Social Media Archives - Rebranding Ryan

Building, Growing, and Dreaming Big

Life has a way of keeping you on your toes, doesn’t it? If there’s one thing I’ve learned over the years, it’s that every chapter brings a new challenge, a new opportunity, and—if you’re lucky—a new spark of inspiration. Lately, I’ve found myself in a whirlwind of exciting projects, each one pushing me to think differently, work harder, and dream a little bigger.

Family and Community: Where My Heart Is

Outside of work, life’s just as full. Quinn has been making me prouder by the day. Her gymnastics journey has been a lesson in perseverance—for both of us! She’s pushing through challenges, learning to embrace the tough stuff, and finding her own confidence along the way. Watching her grow through those moments inspires me to dig deeper in my own work.

Meanwhile, Chase has been thriving too. He’s been knocking out straight A’s quarter after quarter while diving into the arts. This year, he’s playing the love interest in his middle school musical, The Addams Family. Watching him on stage, fully in his element, has been such a joy. Next up, we’re taking him to his high school orientation—a big milestone that reminds me how fast time flies.

I’m also still keeping a pulse on the local community. Moderating the neighborhood social media page reminds me how important it is to stay connected. It’s easy to get wrapped up in your own bubble, but those daily interactions keep me grounded.

RK Digital Transformation: Growing Brands, Growing Businesses

On the digital front, things have been full steam ahead at RK Digital Transformation. Karen and I have been diving deep into creative strategies, helping businesses reimagine how they connect with their customers. It’s the perfect mix of creativity and analytics, which is where I thrive. Lately, we’ve been rolling out a new initiative—Success Pathways—designed to help small businesses get their foot in the door with targeted, affordable solutions. Seeing these “aha” moments with our clients reminds me why I love what I do.

One of the highlights of my week was catching up with a client to review their December sales. As we went over the numbers, I casually mentioned that I was hoping we could match November’s impressive sales totals. Without missing a beat, he looked at me and said, “Ryan, it’s a 30% increase over the prior December… we’re good.” We both had a good laugh, and it was a great reminder to stop and appreciate the progress we’re making. Moments like these, when the hard work pays off and clients feel confident in their growth, are what make this work so rewarding.

It’s also been amazing working alongside Karen. Her eye for design, her passion for innovation—it’s contagious. Every project we tackle together feels like a chance to build something meaningful, not just for us but for the businesses we serve.

Oh, and I’ve officially nicknamed my AI assistant “Artoo,” inspired by Luke Skywalker’s loyal droid companion, R2-D2. Like the original, Artoo is reliable, resourceful, and always ready to help. Having a digital co-pilot makes juggling everything a little easier and keeps the nerd in me very happy.

Looking Ahead

If I’m being honest, I don’t always know what’s coming next—and I kind of love that. Right now, I’m focused on doing the work, nurturing the relationships that matter, and leaving room for whatever new opportunities come my way. Whether it’s building a brand, crafting a strategy, or supporting my family, I’ve realized the secret isn’t in doing everything perfectly—it’s in showing up, staying curious, and keeping the passion alive.

So that’s what I’ve been up to lately. A little bit of everything, and all of it good. Thanks for catching up with me—I’d love to hear what you’ve been up to, too. Let’s keep building, growing, and dreaming big together.

How a Simple Apple 🍎 Sparked a Social Media Frenzy (And a Few Banana Jokes)

Creating engagement on social media can sometimes feel like a tricky balance, especially when you’re managing a neighborhood page where people have all kinds of opinions. But it doesn’t have to be complicated! Sometimes, the simplest posts are the ones that spark the most interaction. Take, for example, my recent post:

Here’s a picture of an apple. 🍎

Offended yet? Not red enough? Not shiny enough? Maybe it’s the wrong kind of apple entirely? Who knows – maybe it’s a pineapple in disguise.

Friendly reminder: this is a neighborhood page, not a debate team tryout. Let’s all try a new trick today – kindness. Yep, even on the internet! So, before you fire off your next spicy take, remember, we’re all here just trying to get through another week in Sycamore. 🍎

Pretty simple, right? Yet, this post ended up with 370 likes and 49 comments. The comments were just as entertaining as the post itself:

Katie wrote, “The audacity to post an apple during Pumpkin Fest!!! 😉.”
Darlene chimed in with, “How big is the apple 🍎? I need a banana 🍌 for scale. 🤣😂🤣”
Anne noted, “I cannot love this enough! The salty people should really go axe throwing or to a wreck room instead of spreading their misery online.”
Corey added, “But I want a caramel apple. 😂”

So why did it do so well? The post hit the target demographic perfectly. The people in our community love a little lighthearted banter, especially when it feels relevant to our day-to-day lives. By using a universally recognizable image (an apple) and adding a humorous twist, I kept the tone casual and relatable.

Here’s why it worked:

1. It was simple: Everyone understands what an apple is, and there’s no need for a complicated explanation. Sometimes the easiest way to engage people is through simplicity.

2. It was humorous: Humor is a great way to get people to engage. The playful tone of the post, hinting at how the smallest things can spark unnecessary debates, resonated with people who have probably witnessed similar online squabbles.

3. It allowed people a bright spot in their day: In a world where negative news often dominates, people appreciate a moment of lightness. This post didn’t ask for anything heavy or serious—it just invited a quick laugh and a reminder to spread kindness.

How to Create Similar Posts

If you’re looking to recreate this kind of engagement on your own social media pages, here are a few tips:

Keep it light and fun: People engage more when they feel like they’re in on the joke. Posts that are overly serious or require too much thought might deter engagement. Something as simple as a quirky observation or a playful challenge can get people talking.
Make it relatable: Use imagery or references that are familiar to your audience. Everyone in the neighborhood could relate to the idea of overreacting to something trivial online—because, let’s be real, we’ve all seen it happen.
Incorporate humor: Don’t be afraid to throw in some sarcasm or playfulness. Even a little cheekiness can go a long way in getting people to interact, whether it’s through likes or comments. Humor breaks the ice and invites participation.
Invite interaction: Without directly asking for it, the apple post invited people to share their thoughts (or jokes). The comments showed that people felt comfortable adding their own humor to the mix.
Be timely: Timing matters. This post came during a local event—Pumpkin Fest—so the apple vs. pumpkin comment hit just right. Pay attention to what’s happening locally or seasonally, and tie your posts into that.

Engagement doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes, it’s as simple as posting an apple and inviting people to laugh along with you. Just remember, social media is a place for connection, and if you’re able to create a space where people can share a laugh and leave a little brighter, you’re doing it right.

Unleashing the Golden Potential: 4 Easy Steps for ChatGPT

ChatGPT, a powerful language model, can be a valuable tool for social media marketers. Whether you need help crafting engaging content, brainstorming campaign ideas, or conducting market research, ChatGPT can provide informative and creative responses. To make the most of this technology, follow this simple 4-step process:

Step 1: Assign a Role: Social Media Marketer

Assigning the role of a social media marketer will help ChatGPT understand the context and tailor its responses accordingly. For example, you could say: “Pretend you’re a social media marketer for a golden retriever rescue organization.”

Step 2: Provide Context: Golden Retrievers

Giving ChatGPT additional context about golden retrievers can enhance the quality of its responses. For instance, you might specify the target audience (e.g., dog lovers, families), the organization’s goals (e.g., adoption, fundraising), or the current trends in the pet industry. For example: “I’m trying to increase awareness about golden retriever rescue and encourage adoptions. What are some popular social media trends I can incorporate into my campaign?”

Step 3: Give a Command: Golden Retriever-Related Content

Clearly state your request or question related to golden retrievers. Be specific and avoid ambiguity to get the most relevant results. For instance: “Write a social media caption about a golden retriever puppy looking for a forever home.”

Step 4: Tell ChatGPT to Ask You Questions

If you’re unsure about providing enough context or want to explore a topic in more depth, encourage ChatGPT to ask follow-up questions. This can lead to more engaging and informative conversations.

By following these steps, you can effectively utilize ChatGPT to assist you in various aspects of your social media marketing efforts, especially when working with the adorable and lovable golden retrievers. Experiment with different contexts, commands, and follow-up questions to discover the full potential of ChatGPT as a valuable tool for your social media marketing campaigns.

Build Stronger Connections with Authentic LinkedIn Content

I recently had a great conversation with a friend about his career path. He was torn between sharing his journey on LinkedIn, which included some more traditional roles he took to support himself financially, versus only highlighting his dream job. My advice to him was simple: authenticity trumps perfection every time.

LinkedIn has become a platform flooded with seemingly perfect career trajectories and inspirational quotes. While these posts can be uplifting, they often lack depth and genuine connection. In contrast, sharing a story about overcoming challenges or taking a non-traditional path can resonate far more deeply with your audience.

My friend’s journey, from “pay-the-bills” jobs to his dream role, is a story that many people can relate to. It’s a tale of perseverance, learning, and growth. By sharing his experiences openly and honestly, he can inspire others who may be facing similar challenges.

This isn’t just about LinkedIn; it’s a broader principle in marketing. Whether you’re sharing a personal story, promoting a product, or building a brand, the key is to connect with your audience on an emotional level. A well-crafted narrative is far more powerful than a generic, shared inspirational post.

So, the next time you’re considering what to share on LinkedIn, remember: authenticity is your greatest asset. Don’t be afraid to share your journey, even if it’s not always glamorous. Your story could be the inspiration someone needs.

Five Easy Tips to Improve Your Social Media Strategy for Better Results

In our last post, we explored common reasons why social media efforts might not be yielding the desired results for your small business. Now, let’s delve into five easy and actionable tips to enhance your social media creation and planning for more effective outcomes.

1. Plan Your Content in Advance

Creating content on the fly can lead to inconsistency and missed opportunities. Instead, plan your content in advance using a content calendar. Outline your posts for the month, including key dates, holidays, and promotional events. This proactive approach ensures a steady flow of content and allows for better alignment with your overall marketing strategy.

2. Use Visual Content Creators

High-quality visuals are essential for capturing attention on social media. Tools like Canva, Adobe Spark, and Crello offer user-friendly platforms to create stunning graphics, videos, and infographics. These tools provide templates and design elements that can elevate the visual appeal of your posts without requiring professional design skills.

3. Leverage User-Generated Content

Engaging your audience by encouraging them to create content for your brand can be highly effective. User-generated content (UGC) not only builds community but also provides authentic, relatable content for your social media channels. Create campaigns that invite customers to share their experiences with your products or services, and feature their posts on your profiles.

4. Schedule Posts with Social Media Management Tools

Consistency is key, and social media management tools like Hootsuite, Buffer, and Sprout Social can help. These platforms allow you to schedule posts in advance, ensuring a consistent presence even during busy times. Additionally, they provide analytics to track performance and optimize your content strategy.

5. Engage with Your Audience Regularly

Social media is a two-way street. Regularly engaging with your audience by responding to comments, messages, and mentions can significantly increase loyalty and trust. Set aside time each day to interact with your followers, answer questions, and participate in conversations. This active engagement fosters a sense of community and strengthens relationships with your audience.

By implementing these five easy tips, you can enhance your social media strategy and achieve better results. Planning content in advance, using visual content creators, leveraging user-generated content, scheduling posts with management tools, and engaging regularly with your audience will help you create a more effective and engaging social media presence.

Ryan Weckerly

Why Your Social Media Isn’t Working for Your Small Business (and How to Fix It)

Setting up social media profiles and posting updates are common steps for small businesses aiming to increase their online presence. However, many businesses find that their efforts are not yielding the expected results. Here are five common reasons why social media might not be working for your small business and some hints on how to turn things around.

1. Lack of a Clear Strategy

Posting random updates without a clear plan often leads to disappointing results. A well-defined strategy is crucial. Determine your goals, identify your target audience, and decide on the type of content that will resonate with them. This focused approach will drive more meaningful engagement.

2. Inconsistent Posting

Inconsistent posting can lead to a disengaged audience. A regular posting schedule keeps your audience engaged and helps maintain interest. Developing a content calendar can ensure that you post consistently and keep your followers informed and engaged.

3. Ignoring Analytics

Success on social media is more than just accumulating likes and followers. Analyzing metrics such as engagement rates, reach, and click-through rates can provide valuable insights into what content works and what doesn’t. This data-driven approach allows you to refine your strategy and better meet your audience’s needs.

4. Not Engaging with Your Audience

Social media should be interactive. Merely posting content without responding to comments or engaging in conversations can result in missed opportunities. Actively engaging with your audience by responding to comments, asking questions, and creating conversations can significantly enhance loyalty and trust.

5. Overlooking the Power of Visuals

Visual content is highly effective in capturing attention and increasing engagement. High-quality images, videos, and infographics can make your posts more appealing and shareable. Utilizing visually engaging content can effectively convey your brand’s message and attract more followers.

Looking Forward

Identifying these common pitfalls is the first step to improving your social media presence. In the next post, we will explore five simple and effective strategies to enhance your social media performance. From content creation tips to engagement techniques, these actionable steps will help you achieve your social media goals.

Stay tuned for practical solutions to grow your social media efforts!

Stop Yelling at Me: Why Facebook Pages Should Ditch the Constant “@Followers”

Let’s be honest, social media trends can get old fast. From pointless challenges to recycled memes (and yes I searched for this pic on purpose), there’s always something vying for our attention (and patience). But one trend that’s been bugging me lately is the excessive use of the “@followers” function by Facebook pages.

This isn’t just a personal pet peeve – there are several reasons why constantly tagging your followers can actually hurt your social media strategy. Here’s why it’s time for Facebook pages to ditch the “@followers” spam and focus on building genuine connections.

Reduces post reach: Facebook prioritizes content that sparks conversations. Repetitive use of “@followers” might be seen as spammy by the algorithm, potentially limiting the organic reach of your posts.

Comes across as demanding: The constant use of “@followers” can feel bossy or demanding. It puts the pressure on the audience to take action rather than focusing on providing them with valuable content that would naturally encourage engagement.

Not inclusive to non-followers: If someone isn’t already following your page, seeing “@followers” mentioned all the time might make them feel excluded. It’s better to craft content that resonates with a broader audience and organically attracts new followers.

Sounds impersonal: Constant use of “@followers” can make your content sound robotic and impersonal. It’s better to use a more conversational tone and address your audience directly with phrases like “you” or “our community.”

Focus on value, not numbers: Obsessing over follower count isn’t the best strategy. The goal is to build a community of engaged individuals. Focus on creating high-quality content that provides value to your audience, and the follower count will naturally grow.

Scrollin’ Through the Feed: What’s Hot in Social Media Right Now

Anyone else feel like social media moves faster than a toddler on a sugar high? It can be hard to keep up with the latest trends, but fear not, fellow scrollers! I’m here to break it down for you, K.I.S.S. style.

Short and Sweet, But Not Too Short: Remember Vine? Yeah, good times. Short-form video is still king, with platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels leading the charge. But here’s the twist: longer content is making a comeback. We’re talking TikTok testing videos up to 30 minutes long, and even YouTube experimenting with horizontal formats. Think mini-documentaries, in-depth tutorials, or just longer storytelling.

Building a Tribe, Not Just a Following: Forget chasing follower counts and picture-perfect profiles. Today, it’s all about building real connections and fostering a sense of community. People crave authentic interactions, meaningful conversations, and a feeling of belonging. Whether it’s joining a niche group or engaging with creators you genuinely connect with, community is key.

The Rise of the Machines (But in a Cool Way): AI is becoming a social media staple, from personalized content recommendations like “You might also like…” to chatbots handling customer service inquiries. While it might sound a little sci-fi, think of it as your social media assistant, making your experience smoother and more efficient.

Real Talk, Real People: In a world of filters and carefully curated feeds, people are craving authenticity. They want to connect with brands and creators who feel genuine, transparent, and trustworthy. Ditch the staged photos and scripted messages, and show your true colors. Let your personality shine through and build trust with your audience.

Shop ‘Til You Drop (But From Your Phone): Social media is no longer just for catching up with friends and sharing funny cat videos. It’s become a massive shopping platform. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are making it easier than ever to discover and purchase products directly within the app. Think one-click shopping sprees fueled by your favorite influencers’ recommendations.

Game On, Everyone! Online gaming is more than just a solitary activity these days. Platforms like Twitch and Discord are transforming it into a social experience. Players connect, interact, and even compete while streaming their gameplay. It’s like watching your favorite sport, but everyone’s potentially involved!

So, there you have it! These are just a few of the things heating up the social media landscape. Remember, the game is constantly evolving, so keep your finger on the pulse and adapt your approach to stay ahead of the curve. Now, excuse me while I go chase some trends and build my online tribe (with a healthy dose of K.I.S.S., of course).