The Importance of Social Media
Oct 05, 2021
What are your first thoughts that come to mind when you think of social media? Is it selfies? Or Facebook marketplace? Keeping up with friends or old classmates? Or stalking old boyfriends?
We asked, Jill Day, Executive Director atThe Bridge at Ooltewah, who has a strong presence on most social media platforms what social media means to her.
I think, social media is your own personal online brand. Whether it is Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter, what you post, what you like, and what you comment on are, in reality, what people judge you on.
Are you one of those that focuses on the glass half full or the glass half empty? Are you looking for the latest gossip in the news or are you sharing something inspirational for others to read? Regardless of your preference, we all must realize that social media can have a positive and negative impact.
Recruiters, job influencers, or fellow peers are checking out your activity all the while your acquaintances, aka friends, are also checking out your page.
I manage my social media pages by being authentic. If I feel in my heart to share, then I share... but I'm prepared for the comments. If I am looking for advice, I ask for it... but I'm prepared for the comments. If I am looking for recognition... I will probably get it, but how does that make me feel? Do likes and comments really define who we are as a person?
I have social media pages for several reasons. I use my Facebook to stay in the loop with acquaintances that I don't get to talk with much and I'm very active on my community's page that I manage. I support other communities as Facebook is now a strong marketing piece for senior living. I use LinkedIn as my online resume and promoting others on a professional level, and I use Twitter for information. Instagram is for connecting with the younger generation that thinks Facebook is for old people. My best gal, Lexi (my brown Labrador,) even has her own Instagram. Honestly, I'd rather look at her Instagram than my own personal page because it makes me smile.
But what is social media really... a marketing tool, a conversation starter, an icebreaker, or entertainment? It's all of the above really. All of us as natural humans of curiosity need to take social media platforms for what they are... they are informative. Regardless, what you are using these platforms for, they are for information. This information doesn't define you, it's doesn't hold anything more than what you allow yourself to feel. There is no right or wrong when posting on social media platforms, however, be prepared to comment or ignore the opinions of others.
Social media can share so much. It can share happiness, it can encourage positivity, and it can share helpful information, which is what you want your online presence to have as a lasting impression. But be authentic. Be honest. We all have bad days and deep thought days, but you don't have to dwell on those days. Whether it's personal or professional, when it comes to social media, quality over quantity is always best.
When it comes to my social media, you will see I am a loyal wife, a proud dog mom, I care for my residents, I encourage my associates, and I support senior living. My permission is required for anything to be posted on my pages and I will give credit to those around me when credit is due.
I feel that social media is a positive aspect in my life personally and professionally. It is also monitored. I don't love looking at it all the time. I have set my settings so that I do not receive any social media notification from 10 p.m. - 6 a.m. I value my time away from social media. And I enjoy my time checking out ideas on Pinterest. I spend only a few times during my work day looking at pages. When I do, it is intentional. I search "The Bridge at Ooltewah" or "Century Park Associates" while at work. I follow the majority of our sister communities across the country and do my part in liking, commenting, and sharing when it is authentic and I love something they have done.
While social media can bring so many emotions to our attention, it can also link and support. Everything can be good in moderation. We must know our limits and set boundaries in all aspects. It's that simple. And don't rely on social media for all your pictures 10 years from now. You will be devastated when you get hacked and lose everything. Take it back old school and print them out, save to a photo book or file on your computer.
Keep tweeting, posting, and sharing the great things in your life. Encourage others and remember, like all things, only in moderation.
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Steps to Building Trust and Credibility Online for Your Business
1. Create an Informative and Transparent Website The foundation of building trust online starts with your website. Families will look for clear, honest information about your services, team, and approach to care. Your website should serve as a hub of transparency, where visitors can easily access information about your offerings, certifications, and values. Tip: Include details such as your companys mission, staff qualifications, and the services you offer. Also, ensure that your website is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and free from clutter. 2. Showcase Testimonials and Reviews from Families Nothing builds trust faster than genuine, positive feedback from satisfied families. Testimonials and reviews act as social proof, providing real-world evidence of your service quality. When potential clients see that others have had positive experiences with your home health service, they are more likely to feel comfortable choosing you for their loved ones. Tip: Ask your current clients for testimonials after a successful caregiving experience and highlight these reviews prominently on your website and social media. Videos of satisfied families speaking about their experience can be particularly effective. 3. Be Active on Social Media and Share Helpful Content Social media platforms are a fantastic way to build trust and credibility online by showing your expertise and engaging with families. Sharing informative posts, caregiving tips, and personal stories helps humanize your business and fosters a sense of connection. Social media also gives potential clients the opportunity to interact directly with you, which can further build their trust in your service. Tip: Post regularly on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and consider creating short videos or live Q&A sessions to answer frequent questions about home health services. You can also share articles or blogs that educate families on senior care. 4. Highlight Industry Certifications and Partnerships Certifications, accreditations, and partnerships with trusted organizations help demonstrate that your home health service meets high industry standards. When families see that your business is certified by reputable bodies, it reassures them that your services are reliable, professional, and trustworthy. Tip: Display logos of the certifications or associations you are affiliated with on your website and marketing materials. This can include certifications like the Joint Commission, the National Association for Home Care & Hospice, or any other relevant organization. 5. Offer Free Resources and Educational Content Another way to build trust and credibility online is by offering free resources and educational content. Families will appreciate having access to helpful information about senior care, health tips, and caregiving best practices. This positions your business as an authority in the field and builds long-term relationships with potential clients. Tip: Consider writing blog posts, creating downloadable guides, or offering webinars on topics that are valuable to families. For example, you could offer a guide on how to choose the right caregiver or how to manage dementia care at home. 6. Provide Clear and Transparent Pricing Information When families are searching for home health services, they want to know what they are getting into financially. Offering transparent pricing helps build trust by eliminating uncertainty. Providing a clear breakdown of your pricing structure or offering free consultations can go a long way to making potential clients feel comfortable moving forward. Tip: If your pricing model is complex, consider offering packages or explaining what each service includes, so families know exactly what to expect. Make sure your pricing is easy to find on your website. 7. Engage in Community Outreach and Local Partnerships Being active in your local community can significantly enhance your credibility online. Engaging in local partnerships with hospitals, senior centers, or health care providers demonstrates that you are a trusted part of the community and that families can rely on you for quality care. These partnerships often result in referrals, which can drive more business your way. Tip: Partner with local organizations for events, health fairs, or workshops that provide value to families. Highlight these partnerships on your website and social media to reinforce your commitment to the community. 8. Respond Promptly to Inquiries and Comments Trust is built through communication. When families reach out to you with questions or concerns, responding promptly and professionally can set you apart from competitors. Being attentive and providing thoughtful answers shows that you value their time and their loved ones care, which can go a long way in gaining their trust. Best Practice: Set up an automated system to acknowledge inquiries and ensure that they are followed up on within 24 hours. This can help prevent leads from falling through the cracks and shows that your business is responsive and reliable. Additional Tips:Do not Overpromise: Be realistic about what your services can provide. Overpromising and underdelivering can damage your reputation. Use Professional Photos and Branding: High-quality photos of your team and services give off a professional vibe and can make families feel more confident in choosing your business. Stay Consistent: Whether it is your website, social media, or customer service, consistency in messaging and quality is key to building trust. Building trust and credibility online is crucial for positioning your home health service as a top choice for families. By following these stepscreating a transparent website, highlighting testimonials, offering educational content, and moreyou can establish a solid online presence that attracts families seeking trusted care options for their loved ones. Ready to gain more visibility and build trust with families looking for home health services? Join Seniors Blue Book today to add your listing and increase your credibility with our trusted platform. Start building your online reputation now and reach the families who need your services the most.
A Call to Order Professional Organizers: Helping Seniors Feel at Home
As we grow older, our needs and priorities evolve, often making our living spaces feel less suitable than they once were. For seniors, the comfort of home becomes even more essential, yet the task of organizing and maintaining a home can become overwhelming. At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, we understand the emotional and physical challenges that seniors face. Our mission is to provide compassionate, expert assistance to help seniors feel at home, wherever they choose to live. Through our personalized services, we strive to create spaces that are not only organized but also nurturing and comfortable.Understanding Seniors' Needs1. Emotional Attachment to BelongingsFor many seniors, their homes are filled with a lifetime of memories and cherished belongings. Each item tells a story and holds sentimental value. The thought of sorting through these possessions can be daunting and emotionally taxing.Tips for Respectful Decluttering:Listen with Empathy: Take the time to listen to the stories behind the items. This shows respect for their memories and makes the process less about discarding and more about cherishing.Gentle Guidance: Encourage seniors to keep items that bring joy and consider donating or gifting those that don't. Highlight the positive impact of giving items a new life.Memory Preservation: Offer creative solutions to preserve memories, such as creating photo albums or digital archives of beloved items that can't be kept.2. Safety and AccessibilityAs mobility becomes a concern, its crucial to ensure that a seniors living space is safe and easily accessible. Organizing with a focus on safety can prevent accidents and make daily tasks more manageable.Strategies for a Safe Home:Clear Pathways: Ensure that hallways and living areas are free from clutter to reduce the risk of falls.Accessible Storage: Place frequently used items within easy reach to minimize the need for bending or stretching.Adaptive Solutions: Incorporate adaptive equipment and furniture arrangements that cater to mobility issues, such as grab bars in the bathroom and stable seating options.Creating a Sense of Home1. Personalized SpacesA home should reflect the personality and preferences of its inhabitants. For seniors, maintaining a sense of identity through their living environment is vital for emotional well-being.Personalization Tips:Favorite Items: Make sure that favorite belongings, like a beloved armchair or treasured photographs, are prominently displayed and easily accessible.Comfort Zones: Create cozy areas where seniors can relax, read, or engage in hobbies. A well-placed chair by a window, a dedicated crafting table, or a garden nook can enhance their quality of life.Warm Aesthetics: Use colors, textures, and decorations that evoke warmth and comfort. Familiar and favorite colors can make a space feel more inviting and homely.2. Encouraging IndependenceHelping seniors maintain their independence is crucial for their self-esteem and happiness. An organized home can empower them to perform daily tasks more efficiently and confidently.Empowering Through Organization:Logical Layouts: Arrange items in a logical order that matches their routines. For example, keep kitchen utensils near the stove and daily medications by the bedside.Simplify Systems: Implement simple organizational systems that are easy to maintain. Clear labels, color-coded bins, and straightforward filing systems can reduce confusion and make upkeep manageable.Regular Check-ins: Offer ongoing support to adjust the organization as needs change. Regular visits can help keep the home functional and address any new challenges that arise.At A Call to Order Professional Organizers, our commitment goes beyond mere organization. We aim to create environments where seniors feel safe, comfortable, and truly at home. By understanding their unique needs and providing compassionate, personalized support, we help transform living spaces into nurturing havens. Our approach ensures that every senior we assist not only enjoys an organized home but also experiences an enhanced quality of life filled with joy, dignity, and independence. If you or a loved one is facing the challenges of aging in place, we are here to help you feel at home, every step of the way.
Testamentary Trusts
What do you know about testamentary trusts?A trust protects your assets and determines where those assets will go once you are gone. Three common types of trusts are a revocable trust, an irrevocable trust, and a testamentary trust.Most trusts, like revocable and irrevocable trusts, are made and actively used while the trustor (or the creator of the trust) is still alive. In contrast, a testamentary trust only comes into being after the trustors passing. A testamentary trust is created based on explicit instructions written into a will. In it, a trustee, (or the person who manages the assets on behalf of beneficiaries of the trust) is appointed and given instructions on how to distribute the estate. The trustee can decline the position. If a trustee does decline the position, a court can appoint someone to act as trustee. It is best to select a trustee that is willing and able to administer your estate after you are gone in order to limit the courts involvement. Advantages of testamentary trusts:There are many advantages to creating a testamentary trust. The following are reasons that you may want to consider setting up a testamentary trust.1. A testamentary trust can establish that assets cannot be paid to beneficiaries until certain conditions are met. This is especially helpful for parents who wish to condition the receipt of funds for children. For example, you may condition the disbursement of assets on a child reaching a certain age, graduating from college, or marriage. 2. A will can have more than one testamentary trust, meaning that there is no limit to the number of beneficiaries one can have. This ensures that assets will get distributed according to your desires, depending on the conditions you set. 3. Creating a testamentary trust is inexpensive. A testamentary trust does not come with the same costs as establishing a living trust. This can be beneficial if you cannot afford to establish a trust because the cost of creating a testamentary trust comes out of the estate. 4. There are tax benefits in using a testamentary trust as opposed to another type of trust. Testamentary trusts only require payment of income taxes on the trust as a whole. This means that the beneficiaries are not required to pay taxes on their distributions from the trust.Disadvantages of testamentary trusts:There is one major downside to establishing a testamentary trust: a testamentary trust must go through probate. Probate is the court procedure by which assets are distributed after an individual has passed away. Probate can be extremely expensive and lengthy. Assets cannot be distributed until probate is complete and assets are then transferred into the trust.Knowing what type of trust is right for you can seem confusing and difficult. We are here to help you decide what plan is right for you based on your individual circumstances and needs. If you have any questions about how to plan for your future and the future of your loved ones, contact us today at 385.334.4030 or email@skvlegal.com.