The first impression can very well be the last impression—especially when seeking to grow, transition or develop a corporate or personal brand via social media.
Therefore, it’s critically important for entrepreneurs, leaders and professionals to understand that one’s social media footprint (personal and professional) can help or hinder the traction sought with new clients, investors or employers.
Oxford defines footprint as an impression made by a foot or shoe on a surface. Another interpretation is that it is the area “occupied or affected by something.”
For this moment, I’ll define social media footprint as the affect or impression that social media content (i.e. posts, photos, videos, etc.) leaves on individuals who view or engage with said content. Assessing past social media content can educate us on whether our content is helping or hindering our brand.
Ask yourself:
- Did this content communicate an uplifting and positive message?
- Was this content free from offensive, suggestive, vulgar or profane content?
- Did this content bring positive attention to my or my company’s brand reputation?
- Did sharing this content enhance my corporate/personal brand reputation?
- Is the imagery in the photo or video depicting professional qualities and behavior?
- Do I have zero regrets about sharing this information days, weeks, months or years after posting?
If you answered yes to some or all of these questions, then you’re on track to leaving behind a social media footprint that can strengthen your business or career trajectory.
But if this assessment revealed a need for improvement, then embrace it as an opportunity to regain control of your brand’s social media footprint.
Take action:
- Delete content that’s inconsistent with the trajectory of your corporate/professional brand.
- Ensure that future posts remain positive and professional in nature.
- Set privacy measures around what can and cannot be seen or shared on personal social media profiles. Note, however, that it only takes a second to screenshot something that was posted. Privacy measures don’t necessarily restrict the intent or actions of others who have access your content.
- Learn from past mistakes and get rid of any associated regret. It can get better with change.
Remember, whether your social media network is comprised of one or one million followers/friends, the content shared is reaching and sending a resounding message to your clients, investors and employers about who you are as a person, entrepreneur, leader and/or professional. Understand and own your social media footprint!
Nayita Wilson is President & CEO of NVisions Communications & Consulting, a vision driven public relations firm headquartered in Louisiana that specializes in media relations, messaging, strategic communications, talent management and brand positioning. She is also the author of PR That PRopels: A Strategic Guide to Winning Public Relations Strategies and can be reached at Nayita@NVisionsCommunications.com.
Follow @nvisonspr on Facebook, Twitter, IG and LinkedIn.
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