More screen time, or better screen time?

 

Do you feel overwhelmed by the thought of your personal brand?

Do terms like "online presence" and "social media strategy" make you break out in a cold sweat? 

You are not alone, and you are not out of your depth.

In fact, you're in exactly the right place.

You make think your introverted nature is a barrier to success in the online world.

But you know what? You can craft a strategy that plays to your strengths, and before you know it, you will be making waves in your industry.

Why Online Presence Matters

A. Visibility and Credibility

Imagine a person stumbles upon your name during a networking event. What's the first thing they do? They Google you.

Or Bing.

Or DuckDuckGo, for the dirty birds. 🦆

A well-designed website, active social media profiles, and positive reviews enhance your credibility.

B. Connecting with Stakeholders

Having a strategic online presence can enhance your in-person presence. You can engage with more investors, educators, parents, and students online than you can in person. 

C. Thought Leadership

Establish yourself as a thought leader in Edtech by sharing expertise through blogs, white papers, and podcasts. Gain authority through your online influence.

D. Showcasing Your Products

Your website and social media channels are platforms to showcase your products. Utilize videos, infographics, and case studies to highlight innovation.

With the right guidance, and courage, you can make your mark in the digital world in new and exciting way. 

1. Be you, authentically.

Your quirks and quiet confidence are your magical powers. Instead of mimicking flashy marketing tactics, showcase your genuine passion for educational technology. Share a piece of yourself with the world. You will naturally attract others who resonate with your message.

2. Tell your story.

Behind every successful ed-tech company is a story waiting to be told. Invite your audience on a journey with you, letting them see the person behind the brand. By being vulnerable, you not only humanize your brand but also connect on a deeper level. 

3. Deliver quality over quantity.

Create content, not clutter.

Focus on creating high-quality content, consistently. One piece of content per week, to start. And don’t try to be everywhere at once. Serve a gourmet meal instead of a buffet – fewer options, with each one carefully crafted and full of flavor.

4. Engage.

Connect with the people who show interest in your content.

Meaningful conversations are your forte. Dive into discussions, respond to comments, and forge real connections with fellow ed-tech enthusiasts. Building relationships takes time and effort, but the connections you forge are worth it.

5. Build bonds, not just a brand.

Focus on nurturing genuine relationships with your audience. See them as real people with hopes, dreams, and aspirations. Take the time to listen to their feedback, address their concerns, and show them that you genuinely care. By building trust and rapport, you create a loyal community that will support you and your brand for years to come.

6. Practice self-care.

In the hustle and bustle of the online world, it's easy to get overwhelmed and burnt out. 

Take regular breaks to rest and recharge. Remember, self-care isn't selfish – it's essential for your well-being as a leader and human. 

Take a short walk, do yoga, or simply enjoy a cup of tea. Make time for activities that nourish your whole being. 

7. Find your quiet corner.

In the words of the questionable sequel to Wall Street, money never sleeps. Finding moments of peace and solitude can feel like a rare luxury. 

Create your own moments, hours, days, weeks, even months of peace and solitude. Start your day with a practice like meditation or journaling to find calm. Reconnect with yourself to find balance in a busy world. Maybe a cozy nook in your favorite bookstore – a sanctuary where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Most importantly, keep your corner quiet WITHOUT your social media. 🤫

8. Celebrate your wins.

And do so in public, online.

As Walt Whitman allegedly said, "If you done it, it ain't bragging."

Take the time to acknowledge your successes along the way. Whether it's hitting a milestone or launching a new product, celebrate with your team. This boosts morale and reminds you of your ability to overcome challenges.

9. Challenge yourself.

Your people are out there, waiting for you to find them. Embrace the discomfort of putting yourself out there. Stay true to yourself, and have fun.

Want to learn more about how to craft your personal brand in digital world? 🧑🏻‍💻

Then send me a message at mahlenaspeaks@gmail.com 📩

Thanks for reading. 🙂