Social media has become an integral part of everyday life. Facebook, Instagram and TikTok: The right approach to social networks is particularly important in leadership, because even a thoughtless post can make big waves. It is no longer appropriate to close yourself off from the topic of social networks and be aloof as a boss. At the same time, it is important to find a good balance between being private and being too private. We have summarized here what you should consider in your social media activities.
Communication skills are one of the most important talents you need as a manager. Of course, yourpresence as a manager does not stop at the office door - all activities on social media are also followed by your employees, business partners, potential applicants, board members, suppliers or customers. You should therefore define exactly how much private information you disclose there before you create an account. Personality is a currency in leadership. The golden way is to create a profile that also shows you as a person with hobbies, a family and nice evenings in a restaurant.
Social media is an excellent way to present yourself authentically as a manager. Social media gives you a great opportunity to build a personal brand beyond your business profile. To do this, it is important to select posts that are exciting and interesting, tell something about you, but don't go too deep. For example, content that shows you doing sport or another hobby is suitable - perhaps you like cooking or love taking photos? Photos of your children online are taboo.
One example:
The topic of sustainability is currently on your company's agenda. As a team, you are developing strategies on how you can implement carbon offsetting, how plastic can be eliminated from everyday office life and how you can make your products environmentally friendly. At the same time, you show on your social media profile how you cycle to work every day instead of driving the two kilometers by car.
In this case, social networks are an ideal opportunity to create a holistic image and show that you are also personally connected to the company's goals. You can exemplify change processes and inspire your team. You also have the opportunity to network even more intensively with your employees via social media. Perhaps you can motivate them to share something positive about the company themselves from time to time and thus increase their reach? A social media presence also creates a lower inhibition threshold for interested parties to contact you.
Social media also has its downsides, which you should think about in good time. You are not protected from a frustrated former employee making negative comments about you on your profile. This makes it all the more important to check your entries regularly, build up a positive reputation and, if necessary, enter into an open dialog. The envy factor also plays a role. Have you just treated yourself to a fancy car? Then remember that there are also envious people out there. It is therefore generally advisable not to show off too much luxury, but to stay down to earth. This will earn you the most sympathy points anyway.
Would you like to know what content you can share publicly on your social media or what should remain private? We will be happy to advise you on your public presence!