If I am learning anything from my journey through social media, it is this: social media is a minefield, tread carefully... but not too carefully.

OK, picture the scenario, you've set up your brand spanking new and shiny profiles on various social media sites. Now what? Do you sit back and hope that someone appreciates your artistic talent or witty repartee? Do you blindly bombard those networks with content in the hope that eventually someone will listen? Read on for my top tips on making social media work for you.
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This is my absolute top tip! Social media can feel very much like a one-sided conversation hoping someone else will join in. But here's the thing, you can help them to do so! Your followers, fans and people in general are looking for a way to engage with you so give them just that! Ask questions, invite comments. Be social. In turn, comment on and like their posts. Trust me, it will pay dividends.
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This is a controversial one. Opinions are very much divided on whether or not it is a good plan to follow/like back. My view: I am very happy to connect with you unless there is a specific reason why I shouldn't. Certainly in the beginning, it can help. At that point, try to post content that appeals to a wider audience, not just your own niche, that way you will see more engagement. Lists, groups and circles can be used to manage your relevant following later on. That doesn't mean you shouldn't engage with all your followers/fans however. At least once a day make a point of checking in and joining in with the conversation wherever you can. Later, once you have built your following or fan base you can be more selective.
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It is all too easy to target your content at the followers you already have. Most likely though, these are your friends. family and colleagues. Keep in mind that the ultimate goal is to get your name or business out there to a wider audience. How? Post content that might appeal to a general audience or, better still, to your target market. That doesn't mean you should stop posting in your own niche, try a healthy combination of the two for optimum results.
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Do not underestimate the power of the humble hashtag. Use wisely and keep them relevant to the post in question. Avoid the tempation to #talkinhastagsuntilitmakesnosenseandirritatesthebejesusoutofpeople! Hashtags work across almost every social network and allow users to find others with similar interests (in other words, people likely to engage with your content). Just to illustrate, I have had a personal Pinterest account for over a year and I have a measly 35 or so followers in spite of pinning relentlessly almost every day - don't judge, I have 3 children to entertain and feed, it takes planning and inspiration! My business Pinterest account, on the other hand, has almost 90 followers after just a couple of months. Some of that is down to my use of hashtags.
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This tip is twofold: firstly, if you monitor your following (as I do, via Crowdfire), try not to spend hours agonising over why that particular person in your niche might have unfollowed/unliked you. Why? What did I do wrong? Forget it and move on. Keep posting and eventually you will find an audience that responds to and engages with the particular type of content you post.
Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, especially at this time of year, recognise that the world will not stop spinning if you have not posted to your social media this minute/hour/day or week. You have a life outside of work that includes family and friends. Don't miss it because you're glued to a screen.

Have you had success with different social media strategies? I would love to hear your comments, what works for you?

Even at its most fundamental, being a translator is about so much more than simply rendering a text from language A to language B. It requires meticulous research, expert cultural knowledge and localization. But did you know that many of us also offer other services? Here are some of the more unusual language services I have provided for clients during my translation career.
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