Follow Lisa Rydin Erickson on Instagram.
1. Who are you, what do you do, and how did it all begin?
I am a visual artist, making iPad drawings, paintings, sumi drawings and stop motion animations. It all began when I was young, one of those things that I always remember wanting to do.
2. Where can we find you on social media?
website lisarydinerickson.com
Facebook at Lisa Rydin Erickson-Artist
instagram at @lisarydinerickson
Twitter at @LisaRydin
3. What is your favorite hashtag?
Stumped… still experimenting with that one. Recently I used #phenology, which means seasonal growing of plants and animal. A lot of nature people responded. That was a score. I have been drawing plants in a store that works directly with local and organic farmers so it was good to use a hashtag that related to that. Sort of thinking outside the box about how my art might relate to people that would have an interest in nature.
4. Why do you use social media?
I like to share what I have been drawing and to let people know what is going on with my business. I also like to share the successes of friends.
Instagram is the most visual, shaping and sharing who you are. It works like a mirror. You see yourself in it. It’s nice to look at all that you have posted when you are trying to define your brand.
5. Which tools do you use for creating or posting content?
When posting on Instagram, I share to Twitter, Facebook, and Flickr. I don’t always use them all, but it’s nice to have them in one place.
6. What effect does social media have on your business?
I am able to reach out, as well as show what I am making. It’s surprising who notices. I love it when others retweet, like, or share. These interactions make my news go a lot further. I know it’s helping when people like my Facebook page. I always try to thank them when they do. I like to be personal.
7. How do you measure success on social media?
I think that it’s all about reaching out. I love sharing what I’m working on in the studio. The feedback is fun and motivating. It doesn’t feel like I’m alone in the studio anymore.
8. What aspect of social media do you find most challenging?
I think it is difficult to share my personality because I am shy. But, I do have a good sense of humor and am trying to share more of it.
9. What makes you follow another brand back?
I love great photographers, of course. Who doesn’t? I love following Scandinavian IG’ers for their home style. That is one of my faves. I have some friends that are jewelry makers and I love seeing their new pieces. It’s always great to follow someone who is seamlessly branded.
10. Which brands have social media you admire?
Tia is a friend of mine who makes jewelry. She has a good mix of family photos and product pictures. I am really loving the travels and interviews of Karen Kopacz. Christine Hoffman does some really beautiful styling of organic and local flowers. Her store in St. Paul is a space that you want to live in. Chrissy Jensen has a really fun mix of art, business, and personal photos. Neal Kielar has great photos of his business.
11. Any advice for other brands just getting started on social media?
Look around and learn. This will give you some ideas about how to run your business. I used to help run a small jewelry business for my daughters. I learned to use social media for selling and marketing. When I was ready for my business I was able to apply what I learned.
I think one of the best ways that I was able to connect with people was to take a class online. I have met new friends and have shared blog posts together. It was the best way to gain momentum. Classes from Stephanie Levy, Flora Bowley, and Lilla Rogers will connect you with some really great talent. I have found that people are really sweet and personable.