Why Kerry Washington Reads Social Media Comments – And Why You Should Consider It Too
Have you ever wondered why celebrities, frequently enough portrayed as aloof and detached, would willingly subject themselves to the sometimes-brutal world of social media comments? It truly seems counterintuitive, right? Yet, Kerry Washington, the acclaimed star of Scandal and a prominent voice in Hollywood, actively reads the comments on her posts. And her reasoning is surprisingly insightful, offering a fresh viewpoint on the power of online community and connection.
This isn’t just about celebrity behavior; it touches on a broader conversation about how you can leverage social media for genuine engagement and build a meaningful presence online. Let’s dive into why washington changed her mind, the benefits she’s found, and what lessons we can all learn.
The Shift in Perspective: From Avoidance to Engagement
For a long time, Washington adhered to the common celebrity strategy: ignore the comments section. “I used to (say): ‘I don’t read the comments. I can’t read the comments,'” she recently told InStyle. But something shifted, perhaps during the isolating period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
She realized that avoiding comments meant disconnecting from the very people she wanted to reach. “If you don’t read the comments, you’re not in community,” Washington explained. This simple statement encapsulates a powerful truth about social media – it’s not a one-way broadcast; it’s a conversation.
The Benefits of engaging with Yoru Audience
So, what does Washington gain from reading and responding to comments? It’s more than just vanity metrics. Here’s a breakdown of the key benefits:
* Fostering Connection: Reading comments allows Washington to feel directly connected to her fans, understanding their reactions and perspectives.
* Expressing Gratitude: She actively uses social media to acknowledge and appreciate her audience, offering “likes” and responses to comments that resonate with her.
* Gauging Sentiment: Staying aware of the “general tone” of the conversation helps her understand how her message is being received. This is invaluable for refining her content strategy.
* Building community: Engagement transforms a passive following into an active community,fostering loyalty and shared experiences.
Essentially, Washington views social media as a tool for building relationships, not just promoting herself. This approach is increasingly vital in today’s digital landscape.
A Thoughtful approach to Online Presence
Washington doesn’t simply dive into the comments section blindly. She and her social media director carefully curate what she shares, aiming to create a space that is both “fun and inspirational.” This highlights the importance of a strategic approach to social media.
She wants her page to reflect “things that matter to [her],” ensuring authenticity and purpose in every post. This level of intentionality is crucial for building a brand that resonates with your audience.
Protecting Privacy: The Decision to limit Family Photos
Washington’s thoughtful approach extends to her personal life. She and her husband, Nnamdi asomugha, have made a conscious decision not to share photos of their children, Isabelle and Caleb.
“It was very hard at the beginning,” she admitted.However, she believes her children deserve the freedom to define themselves, rather than being shaped by public perception. “Our kids get to be who they are,not who the world has decided they are.”
This decision underscores a growing trend among celebrities and public figures: prioritizing family privacy in the age of constant connectivity. She also extends this privacy to her marriage, stating, ”I feel like we are more protective of our real truth.That’s not for public consumption.”
what Can You Learn From Kerry Washington’s Strategy?
Kerry Washington’s approach to social media offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to build a strong online presence. Here’s how you can apply her insights:
- Don’t fear the Comments: Instead of avoiding the comments section, embrace it as an possibility for connection and feedback.
- Be Intentional: Think carefully about the content you share and the message you want to convey.
- Show Gratitude: Acknowledge and appreciate your audience’s engagement.
- Prioritize Authenticity: Be true to yourself and your values.
- Set Boundaries: Protect your privacy and personal life.
