Social media relationships matter and are important to the growth of your business.

I’m certain you’ve met people through Facebook, your blog or even Twitter. You connect with a few select friends and followers who are genuine professionals with solid reputations in the world of social media. Even though you’ve never actually met the people in person – you connect, tweet and in some cases, collaborate and partner. I share more about mindset and marketing in a previous post, but this post is focused on why social media relationships matter.

What happens when these relationships go bad? What do you do about it?

When these relationships go bad, remember that people show up in everything they do just as they are. You can see it if you take time to observe, listen and feel what’s real and true. This is a time when patience as a virtue pays big. When people are less than gracious in their interactions, it doesn’t really change over time. Pay attention!

Keep in mind that social media creates a false sense of professionalism. The informality of 140 characters on Twitter often masks less than favorable character flaws. True professionalism is present no matter what happens in the relationship. Make sure you always maintain an attitude of professionalism even when the other person has a foul or unprofessional attitude. You have a duty to yourself to be the bigger person at all times. It’s those challenging times that truly bring out the best in each of us.

Social media relationships demand you to be you.

Own your own stuff by acknowledging your contributions to the problem. Yes, you played a role, too!  Personal responsibility is huge and the sooner you face it, the better off you can be. Remember, not everyone sees the world through the same lens that you do. Reflect on how you can learn and grow from the experience. Apply these “learnings” in the future to ensure social media relationship success.

In a previous post, I talk about the importance of mindset in your marketing.

My mother always taught me to choose my friends carefully. Being somewhat of a rebel, I’ve always trusted until something came up that gave me a reason to question the trust. It’s the know-like-trust factor! social media relationships

In that very order, you must…

  • Invest the time getting to know your Facebook friends and Twitter followers.
  • Take your time getting to experience your friends’ character and strengths.
  • Follow your heart to determine if you truly like the person and your values are aligned to ensure trust.

Then – and only then, are you able to continue building the relationship. Then, you’re able to connect, collaborate, partner and definitely entrust your friendships in social media.

What are your thoughts? How do you handle social media relationships gone bad? I’d love to know your comments.

WendyY Bailey is often called a Force of Nature and a trendsetter in the coaching industry and for good reason. With more than 20 years of experience, she brings fearless innovation and bold strategy to entrepreneurial leaders, coaches, speakers, trainers, and consultants across the globe serving clients across the U.S., Canada, the UK, Spain, and Italy. Affectionately known as “WendyY” by clients, business associates, and colleagues, she’s also lovingly called “Auntie” or “Mama Coach” for her signature blend of Southern charm, fierce wisdom, and deep coaching insight. That special mix helps her clients double, triple, even quintuple their bottomline profits. WendyY is an internationally recognized thought leader, award-winning coach, two-time bestselling author, and sought-after business mentor.