Social media isn't that different from writing a book. I've written a few manuscripts and short stories, albeit, crappy and unpublished so far. However, regardless of their quality, I know there is always one rule when writing fiction: Pull in the reader with your very first line/paragraph. Hook them.
* I think the same goes for Social media. If you can engage the fan/follower on Monday with a question peaking their interest, then you've got their attention. That's what you want if you're trying to conduct a successful social media strategy.
Yet, what about after that first page? Just filler? Of course, not. Regardless if you're opening paragraph is as great as Shakespeare, it won't matter if the rest is crap. The reader will put the book down and never look at it again. Once you have the reader's attention, you have to hold on and never let go. Be relentless. Keep them wanting more. Keep them turning the page. (Easier said then done!)
*The same applies to social media. Okay, so you've posted an interesting question on Monday. You've got 20 responses. Great. Tuesday comes along. It's not time to sit back and relax. It's time to keep the conversation going. Establish a relationship. Granted, if you're not active for one day on social media, that doesn't mean you'll lose fans immediately. However, if you revert to posting non-dynamic, non-relevant content such as endless promotions, then you're bound to drive that "Reader" away.
Obviously, there is one huge difference between writing a book and propelling at social media: eventually, you'll finish writing that book. Nonetheless, if you're not devoted to producing relevant and engaging posts to build your "social community" (not devoted to keeping the reader on the edge of their seat), you're going to have a tough time with social media.
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