Tag: Social Media

The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users — Book Review

BOOK REVIEWS BY MAZLAN ABBAS

Oscillating between addiction and fatigue

The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users

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“The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users” by Guy Kawasaki and Peg Fitzpatrick emerges as a beacon for navigating the tumultuous seas of social media.

As someone deeply immersed in these platforms, I find myself oscillating between addiction and fatigue, a duality that speaks to the power and peril of our connected world.

My Addiction to Social Media: A Personal Confession

My journey with social media started innocently enough as a means to connect and share. However, it soon morphed into an insatiable addiction. Every like, share, and comment became a dopamine hit, reinforcing my need to stay connected.

Kawasaki and Fitzpatrick’s book landed in my hands at a time when I was beginning to question this obsession.

Their insights offered me a mirror, reflecting both the strategic brilliance and the potential pitfalls of social media engagement.

The authors’ profound experience cuts through the noise, offering actionable advice that resonates with both novices and veterans.

Kawasaki, a tech legend, and Fitzpatrick, a social media maestro, blend their knowledge seamlessly, delivering a narrative that is both educational and engaging.

Learning the Right Way: Strategic Engagement

What captivated me most about the book was its structured approach to social media. The authors advocate for purposeful engagement, urging readers to build a solid foundation before venturing into the expansive digital ecosystem.

Their emphasis on creating compelling content and fostering authentic connections echoed my desire to find meaning amidst the chaos.

As I delved deeper, I realized that my addiction stemmed from a lack of strategy.

I was engaging haphazardly, without a clear objective.

The book’s emphasis on goal-oriented activity and its plethora of tips and insights provided a roadmap to navigate social media more mindfully.

Dealing with Social Media Fatigue: Finding Balance

Despite the allure of constant connectivity, social media fatigue is a reality I grapple with. The constant stream of updates, opinions, and notifications can be overwhelming and lead to burnout.

Here, the book offered a lifeline, emphasizing the importance of digital detoxes and mindful consumption.

Kawasaki and Fitzpatrick do not shy away from addressing social media’s darker facets.

Their candid discussions around digital wellness resonated with me, underscoring the need for balance.

By adopting some of their suggested practices, I regained control and enjoyed social media without being consumed by it.

Impact on Professional Growth: A Testament to Success

On a professional level, the book has been transformative. In social media, where everyone clamors to be heard, the authors’ strategies have helped me amplify my voice.

Their insights into building a digital brand have been particularly impactful, enabling me to leverage social media for career advancement.

Furthermore, the book’s focus on analytics and optimization resonated with my analytical side.

By applying their methods, I’ve measured my impact, refined my approach, and achieved tangible results.

The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users

A Must-Read for Digital Navigators

In conclusion, “The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users” is more than just a manual; it’s a compass for navigating the complex landscape of digital interaction.

For someone like me, caught between addiction and exhaustion, Kawasaki and Fitzpatrick’s guidance has been invaluable.

Whether you’re a social media specialist or a weary digital netizen, this book offers wisdom on positively harnessing online platforms’ power.

It’s a testament to the authors’ expertise and a crucial resource for anyone looking to master the art of social media engagement.

This book shines a light on how to navigate the digital world with purpose and mindfulness, where online presence is key to achieving success.

Use my affiliate link to purchase this book, “The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users,” from Amazon.

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My Path to Monetization on Medium

Breaking Through the Noise: How I Carved My Niche in the Content Chaos

Every Like, Comment, and Share: The Story of My Digital Pursuit

Try everything on Social Media. Photo from Unsplash.

Everyone seems to be chasing the elusive dream of turning their online presence into gold.

That’s been me for the longest time, hopping from one social media platform to another, pouring my heart and soul into content creation, only to watch the numbers crawl.

Here’s my tale of digital hustle, occasional despair, and a glimmer of hope at the end of the tunnel.

Start with YouTube

It all began with YouTube, the holy grail of video content.

I thought, “Hey, I have ideas, I can be engaging, let’s give this a shot.”

So, I dived headfirst into the world of video making, learning the ropes of editing, scripting, and whatnot.

I imagined myself as the next big thing, with viewers hanging onto my every word, my every video.

Reality hit hard.

Despite the hours, days, and weeks I invested, my videos languished in obscurity.

The views were meager, the subscriber count dismal. Monetizing?

Ha, that was a distant dream.

YouTube, it seemed, was not my golden ticket.

Pivot to Instagram, Facebook and X

Undeterred, I pivoted to Instagram, Facebook, and the mysterious ‘X’. “Different platforms, different strategies,” I told myself.

I crafted posts, curated images, and waited for the magic to happen.

Spoiler alert: it didn’t.

My content was, apparently, a drop in the vast ocean of digital noise. I wasn’t influencing, engaging, or monetizing anything.

How about TikTok?

Then came TikTok, my unexpected beacon of light.

Finally, my follower count ticked up, and my videos gained traction.

But here’s the kicker — I had no clue how to convert that attention into cash.

Selling products on TikTok Live? Not my cup of tea.

I was content with the likes and shares, but they didn’t pay the bills.

Trying out Pinterest

Pinterest was next on my list. “Visual appeal,” they said. “It’s all the rage.”

So, I pinned. I pinned photos, videos, infographics — you name it. The result?

A resounding meh. My pins floated aimlessly in the vast sea of better, brighter content.

Merchandise here I come!

Redbubble offered a glimmer of hope. “Turn your creativity into merchandise!” they proclaimed.

So, I did. I designed, uploaded, and… waited.

A sale here, a sale there, but nothing to write home about.

My earnings were laughable, barely enough to buy a cup of coffee.

Time for Affiliate Marketing!

Amazon affiliate marketing was another venture that promised much but delivered little.

I linked, I promoted, I anticipated.

Alas, the commissions were as elusive as ever. My dreams of passive income remained just that — dreams.

Then, almost as a last resort, I stumbled upon Medium.

A platform for writers, they said. “Share your stories, your insights, your voice.”

So, with a cautious optimism, I began to write.

And what do you know?

People read. They clapped. They commented.

My articles, my thoughts, laid bare for the world to see, and they resonated.

Medium became my haven, my niche.

I discovered I could earn, albeit modestly, from my writing.

Each article contributed a few cents, sometimes dollars, to my account.

It wasn’t a fortune, but it was something tangible, a validation of my efforts.

Buoyed by this newfound success, I ventured further.

I promoted my eBooks on Medium, connecting with an audience keen on my content, my style.

Gumroad became my ally, a platform where my digital books found readers and, yes, buyers.

Reflecting on this journey, I’ve learned that the digital world is fickle, unpredictable.

Success on social media is a blend of talent, timing, and sheer luck.

For years, I chased the dream across various platforms, only to find my footing in a space that valued substance over style, quality over quantity.

Now, as I pen my thoughts on Medium, earn enough to indulge in a coffee, or cover my commute toll, I realize that success isn’t just about the numbers or the dollars.

It’s about finding your voice, your audience, and, importantly, your satisfaction in the content you create.

So, to all the digital wanderers out there, my advice?

Keep exploring, keep creating.

Your Medium might just be around the corner, waiting for you to make your mark.

And who knows?

That mark might just turn into your morning coffee, one word at a time.

How Influencers Fake Their Way to the Top

Buying Popularity

The Truth Behind Fake Videos: Influencers’ Quest for Instant Fame.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

I’ve been mulling over this whole hoo-hah with influencers churning out fake videos, and it’s really crazy, let me tell ya.

Have you noticed it too?

It’s like everywhere I look, there’s some new drama or another unfolding, all because someone decided to cut corners for a quick fame fix.

So, here’s the deal: Influencers, right?

They’re the folks we look up to (or love to hate-watch, no judgment here), expecting them to be our guides in this ever-mystifying digital world. But then, bam!

We get hit with the reality that some of them are just putting on a show.

It’s like, “Hey, remember that hilarious prank video? Totally staged!” or “That glow-up tutorial? Yeah, more like a Photoshop tutorial.”

It makes you wonder what’s real anymore.

I remember scrolling through my feed one day, thinking, “Wow, these people have such perfect lives!”

But then I stumbled upon a behind-the-scenes exposé. It was eye-opening.

Like, those “candid” shots? Staged.

Those spontaneous beach day laughs? Scripted.

It was a whole Truman Show vibe, and not in a cool, philosophical way.

It got me thinking, “Why do they do it?” Well, it’s the chase for likes, comments, and that sweet, sweet influencer status.

They stage pranks, create fake scenarios, and man, the drama – it’s like a reality TV show, but you’re not always in on the joke.

And then there’s the dark art of buying followers and engagement.

Have you seen someone sitting in a dimly lit room, credit card in hand, buying their way to internet fame.

It’s kind of sad when you think about it, right?

Here’s a dialogue that runs through my mind:

Me:“Why bother with all the hard work when you can just buy your fame?”

Inner Voice:“Because, my dear, real respect and admiration are earned, not bought.”

But it gets worse.

They don’t just stop at faux fans; they go all out with manipulated photos, videos, and even fake reviews.

Ever seen a product online with rave reviews, bought it, and then wondered if you got the wrong item because it was nothing like what was promised?

Yeah, that’s the magic of fake endorsements.

Imagine being so desperate to stay relevant that you’d lie about who you are or what you’ve achieved.

It’s one thing to share your highlights, but fabricating your life story? That’s a whole new level of insecurity.

Now, you might be thinking, “What’s the big deal? It’s just the internet.”

But here’s the kicker: once you’re caught in a lie, it’s game over, buddy.

Trust, once broken, is like fixing a mirror – you might piece it back together, but the cracks are always there.

Me:“So what if they lose a few followers? They can always buy more, right?”

Inner Voice:“Ah, but can you buy genuine respect or credibility? I think not.”

And it’s not just about losing face.

There are legal consequences, too. Like, hello, false advertising, much?

And don’t even get me started on the mental toll it takes on these influencers.

Maintaining a facade is exhausting, and for what?

A fleeting sense of validation?

Let’s chat about why it’s so toxic for their reputation.

When the truth comes out – and it always does – those influencers are left with nothing but a tarnished name and a bunch of “I told you so” comments.

Me:“But surely, they can just start over, right? Apologize and move on?”

Inner Voice:“True, people love a good redemption story. But the internet never forgets. That stain on their reputation? It lingers.”

While faking it till you make it might seem tempting, the fallout just isn’t worth it.

Influencers have the power to inspire, entertain, and even educate.

But when they choose deception over authenticity, they’re not just betraying their audience; they’re sabotaging their own chance at genuine success.

Remember – in a world full of filters and fakery, being real is your best asset.

Don’t trade your authenticity for approval. It’s a price too high to pay, and that, my friends, is the real tea.

How to Overcome Social Media Fatigue

Maintaining and being active in multiple social media channels can be exhausting — Here’s how I cope with this.

I am now social media fatigued — Image created by Author

I must confess — I am a social media addict.

I have created multiple social media channels:

  • Facebook
  • YouTube
  • TikTok
  • Instagram
  • Thread
  • X
  • Pinterest
  • Blogs (if you consider this as social media channels, too)

For example, I have created and managed my Personal Facebook and several FB Pages and Groups (including my Startup and Association Pages).

I can’t remember, but I frequently posted and managed several YouTube channels under different names, including my Startup YouTube channel).

At the same time, I have several TikTok and Instagram accounts (personal and business).

I frequently posted on X and Threads, although I don’t see much traction on Threads compared to X.

The least active is Pinterest — probably because I have the least time to spend here.

If we consider Blogs as another social media channel, I have several, too.

Image created using SketchWow by Author

There are two main problems that I faced managing these social media channels:

  • There are too many channels — both personal and business.
  • There is too much content to create for each channel.

All of these have caused me:

  • A lot of anxiety
  • Wasting time checking and analyzing the stats
  • Headache to find new contents
  • Busy editing contents
  • Busy viewing all those channels

The time on social media sucks the time and energy from me. I have become very exhausted physically and mentally — I have become social media fatigued.

What should I do?

I decided to slow down and trim down the unnecessary social media channels and strategized the way I uploaded my content:

  • I decided to maintain only one personal and one business social media channel regardless of whether it’s FB, Instagram, TikTok, etc.
  • A lot of my content will be repurposed. The same video content will published in different channels.
  • Articles from my Blogs (mainly Medium) will be posted on X, Threads, and Facebook.
  • I have placed a simple process flow of generating content daily — especially in the early morning.
  • I have to make this an enjoyable task. Otherwise, I could have given up a long time ago.

I am still tired of managing all this content, but hopefully, one day, I can delegate my business social media channels to someone else.

I am less tired nowadays. I am grateful for that.

So, how do you manage your social media channels to ensure you stay energized?

Tik Tok vs Writing on Medium – Different Strokes Different Folks

As a newbie content creator, I’ve faced a dilemma that’s probably familiar to many: picking the right platform that truly resonates with my creative spirit and connects with my audience.

My journey, straddling the worlds of TikTok and Medium, has been nothing short of an eye-opener.

Let’s dive into the numbers first.

On TikTok, where I’m known as iotman2030, I’ve managed to gather a cool 5,783 followers.

Over on Medium, things are a bit more humble with 685 followers. But here’s where it gets interesting: my TikTok videos reel in hundreds, sometimes thousands of views, while my Medium articles?

They’re scraping by with just about ten reads daily.

So, why do I keep pouring my heart into Medium when TikTok is clearly the winning horse in terms of engagement?

It’s a tough nut to crack, and it really made me think about the diverse nature of creating content for different platforms.

TikTok: The Fast Lane

On TikTok, everything moves at lightning speed. Crafting a video is super quick, sometimes taking less than a minute.

This platform loves snappy, visually catchy content, and boy, does it deliver instant gratification!

Seeing those views and likes pile up almost instantly is a real rush.

But, trying to make some cash on TikTok? That’s a whole different ball game. The ways to monetize aren’t as clear-cut as you’d think.

Medium: Digging Deeper

Now, Medium is a different beast altogether.

I spend hours, sometimes days, writing articles, engaging with readers, and fostering a sense of community.

It’s not about churning out content. It’s about crafting pieces that resonate with depth and insight.

Medium’s crowd craves quality over quick fixes. The real reward here isn’t in big numbers, but in the meaningful conversations and connections that bloom from each article.

Different Strokes for Different Folks

The audiences on TikTok and Medium couldn’t be more different.

TikTok is like a buzzing beehive of younger folks who dig my IoT edutainment clips.

Medium, on the other hand, attracts a more mature crowd who appreciate a well-thought-out article that offers more than just surface-level insights.

It’s like catering to two different worlds, each satisfying in its own unique way.

Embracing Both Worlds

After much pondering, I decided why choose one when I can juggle both?

Each platform has its perks. TikTok gets my creative juices flowing with its fast-paced vibe, while Medium allows me to connect on a deeper level with my readers.

This dual approach has become my game plan in the diverse landscape of content creation.

The Adventure Continues…

But wait, there’s more!

My journey doesn’t stop at TikTok and Medium.

I’ve also dipped my toes into podcasting and YouTube, exploring different formats and reaching out to varied audiences.

Podcasting lets me dive into lengthy discussions, while YouTube merges TikTok’s visual charm with more substantial content.

It’s all about mixing and matching to see what resonates best.

Nuggets of Wisdom for Budding Medium Writers

If you’re thinking of taking the plunge into Medium, here are some lessons I’ve picked up along the way:

  1. Know Your Battlefield: Medium is all about depth and quality. Make your articles insightful and valuable.
  2. Connect and Converse: Medium thrives on interaction. Engage with your readers and build that community vibe.
  3. Quality is King: Unlike TikTok’s quantity game, Medium values well-crafted pieces. Put in the time to make your articles stand out.
  4. Carve Your Niche: Medium readers love expertise. Find your special corner and own it.
  5. Patience Pays Off: Growing a following on Medium is a marathon, not a sprint. Build trust and credibility steadily.
  6. Spread Your Wings: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Explore different platforms to broaden your reach.
  7. Money Matters: Get to know Medium’s monetization tricks, like the Partner Program, and plan your content strategy around it.
  8. Stay Sharp: Keep up with the latest trends in content creation and evolve your approach accordingly.
  9. Be True to You: Pick topics that you’re passionate about. Authenticity is a magnet for readers.
  10. Diversify Your Portfolio: Treat your social media presence like an investment portfolio. Mix it up for the best overall returns.

In wrapping up, my escapade across TikTok and Medium has been a masterclass in understanding the diverse world of social media.

By embracing the unique flavor of each platform, I’ve learned to navigate the digital realm effectively, striking a balance between reaching out to my audience, engaging them meaningfully, and finding personal fulfillment in the content I create.

My Life Before TikTok That Takes an Unexpected Turn

Photo by Eyestetix Studio on Unsplash

My journey as a content creator has mirrored these changes, adapting and growing with each new turn.

Before TikTok captured the zeitgeist of our times, YouTube was my canvas, a space where I painted my creative expressions.

This adventure took off with the creation of several YouTube channels, each linked to a unique Gmail account and dedicated to a distinct theme, like vibrant colors in a kaleidoscope.

These channels spanned a wide array of subjects, from the cutting-edge buzz of the latest tech gadgets to the wanderlust of travel adventures, intimate personal vlogs, and deep dives into the world of entrepreneurship and technology.

This variety in content was an exploration of my multiple interests and a bridge to connect with a diverse audience, each with their unique tastes and preferences.

Remarkably, most of these channels are still thriving, standing as monuments to their continued relevance and my dedication to keeping them alive — a stark contrast to the ephemeral nature of digital content we often saw a decade ago.

More recently, I’ve poured my heart into one personal YouTube channel while simultaneously steering the ship for other business-related media ventures, stories of which I’m eager to unfold soon.

One channel, in particular, resonates with me deeply. Launched 13 years ago, it was a labor of love from my fascination with electronic gadgets.

‘My Gadget’ became a beacon in the tech world, offering the latest news, how-to guides, and insights, particularly for Android and iOS users.

It was an exciting time, coinciding with significant technological breakthroughs in smartphones and tablets.

As the world welcomed iPhones and Android devices, I immersed myself and shared every discovery and insight with my audience.

My engagement went beyond mere reviews; I plunged into the heart of these devices. Jailbreaking iPhones to explore new apps became a staple on my channel, captivating my tech-hungry viewers.

As my journey expanded, so did the scope of my content.

Travel soon wove its way into my narrative, allowing me to share the world’s beauty through my lens, adding a rich, vibrant layer to my digital collection.

The birth of my startup, called Favoriot, marked a new era in my life and, consequently, in my content journey.

This venture opened doors to opportunities like interviews and TV appearances, enriching my content with tech talks and adding a new depth to my digital storytelling.

Juggling content creation across various platforms was a colossal task, demanding time, meticulous editing, and a never-ending flow of creative ideas.

Eventually, I embraced a more natural, spontaneous approach to video posting, lightening the editing burden and bringing a genuine, relatable touch to my work.

As the digital landscape continued to transform, so did my methods of connecting with my audience.

Podcasting emerged as the new frontier, and I set sail in this exciting direction, eager to open another chapter of connection with my audience.

I look forward to sharing this new journey, filled with unique stories and experiences, soon.

Reflecting on this digital odyssey, I’m awed by the incredible transformation of technology and social media and how they’ve reshaped our ways of creating, consuming, and sharing content.

From the early days of YouTube to the dynamic world of TikTok and the emerging realm of podcasting, my journey has been a testament to learning, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of passion.

As we welcome the New Year, I extend my warmest wishes to all. Happy reading, and a joyous New Year! I invite you to join me as we continue to navigate and share in this ever-changing world of digital content creation.

https://www.youtube.com/@MazlanAbbasMyGadget

I am also an author of several books, which you can check out here.

And also my blog here.

The Power of Direct Customer Outreach: Why Mailing Lists Trump Social Media Followers in Startups

In the early stages of a startup, it’s easy to get enamored with the idea of building a massive social media following. Don’t get me wrong; a strong social media presence is important. However, the thrill of seeing your follower count rise can distract from a more intimate and arguably more effective form of communication: the mailing list.

The Social Media Dilemma

While it’s true that social media platforms offer incredible reach, the dynamic is inherently different. The audience is far less captive; your posts are just one among hundreds or thousands that your followers scroll through each day. There’s also the taxing task of growing your follower base organically, which requires consistent posting, engagement, and time—a daunting endeavor for a startup hustling to get off the ground.

The Mailing List Advantage

Emails offer a direct line of communication to your audience. When someone opts to subscribe to your newsletter or leaves their email to download an eBook, they’re expressing an explicit interest in what you have to say. For my startup, Favoriot, this direct approach led to a more global audience. By offering free eBooks filled with tips, tutorials, and articles on IoT (Internet of Things), we not only gained an audience but also provided value upfront. This strategy led to a global following, including overseas customers who subscribed to our platform.

Value Before Selling

One key to successful mailing lists is providing genuine value before ever making a sales pitch. People are savvy; they know when they’re being sold to and can easily be put off by overt sales tactics. On my LinkedIn, for instance, my newsletter isn’t just about Favoriot. It’s about my journey in entrepreneurship and my general insights into IoT. This balanced approach helps establish trust, rapport, and credibility—all crucial for a startup looking to build a loyal customer base.

Cutting Out the Middleman

What’s more, once you’ve built a substantial mailing list, you gain independence. Unlike social media platforms, where algorithms and policies dictate your reach, your mailing list is yours to control. In my experience, I no longer need third-party mailing software to send out thousands of newsletters.

A Global Objective

My objective is clear: to gain more followers and customers, particularly from overseas markets. The key is to strike a balance, sharing valuable information without making the reader feel like they’re merely a potential sale. People want to know who you are, what you stand for, and how you can add value to their lives or businesses.

In Conclusion

While it’s tempting to pour all your efforts into building a social media following, remember that emails offer a more direct, intimate line of communication with your audience. Done right, a mailing list can be a powerful tool for customer acquisition, retention, and global reach—all while adding genuine value to your subscribers’ lives.

So if you’re in the early stages of your startup, or even if you’re more established but haven’t yet explored the power of mailing lists, now is the time to start. Trust me, your future self—and your growing customer base—will thank you.