Grant Diggles

Grant’s “Rule of Thirds” for Social Media Networking

// February 17th, 2010 // Social Media

When it comes to Social Media strategy, many of the businesses I consult with come to me with a common question “What do I talk about?” Their question has been very legitimate and I’ve come up with a solution to answer this question called “Grant’s Rule of Thirds” for Social Media. These are listed in order of importance.

1. “Profitable” : The abundance mentality is key to having a successful social media strategy, and is important in building lasting relationships. What can you offer others in social media that is useful to them? What can you give away? How can you help others? In order to get things from others, you must first be willing to give something first.

2. “Personal” : One of the greatest gifts that Social Media offers is the ability to find and grow useful relationships. You’re ability to share specific details about your life that draws others to you is a powerful tool. They take interest, want to know more about you and a relationship is born. Sharing information about yourself is key to finding, keeping and growing with those around you. Don’t be shy.

3. “Professional” : I’ve listed “professional” as the least important of my rule of thirds. In an effort to save you from your ambitious self, don’t be greedy and start marketing to everyone you run into. Its irritating, impersonal and ineffective. Sure, every now and then you’ll close a deal or make a sale, but, when it comes to your time you may be spending a dollar to make a nickel.

In essence, the rule of thirds can be simplified in this way: You want people to like you, leading them to get to know you and finally, they’ll listen to you. The process can seem lengthy, but when building a lasting relationally based network, the efforts are well worth it.

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