is what people will remember you for.

Honesty, sincerity, integrity, humility, respect. I suggest remembering these qualities when you interact on social websites.

Some things never change

Regardless of your stance on personal privacy or social website preference, these interactions are becoming common-day. We should keep ourselves accountable to high standards in social interaction regardless of the evolving mediums made available by hyper-connectivity.