Want to Succeed in Social Media? Loosen Up!
Submitted by Steve on September 12, 2011
As a guest blogger for The Communications Network, Larry Blumenthal of Open Road Advisors recommends that foundations show their human side through their social media channels.
As they move into the less-buttoned-down world of social media, foundation staff face an interesting challenge. Success with social media tools (and in life) requires that you loosen up a bit, let a little of your personality peek through – even offer a little self-deprecating humor. These are not things we foundation folk are traditionally comfortable indulging in. It’s like asking a bullfighter to wear a tutu.
I am here to tell you, however, that it can be done. Foundations, and similar policy-oriented, research-based organizations, can provide a little glimpse behind the scenes, offer some humor, some light-heartedness, even admit they don’t have all the answers, without letting go of their serious missions to make the world a better place.
Here are five relatively small steps that can help foundations let their personalities shine through and get more notice in the free-wheeling world of social media.