Starting from scratch on social media: a friendly guide to getting back in the game
So, you've decided to dip your toes back into the social media waters. Or maybe you're taking the plunge for the first time. Either way, welcome aboard! Don't worry, the water's fine - and I've brought the tea.
Embrace your authentic self
Be yourself
There's no one else quite like you, and that's what makes you stand out. Authenticity makes your content relatable and sets you apart from the crowd.
I remember when I first started out and was put off by the thought of having to be a loud, flashy marketer. I even avoided posting at all so I didn’t come across as a bit of a wally! But I realised that if I emulated them, I’d be about as comfortable as a penguin in the Sahara.
Once I started being myself, things clicked into place.
There really is no need to pretend.
You don't need to become a tap-dancing extrovert overnight - or even at all. I can’t dance to save my life! Your ideal clients will appreciate the real you - quirks and all.
Start slow and steady
Avoid overwhelm
Let's not try to run a marathon on day one. Starting slowly prevents burnout and keeps the process enjoyable. Trust me, I've seen too many people go full throttle only to fizzle out faster than you can say ‘algorithm change’.
Choose one platform
Pick one social media platform where your ideal clients hang out. It's better to shine on one stage than to stretch yourself thin across many. Whether it's LinkedIn for the professionals, Instagram for the creatives, or that new platform your 12-year-old niece keeps raving about, find your spot, grab a cuppa and get comfy.
Set realistic goals
We're not aiming for overnight fame here - just consistent, genuine engagement. Maybe it's two posts a week to start. And that's perfectly fine!
Spruce up your social media profiles
Think of your profile as your digital handshake - firm but friendly, without the awkward lingering and slightly clammy palms… Dust off your profiles to make sure people don’t pass you by.
Update and optimise
Profile picture: Use a recent, professional (but approachable) photo. And please, no selfies from 2008 unless retro is part of your brand!
Bio and contact info: Clearly state who you are, what you do, and how people can reach you. Sprinkle in a bit of personality.
Crafting your content plan
Keep it simple
Outline a few topics you're comfortable talking about. This isn't the Magna Carta - just a simple roadmap to refer back to when you feel like you’re getting a bit lost.
Content ideas
Share tips: Offer advice that showcases your expertise.
Answer questions: Address common queries your clients have.
Discuss industry insights: Share your thoughts on recent developments in your field.
Remember, done is better than perfect - unless you're a brain surgeon, but that's another story.
Engage your way
I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again - it’s called social media for a reason. It’s not called ‘miserable old sausage media’. Get social. Talk to like minded accounts and get to know the people behind them. Build some relationships and build some trust.
Here’s how…
Comment on posts you genuinely enjoy.
Join groups that interest you.
Share content from others with your thoughts.
Encourage further engagement by asking questions.
Quality over quantity
It's not about chatting up everyone at the party - it's about having a few good conversations. One of my pet peeves is when I follow someone on social media and they immediately ‘slide into my DMs’ with a sales pitch! 🤮
Think of social media as a tea shop
Imagine your favourite tea shop - you nod to familiar faces, have a pleasant chat with the owner, and maybe strike up a conversation with someone over a shared love of the heavenly brown stuff!.
Utilise time-saving tools
Helpful tools
Scheduling platforms: Tools like Metricool or Meta Business Suite can schedule your posts ahead of time - so you can batch your content, schedule it for the next week/fortnight/month and then focus on sipping your tea.
Content creation: Canva is brilliant for creating visuals without needing a degree in graphic design.
I'm a big fan of anything that lets me work smarter, not harder. If it can schedule a post while I'm dunking a biscuit, I'm in!
Overcoming the fear of visibility
Feeling a bit exposed? You're not alone. Even the most seasoned pros have their moments.But here are some practical tips to get started without being paralysed with fear…
Start light: Begin with sharing other people’s content or inspirational quotes that resonate with you.Share photos of your work area or your business front with details of what you offer…
Gradual exposure: As you grow more comfortable, introduce yourself, photos of you and write more of your own content.
Remember, even the biggest influencers started with zero followers - and probably spilled tea on their keyboard at least once.
What did we learn?
Be yourself: Authenticity resonates with your audience.
Start slowly: Prevent overwhelm by easing into social media.
Spruce up your profiles: Make a great first impression.
Plan simple content: Outline topics you're comfortable with.
Engage in ways that suit you: Find interaction methods you enjoy.
Use handy tools: Save time and work smarter.
Face the fear: Take small steps to overcome visibility anxiety.
It's about being present, not perfect. Small steps lead to big strides. And other such malarkey!
Ready to give it a go? Follow me on Instagram, share your first post and tag me - I’d love to cheer you on!
In the meantime, sign up to my weekly newsletter where I spill the tea (what a waste!) on all things social media for your business. I’m all about making it simple! I'll put the kettle on.
Struggling with content ideas for your business?
Download my FREE guide to creating ten posts in ten minutes and really kickstart your business social media content today!