Being Someones Social Media Sherpa
Posted by Anthony LaFauce on March 26th, 2008 12:22 PMI have a great life, I am in a profession I love and I get to help people do their best. I help people navigate the world of social media and communications. My job allows me freedom of expression and the chance to guide people into an exciting world.
The reason I bring this up is that anyone can do what I do. Think of the social media hold outs you have as friends or family. Think about how much easier your life would be if they would join a social network.
I am suggesting that you become a Social Media Sherpa. Take it upon yourself to guide a friend or loved one up the path of social networking. Use the knowledge you have to help them steer clear of pitfalls that you fell into (20 songs that opened up automatically on Myspace?).
By helping someone else with social media you are solving two problems. One, your friend or loved one will be easier to stay in touch with. I would talk to my mom and dad every day if they could use twitter or even email with some confidence.
Two, you will actually will become a better user of social media. By talking out the finer points of social media with a friend you will become more aware of how best to use social media and in turn become a more active user.
Becoming a Social Media Sherpa is easy and rewarding. I suggest everyone take it upon themselves to find one person who needs guidance and help them out. Do you have it in you to be a Social Media Sherpa?If so let me know.
Tell me how you have helped someone enjoy social media and we can help others together. If you have any tips for our readers on how to get friends more involved in social media share them here.
March 26th, 2008 at 12:33 pm
I love that idea! A couple of weeks ago, I posted a note in Facebook on “Why I Twitter” after my Facebook Friends were curious about my Status Twittering. It explains some of the top-line benefits of Twittering for the ‘layman.’ It got passed around a bit, and even ended up on this blog: http://tinyurl.com/3a89vz
My Facebook Friends are starting to “get it” now… and while most are not yet Twittering, they at least understand it a bit better. Some are even trying it!
By the way, since the FB post, I have 140 new Followers on Twitter and have made lasting connections. Including you, Nick!
I invite others to Follow me at Twitter.com/savvyauntie
March 26th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
Totally dug the post - and yes - was hipped to your blog by Vaynerchuck - but you have spurred me to action:
My parents live in Scotland - their three adults kids live in - Los Angeles, Boston and Brighton - my 65 year old mother has sent out a daily email, called “The Daily Drivel” - to all of us (and spouses too) - every Monday to Friday since around 1999 - she was in effect blogging long before the bloggers - but - she doesn’t use Twitter! So - I’m off to get her on the platform - I think she’ll dig it too - watch out for @grandmanorm soon!
March 26th, 2008 at 7:35 pm
As I guide more coworkers and customers into social media services, I like the idea of having a name for the role, other than “the IT guy who signs up for all the Web stuff.” Regardless, I get all warm and fuzzy every time I see someone I help go “a-ha!” and realize how a certain tool or workflow can get stuff done faster, smarter and/or easier. Thanks Nick for the great article. (Just kidding, Tony.)