In the year and a half since I left a staff position in the electoral politics realm to lobby for an association, I’ve experienced an immense paradigm shift with regards to social media. I think it’s especially fitting to share this personal shift with you all as we’re in the middle of a series on social media in advocacy.
There’s something about working in politics, at any level, that forces you into a “conservative” mindset when it comes to social media. I’m not talking about your ideological leanings, rather your willingness to engage in the social media environment. I’ve touched on this before – even staff for elected officials can feel an overwhelming pressure on their personal lives. For that reason, I’d contend that we lean toward utilizing social media platforms as professional tools more than personal.
I see the impact firsthand when I look at Facebook memories from campaign years, past public events representing a boss, and the clear and palpable absence of personal material. In effect, my social media experience was managed, produced, fabricated for my employer’s benefit, not mine.
Now, in an entirely new professional setting, I’m finding social media to be fun again. I’m finding it engaging, and that’s likely because I’m more inclined to engage myself. In a matter of months I’ve become more active on LinkedIn and Twitter, created an Instagram account, and joined both TikTok and Clubhouse (both in the last 10ish days).
The last two have been especially enjoyable. TikTok still holds potential to grow your presence organically. Algorithms aside, the people of TikTok come across raw, flaunting talents and failures alike. The platform can lay claim to a truly unique opportunity for users to be exposed to something new and build engaging community along the way by the tools built into an incredibly easy editing platform.
But now, it’s time for the new kid on the block: Clubhouse.
Just last night I received one of the coveted invites to join this audio based platform. Honestly, I felt like I’d found a gold wrapped Wonka bar. If you haven’t heard of it yet, and are old enough to remember AOL instant messenger, it’s akin to a chat room system – but entirely audio. You can drop into ongoing open conversations on just about any topic that interests you – and hear from experts. And, for now, you can only get in by invitation. Exclusivity sells.
For those of us who devour podcasts and audiobooks, this is the next evolution. And it has the potential to be a remarkably valuable development tool. Last night, I spent 30 minutes in a room while doing dishes. And unlike the produced nature of podcasts, my Clubhouse room was unscripted and interactive.
There’s an irresistible pull on me right now to jump in. So, here I am, continuing to evolve from my reticent, reserved social media approach to that of a junkie. I’m experimenting with new ways to share my ideas, personality and experiences – and it’s frankly, rewarding as hell.
From my point of view, too few are taking the next step to create content, share their ideas, and even flaunt their faults. Far too many are using platforms solely for cyber stalking or selling their wares. They’re not really being social at all. TikTok and Clubhouse may just help crack the code for you to evolve your paradigm. Then again, a blog may be your outlet (it sure was the catalyst for me).
But what about you? What platforms are appealing to you these days? Why? Are you craving audio content over video or text? Are you looking for interactive, live experiences or are you looking for edited final products? Are you thinking about creating? Share your thoughts below – and include your handles/usernames so people can connect on your favorite platform!
I’ll leave you with this gem. Find me on TikTok (@partofthepossible) for more epiphany moments like this:
Part of the Possible 