Social Media - a Love Hate Relationship - TRACY KRAUSS

My husband is one of the few people I know who refuses to engage on Social Media. Sometimes I think he’d like to, since whenever I mention something I’ve learned he’s very interested and says, “I should get an account.” But when I offer to help him he refuses – like it will somehow sully his reputation as a hold out. Stubborn? Probably. Afraid of the unknown? Maybe that, too.

I remember feeling the same way back in 2008 when I finally succumbed and joined Facebook. My daughter was in fashion design school at the time and it was the best way to see her collection since smart phones weren’t a thing yet.

Love it or not, it’s hard to hold out. Social media can be a real TIME SUCK, but it can be lots of fun and informative, too. I have my favourites (at the moment Instagram and Facebook) but they all have their place. I was holding out on Instagram for quite awhile (I thought, “Who needs another SM platform?) but I’ve found it to be surprisingly easy and immediate and I like that I can share to other places like twitter and FB. Of course, it’s hard to beat FB for events and such, and I like the group functions.

FYI, I just recently cancelled my LinkedIn account. I know I didn’t need to take such drastic action… Why not just let it ‘sit there’ even if I don’t interact on it much? Frankly, when I looked at the purpose of that particular platform I realized it isn’t a place where I feel connected. I’m not looking for a new job or to advance my career other than to reach readers, so it just didn’t feel like a good fit.

At one point when I first started writing and therefore trying to market myself and my books, I thought I had to be EVERYWHERE. I’ve since learned that isn’t true. I need to be where I feel comfortable, where I can be genuine, and where I see results.

I’ve come to the conclusion that it is far better to appear on a FEW platforms where you actually want to be, where you feel connected, and where it actually makes sense, than to try to do it all and suck at everything.

What are your favourite (or least fave) SM platforms and why?

While we’re on the topic, this is probably a good opportunity for us to connect. See my list below. These are the places where I still find entertainment, inspiration, or connection. Let’s get to know each other!