In a challenging economy where wallets are tighter and people are traveling less, social media applications are a new means for artists to connect with the masses. As an artist consultant and creative coach, I am advising my clients to spend some time plugged in each day to stay connected with an ever expanding online network. Social media applications can be used as an important marketing tool, but using them the right way can make the difference between wasting large chunks of your time, or actually growing your business.
-Block off some time.
It’s incredibly easy to spend all day on the computer playing, believe me! An important first step in taking charge of your technological advancement is blocking off some time each day to log on and connect, but don’t forget to log out or your creativity could tank.
-Get connected.
This may sound ridiculous, but there are actually artists who haven’t gone beyond sending emails online. Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, LinkedIn, Etsy, StumbleUpon, Technorati, and blog sites open up a wealth of opportunity for targeted, immediate, personal connection with your mailing list, venues, buyers, friends, and family. There are more social media sites than I can list in this article. Explore some of these options and find two or three applications that work best for you.
-Brand yourself.
Your 1” profile image is your first impression. Whether you choose a picture of yourself or a piece of your work, make the most of it and let it say something about who you are.
What can your picture do for you? Choose your screen name wisely, as well. Now might be the time to launch a studio name, or to find a catchy screen name that defines you to run consistently throughout your online applications.
-Expand your network.
Your online network should expand way beyond your friends and family. Artists have an entire online community at their fingertips: other artists, critics, gallery owners, journalists, media, venue owners, event planners, organization directors, retail shops and museum staff. Who is in your circle?
-Post it!
“What are you doing?” As artists, our lives and craft are tightly tangled, but try to observe a 50/50 rule when posting to your networking sites. 50% business/arts related posts and 50% personal posts. Your audience needs to connect with you on a personal level, but aside from family and friends, no one really cares that you are drinking coffee or that your mother just called. Think hard and post wisely. Let people know what’s going on in your local art scene, or turn people on to the inspiring musician you just discovered. Most importantly, status updates are a great way to let people know where to find your work. Posting a link to your online gallery, Etsy shop or Ebay store gives your network a direct link to your work.
Social Media shouldn’t be scary. Reach out and connect with people. Expand your network globally and join the revolution that is transforming the way we do business.
Posted by Nichole Livengood, artist consultant and creative coach for Art To Profit. Find out more information at: http://www.arttoprofit.com
@Markus I get your drift on where you were going there. I often think of my past and use it as a means to analyze where I am and where I want to get to. Where I struggel is balancing it all out. How do you guys balance things out?
Thanks for sharing this helpful info!