Feedback is Real-Time: Don’t take a critique personal and Don’t be afraid to try.

Two things that limit the human mind are fear and ego. We fear way too many things and we all tend to take people and the things they say very personal. This has been a struggle for me for quite some time and it usually keeps me from growing in the area that I most want to develop.

I hate saying "Darn my ego killed the learning process again".

How are these two emotions affecting you and your company's growth?

As small business owners, we are now in a position with the web and its different marketing, media, and business strategies to develop some strong relationships with not only are local economies, but the world as a whole. Our communications are no longer burdened by borders, languages, and in most cases governments.  We as business owners are liberated from the old ways of marketing and advertising our niche. Please “Do not fear” if you don’t try you are unable to learn and experience these new tools available for all.

Social media in all its forms can be a challenging road for most companies. Consumers are at the helm of the conversation, yet we have an opportunity for real feedback and engagement. We need to be open to our customers critique, they are responses to our products and services and how they are being perceived in the marketplace.  Priceless information if you can get your ego out of the way and grow from the good and bad responses to what you’re bringing to the world.

This doesn’t negate our responsibilities to act safely on the web. Seek out good policies for your staff and have a good code of ethics for how your company will respond and converse on the internet. Even if the policy is designed just for one, it can be a good guidepost for your company image. Also without being paralyzed by fear understand your privacy setting for each tool your using to communicate your message. There are many You Tube videos, webinars, and seminars that will help you understand these settings.

Bottom line: Be you and be open. Feedback is now real-time and fear of the internet and new media will keep you from an exciting adventure traveling the world marketplace.  Enjoy the journey!