Women outnumber men on a wide variety of social media sites, and now are taking leadership positions in a wide number of professions with social media at their heart.
How can women in the profession come together to both support each other, share experiences and best practices was the topic of a panel lead by Mo Krochmal, editor of Social Media News NY at this week’s Social Media Week, taking place in New York, February 13-17th 2012.
I was honored to be on that panel, and in preparation worked with the Social@Ogilvy team in New York to crowdsource our tips for women working in social media. These experiences were then part of the content discussed by the panel – a full report of which can be seen here from Amy Vernon.
Our six tips for women in social media-based professions in 2012:
1. Show off your [digital] assets! Priya Kapoor (@priya_kapoor) advised that the social media “chamber” echos more so than the real world at times so what better place to publicize your voice or original thinking than a place always craving for more? Women should find a topic they are passionate about, research existing discussions and showcase their subject matter expertise to the online community.
2. The importance of mentorship and community. Kelly Ferraro (@kellylferraro) advised social media and the new information landscape are creating new opportunities for a strong mentor network among women – a point the #womenlead panel all agreed upon
3. Remain a student stated Rose Reid (@RoseEReid) highlighting the importance of always staying on top of trends in an ever-changing space
4. Have fun stated Sophia Aladenoye (@prettysongbird3). A positive attitude makes it that much easier to engage with new people, build relationships, pitch business and shine in daily work.
5. Recognize your network was something the entire team agreed upon. Women should recognize the power of their network and engage with them to continue to share stories and successes.
6. Don’t be afraid to go powerfully in the direction of your dreams - Layla Revis (@JauntMagazine) added, and ask for what you want or deserve, in all areas of your life. The worst that could happen is that they say ‘no’, but a ‘no’ is much better than an ‘I don’t know.’
What are your tips for women in social media professions? Share them in the comments section below. And be sure to check out Social Media News NY for more updates on the #womenlead movement.
Gemma, this is a great note to end Social Media Week!
We have had such a rich on-going discussion about these topics, and your 6 Tips set up a process for women to pursue leadership internally and serve as a guideline to others in this bustling industry. Kudos!
Great stuff, Gemma. What I love is that all these things complement one another, as well. These aren’t either-or, they’re also-and.
Here’s to more #womenlead!
Thanks Rose – appreciate the props.
And Amy, follows on from your comment on our panel, that the power of our crowd truly is what is one of our most important assets as women in the industry.
I think the first point is so valid. Don’t just retweet or repost things you like – comment on it and give your community your opinion. Nothing breeds trust like hearing your actual thoughts on a topic.
I love these tips. Everyday I am constantly learning about a new social media tool! Very true, this is why I joined the PR field. I like the continuous process of learning and working on your craft, and getting paid for that! #college student #womenlead
Nicola – it is so true. Never be scared of having an opinion (in any industry). Even if you think you are being slightly controversial, better to speak up and have a voice.
Rasheeda, keep up the learning! I love LinkedIn Today as a great source of news, really easy to use too. Glad you are enjoying the PR field!
Love the great tips from the powerful Gemma Craven who rocks high heels like it’s nobody’s business!