Posting Original Content: Advanced Social Media Post Ideas for Professionals

One of the most intimidating aspects of social media marketing, networking and business development is posting original content. That’s why I left this tip for last in this series of social media tip posts. Many people find it tough to write comments and posts-nevermind (gasp!) original articles and content. But posting original content can make your profile stand out.

Why You Should Post Original Content

First, original content gives your followers and connections an opportunity to get to know your voice. You can also establish and highlight your knowledge and expertise on a topic important to you and your career. And third, you can help others who may be at a different point on the same path.

What Content You Should Post

Do you specialize in a particular type of work? Have you recently completed a project? Try drafting a post giving some insights you learned along the way or explain one aspect of the work in depth. You can focus on answering questions you’re frequently asked on the topic. How do you think I came up with this series of social media tips for business professionals? Ask and you shall receive.

Do you have a presentation coming up? One of the easiest ways to develop original content is to leverage your speaking opportunities on social media. As outlined in my previous tips, you can post in advance of the event, sharing the event details and, if appropriate, registration information. Tag the event organizer/host. During the event, ask someone to get a photo of you speaking, and post that photo along with a point of note from your presentation.

Then take it a step further, and develop content around the topic you spoke about. If there was a question and answer portion of your presentation, recap one or two questions you answered. Provide a summary of your presentation and who the information was for. The best part of this approach is, the hard work is already done in preparing and presenting. Now you just have to keep that momentum going with a social media post or two that could lead to additional speaking opportunities and additional work related to your topic.

What If You’re Not a Writer or Don’t Have the Time

Not a writer or short on time? Outline your thoughts and work with a writer to flesh out your ideas. But don’t miss out on the opportunity to showcase your knowledge on social media. People will appreciate learning from your experience and getting a more three-dimensional view of your work!

What Else You Can Do

And my final tip in this series is to endorse clients and colleagues you work with on LinkedIn. They’ll appreciate the nod and may even return the gesture. It’s a great way to let people know you appreciate their skills, and LinkedIn makes it quick and easy to do. (Follow the previous link for the exact steps to follow.)

Do you have any social media networking and business development questions or tips I haven’t covered in this or the following related posts? If so, please share in the comments!