What influence do you have in this season? Who could you be influencing?
You might read those two questions thinking that you have no influence. The truth is that you do have people that you influence. Each of us has people that God has placed in our lives to share life.
Social distancing has changed how we influence. I cannot call someone to meet over a cup of coffee or for lunch. Even now, as enjoyable as virtually connecting through Zoom, the multiple meetings can cause fatigue.
Let’s take a moment to consider social media. What would happen if we had a healthy value of our influence and presence on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn?
The extreme views include going off the grid entirely or in an unhealthy way, building a personal agenda for a transaction of likes. Yet, somewhere in these platforms, a harmony exists. We can redeem this space to influence others. Beyond the partisan posts and endless news updates, people desire prompts for encouragement and even growth.
So, consider your presence on social media this season. You may manage teammates at work. You may have family members living out of town who feel alone. You could have acquaintances who quietly struggle in isolation. You have more influence than you realize.
Often, posts spark conversations. Your engagement in these platforms can allow people to see you as more of a person.
How can you influence people by your social media presence in a positive way? I want to offer you a few ideas of what you can post:
Share about the books you’re currently reading.
Take a picture of the book. Underline or highlight a particular section to post. You never know if your engagement of a book will help someone else in the same area.
Share a prayer or scripture passage.
You could use a prayer someone has already written or write your own. Invite people to see how God is growing you in this season. Remember, our motives are to encourage and help others grow not to advance our spiritual image. These posts help people self-reflect on their growth.
Share photos of local businesses.
Take a moment to highlight the local business at this time. If you have an incredible take out meal, or receive excellent customer service, talk about it on social media. It provides good news and helps out businesses at this time.
Share the behind the scenes of your life.
A few days ago, I posted a picture of my daughter Hayley laughing at me, pretending to hike the ball like Peyton Manning. I received several contacts saying that moment made their day. Consider this – people want a sense of normalcy in this season. Your personal behind the scenes encourages others to see the joy in this season.
What are other ways that you can positively influence people on social media? Share in the comment section below.
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