As I mentioned several times throughout the semester, I am a reluctant social media person. When I started my radio show in 2002 at a traditional brick and mortar station, where I am still today, there was no FaceBook, Twitter, Instagram or Blogs. What we had back then were forums and discussion boards. Banner ads were a big deal and selling advertising on eBay worked well for ads on websites, forums, and for my radio show.
When FaceBook came along I wasn't that keen on it. I liked my little world of radio, website, and weekly newsletter, it served me well and I got two book and TV deals from it. I've really shied away from social media because I am very private and don't need to take photos of my food at dinner. I will take a scenic photo while on vacation but, that's about it.
Taking this class I've learned I can utilize social media for my business without leaving myself too personally vulnerable until I get comfortable with the medium and settle in. Ironically, though you can learn a lot of personal information about me listening to my show. Perhaps, because I feel safe and comfortable on-air as it is my true "home". The social sites seem so intimidating because it's so easy for people to say snarky things hiding behind their keyboard.
This class has been good for me to explore the different aspects of social media sites. They definitely each have their own personality and appeal to distinct demographics. As I think back, I remember enjoying YouTube videos. I'm doing a test project right now for Catholicism is Cool where I am using a teleprompter and recording the Daily Mass reading and Gospel. I'm excited to try this and see how I can grow it. Also, posting the video on my FaceBook Group and uploading the audio to Anchor.fm.
The biggest challenge for me over the years was deciding where I felt comfortable online and decided yesterday to try Catholicism is Cool videos and repurpose them across several platforms. The challenge is in recording seven at a time and editing in lower thirds then scheduling them to be posted Monday through Saturday every week. I looked at the competition and there are a Priest and one other lay person or group. Open field!
In summary, there are so many different platforms that as my co-host Richard says, "You have to figure out where you want to play online and who you want to play with." With that said, going back to my online roots of radio, YouTube, and a newsletter and repurposing onto my blog then tracking my progress and tweaking what isn't working. Also, be a shark and keep moving!
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