With the flip of my calendar to January 2013, it only feels right to take stock of things that are working and things that, well, are not so much.
Back in July of 2011, I wondered how other teachers were using Facebook and I decided to start a Pianoanne Facebook page. I imagined that it might be an effective way to connect with current students and families, past students and colleagues.
Sorry Facebook...fail. Those weren't the results I got at all. Even with over 200 "likes" (and by the way, thanks to those of you who "liked" Pianoanne), I just don't see how time spent with Facebook has translated into benefits to my studio. I am a big believer in putting energy into my teaching, but one must pick and choose wisely.
Some people are really good at playing the Facebook game, but for me it's not a game I especially enjoy playing. So the Pianoanne Page is singing "So Long, Farewell".
Of course you'll still find me here because I feel that blogging is a good use of time and continues to feel relevant to me.
Oh just one more thing...a funny story...
Yesterday I went to my Pianoanne Facebook page to delete it. And waiting for me in messages was the nicest note from a teacher who was enjoying my blog. Doh, that always happens to me! So feeling all warm and fuzzy toward Facebook, I didn't delete my page. Why is it so hard to just hit that delete button? Am I afraid of losing "awesome points" if I don't make use of social media? Off I go...I'm doing it...now. Done.
Okay that was a little bit sad. I had forgotten about some of the silly stuff, like my student calling ledger lines extension rods. Guess I'll need to think of another way to remember the funny little things that happen day to day.
I've been advised to, but have not tried, the whole studio Facebook thing. I'm even less likely to try now!
ReplyDeleteI'm finding with the blog in the last few months that it's becoming more of a game in some circles. Hoards of (non-musician!) bloggers are hitting Like in order to get traffic themselves. There has been some very bizarre blog traffic.
I'd rather stay in my kinder, gentler, piano teacher world :)
I'm with you LaDona!
DeleteI really liked your Facebook page - you made it look like fun! I started mine in March and have also been disappointed. This was my pre-website experience but I could have better used my time creating a website. I've only had a few parents who regularly check it and there have been glitches along the way (wouldn't let me post things for awhile). I did have a few students from my past find me there and that was fun.
ReplyDeleteYou were brave to hit delete. I have a hard time getting rid of things (no one wants to see my basement).
Thanks for putting your energies into your blog. I love it!
Thanks Cindy. I liked having fun with my Facebook content. It seemed like a good place to post fun little bits and pieces that didn't really belong on the website. If I had more hours in the day...maybe.
DeleteFacebook won't actually delete the page for two weeks. I guess they figure I might change my mind. Ha ha.
Your timing is impeccable as ever! I was just wondering if I was missing the mark not having a studio Facebook page. The Blog/Website option is much more practical. Glad to hear I don't need to bother making a Page!
ReplyDeleteI guess it depends on what you are trying to do. For me, having a good online presence for current and potential students is the goal. If you are picking and choosing...I'd say go with the website/blog.
DeleteYou inspired me to hit the delete button on mine as well.... same as you - it just was not working for me. I use my blog as a place for my students to see pictures of themselves and for whoever would be interested in lessons. The delete button was a very freeing experience! I enjoy your blog and my students enjoy your music!
ReplyDeleteHa ha...that's funny. There seems to be a lot of pressure to have a Facebook presence. I can see it working really well for certain things (like my husband's band for example)...but piano lessons? I don't think so either. At least I didn't have any luck with my piano parents participating in posts, and most of my students are not into Facebook, how can you even begin to manage 700 friends? Thanks for your note, Mary, glad I'm not the only one!
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