It is an overwhelming understatement to say I am a negative person. I’m a depressive pessimist who is quick to anger. I write a blog about social media that consistently has posts titled “I Hate….”. If that isn’t beyond negative, I don’t know what is.
It will probably come across as a surprise then that I think one of the most important qualities to express online is gratitude. My black heart isn’t above acknowledging and thanking the people who’ve helped me. In fact, I believe the two most important words in social media are “Thank you.”
Why should you start saying, “Thank you?” Well, you aren’t any better than anyone reading your blog or retweets you. It’s time to get off your high horse and shake hands with the people who actually do the heavy lifting of interacting and spreading your message beyond your PR blast.
You’re probably thinking there’s something wrong with me, and I changed into the manners police. But, think of what saying “Thank you” a can do for you.
Saying “Thank you” acknowledges what another person did for you. Whether that’s sharing your link or leaving a comment, it says, “Hey! You did something for me and I noticed.” It also shows gratitude that you appreciate that work, and humility that you’re not above any of the people who actually share and spread your message.
Gratitude does more than just realizing that another person is in the room. It opens the channel for communication and engagement. See someone new sharing your blog or post? Thank them. For every time I’ve done that, at least every other person gives me feedback in some form. Whether it’s positive or negative, I’ve opened a channel with a new potential reader and customer.
I can’t think of a disadvantage to saying “Thanks” to someone online. When it’s said honestly, the message is entirely positive. If you happen to come across someone who has a problem with you expressing your gratitude, that person is probably crazy.
Stop and meet the people who spread your message. Thank them for doing work that benefits you. The karma alone will come back to you tenfold.
