Why You Should Embrace Collaboration and Erase Competition
Everything You Need to Know about Organic Collaboration on Instagram
One of the BIGGEST things people struggle with – especially in direct sales or product launch – is they just trying to SELL. And you know what that means … their entire news feed is
“Buy this product!”
“Sign up for this course!”
“Join this group I’m running!”
Although this is completely common and in the beginning you spark curiosity, overtime people see you as just white noise. One thing we stress to our Chic Community members (especially to those just starting out) is the importance of having a story as well as becoming a brand and a voice.
Over the last 9+ years of building their businesses (and Chic!), Katy and Melanie both have leaned into the concept of organic collaboration and the power behind it.
So What is Collaboration?
Collaboration is the ability to elevate her with full knowledge that her success is not a threat to your own. Many times we use social media as a way to elevate her platform on our own.
Social media’s heartbeat is exactly what it says it is … social!
You are supposed to be interacting with other people.
Though you are not supposed to be the one-stop-shop for all of the things! What you provide is information for people to get what they need for whatever reason they follow you!
Getting started with collaborations
When you get started, you need to take the profit part out of it – it’s not about getting paid. What it really is about is being SEEN and HEARD.
The BEST way to be seen is to SERVE.
Below are 2 tips that we recommend when it comes to being SEEN on other platforms!
1. Feature other people/brands in your stories!
AKA you need to get the idea of competition out of your head. It’s not about competing but rather serving YOUR audience with people or serves they can benefit from!
A good example of this is finding a post, website or product that someone has that you enjoy or aligns with your brand. From here, you share your stories and tag the account who posted it!
If this account is active on social media, more times than not they will respond to your engagement! Once they respond – whether it is an emoji or a simple ‘thank you’ – you can respond by telling them how much you enjoy their content and ask them HOW can YOU serve them? Is there anything you can do to help them get the word out about their services?
2. Featuring other entrepreneurs
This is a great way to not only help another sister out BUT it also caters to YOUR audience and customers!
Yes, it’s possible some services could overlap but you want your customers to grow and be successful! Allowing your audience to see other entrepreneurs who can also serve them in their business journey is CRUCIAL!
It’s a great opportunity for both you and the other person to gain awareness and credibility!
Unsure of WHO to collaborate with and HOW?
This is one of the BIGGEST questions we get when it comes to collaborations! It can be intimidating and you WILL have to step out of your comfort zone BUT friend, you cannot let that stand in your way!
If you are unsure of who to collaborate with locally in your area, you can begin to do so on social media! Search for a local business or person whose brand and mission aligns with YOUR vision and goals by starting with local hashtags! Begin to follow and engage with these accounts and see if there is a connection!
Friend, instead of competing against others, let’s continue to root for them!
Remember, supporting another woman’s success won’t dampen your own.
This week, we challenge you to step out of your comfort zone.
Think about 1 thing you can do over the next few days that could be a collaborative effort! Find an account with a similar size following as yours who you can feature!
Ask them, how can I serve your audience? What can I do for you?
Those are going to help you (in an indirect way) grow your audience authentically which in the end will help your bottom line!
Let’s make this week the best one yet!
Rooting for you!
Looking to grow your biz on social media? Check out the 2nd Edition of the Make Chic Happen Planner!
This Second Edition of the #makechichappen 52 week social media game plan by Melanie and Katy will help the busy entrepreneur stay organized, craft a niche specific message, and create a comeback audience.
The planner will help you simplify your social strategy and clarify your specific marketing message.
We have also included:
- Income Producing Activity Tracker
- Time Blocking Tracker
- Resources
- Content starters
- Weekly planning
- Reflection
- Brainstorming activities
You will also have access to free online resources as well as a collaborative Facebook group.
Let’s make a move. Let’s commit. We know you’re serious about making chic happen and your business growth! Let’s Make Chic Happen!
