Shadow at the dog park
When we first moved to Lancaster back in March, we discovered a dog park just up the street from our new home. We’ve never been to a dog park before, but our Chocolate Lab, Shadow, is a rather sociable creature, so we thought we’d try it out. Turns out it was a learning experience for all of us, and once again, Shadow has taught me some things, this time, about how to engage social media communities.
Community is the foundation of social media, and it turns out that Shadow had some lessons for those of us who are involved in these communities, especially from the perspective of business and marketing:
- Start Slowly – The first time we took Shadow, he had no clue what to do. He was being let loose in a large open area with lots of other dogs. And despite being 95-pounds, he decided to just explore by himself and hang to the side. A new experience. Social media is all about becoming a part of communities, but when you join a new community, take it slow. Don’t barge in. Get a feel for what’s going on.
- Listen – Rather than run along with the larger group of dogs, Shadow watched from afar. We need to do the same. Before we enter the conversation, make sure you know what the conversation is about. Listen and learn. And certainly work your way into the conversation carefully, without trying to dominate it.
- Follow the rules – The dog park has a sign posted with some basic rules. These are there for the safety of the park and its inhabitants. All communities have rules, written and unwritten. Learn the rules of each specific community. This means knowing the appropriate “netiquette” as well as best practices. This is why listening is so important up front: in order to learn the rules of the community.
- Don’t be aggressive – the dog park has rules prohibiting aggressive dogs, but I’ve seen my share of nasty dogs in there (which has resulted in some rather heated moments with their owners), as well dogs that are too aggressive in a rather…um…friendly way. Both are annoying and both are wrong. Don’t barge in and push yourself on others. Above all, don’t sell. Recently I’ve friended folks on both Facebook and Twitter only to be met with a sales pitch. Nothing makes me rethink that “friending” more.
- Have fun! – Once Shadow got the hang of it, he had a blast. He goes in, mingles with the other dogs, runs around. Barks. Chases. And all the other fun things that dogs do. Communities can be a lot of fun as we get to know the other members, both online and in person. So approach your communities with the expectation of having fun. Don’t look at it as work. Be an active member first, and good things will start to happen.
