Do therapists need to be on social media?
I was asked recently whether therapists need to be on social media.
My answer, like my answer to most marketing questions, was “it depends.”
It depends on your goal. You probably don’t need to be on social media to get clients. There are other ways to market yourself, like networking.
But if you want to write a book someday, or get hired as a speaker, having a following on social media will help you do so.
James Clear, bestselling author of Atomic Habits, says "having an audience is essential" if you're writing nonfiction.
I built an audience first and publishers/agents reached out to me once they saw the audience growing. If you're writing fiction (which I know nothing about), then you might be able to take a different path. If you're writing nonfiction, I think having an audience is essential.
— James Clear (@JamesClear) March 28, 2021
You don’t need to be on every social media channel, either. Instead, pick one to focus on and do it really well. If you’re not sure how to decide, consider the following.
Meet them where they are. Where does your target audience hang out online? If you work with Gen Z, it’s better to be on TikTok than Facebook. But if you work with older professionals, it’s better to be on LinkedIn than Instagram.
Play to your strengths. Marketing is most effective when it’s authentic. If you’re a strong writer, use Twitter. If you’re good on camera, start a YouTube channel. If you’re a great conversationalist, host a podcast.
Whatever you decide, remember that building an audience on social media is a long-game. Be patient.