Dana Helms
Social North
Twitter
@TheMrsHelms
Who has been an inspiration for you as a community manager?
Wow, to say I have just one is hard but choosing one is not. I started working with Julia Rosien at Social North because she is just that an inspiration. Not only has she mastered the world of social media and all things connecting but she has done so with such class. She is a great mentor and a huge supporter of someone ‘s personal growth. To that I have to say thanks for being my inspiration and always being my 3 am call !
What is the most important part of being a community manager?
The most important part for me is being able to get my message across. Either for myself or my client. Helping someone do what they have hired me to do. Share their message or helping them get their brand noticed
If you could attend one conference to learn about community management, what would it be and why?
HubSpot! Watching from the sidelines this past year online I will have to say I was jealous! I wanted to be there so bad. I attend a lot of their free online seminars and read all the free books them send to me and I learn so much . If I was able to go and tap into their resources live and in the flesh that would just be really awesome!
What is your favorite book that has helped you become a better community manager?
Not to much of a big reader of books but the book I have read recently that has nothing to do with social media was called Why Good Girls Done Get Ahead but Gutsy Girls Do. It is by Kate White and it a good read.
What do you like best about being a community manager?
Connecting ! I know most people probably say that but it’s true. Connecting is more than just a few hello’s or a few thank yous for RT . It’s about really getting in there and communicating with your community. Being interested in what people have going on, hold real conversations and repeat that reach often. If your going to be on line and making these connections make them count. I love my daily chats one on one and group chats. Daily pats on the back and reaching out for resources. Sending out a question or asking for advice on Twitter or Facebook is the first place I go anymore. I know someone I trust will offer some help or advice. Not only do I like getting help I love being helpful. Being a resource for someone makes my day! Best part is if I can’t help or provide them what they need, I can dig into my community and find someone who can!
What skill should every community manager have?
Being able to multi-task and be quick on your feet. Engaging multiple conversations at once , keeping your mind fresh with who you have in your community and using your contacts to help your client or to have those resources for your self.
Tell us about a success story you’ve had as a community manager.
In 2011 I was asked to be the VP of Social Media for a group of Women in the Home Furnishings industry, WithIt. A newly created position due to the skills I possess for social media is what made this possible . I have had the pleasure of being the voice of WithIt on several social media avenue s and have successfully grown the following on Twitter and Facebook by reaching out and connecting with their sponsors, members and industry supporters. Publishing events and sharing news about the group on social media has increased the engagement on these avenues. The goals were increased membership and connecting more with members to create more communication, 100% accomplished!
What advice would you give someone wanting to become a community manager?
My advice for someone would have to be not to take this lightly. Be authentic! Yes Its fun to be online on Facebook, Twitter and multiple social media channels but this is really where brands, companies and groups can connect with their clients, customers and members. Social Media has opened up a whole new world for people to be able to communicate and connect. Technology has no limits and we are very lucky to be in the time that we are to watch the world be opened up to us this way. The most important thing to remember is to be sure to brand yourself as well. Be your own voice but be careful what you post and be very aware of who might see your content and make sure your message is portraying how you want to be perceived.
