Monday, October 22, 2012

Finding Your Social Voice

One of the questions that comes up frequently when I’m discussing the power of social media and its direct application to modern HR practice is about voice. So many new users of social tools worry about how they will “sound” to those listening on the interwebs that they often don’t find the courage to jump in and start exploring how to use the various tools like twitter, LinkedIn and facebook (at least facebook in a professional context.)

Pretending Isn’t Real
The more time I spend connecting with colleagues from around the world, the more I realize the only way to be effective when going social is to avoid trying to be someone, or something, I’m not. All too often I hear HR pros use fancy words at work trying to sound important, or smart, or…well…something. I’ve done that too.

I usually come off sounding like I’m trying to be Mr. Holier-Than-Thou-Guy. That’s pretty lame. I hate being lame.

Real Is Real
As I spend more time incorporating social into my professional life, I now realize that the person I’m supposed to sound like is me. What a breakthrough! Talk about an obvious realization.

I’m almost embarrassed to say it out loud, but it’s true. When we go social, we need to be genuine, candid, honest, and real. We need to be ourselves.

How About You
Who do you pretend to be when you’re going social? I hope you’re not pretending to be anyone. I want to get to know the real you, and so does everyone else. Don’t be afraid to be anyone but yourself. Sound good?

I’d love to hear from you.

No Excuses.



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