This is indeed the age of conversation – conversations that move across platforms and geographies. Some occur in small snippets at a time while others are in depth discussions that linger for a period of time. Whether the conversations are digital or offline, the conventions have not changed. There are rules of engagement, social and cultural mores, appropriate language and dress and always the keen reminder that conversations are a dialogue not a monologue.
All too often the focus is on the tools as people ask how to grow a Facebook page or amass followers on Twitter, but it’s still about people. Whether your conversations are social, casual or professional n reality the foundation has not shifted. No one fails at Twitter because they were unable to figure out how to tweet. Social media efforts go off the rails because of a failure to communicate.
Pretty pictures, splashy campaigns and automated systems are wonderful tools but don’t forget the real reason you’re there is to engage others in the conversation.
What tips do you have for engaging others in conversation? Does your online approach differ from your offline approach?
Age of Conversation 3 is coming soon.
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Jamie, you are so right and making the shift can take time so be kind to yourself. 🙂 In sales we were fond of saying “God gave you two ears and one mouth for a reason.” lol. People always wonder how I get so much information and my secret, shhhh, don’t tell….I listen. 🙂
I agree you need to listen before you jump into the conversation. You need to know where you audience is and who they are talking about. Listening is the best tool but this isn’t about tools but a strategy which makes the client happy and convinced you are worth the time and money to spend to make it happen.
I have been caught up in the corporate trap and also with a person who is NOT convinced about technology at all. Relationships matter and I know I need to get better at being myself and talking at meetings.
Janice, I agree, everyone likes to be heard and when we listen we learn so much. Besides, it’s cool to let the stories unfold and to make someone else feel valued by just listening. 🙂
Heather, well appearance can matter if your avatar is *ahem* inappropriate.
🙂 You make a great point about comfort levels.and I think the same tips apply on and offline. If you have trouble expressing yourself in person or online, you can improve. Start with smaller situations that do not overwhelm and allow you to practice without so much pressure. Recruit others to help you grow more comfortable. And yes, as you noted you never go wrong with being respectful and polite!
Listening…listening is huge….I saw somewhere recently that letting someone become the center of your universe for even just a moment is a very good way to connect and carry on a meaningful exchange… I thought that really encompassed allowing the other person a chance to be heard..and I liked the idea. A lot.
.-= Janice Cartier´s last blog ..Time Within =-.
Well, with online engagement it really doesn’t matter what you wear. Offline (I’m thinking in person here) your appearance can matter greatly.
Some people find it easier to engage on line, others find it harder to express their thoughts via text.
However, I don’t think the approach is any different. Being respectful and polite are still key.
.-= Heather Villa´s last blog ..Weekend Reading: My fav’s from this week: 3/26/10 =-.