Relationship Marketing: How I’m Building My Business Without Social Media
Connect = Relationships = Authenticity = Good Business
Hey there fellow entrepreneur!
Have you ever felt burnt out by the never-ending cycle of social media stress and comparison? Well, in this blog, we explore an alternative approach to building a successful business by focusing on relationships instead of social media. Join me on my journey to burnout and back to what feels good, and discover the power of relationship marketing.
My Journey to Burnout and Back to What Feels Good
Social media can be a never-ending cycle of stress, comparison, and burnout. In the online entrepreneurial space, we're given competing messages. On one hand, we're told to focus on one platform and then grow from there, but on the other hand, we're told that to see growth or to bring in more leads or sell more courses, we need to be on every platform, posting every day, and constantly engaging with our audience.
But after burning out (again) in the spring of 2022, I decided to say "F it!" and get off social media entirely. My profiles are still there, but I no longer post content or engage in DMs. Here's how I'm building my business without social media, and why I'm focusing on relationships instead.
Relationship Marketing!
Before social media became a "thing," relationship marketing was what I was doing to build my business. I was making connections with other people, and establishing and nurturing relationships with other women in the online space. But then I got sidetracked by social media and all the things I was "supposed" to be doing. You know, the list of expectations that no ONE person can actually do without burning themselves out in the process. We follow online marketers teaching the most up-to-date techniques, but what we don't hear about or see is the TEAM of people supporting them in enacting their strategies.
My Current Marketing Strategy
After taking a step back and reevaluating my priorities, I realized that I needed to return to what felt good to me – connecting with other people. Here's what my current marketing strategy looks like:
Email Marketing
Connecting with my audience through email is a powerful way to build relationships and trust. I'm not just using it to sell but also to share more about myself and be a little vulnerable at times. This is my community. This is where I answer questions and respond to what my community needs. Instead of posting bits on social media - I connect to people by email. Rather than short tips in a reel, I give a deeper understanding in well-thought-out emails. If I want to take a poll, I do that by email too.
But what I love most about this is that my audience can engage with me and ask personal questions without having to put themselves out there publicly. The anonymity of getting support via email really helps HSPs, empaths, and anxious entrepreneurs get their questions answered in a way that supports them.
Blogs, YouTube, or Podcasts
Having a platform to build my authority and share my knowledge is important. It's a way to get my thoughts out of my head and into the world. Whether it's through a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast, be committed to doing it regularly. It’s always been easier for me to jot my thoughts down in a blog rather than verbally (which is why I focus my energy on blogging). But for others simply talking things out is the easiest way to share with their audience.
There is no one right way and you don't have to do them all - pick the one that suits you best and use that to demonstrate your knowledge (along with leveraging the power of SEO).
Speaking
Being a guest on other people's podcasts, speaking in someone else's group, hosting a roundtable event, or hosting a Micro-Audio Summit™ are all ways to share my message and connect with other people. People need people and collaboration is the key to creating conversation which helps to build and maintain relationships.
And it’s through those relationships that we acquire success (on our terms).
Partnerships
Connecting with others who share my message and movement is a powerful way to counteract some of the negativity on social media. I'm focused on connecting with people I know and having conversations, sharing my message and movement, and asking for support when I need it.
At the end of every conversation, I ask myself, "What do I want to make sure I'm asking for myself?" It's a way to stay focused on my goals and continue to build my business without relying on social media.
Why Relationships Matter
Building relationships is important for so many reasons. It's a way to connect with people on a deeper level, establish trust and credibility, and create a community of like-minded individuals. When we focus on relationships, we're building a foundation for long-term success.
Plus, relationships are fun! They're a way to make new friends, collaborate with others, and enjoy the journey of building a business.
Finding What Works for You
The key to building a successful business without social media is to find what works for you. We're all different, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's important to experiment, try new things, and be open to new opportunities.
At the end of the day, building a business without social media is about focusing on relationships, connecting with people, and staying true to yourself.
It's not always easy, but it's worth it.
Takeaway
Building a business without social media is 100%, actually 1000% possible, and it's a way to stay true to yourself and build deeper connections with others. Whether it's through email marketing, blogs, speaking, partnerships, or something else entirely, finding what works for you is key. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by social media, take a step back, focus on relationships, and see where it takes you.
If you're feeling like you're stuck in a rut with your online business, it's time to make a change. We can work together to create a plan that helps you reclaim control and build a business that aligns with your values. If you’re ready for that level of support, then I’ve got a spot on my calendar with your name on it. Schedule a free discovery call with me today.