I have a confession to make. I like to be liked. Being retweeted is joyous. And someone pinning my work is a sort of validation. But I’m learning that these moments of connectivity - even if worthwhile - are
fleeting. I ask things like:
Was my instagram cool enough?
How many people saw my Facebook post and ignored it versus
those who liked or commented on it?
Are you retweeting me to connect with me? Or because you
think my ideas are worth sharing with others?
Is all this social interaction some sort of affirmation or
is it part of an ongoing conversation? I don’t know. But I do know this. Everyone
connects somewhere. And sometimes that somewhere requires a bit more investment
than a mouse click.
In 2011, a group called ChompOn
published a report focusing on the immediate next sale, to provide a starting
point in discussing the value of social actions.
• Facebook Share: $14
• Facebook Like: $8
• Twitter Tweet: $5
• Twitter Follow: $2
So what’s the value of our other interactions?
I think it’s a lot but at least as much as those we make
socially.
I invite you do to this with me. Right now with just a word or
two of affirmation, consolation or as a simple gesture of appreciation -- write
a note.
Write to someone with whom you routinely interact with
online or perhaps haven’t interacted with in some time. Write to them on behalf
of your workplace. Write because you have something to say and want one
specific person to hear it. Write because receiving it in the mail will blow
their mind. Write because it’s worth it.
Oh and if you like this post, share it. It’s worth $14 – or
so they say – and it will make me think that we’re connected even if only for a
moment.
