Social Media & Branding... Oh my!

This month we are reading a book called “likeable social media” by Dave Kerpen.   Just when you think “I’ve got this”, then I get the opportunity to see that I have so much more to learn about marketing in our technologically savvy world.  What I have learned is that just like personal relationships, social media is not called “social” because you just put something out there on the internet and hope to connect.  Connecting on social media is almost as real as chatting at a networking group.  I am talking about relationships.  As I tell some practitioners, “if you want to fill your classes, you have to shake hands, talk to people and invite them to be a part of what you are doing”, I say that because there is no replacing physical contact.  However, now I am learning that if you do social media right, you can connect very personally with your audience. Whoa!  

I have to find the time to slow down and connect.  Social media is not just a place to post and say “there, it’s done.  I'll do it again next week" This was another "A Ha" moment when I realized that social media has its own personality and I need to show up.  But to show up, I need to have time.  In my busy world, I have figured out that time=more help.  So, I have started to get volunteers and have hired a gal to take over some busy work a few hours a week.   

Also to really show up on social media, I must get my brand down and this branding idea, still has me a bit perplexed.  There are so many facets of my business that getting it all to come together is part waiting process and part trying new things to see what works.  I have always viewed branding as a logo and I am pretty sure that is not what these books are telling me.  I think where I become a bit lost is how does the brand cover all of what I am doing yet still convey the same message?  Further, how do I get something out to community that is representative of the whole vision yet short and sweet? 

Here is what I do know:

I have a logo and I don't use it on all of my advertising.  Not good.

I have many different names that I use for different parts of the business...I'd better nail that down.

I sell and only use the best products made with love.  Consistently, very good.

My vision is key to all of the many different avenues.  Hmmm….

Many people do not know what it is that I do, even still or all that Pathways has to offer.  Time for a change here, but I have a marketing coach that is trying to help me out.  

I have very little time to show up on social media, though I am getting volunteers to help in the center.  

I guess other than providing good service and amazing products, it is time to start messaging. 

I see that my brand needs still needs some work yet.  

Since I am a silver lining type of gal, the good news is writing it out is a great start.  I think if I meditate on this for a while, clarity will come.  
March = Messaging!  I will keep you informed!