Is it just me, or do other entrepreneurs feel confused about what is perceived as “acceptable” social media chatter and doing business online?

I hear time and time again that the social media channels are the conversation, “get to know you” rooms where small talk, and relationships develop.

Maybe part of my problem is I have never been that fond of small talk.  Personally I enjoy more in-depth conversations that allow me to get to know a person’s interests, likes and dislikes.  I have never been the person who enjoys gossip, criticism, or arguments.  I do enjoy a debate where each person can freely express their opinion and allow the listener to see from a different perspective, and then discern whether the new idea may be a better choice to look at the topic.  I love meeting new people, from all walks of life.  I enjoy learning about new cultures and traditions and why people think or feel the way they do about situations of genuine interests for them.  When a person with a specific point of view feels passionate about their topic and has something worthwhile to express, I listen intently and feel drawn into their emotion.  That doesn’t mean I agree or disagree, it means I feel their conviction and I can ask powerful questions to learn more.  For me, that is a worthwhile conversation I want to engage in.

How often do you have conversations like this?

Do you feel the intensity of emotion behind a topic that you read in the social media sites?  If so, do you engage in the conversation?  Does it give you a stronger sense of satisfaction to participate in this type of conversation, than monotonous small talk?

I often feel compelled to converse or debate a particular topic, not to be adversarial, but because I am interested in learning more, or I feel I have a reason of my own that I truly want to feel heard.

I think it is fantastic that we have so many social media tools to allow the freedom of expression globally.  The doors have been opened for communication through the internet which provide opportunities like never before.  However, as much as I love networking, as an entrepreneur creating an online presence, I find social media very time consuming.  I also find the “rules” that are expressed in regards to percentage of relationship building vs. sales are controversial.

If I owned a “brick and mortar” business downtown I would dress up the window with displays and signs that are appealing and inviting to grab the interest of shoppers.  I would advertise in local newspapers, radio or even television.  I would get my message out to friends and customers when I am having a sale.  All of these are common, acceptable strategies for doing business.

As an entrepreneur doing business online the rules of business become murky and confusing.  Do you agree?

Before you jump to conclusions and want to run off to the comment box and voice your opinion please hear me out.

As I said earlier,  I value the opportunity of meeting people world-wide.  I enjoy learning, sharing and observing the commentaries that attract others.  I meet so many awesome people every day on facebook, linkedin, YouTube and in my “tribes” and groups.  I like to find people aligned with integrity, interested in similar topics as myself.  The friendships I have made at conferences have become some of the best friendships ever.  I have received education every day by researching google and reading blog posts.

What confuses me is the fine line drawn in the sand, so to speak, stating less than 10% of social media usage should be selling yourself or product.

Aren’t we selling ourselves and what we are passionate about in every conversation we have?

If you are doing what you love, and loving what you do, then that is going to be; what, where and with whom you align yourself with.  The posts you write are likely going to relate to your service or product and you want to share them with your friends.

Now, I don’t like spam or sales pages that grab you in with the concept of a “great deal” and then practically hold you for ransom until you purchase the “better deal”. When I get into those sales funnel I just want to run and ask for a refund on the original sale.  I understand the sales methodology here, but for me it doesn’t work.  The defiant me just says “forget it I don’t want what you are selling any more”.

So, is it just me or are you confused?

Do you find you spend too much time, doing business in social media conversation?

Are you confused with the “rules and regulations” in regards to marketing online?

What methods to you feel are most beneficial for you to get your message out online without offending consumers?

I am truly interested in your answers and appreciate your comments.  Thank you for participating and spending your valuable time with me, here.