So, what social networks do you actively use as managers? LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, or none? And what if I tell you that you can learn something from bloggers and other users of these media and utilise the experience gained in your own managerial career? Smart Blogs has prepared a few tricks to help you:
1. Speak frankly. Do not hide reality in nice packaging. Be completely open both in your statuses and opinions on social networks. Say what you think. Honesty is appreciated more than slick phrases.
2. Win fans. Why are the sites of some users more popular than others? Their authors are leaders without a title but with faith in what they do. Lead your team with passion and start doing something you really care about. You'll see who will follow you.
3. Do not be afraid to take risks. Life is change, so it is said. Social networks are constantly testing new applications, styles and schemes. Do not be afraid to try new approaches in management. Maybe you will gain new contacts and opportunities. Is that not how things function on networks?
4. Do not worry about rankings. Position in the organisational structure or the performance potential of your position is far from defining you or your work. Just like reputable bloggers, you too should rather deal with the influence of your opinions.
5. Be brief. Statuses in social media are not a lengthy analysis of the world situation. More words do not mean better ideas. Therefore, use words effectively and make your management style "tweetable".
6. Converse. Ask questions, listen to different opinions and simply enter any discussion that seems to be interesting. More diverse ideas = a wider perspective.
7. Share. Do you share on Facebook? So share in management too. Do not keep your good ideas to yourself. Leadership is not a contest in perfection. Share your great thoughts with others. What if another team can move an idea a step further?
8. Look for challenges. Do not be afraid of confrontations with people who disagree with you and try to find a suitable solution that will benefit both sides. Search for a mentor in unusual places.
9. Be the first to support. A social media crowd is also based on support. One user gives "like" to another, because he or she wants to be "liked" too. Therefore, focus on cooperation and give without expectation.
Leadership is sometimes hard work while social media are fun, would you say? So why not combine them!
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-bn-