A couple of years ago I started writing only PUBLIC posts because I felt there really wasn't any need to do Members Only posts. Why? I mean, let's get real here. ANYONE CAN SIGN UP and JOIN here at ActiveRain. Your clients, your neighbors are and your relatives are all reading everything you're writing right after they take just a minute to sign up.
What's the point of writing a Member's Only post when anyone can be a member?
I suppose there are some that feel they are protected when writing nasty, hateful and bigoted posts about politicians or spewing religious rants. NOT. Then there are others who write about their rants on clients or commission splits who feel that that Members Only category will protect them.
Well, I don't know about you ...but I love my license.
Blogging for Business and Bonding with Peers is the best way I can describe the experience I have had on ActiveRain and here's how I've made magic with Public Posts:
- Write ONLY what I would want anyone in the business to read. My peers are the ones who are reading about the person I am. The rants (or not), the positive side, the family side are all part of the make up of who I am. Would they refer clients to me after reading all I displayed on the
internet? If I am writing about my expertise in real estate and how I turn negative situations in positive learning lessons I am apt to receive more referrals. IMHO of course :) - Write ONLY what I would want the consumer to read. The consumer may be my next lead or a referral to a friend or business associate. If I am handling myself professionally online I can guaranty they will know I handle myself professionally offline. At least it gives them a better idea of who I am and will be likely to be in person. At least I am getting that one foot in the door until they pick up the phone to call me. Because I write the same as if I am in person, they will receive a personable person on the other end of the line.
- Write ONLY what you would want you mother, father, husband, wife or children to read. Our children are led by example from us. Our parents will look at us as if we are the reflection of all they taught us. Our spouse's will be proud of the person they have an intimate relationship with...all because of our writing online and the person we truly are. They say that in order for anyone to see the person behind the words that we have to be a bit transparent. I act the same online as I do in person. I'm loved :)
- Write ONLY what I would want my neighbors to read...and know. We all have neighbors who want to know about the people who live next door or down the street from them. How much do I want my neighbors to know about me and my personal life? There are just some things that we really don't need our neighbors to spread around the neighborhood. Especially our feelings toward them if aired as dirty laundry online.
These are just a few examples of what has worked for me in feeling comfortable with my online legacy and the legacy that I am leaving behind. I am aware how I affect others and a personal rant will be carried into oblivion for everyone to see....right here online.
The way we write and who we are writing for...
(regardless if we mark it Public or Members Only)
Will determine the legacy we will leave behind
....On or Offline.
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