Week 17: Wrapping It Up

 

Final Blog Post: Reflecting on My Social Media Journey This Semester

This semester has been a pivotal experience in fine-tuning what I had to teach myself about social media. As someone who has always had to learn and adapt on the go, this course gave me the structure and clarity to build on my self-taught foundation. From understanding content strategies to leveraging analytics, I’ve refined my approach to social media in ways that will directly benefit my floral and event business. Here are my reflections on how this class has enhanced my skills.

Fine-Tuning My Social Media Approach

Before this semester, my social media strategy was more trial and error. While I had a general understanding of how platforms like Instagram and Facebook worked, I lacked the cohesive structure needed to fully capitalize on them. This course helped me formalize my approach by introducing tools like content calendars, which ensure that my posts align with my business goals, and analytics, which guide me in optimizing my content for engagement.

One of the most valuable lessons was learning how to adapt content for different platforms. For instance, while Instagram remains a cornerstone for showcasing visual appeal, I’ve come to appreciate TikTok for its ability to create quick, authentic connections through behind-the-scenes videos. These insights have allowed me to approach each platform with a clear purpose.

New Ways to Reach Customers

Through assignments and class discussions, I discovered innovative methods to reach my target audience. Pinterest stood out as an underutilized gem for my business, offering a way to inspire brides to be with curated mood boards and floral design ideas. Meanwhile, experimenting with Instagram Reels has allowed me to highlight the creative process behind my floral arrangements, building trust and excitement among my followers.

The biggest shift has been in how I think about engagement. Rather than simply posting and hoping for the best, I now focus on creating interactive content that invites conversations. This shift has resulted in more inquiries and a stronger connection with my audience, validating the importance of intentional strategy.

Observations from Research

Researching how other businesses utilize social media provided valuable insights into both successes and pitfalls. Effective accounts stood out for their high-quality visuals, consistent posting schedules, and authentic interactions with followers. On the other hand, neglected accounts struggled with credibility due to infrequent updates or uninspired content.

I also identified businesses in my industry that serve as inspiration. Observing their strategies has not only sparked ideas but also underscored the importance of maintaining an active and polished online presence.

Suggestions for Future Classes

This class has been instrumental in refining my skills. Overall, this course has provided me with the tools to elevate my social media game. It has fine-tuned my understanding and approach, bridging the gap between self-taught methods and professional strategies. I’m excited to continue building on this foundation as I grow my business.