The power of using and understanding social media

Image from Pexels

As you know, I recently wrote a post on why I use social media and it got me thinking. Social media is something that we simply cannot escape from, from updating Snapchat stories to re-tweeting celebrities, Instagram stalking to enhancing our profiles on LinkedIn, it's become an everyday activity.

A recent survey by UM's Wave indicated that 85% of social media users actively spend time managing their profiles online and compared to 2010, people are 40% less likely to see social networks as a place for fun and entertainment and are 30% more likely to see them as platforms on which to promote themselves.

I may not be the most social media savvy, but being a millennial and growing up with the use of social media platforms and emerging technology definitely has its positives. Here are my three top tips on how to utilise social media:

Use your own voice

When writing online, don't pretend to be someone you're not. Whether it's writing simple status updates to long blog posts or instant messaging, make sure it's written in a way that promotes your best self. Use similar language to what you'd use in everyday life while talking to family or friends and be genuine in how you come across. You don't want to find yourself meeting someone for the first time and realise that your online persona is completely different to what you're actually like.

Keep on top of it

When running online accounts to use professionally, make sure you keep on top of it. For example, try to tweet at least 4 times a day to show that you're involving yourself in discussion and current affairs. Re-tweeting people in the same industry or users who you look up to will help your activity as well as engaging in conversation, through instant messaging or commenting on someone's tweet, image or announcement. You'll be amazed how many people notice engagement on your feed, just by a simple re-tweet or comment.

Remember all social media platforms

When starting up social media accounts, most people will focus on Twitter, Instagram and a Facebook page. They're easy to use, have a large following and you can find relatable posts with just a one-word search. However, I've found that even using LinkedIn as another source has provided me with professional engagement and helped me gain contacts in the industry. Potential employers can access your account and posting solely professional content can increase your employability. Using social media platforms that are relevant to your business or brand is so important - for example, using Pinterest if you're an interior enthusiast, SoundCloud if you're a musician or The Dots if you want to exhibit projects you've been a part of.

I spoke to Rhiannon Birch who co-founded Cheshire Cat Marketing with Darren Finder. Her top tips for social media can be adapted to suit any business or personal account:

"While sending out the occasional routine tweet is ok, try to aim for quality over quantity. Interact with users or perhaps post on particular trends, even if they're outside of your usual business subjects... don't be afraid to be spontaneous."

"Don't forget to interact with people"

"Prioritising saves time and energy and allows you or your team to get on with answering questions. Don't forget to interact with people on your pages as well though, customers appreciate a personal interaction and it increases loyalty."

"Scour the web for mentions of your organisations name (which also works with your name as a professional or blogger) and whichever social media channels you find yourself mentioned on, create a page! By creating your page and making yourself known though great organic content and advertising, the customers will find you and they will appreciate you creating a space for them."

Using hashtags is another great way to interact. Here's a tweet using professional interaction that got me a lot of response! Are these social media tips helpful for you?

I'm currently writing a blog post all about social media📱 What are your top social media tips?✨#journorequest @UKBloggers1

— Amie Rhone (@amie_journalist) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 take a break from it every once in a while! 💕💕

— Niffler (@allaimeewrites) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 'Just do you' Don't upload something because you think others want you too. Stay true to yourself.

— Amanda Bootes (@AmandaBootes) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 It's important to create conversations, not just plugging your own brand in every post. Promote others.

— Krissy Lloyd (@krissy_lloyd) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 Never be negative!

— Lucy Smith (@Lucyannasmith) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 don't put anything on social media that you wouldn't want your grandmother to see!

— Vic Dadson (@VicClicky) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @UKBloggers1 keep it social! Focus on making connections not sales and the results will follow.

— Rebecca Coupe (@rebeccacoupe) March 22, 2017

@amie_journalist @PRJournoRequest @UKBloggers1 ask questions to start a conversation.

— Jonathan Pollinger (@intranetfuture) March 23, 2017

Social media: Why I use it and what it means to me

Image from Pixabay

Contacts

One of the first tips I was told as a student journalist is to make sure my social media is up to scratch; constantly updated, chat with industry professionals online, remove old or inappropriate posts and follow the people that you aspire to be like or who has your dream job. This is probably the best advice I've been told. Since posting professional content, I've seen an increase in activity, with followers from industry professionals and a bigger following on my blog. Building contacts is good in any profession and you never know what you'll get from following someone on Twitter or commenting on someone's Instagram post.

News

Social media has changed the way in which traditional news platforms report news. Most people now see stories first on Facebook, especially if they follow any news outlets on there, but even through shares, likes and comments. Newspapers are now providing digital content for the majority of their stories; political, entertainment, business or just general news, helping more people than ever become interested in news. Over 80% of people now source their news online and social media has been the biggest influence on that number, especially in generating more people, who wouldn't have before, to read news.

Family

Keeping in contact with my family is so important to me, especially as my family live all over the UK and since my Uncle moved over to Madrid. Social media completely changed the way I chat to my family and friends, with it being so easy to keep in touch, see what people are up to and message them. From double-tapping pictures and videos on Instagram to liking status's on Facebook and messaging each other, I feel closer than ever to my family who I may not see as often as I'd like... simply down to the introduction of social media!

Trends

Similarly to news outlets, trending stories have completely changed the way that news is now provided. Whether it's a trending hashtag on Twitter to a story on Facebook, trends are purely there because so many people are talking about a certain topic. It now takes just seconds to open an app and see what's going on; a killer speech at the Grammys, important election results, the latest sports scores or even a pregnancy reveal!

Job Opportunities

Social media isn't just about checking in with your friends and having a laugh. As I've made my way through university, I've realised how important social media accounts are in reflecting your brand, personality and enthusiasm when it comes to future careers. Creating a professional Facebook and Twitter account helped my following and got me in touch with people I wouldn't have dreamed about speaking to before and creating a LinkedIn account is certainly the best thing I could have done while looking for job opportunities. Don't hold back when it comes to getting your name out there and showing your skills off!


Check out this post for tips on how to transform your social media:

Top 5 lifestyle tips

After a busy few weeks house-sitting and beginning my second year of uni, I wanted to share some simple tips that once you have grasped, become second nature. They're not bold, confusing or time-wasting, just very simple but extremely effective...

1. Find the right skincare

For the last two years, my skin has been awful. Not necessarily on my face or hands, but on my legs. I developed eczema, causing itching, bleeding and scarring - and no skincare cream or moisturiser seemed to help. I recently found out about Aveeno, and their moisturising cream has been my saviour. It may not work wonders on everyone, but my legs have cleared up, smoothed and cause no irritation. It's most definitely the best cream I have ever bought.

2. Drink more water

I always thought that I drank enough water, 4 or 5 glasses a day. Until dehydration became a huge problem for me, resulting in painful migraines and poor skin. Force yourself to drink as much water as you can everyday and you'll find that not only do you snack less, but your skin will begin to glow and plump.

3. Talk to people

As much as it may seem scary and daunting at first, speak to as many people as you can. Your hairdresser, friends of friends, strangers, people in your chosen career field. I recently created a LinkedIn account, where I have spoken to many people in journalism and teaching, and found that they may put you into contact for a job, work experience or just simply give you advice on your careers and ambitions. Talk to people - you might never know where it gets you.

4. Keep organised

My final year of uni is mad already. Being thrown into searching for work experience, thinking of ideas for a dissertation and constantly being told of expectations is a pretty daunting scenario (after 4 months off!), so keeping organised is my main focus. Writing everything down, taking as much from every lecture as possible and finding a way to manage my time has been tricky - but once you know what you're doing and when you have time to do it, it makes it seem that little bit easier.

5. Think positively

Exams, dissertations, assignments, work - the list could go on. It all seems so scary, especially when you want to do as well as you can. The main thing you can do is to think positively, believe in yourself and aim high. And if it's all getting too much, remove yourself and come back to it after a couple of hours. Go and watch bake-off and order a takeaway...

University tips

For most people, starting university is one of the biggest steps you'll ever take. From applying for university to your first day there, the whole procedure is stressful, challenging and exhausting.

But don't worry - it's completely worth it!

In a month's time, I'll be entering my second year of uni and really, I can't wait. Thinking back to last year and how apprehensive I was, I'm so glad I made the right decision and everything has fallen perfectly into place. 

So, for those of you heading off next month, here's my answers to some questions I have received and my tips on how to conquer those initial nerves:

Q: Can I still have a job and concentrate on my degree?

A: Yes, of course you can. Although, I waited about 4 months until I'd settled in until I got a job - make sure you can still control your work load. University sites and groups can also help you get a job with somewhere that is flexible with you, working as a student ambassador is a great way of making money while at uni.

Q: Is university a lot more difficult than school?

A: This is a tricky one - it all depends on your course and how 'difficult' you find work. Some courses are more difficult than others, some are more coursework based and some are exam heavy. It all depends on your style of learning and studying.

Q: I don't like going out and partying much, how will I make friends?

A: There's loads of ways to meet other people at uni, you don't have to go out all the time. You'll make friends on your course, in your flat and there's loads of different clubs and societies to join at every university. There really is something for everyone and it's a great way to make the most of your time at uni.

Q: I'm worried I won't like my course, who can I talk to?

A: Obviously before you start uni, you'll be nervous about everything. Make sure you give yourself enough time to try out your course and maybe, after a month, if you're still unsure then speak to a lecturer or your tutor and they'll go through all the options with you!

Q: I'm still going to be living at home and I'm worried I won't make any friends?

A: Exactly my thoughts last year! After going through clearing, I ended up at UoG where I am still living at home and honestly, I think it's worked out a lot better. I still have lots of friends at uni - just make sure you still attend at least a couple of freshers' events and get talking to people, but even if you can't, you'll make loads of friends on your course!

Q: I'm worried about moving out and living so far away.

A: You're definitely not alone on this one, it's probably the scariest thing about starting university. But don't worry - everyone is in the same position and thinking exactly the same as you. Try using Facebook to find someone in the same flat as you or on the same course as you. This way, you'll be friendly with someone on your first day and it will definitely prevent those nerves!

I hope this has helped all of you who asked and if there's something else you want to ask, feel free to email and I will answer your question in this post.

Good luck with starting uni and I'm sure you'll be absolutely fine!

Tanning tips

As June comes to an end, we are set to see the best temperatures of the summer yet. Finally! This 2 week long heatwave is set to begin today and as we can already tell, it hasn't disappointed. But, before thinking about that gorgeous summer glow, here's a few tips on how to tan safely:

1. Always wear lotion

You may think that the British weather sun isn't as strong, but that's not true at all. When temperature's soar as much as they have, you must still remember to put on suntan lotion before heading out. Not being used to the weather makes you a lot more likely to burn, which is never good. A good factor and brand helps; apply 20 minutes before you head out and top up every hour or so to ensure that while you're tanning, your skin is still being looked after.

2. ...and sunglasses!

Always remember your sunglasses! They aren't just there to finish off your outfit, they are really important when being out in the sun. To prevent you from squinting and UV damage to your eyes, make sure you invest in a good pair that have the right protection against UV. You'll know if they're any good; a sticker or label will indicate the sunglasses provide full protection.

3. Gradual tan

If you're desperate for a tan but your skin burns easily or you don't like sitting out in the sun, a lot of brands now offer gradual tan moisturiser. I have been using these for the past couple of weeks and have definitely noticed a difference; it's much better than looking pale in your summer clothes. Simply apply after a shower everyday and you will soon notice a summer glow appear. My favourite's are No7's Naturally Sun Kissed or Garnier's Summer Body.

4. Face off!

When applying lotion, don't forget to pop a little bit on your face, especially your nose and cheek bones. These are the most sensitive areas and will burn very easily. SPF lip balm will also prevent your lip from drying and peeling. I apply SPF lip balm all year round, it works really well and really helps your lips from drying out. My favourite is Carmex ultra moisturising lip balm and for a pop of colour, Clinique have a great range of SPF lipsticks.

5. After sun

After a day of sunbathing, you will feel like cooling off. After sun is a great way to do this. A lot of people think that you only need to use after sun if you have burnt, which is true and helps to protect the skin from further sun damage, but looking after your skin even after sunbathing will help tanning as well. Using an after sun with aloe vera are even better at rehydrating your skin, as well as assisting skin repair, so make sure you have a bottle with you. My choice would have to be Banana Boat aloe vera after sun gel.

So, as this heatwave is set to last, make sure you use my tips and by the end of summer, you'll have truly looked after your skin and definitely be ready to show off that great tan.