How To Throw A Party

Conversation. Generally, it involves more than one person talking.  Unless, you count my Aunt Betty, who could carry on one heck of a conversation with herself, all day long. I digress.

Social Media, emphasis on the social.  Think of your social media sites like a backyard BBQ.  You've invited people you know, many of them  well, and some who you'd like to get to know better.  The party gets some new faces, too. "Sure, bring a friend! The more the merrier."  No problem, you have plenty of burgers and hot dogs to go around right?

How do you get everyone to feel comfortable at your virtual party? You visit and ask questions.  What questions?  For the friends you know, it will be about what matters to them.  Family, work, hobbies.  For those who you just met, the questions will be geared to get to know them better.  As a good host, you are going to ask them questions so they open up and begin to feel comfortable.

Think about a party you've been to, where the host monopolizes the conversations.  It's all about them.  Me, me, me.  You are looking for an excuse to leave.  You are wondering why you came at all.  The next time they invite you, your calendar is full.

If you want to keep your fans, followers, friends, you've got to encourage them to talk to you, and to each other.  How do you get new faces at your "party"?  "Hey Jill, why don't you come with me to Maria's?  She throws the best parties."  If they share information about you and your business, you will gain more potential customers and donors.

Conversation starters in the Social Media setting:

• Ask Questions.  If you have problems thinking of a good question, make it a yes or no.  "Yes or no, I ask my Facebook fans quesitons?"
• Provide interesting topics.  Your agenda is to sell something.  The people who follow you, are doing it because they find something valuable about you.  Give them something they might want to share.  Remember, you are the host of the party, entertain them. Don't forget to ask a question.
• Pictures. Worth a thousand words, right? Again, ask a question with your photo. 
• Get them talking.  Ask for stories, photos, videos.

This is the most important part of this my blog post today.  You have to give people a chance to talk.  If you have social media accounts for your business, you have to allow the public to post. Limiting engagement will put people off your brand.  If you are afraid of negative comments then you may have bigger problems.  Check the settings on your page and allow conversations to get started.  

So, get out there and get your Party Started!

Don't miss my workshop "Timeline Tips & Tricks: Get the most out of your Page" on April 24. Register here.