Breaking into Social Media: Same Rules Apply
Social Media: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Flickr, Friendfeed, Plaxo, Plurk, You Tube…are you on it?
If you are…good for you! You’re actively listening, and maybe even participating, in conversations about your brand, your industry and even some witty personal observations, and you’re building your network while doing it.
But don’t forget one thing. Even in Web 2.0, we still judge a book by its cover. Are you dressed for success? Brand consistency is as important online—across social media platforms—as it is in print.
Here are three things to consider:
1. Consistent username. Because your username shows up next to all of your social media posts and activity, it becomes part of your visual identity. When selecting usernames, choose something that is an accurate, professional representation of your brand, and then secure that name and use it across all social media platforms. (Even if you’re not going to actively use it, it’s a good idea to set-up the accounts and “squat” on the real estate, and then direct visitors to the locations where you play the most). To check the availability of a name across multiple platforms, visit http://namechk.com or http://www.knowem.com.
2. Consistent avatar. Again, choose something that is a nice representation of you or your brand. A picture of your face or a company logo (if you’re speaking on their behalf) is ideal. A great cleavage shot (trust me, it happens) or the default image is not acceptable. Then, use this image consistently across all platforms.
3. Customize your backgrounds. Many social networking platforms allow users to customize their background image, or brand the page with their own images or colors. Take advantage of this opportunity and make sure that all of your social networking sites are branded with your colors (you’ll need your “hex code”) and logos.
Dress the part. Don’t forget about your visual identity when conversing online. This could end up to be where people see you the most.
Kary Delaria is a public relations consultant to Kane Consulting and is principal of KD Public Relations. You can follow her on Twitter @KaryD.