2013 signifies a new start and a 
You’ve heard about “likes” and “tweets” and “pins” all year long. As your eyes widen at the site of a fresh calendar, you’re probably determined to get in on the action. That’s great! But before you push your PC on top of a pedestal, consider these five social media resolutions that guarantee your commitment will pay off.
Resolution 1: I will take my social media steps one at a time.
If you’re just embarking on the journey of social media, don’t feel pressured to jump into platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest all at once. In fact, do the opposite. By initially investing time in one platform, you are giving yourself a chance to build a solid foundation. Once you have built your presence and gained some loyal followers, use your first stage to plug directly into your second.
Resolution 2: I will interact with my fans and followers more.
Having an account is not enough to keep an active presence in today’s social media world. You have to connect, interact, engage, and converse…and that means navigating away from only your social channels. Explore all that social media has to offer by making priceless (and easy) connections with the people and businesses most related to your work. Social media is like a fantastic party with some of the world’s most interesting guests, so why would you stand in a corner and stare in the mirror at your own reflection?
Resolution 3: I will handle negative comments head on.
While it may feel easy to brush over an unsavory online comment posted about your business, it’s not a wise decision. Negative comments tend to stand out far more than favorable ones. Next time an unpleasant post comes your way, here is how to handle it:
- Apologize for any inconvenience as soon as possible.
Because social media sites post dates and times, the rest of the world will know how attentive (or listless) your customer service is.
- Be specific in your apology.
For example, “I’m so sorry to hear our services were not up to our usual standards” is not as satisfying to your customers as, “Jenny, I am so sorry to hear your delivery took five days over your confirmed date.”
- If necessary, make amends.
Some customer rants are just that. For your own sanity, it’s important in social media to weed out those who want to make a virtual stink and those who truly did not experience your business in the way you intended. In cases like the latter, make things right: “I’d like to email you a coupon to use at our online store, and I will expedite the shipping for you at no cost.”
Not only will a fresh offer make good on your spoof, but making an offer that requires a follow up in private will encourage taking the topic offline and out of the public eye, which is always ideal when managing potentially negative publicity.
Resolution 4: I will be consistent.
Just like transforming your body with a strict diet and a grueling exercise regimen, you’re not going to stop tweeting in 2013 ever, right?
…right?
While other grandiose resolutions might have your head spinning, take a lesson from years past when resolving to make your mark on social media. No, you don’t have to post the most profound thought at the top of every hour, but you do need to have some type of valuable interaction on a consistent basis in order to keep peoples’ attention and loyalty. Photos, polls, retweeting, interacting with customers and others in your industry, sharing others’ content, and so on will suffice. As long as you’re consistent, having variety in your social media tendencies will allow you to connect with a wide array of people.
Resolution 5: I will remind the online world that I am a human.
It’s been said that, “People do business with other people, not companies.” Humanizing your social media presence reminds people that behind your brand there are living, breathing people. This is the foundation of building a relationship between you and your customer.
You can keep your presence fresh by alternating promotional posts with natural storytelling, inspirational reflections, or simply your thoughts that day. Want to take it to the next level? Incorporate some video posts onto your sites — personal video guides, product reviews, and employee video profiles can go a long way to building that human bond between your brand and your audience.
What social media resolutions are you sticking to this year? Cheers to a prosperous 2013!
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About the Author: Kelly Gregorio writes about relevant topics that affect small businesses while working at Merchant Resources International. You can read more of her content at: Cash Prior Blog.