Everyone hopes that their content will get shared. But the reality is that people share when they are motivated to do so.
People need a reason to share content. So why do people share? Why is some content shared while other content drifts down the river and is forgotten? Have you ever asked yourself these questions?
I have read a lot of Dan Zarrella’s work. I have been trying to figure this out in more detail. One of the things that I see as a motivating factor is the degree of connection we have with others. From what I have experienced so far, the closer I am connected to people, the more I see them sharing my stuff.
Now this certainly is not as scientific as Dan Zarrella’s research; but for me this seems to be a key factor. Why would this be so? I think it is because people have a need to be connected with others. Sharing contributes to establishing a greater connection with others. I also suspect that people may feel safer about sharing when they feel a greater connection with the originator of that content.
If this is true, our connections and relationships will be key to our success. This might not be a bad thing. I like making connections and new friends. Just imagine if this was true? People that only broadcast and blast out content would find it hard to see their content shared. People that are superficial and self seeking would also have a hard time seeing their content shared.
As I was heading to deliver some social media training in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, I tweeted 3 times about the black ice and the highway conditions. I shared because I wanted to help people be safe today. I will be watching to see if anyone shared those tweets. So sharing sometimes happens when we want to help others stay safe.
So take a moment to see why people share your content. Is there a reason that stands out for you? I would love to hear your thoughts. Thanks.
