What you can learn about social media when you never stop learning

What you can learn about social media when you never stop learning
From algorithms to hidden settings and photo filters — you only think you know everything.
APR 25, 2019

In my spare time, I mentor younger journalists in digital roles. I've been lucky enough over the course of my career to have had some amazing mentors, and I'm a firm believer in paying it forward. I have never forgotten that when I started doing this brand new thing called social media, there was no one to help me. I taught myself, and nearly 12 years later I've never stopped learning. The other day, one of my mentees said something nice. "I hope that one day I'll know everything like you." Nice, but not accurate, and I said so. Nicely, of course. I explained that if there's one thing I know for sure in social media, there's always something to learn. Things change fast in this space, which means what was recommended a few months ago probably isn't today. Some things never change, as I'm sure is the case in financial advice, but so many things do — and they do often. In the spirit of learning and never stopping, here are a few tips I've picked up on my knowledge journey. Read help pages and blogs on the social media platforms themselves. Everyone has an opinion and interpretation, You don't have to accept this column at face value. But usually the most updated info comes directly from the source. For example, Twitter has a blog. Facebook has a huge help section. Bookmark a bunch into a folder and check them once a month. Chances are you'll pick up something that'll make for great watercooler conversation. Go through the motions. Say you've never posted to Instagram, but you're on the fence and you know you'd rock it. Upload a photo. Add filters. Add text. Add a link. Get it all ready to go. I don't look at this as a waste of time, I look at it as practice makes perfect. Even better? Open an account, don't tell anyone and see how you do. Then when you really have the hang of it and feel comfortable, share. Join groups on Facebook and LinkedIn. There is literally a group for everything, including groups about using social media better and using specific elements of social media. Do a search on the platform of your choice and see what looks good. Then immerse yourself and read. Then read some more. Bonus tip. This one isn't social media specific, but I can't end this column without recommending that you mentor someone. Hopefully as a financial adviser, you're already doing that or planning to. There's nothing better than working with someone who looks up to you and wants to learn from you. If you have a social media question or an idea for a column topic, please let me know. Tweet them to me with the hashtag #onsocialmedia or email me at [email protected]. And remember to follow InvestmentNews on Twitter,LinkedIn,Instagram and Facebook.

Latest News

SEC bars ex-broker who sold clients phony private equity fund
SEC bars ex-broker who sold clients phony private equity fund

Rajesh Markan earlier this year pleaded guilty to one count of criminal fraud related to his sale of fake investments to 10 clients totaling $2.9 million.

The key to attracting and retaining the next generation of advisors? Client-focused training
The key to attracting and retaining the next generation of advisors? Client-focused training

From building trust to steering through emotions and responding to client challenges, new advisors need human skills to shape the future of the advice industry.

Chuck Roberts, ex-star at Stifel, barred from the securities industry
Chuck Roberts, ex-star at Stifel, barred from the securities industry

"The outcome is correct, but it's disappointing that FINRA had ample opportunity to investigate the merits of clients' allegations in these claims, including the testimony in the three investor arbitrations with hearings," Jeff Erez, a plaintiff's attorney representing a large portion of the Stifel clients, said.

SEC to weigh ‘innovation exception’ tied to crypto, Atkins says
SEC to weigh ‘innovation exception’ tied to crypto, Atkins says

Chair also praised the passage of stablecoin legislation this week.

Brooklyn-based Maridea snaps up former LPL affiliate to expand in the Midwest
Brooklyn-based Maridea snaps up former LPL affiliate to expand in the Midwest

Maridea Wealth Management's deal in Chicago, Illinois is its first after securing a strategic investment in April.

SPONSORED How advisors can build for high-net-worth complexity

Orion's Tom Wilson on delivering coordinated, high-touch service in a world where returns alone no longer set you apart.

SPONSORED RILAs bring stability, growth during volatile markets

Barely a decade old, registered index-linked annuities have quickly surged in popularity, thanks to their unique blend of protection and growth potential—an appealing option for investors looking to chart a steadier course through today's choppy market waters, says Myles Lambert, Brighthouse Financial.