Brian E. Boyd Sr.'s Blog, page 5

Oops Something went wrong

You know those messages you get from a social media platform when they are experiencing glitches, or when a webpage won’t load for you and it basically ruins your entire day?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They promise they’ll fix it and it will be back to normal shortly, but in a time of “NOW, NOW, NOW,” shortly is not quick enough. That just goes to show you, that even platforms that are all about making things easier and faster for you need breaks too. One thing working with social media won’t teach you is how to relax and take it one step at a time. But what if we did?

While we’re rushing to stay relevant, post the appropriate hashtag and get a huge response, we are stressing out, getting anxiety and checking grammar all at the same time. These are the moments that we get our own message saying, “Oops! Something went wrong!” Then we have to take even more time to go back and correct whatever mistake we caused.

In my experience, I’ve always been the person to not really admit when I made a mistake and I’d try to fix it before anyone noticed, only to make it worse. You know what happens when I take a breath, shake off the nerves and honestly admit to what happened? Everything goes smoothly and the people you admit it to will almost always have your back. That is way less stressful than dealing with what I normally do.

Whether we are at work, with friends and family, or focusing on our relationship with God, it’s always best to just admit when you are wrong, apologize and work hard on not letting it happen again. Mistakes happen, people and things (like social media platforms) have glitches and need breaks and that’s all there is to it. In the time of “Now, Now, Now,” there needs to be time for “hold on, take a breath, and relax.” Everything will run smoother after it. I guarantee it.

 

 

This post was written by Ginger Marks. Ginger is a Social Media Community Specialist with Media Connect Partners.

 

Have you seen Brian’s client interview with Amy Calvert, yet? See how MCP helps GEB America. 

Oops! Something went wrong!

You know those messages you get from a social media platform when they are experiencing glitches, or when a webpage won’t load for you and it basically ruins your entire day?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

They promise they’ll fix it and it will be back to normal shortly, but in a time of “NOW, NOW, NOW,” shortly is not quick enough. That just goes to show you, that even platforms that are all about making things easier and faster for you need breaks too. One thing working with social media won’t teach you is how to relax and take it one step at a time. But what if we did?

While we’re rushing to stay relevant, post the appropriate hashtag and get a huge response, we are stressing out, getting anxiety and checking grammar all at the same time. These are the moments that we get our own message saying, “Oops! Something went wrong!” Then we have to take even more time to go back and correct whatever mistake we caused.

In my experience, I’ve always been the person to not really admit when I made a mistake and I’d try to fix it before anyone noticed, only to make it worse. You know what happens when I take a breath, shake off the nerves and honestly admit to what happened? Everything goes smoothly and the people you admit it to will almost always have your back. That is way less stressful than dealing with what I normally do.

Whether we are at work, with friends and family, or focusing on our relationship with God, it’s always best to just admit when you are wrong, apologize and work hard on not letting it happen again. Mistakes happen, people and things (like social media platforms) have glitches and need breaks and that’s all there is to it. In the time of “Now, Now, Now,” there needs to be time for “hold on, take a breath, and relax.” Everything will run smoother after it. I guarantee it.

 

 

This post was written by Ginger Marks. Ginger is a Social Media Community Specialist with Media Connect Partners.

 

Have you seen Brian’s client interview with Amy Calvert, yet? See how MCP helps GEB America. 

Unbreak Those Broken Resolutions

It’s just about that time into the new year when people realize they haven’t stuck to their New Year resolutions.  For those social media ministry resolutions, we beg you to not be so hard on yourself for breaking them.  We’re only human, right?!

 

Instead of beating yourself up about what you haven’t done for your ministry’s social media in the first few weeks of 2015, let’s get back on track with those resolutions with some easy-to-digest tips.

 

More Visuals: It’s the age of visual marketing and platforms are favoring these posts above text-only posts. Not visually inclined? Apps like Canva or Share As Image make it easy for even the least designed-inclined to create and share beautiful images.  Sharing 1-2 extra visual posts each week will help catch users’ eyes and encourage them to engage with your content.

 

Engage Users: Don’t be a one-way megaphone. Engage your congregation by talking to them.  Send them a tweet, reply to their comments on Facebook, search for a hashtag related to your brand… just be sure your fans are talking and you’re talking back. Responding to 2-3 extra users daily can help strengthen your online community and increase your post interaction metrics.

 

Test Social Ads: Social media allows you to inexpensively test advertising online. Have a fun or important post about your ministry you’d like to reach more people? Experiment with different target audiences and platforms with a minimal budget.  Once you become more comfortable with social media advertising, slowly increase the budget and test out different post types.

 

So, don’t let broken resolutions mean broken promises to your ministry.  Get back up, brush yourself off, and start slowly working towards unbreaking those broken resolutions.  Still don’t think you’ll have time in 2015 to let social media help your ministry, consider contacting Media Connect Partners to get you back on track.

 

Need some tips on how to renew yourself as a good co-worker? Find some quick and timeless advice here and feel refreshed. 

 

This post was written by Ashley Scolaro. Ashley is an Account Director with Media Connect Partners.

Be a Better Co-Worker This Year

January is half way over, but that doesn’t mean we can’t use a refresher on what we can do to become a better co-worker throughout the new year. Maybe you left 2014 grumbling, hoping for a less stressful year at work, well it’s about time you took a look inside and started to change yourself. 

Always be on time! It shows a lot about your work ethic and if you were prone to being late a lot last year, it’s time to step up. 5-10 minutes early is “on time” in most offices. 

 

Sometimes you just need a break. It’s okay to get up from your desk, stretch, get some water or fresh air. Being stuck at your desk all day will wear you out quicker, decrease your productivity, not to mention your creativity. Avert your eyes, walk stand up and walk away.

 

Encourage others. A sincere compliment or an encouraging word to a fellow co-worker goes a long way. Especially if their name is Negative Nancy. 

 

All in all, if 2014 was a discouraging year for you and hopefully it wasn’t, time to get back up on your feet and try again in 2015. Apply these easy and timeless methods to your work life and you may just have your best year, yet. 

 

Did you break some of your resolutions already? It’s okay, don’t be so hard on yourself. Let us help you get back on track.  

 

 

This post was written by Matt Gregory. Matt is the Vice President of Operations with Media Connect Partners.

Double Up!

Watch and listen as Jordan in our NYC office gives some advice on how to improve upon your social media efforts in 2015. How are you doubling up your efforts this year? 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

This video blog was recorded by Jordan Moran. Jordan is an Account Manager with Media Connect Partners.

4 Things Christians Should Immediately STOP Doing on Social Media

We as Christians are called to spread the Gospel message to as many people as we can. This is so important that God wrote it down multiple times, and Jesus spoke on it all the way up until He died (Matthew 28:19). However, I don’t think we are doing the great commission justice on social media. 

 

Shaming people

            Judging anyone, even in person is always a delicate affair that should be handled with a humble heart, as well as plenty of grace and mercy. We as Christians should not be ok with randomly calling out people online who live or believe differently than us.

 

Compressing theological doctrine

            Theology is too vast of a field to be limited to 140 characters or a quick blurb on Facebook. The study of God should never be partially explained, or manipulated to fit within a tweet.  God deserves more discussion then a retweet or comment thread.

 

Hypocrisy

            The online community is smart. They can spot a hypocrite a mile away. If you are posting “Amen” and “Praise God” on one post and cursing and spewing hatred on another, you are not only hurting yourself, but you are hurting the reputation of Christians worldwide. Your love of Jesus should be consistently evident on all your platforms. 

 

Arguing

            Nobody wants to engage with a hostile believer. You will never convert anyone by arguing the legitimacy of the Divine if all you do is regurgitate scripture and disagree with everyone. Seek common ground, remain civil, and if the conversation doesn’t seem to be going anywhere, drop it.

 

 

This post was written by Chandler Elmore. Chandler is a Social Media Content Specialist with Media Connect Partners.

14 Trends to Leave Behind in 2014

We’re finally into the New Year and we all know what that means: New Year, New You. To us, it means discovering new social media trends and leaving some trends behind. Here are the 14 things you need to stop doing in 2015:

1. Ranting on Facebook.

There was a time when Facebook was an outlet to voice your opinions, and the time has come to leave that behind.

2. Duck Face.

While this should have been left in 2013, it somehow made its way to 2014. Let’s leave it behind for once and for all.

3. Irrelevant Hashtags.

Hashtags like #wishitwasstillsummer #itstoocoldtogotoworktoday are fun to use, but impractical and without purpose. Time to move on.

4. Typos

Proof read! That is all.

5. Kids Using Social Media.

There should be no reason that your 5-year-old son just followed us on Instagram.

6. Facebook Poking.

Yes, it still exists. Why? We don’t know. Just stop doing it – it’s weird.

7. Facebook Game Invites.

Another one that should have been gone years ago. If you agree with us, say “Aye!”

8. Tagging People in Photos.

We don’t mean tagging people in their own photos, we mean tagging them in photos that they aren’t even in! Whyyy??

9. Ignoring World Issues.

This is a mistake that’ll cost you. No one wants to hear about buying your book when a natural disaster or attack is happening in the world. Acknowledging world events and remaining sensitive is always the best strategy.

10. Facebook-Only Approach.

We’ll see in 2015 that Facebook isn’t enough, and may not even be where you’re audience is. There’s more to social media than Facebook.

1 1. Memes

Don’t want to see them in 2015. It has run its course and frankly, we’re tired of seeing memes.

12. Hashtags on Facebook.

Unless you have a good reason, these need to stay in 2014 too and never return.

13. Linking your Facebook account to Twitter.

This needed to stay in 2010, so this is your last warning.

14. Saying Social Media is “Just a Fad.”

We promise you, you’re the only one that thinks that. Give up, leave it in 2014, and embrace social media in the New Year.

 

After you change some things about your social media approach this year, dedicate some time to downloading some great apps for a new you!  

 

This post was written by Sarah Boyd. Sarah is the Lead Social Media Community Specialist with Media Connect Partners.

New Year, New Apps!

It’s the first week of the New Year, which means it’s time for a new and improved version of you. We all have common New Year’s resolutions in mind, such as incorporating a daily workout in our everyday routine, trying something adventurous like skydiving, or simply spending more time with friends and family.

But why not set a new resolution to add a new app every week to that inseparable smart phone or tablet we all love so much. Technology is a wonderful tool so let’s maximize it in 2015.  Why not explore outside of commonly used apps, such Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and gear towards more beneficial apps that can help us reach all of our 2015 resolutions. If you’re having trouble thinking of which new app to download first here are a few suggestions:

 

 

 

Drop the coupon books and download the Groupon app now! Groupon delivers unbeatable deals for up to 50%-70% off in more than 500 cities located around the world. Start saving today on tropical destination gateways, new restaurants, and new technology. In my opinion and as a seasoned shopper, Groupon is one of the best apps for you to have because it offers daily replenishment of deals delivering all the many discounts you love.

 

 

 

Are you one of the many people looking to get fit in 2015? Try Calorie Counter- MyFitnessPal!

This is one of the fastest and easiest ways to get fit this New Year. The best way to lose weight and keep it off is to simply keep track of the foods you eat. Keep track of your health anywhere, anytime, with this fun and easy to use app.

 

 

 

 The YouVersion app is all about offering lots of opportunities to experience God’s Word in new ways and ultimately make the act of reading your Bible a daily habit. There is nothing better than having the Bible in the palm of your hand. YouVersion offers daily devotionals, “verse of the day”; and you can even customize your own Bible study plan.

 

 

 

 

So what are you waiting for? Download a new app today and start to revolutionize your resolutions!

 

 

 

Don’t forget to check out Sarah’s blog on which social media trends need to get the boot in 2015. 

 

This post was written by Karlene Scarlett. Karlene is a Social Media Community Specialist with Media Connect Partners.

4 Simple Ideas to Create Buzz on Social Media in 2015

The simplest way to post about the New Year on social media is by wishing your fans a “Happy New Year.” But we all know that we can do better! The New Year is a great opportunity to drive buzz on your social media pages. Here are a few ideas to help:

#1 Post Behind-the-Scenes Photos

People tend to engage with exclusive photos or content posted on social media. When you upload photos from a New Year’s service, prayer group, or celebration it gives your audience an inside look and they are more likely to engage, since it’s easily relatable and relevant.

#2 Give a Call to Action

Another great way to drive buzz is by giving fans a call to action. One way to do this is by asking fans open-ended questions. A couple examples could be, “What’s God calling you to do in 2015?” or “Who are you spending New Year’s Eve with?”

Open-ended questions create buzz because people are more likely to respond by replying or commenting back. Another idea could be to prompt fans and followers to share their New Year’s moments or favorite New Year’s traditions on your page.

#3 Run a Simple Contest or Giveaway

Offering a reward is a great way to drive buzz. For example, you could host a giveaway for a free Bible, devotional, or gift card. Contests typically drive buzz because people love to win free prizes!

#4 Post Relevant/Inspirational Content

During this time of the year, people tend to seek out motivational resources to help them accomplish their New Year’s resolutions. Therefore, make sure that your content aligns with a “New Year” voice. Any inspirational or motivational content that will help your audience accomplish their resolutions is likely to drive shares, likes, and comments on your page.

Some examples of content could be, “Prayers for the New Year,” “6 Ways to Accomplish Your New Year’s Goals with God,” or “God’s Plan for the New Year.” It’s also important to use trending hashtags for your content. A few examples are #NewYear #HappyNewYear, #2015, and #NewYearResolution.

These simple New Year’s ideas are great ways to drive buzz on social media. Instead of wishing your audience a “Happy New Year,” try something creative and out-of-the-box that can take your social media interactions to a higher level.

Need an idea on how to improve yourself on Facebook in 2015? Find some hilarious suggestions from Ginger’s blog. 

 

This post was written by Bethany Couture. Bethany is a Social Media Content Specialist with Media Connect Partners.

New Year, New You! On Facebook, Anyway.

While you may be focusing 2015’s New Year’s resolutions on eating better, quitting a bad habit, or adding a workout to your daily routine, it’s time you start thinking about your social media resolutions as well. Facebook already announced they are making some changes due to lessons learned in 2014, so you should do the same.

 

Resolve to share less personal information in your status. Here’s looking at you person-who-vents-about-their-rude-family-and-how-crazy-they-are! I’m not saying I haven’t done it before, but I did notice that I actually received less attention on those posts. The majority of people don’t want to see all the negativity in your life. They prefer the happy statuses, funny pictures, and relatable memes. So take a breather from the negativity, keep it where it belongs, in your family, not ours.

 

Hi, gym rats: you’re next! Stick to sharing your #WOD on one social media platform. How about that? I don’t want to see the same picture on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. You worked out today? Great! I only need to hear about it once.

 

Be trendy….or not! Holiday times are when Facebook and hundreds of other applications are forcing you to share your “Year in Review” or “Best of 2014” or “My Times” videos—whatever encompasses all your best posts from the year. I’m not saying don’t post about it, but you don’t need to use every application and post every video. One “Year in Review” is enough. Remember, just because everyone else is doing it, doesn’t mean you should too.

 

#TBT, #FBF, #MCM, #TransformationTuesday. While all of these are fun hashtag trends to participate in, the idea is not to do it every week. Also, Throwback Thursday and Flashback Friday ARE the same thing, no need to post old pictures two days in a row. So switch it up, don’t do it all the time and maybe create your own hashtag trend to be different. #SleepInSunday, anyone?

 

As a social media junkie, I know it’s hard to put down the phone and focus on a one-on-one conversation with someone. But, I also know it can be done. Take a big step in 2015 and try to put down your phone. No one’s telling you to shut down your social media or take a break, per se. But when you are with people, BE WITH PEOPLE. Take one picture, add a filter, hashtag like crazy, and then put it down. Enjoy laughs, have a meaningful conversation, make memories that will be remembered just from how great they are, not because you posted it right as it was happening. It sounds tough, but I have faith in you.

 

Take baby steps to accomplish your goals in 2015, and whatever resolutions you make, don’t let them slip away two weeks later. It’s a new year AND new you!

 

How should you ring in the new year on social media? Bethany, has some ideas to help create buzz on your pages. 

 

This post was written by Ginger Marks. Ginger is a Social Media Community Specialist with Media Connect Partners.