HOW TO BE THE LIFE OF THE SOCIAL MEDIA PARTY
Imagine walking into a party where everyone is trying to make an impression. Some people wear the flashiest outfits, others tell the best jokes, and a few hold court in the center of the room, effortlessly drawing everyone’s attention. Social media is that party—except instead of mingling face-to-face, we’re all showing up virtually. The tricky part? Everyone is invited, which makes standing out harder than ever.
So how do you, as a brand or creator, make a lasting impression at this massive, never-ending social media party? Should you show up with bold graphics (the flashy outfit)? Do you make people laugh with memes (the jokes)? Or do you deliver thought-provoking content (the person on their soapbox)?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. The key is knowing your strengths and using them to connect with the people who want to hear from you.
Standing Out in a Saturated Market, even when you are a skincare brand!
One of the most memorable “parties” I’ve attended in the social media space was with a skincare brand developed by a plastic surgeon. When I first came on board, the brand was polished and professional—everything you’d expect from a line created by a doctor. But it wasn’t standing out in a saturated market filled with celebrity-endorsed products and glossy campaigns.
As I got to know the doctor behind the brand, I discovered something unique: her sense of humor. She wasn’t just an expert with 30 years of experience—she was fun, relatable, and had a way of delivering information that made you laugh and learn at the same time. That was the edge we needed to break through.
So, we leaned into her personality. Instead of just posting beautiful product shots, we created content where she shared skincare advice with a sense of humor. This shift worked: one video in particular caught fire, and the account grew by 4,000 followers over the summer. Why? Because the content resonated with people on a human level. It wasn’t just about the products anymore—it was about connecting with the person behind the brand.
Finding Your Social Media Je Ne Sais Quoi, aka “Vibe”
Just like at a party, there’s no single way to stand out on social media. Some people will be drawn to the flashiest visuals, while others are more interested in meaningful conversations. The goal is to be true to your brand’s personality and play to your strengths. Here’s how to figure out your social media “vibe”:
The Bold Dresser (Visual Appeal): If your brand is visually stunning, lean into that! High-end graphics, eye-catching photography, and beautifully designed layouts will attract people who value aesthetics. Think of brands like Glossier, which uses minimalistic yet polished visuals to make a statement.
The Comedian (Humor and Memes): If your brand has a fun, lighthearted side, don’t hesitate to show it. Memes, funny videos, and witty captions reveal personality and attract followers who appreciate your sense of humor. Wendy’s, for instance, connects through sharp and humorous posts.
The Thought Leader (Serious, Meaningful Content): If your brand is more serious, consider being the “thought leader” at the party. Share thought-provoking content, dive into deep conversations, and create value through insights. This approach attracts people seeking substance and expertise. National Geographic’s mix of storytelling and expertise showcases this approach beautifully.
The Connector (Building Engagement): Some brands thrive on connecting with their audience by starting discussions, sharing user-generated content, or simply replying to comments. These brands create a sense of community and draw people in through interaction. Think of brands like Starbucks, which often highlights customer stories and engages directly with fans.
There’s No Wrong Approach—Just Stay Authentic
The beauty of social media is that there’s no “right” way to stand out, but there is a wrong way: trying to be something you’re not. Just like at a party, people can spot inauthenticity a mile away. Whether you’re flashy, funny, thoughtful, or a connector, the key is to stay true to your brand’s voice and values.
Remember, you’re not trying to appeal to everyone. Social media is about attracting the right people—the ones who connect with your brand’s personality and message. So don’t worry if some people walk past your virtual “party”—the ones who stop to engage are the ones that matter.
Show Up, Stand Out, Stay True
Standing out on social media is a lot like making an impression at a party. It’s about knowing who you are, playing to your strengths, and connecting with the people who are drawn to what you have to offer. Whether you’re using bold visuals, humor, thought leadership, or building community, there’s room for everyone to shine—as long as you’re being authentic.
So next time you show up at the social media party, don’t just blend into the crowd. Be bold, be engaging, and most importantly, be yourself. That’s how you’ll stand out, connect, and build a community that truly resonates with your brand.
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