Top Tips from Propel London for Working in Social and Working Socially

Community management, social marketing, word-of-mouth, online PR and more besides: there’s a rapidly growing and diversifying set of jobs in the social media space, and it’s an exciting area to be a part of.

But even if you’re not working in social, you can still get into working socially. It’s applicable to virtually any job in any industry you care to think of.

Working socially is about connectedness, inviting feedback, listening to a wide range of opinions and collaboration. The technologies – social platforms – simply enable this stuff to happen more efficiently.

As social technologies continue to influence our lives, so too will their use in facilitating this way of working.

With “going back to basics” in mind, here are our tops tips for working in social, and working socially for that matter:

1. Build your profile This is harder than it looks. The social web is teeming with individuals all spreading messages, building niches and creating noise. To build your profile it’s important to put in consistent, long-term effort. It won’t come overnight. What’s more, you need to have a simple plan – what are you interested in? What do you want to be known for? What do you have a unique angle, or valuable insight into? Don’t be obvious – express yourself and share your passion.

2. Don’t be afraid to ask Social web, and working socially, is all about sharing ideas and getting inspired. Asking questions, and listening to the answers is a crucial skill. Twitter is littered with individuals who are not only happy to help people out, but who are experienced and expert in their disciplines. It’s a great asset, so make use of it. Don’t be afraid to pipe up with questions.

3. Remember your core skills Social media isn’t just about sharing links, tweeting and building buzz. There are commercial considerations at the heart of every social media job. Don’t forget about statistics, partnerships, audience-share and client service. These core commercial skills are just as important in social as elsewhere.

4. Maintain perspective Social media technologies are part of a larger shift in digital, and its relationship with the world. There’s a process of evolution taking place which touches on all areas of the industry – display advertising, PR, design and build, performance marketing, mobile, the list is endless. When you’re thinking about how social media applies to your work, consider it as part of a larger whole. Don’t ignore the rest of the exciting digital world!

5. Stay up to date Make sure you’re plugged into the thought leaders in the space. Set aside a little time every day to do some reading, click a few links and keep your finger on the pulse. Attending seminars, trade shows and presentations will keep your knowledge up to date, and also help you to build your profile at the same time.

It’s an exciting time in the world of digital, and social is one of the major catalysts behind that fact. If you’re looking for ways to work more socially, or if you’re trying to get yourself a role working in social then you’re not alone. Hopefully following our tips will help you to get closer to your goals.

Remember to follow us on Twitter – @PropelLondon – we’re always up for sharing advice and making new friends.

Join Propel London for their Social Media Week event: “Myth Busting: The Reality of Working In Social Media #socialmyths“ Thursday 10th February, 2.30pm – 4.30pm

Myth #1 – Social Media = Getting paid to do what others do in their spare time.
Myth #2 – Only youthful hipsters work in social media

Join Propel London and a host of industry experts busting the myths that surround social media. The social media space is no longer new but plenty of myths still exist about who works in it, and what they do.

Playing around with Facebook all day is far from the reality of working in social media but what do Heads of Social and Social Media Managers actually do and are there any opportunities for you to join them?

We will hear from 4 people, working in senior roles in Social Media, about the reality of their day, the role they have and with the work they do for their clients.

We’re collecting your thoughts on some of the myths surrounding work in social media.  What are your perceptions?  What do you hear a lot from people outside the space?  Perhaps it’s something funny, or perhaps it’s quite a serious point.  Either way, please share it – we’ll be using the most interesting points during the event.  Simply use the hashtags #smwldn #socialmyths to share your thoughts.

Photo (cc) Mark Hunter