Digital platforms are now where we share the bulk of the information needed to employ, befriend or date. If you are actively on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, then it’s highly likely that most aspects of your life are being documented.  

The stories you share, the photos you post, the way you communicate on other people’s feeds, the jokes you engage in and the politics you endorse, all of this is out there for the world to see. To lots of employers, prospective clients or social acquaintances, this is the ?rst stop on their way to making a decision on whether or not to include you in their own storyline. So take inventory. Is your audience impressed?

If we are agreed that Facebook is now your own marketplace, then let’s also agree that putting some time and energy into this platform is necessary. Here are a few ways to level up your Facebook feed while remaining true to who you are. 

1. Be intentional
It’s time to give up the notion that anything on social media is “private.” Not only is your content not private, it’s owned by the platform and lives forever with or without your consent. 

Anything you post is fair game and open for interpretation. With this understanding, it’s important to approach Facebook with a loose strategy in place. This can be a simple list of dos and don’ts that align with your personal values and interests or a complex strategy designed to engage and convert. 

The level of intensity will be di?erent for everyone, but it’s crucial to lean into the understanding that your Facebook feed represents you, your core values and your intentions. 

2. Make an impact
Think of your Facebook feed as your very own media channel. Why are people tuning in, and what will they take away from having an experience with you? Do you use Facebook to educate, inspire or build community? Are you funny, sassy or inspiring? Facebook is a beautiful place to share your goals, dreams and intentions with your favorite community. What you say on this platform matters and it’s noticed, whether it took you two minutes in the heat of the moment, or two hours of intentional planning. Use your time and energy to craft something your readers can dig into. They will thank you later for creating content they can’t wait to consume. 

3. Be yourself
Facebook is your digital diary. How you use this space, whether authentic or erratic, tells a powerful narrative. 

Being “yourself” on Facebook can seem hard or complicated if you overthink it, especially when you’re working on getting intentional. Take a deep breath. Know that your audience is there to champion you. They are your “friends,” after all. What do they want to hear about? What advice can you give? How can you inspire those around you? How can you keep friends and family updated on your family life? These are all beautiful nuggets of content that can show up in your feed and bring warmth to you audience and deepen the narrative of your story. 

4. Opting out says something, too
Some people are making the choice to “opt out” of social media. I would advise anyone looking to make an impact in their community, build a thriving business or create a multidimensional career that social media participation is nonnegotiable. Opting out speaks louder than you think. The underlying tone implies, “I choose not to show up. I choose not to engage. I choose to take parts of my life o? the table,” and sending that signal is going to have an impact as people search for your presence in the digital space. 

At the end of the day, what is the biggest thing to take away? How you show up on your social media platforms matters. So take some time, get intentional and create some engaging, thoughtful content for your readers to consume. Because you are all the stars of your own show. Use your social space wisely.