Likeability is a powerful tool that has the power to help (or hurt) your small business.
Whether or not you are “likeable” in Facebook or other social media comes down to your ability to present yourself online and whether or not you achieve the right voice and tone in your messages. If you need help perfecting this right balance in likeability, here are some tools to harness this power in your favor.
The Foundation is in Your Character
In her Small Business Trends article “What Is Your Likability Factor?” Deborah Shane discusses how the likeability factor is the key to opening doors in the business world. She breaks down some key tips on boosting this attribute, and we’ve summarized and generalized them below.
Be resourceful: Knowledge is everything. Make it your job to know the ins and outs of your industry, so you can bring these kernels of information to your audience. Give them the insight to better understand why these facts matter to the world and to them. However, if there is an area you are not an expert on, don’t try to pretend that you are. People today can spot an imposter a mile away, so stick to the material you know is legit.
Be credible: Building credibility takes time and work. Things like blog posts (including writing a guest commentary on established industry blogs), publishing e-books, or acting as a keynote speaker will get you that much closer to establishing your reputable status. And, don’t forget to toot your own horn and prominently post all these extras you are doing in your field!
Be honest: There is rarely such a thing as an irreversible mistake, unless you lie about making it in the first place. Your business must always be truthful, even when the reality may be difficult or less than glamorous. People respect (and expect) the truth so keep it real on all your media sites each and every day.
Be kind: Rise above any tendencies to go dark or snarky, even if a user’s rude comment makes you want to sink to that level. Always stay pleasant in all your interactions and make sure that all people have an enjoyable experience when they come to you, even if it’s with a problem.
Be optimistic: No one wants a Debbie Downer, especially on social media or on blog posts. People on your site want to feel good, not sad. Bring your audience information, humor, and entertainment, and spread the good will!
Be consistent: There is no such thing as an unchanging business, but it’s up to you on how you deal with it. Keep your ship steady and on course, even in rocky waters. When you’re consistent, people feel safe to depend on you and will keep coming back.
Be engaged: Simply, people need to be fully engaged in you or they will go elsewhere. Stay connected with your audience without missing a beat.
Be caring: Demonstrate that you care every day. Character building is an invaluable asset.
Be YOU: There is no one like you. Sure, you have competitors, but no one is exactly like your company. Take all those wonderful things that uniquely define you, and let it lead your messaging and outreach at every touch point. Shine bright!
Putting Your Likeability Into Practice
Once you master the right voice and tone with a full understanding of who you are, the messages become much easier to craft. If a certain post (especially around sensitive topics) feels a little off, run this by ALL your most important employees and close friends first. Even if it’s borderline unlikeable or questionable, don’t post it. One odd post, even in a sea of hundreds of on-brand messages, can be very difficult to fix in the eyes of your customers. Keep focused on your brand personality to keep you on the right path.
Are there any other likeability tips you’d suggest be added to the list? Let’s keep the discussion going!
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References:
http://smallbiztrends.com/2015/11/what-is-likability-factor.html