When my account started gaining traction it was important to me that I built off an energy of authenticity. Social media is fleeting, and although it is a great way to get your name out there, when it comes to forming connections that are true, and long lasting, especially as a small business owner it is not to be trusted. Your algorithm luck could change in a second, and people you thought were lifers can suddenly unfollow. I watched a gemstone jewelry account with over 30 000 followers teary at how her sales had suddenly stopped and posts were getting a handful of likes. This may seem futile, but to a small business owner it is panic inducing. A million thoughts run through our minds:
- How will we pay our bills?
- Will I lose everything i’ve built?
- Where will my next meal come from?
This is what could happen when we depend on social media for exposure. A lot of people in response to this would say we should just get a job, what makes us so special? I would respond with – our work is important and makes those who don’t fit into capitalism seen. The work of an artist, healing facilitator and working witch changes this world in ways that can’t always be seen. I was also the sickest I’ve ever been when I was neglecting my calling to work as a psychic medium witch. Listening to our calling that some of us have is just as important as working at any job to support your family. Respect for both is important. So back to social media and the fact that a large following does not equate to sales. A fun aesthetic and reels can be relatable and fun to be a part of, and for those who are there just for that purpose keep living your best social media life, you’re doing amazing! For those who use it as a tool to gain an authentic following and long-term client base though, this is not so helpful.
Early on I spelled my follower count. This means I did a spell to keep my social media following to only people who were interested in healing and growing with me in a way supported by ethics, accountability, and inclusivity. Of course, people stumble in without realizing this, and if they are anti-science, or believe in the principles of love and light to the detriment of marginalized communities they exit out quickly. Some other ways I have found helpful to ensure you aren’t completely reliant on social media are:
- Build up your electronic mailing list and send out newsletters as a first point of contact before you post on social media
- Start a Patreon with content that is helpful to your client base. If you don’t want to charge, you can charge $10 annually and at least then you know people are there 100% for you.
- Post intentionally. I know in terms of algorithm I may be better to post daily, but I find the more pointless posts you do, the less pointless people show up. I don’t mean anyone is pointless as a person, I mean the less connected you are to your content the less of a connection I find there will be between you and the people who chose to follow your journey.
I once paid a coach to teach me how to build an authentic following and really all I took away from it is that there is no way she can know how to do this as she is not me, nor does she know who I am looking to attract. This means all I share is through my lens and it may not resonate with you.
This is provided free in hopes that it will be helpful, but if not, find your own way! One last note don’t forget to support your small business. Small business who places intention behind their creations, their clothing, their farming practices, and any product is the way we can all find peace and a sense of community in the future.
Thank you so much for being here and all your support.
