People always email me and ask “why does social media take so much effort?” The answer is in the headline of this post. Opinions aren’t automated. They’re special. They emit emotions, speak of intelligence, and opens people’s mind to another perspective. They’re little bits of truth that people hold on to. And they require a lot of effort.

Value = Social Media Currency

When you express your opinions in different communities using the right channels and methods, your efforts can produce value. And that’s the currency of social media. If you’re afraid to provide value to your customers, then your efforts as a business will suffer tremendously when it comes to social media marketing and engagement. If you don’t know what value is, you need to either go back to the drawing board, or take me up on my consultation services.

Remove All Doubt

Through consultation I help companies master that fear because as a consumer who “gets” this stuff, I value your opinion just as much as my friends and family. You can make a difference when you speak to me directly and answer questions, instead of broadcasting to me. You’re not a public service announcement and this isn’t TV. Get out here and talk to people. We’re waiting to hear from you, but only if you have something valuable to say. Otherwise take Mark Twain’s advice:

It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt.

Talk to me.