I could just tell you to dive right in, or I could tell you that having a strategy or plan needs to be put in place first. However you choose to see it, the fear is an irrational feeling and usually driven by a lack of experience or knowledge.

Sometimes, as a social media marketer, we forget that this virtual world, the world we live and breathe every day, isn’t real. It’s virtual. Even though it is virtual, it is filled with opportunity, benefits, network building, connecting, and of course, learning.

The main goal, when taking lessons from social sites, is applying it to real life. Things that pay the bills and things you enjoy all provide satisfaction to those who work in this atmosphere.

However, many of these sites can be abstract and tends to have some negatives, especially to newcomers. It can present a feeling of being overwhelmed and bring a sense of fear as well.

In my learning, those who are new to the social media world, once they get familiar with the tools provided, they can usually do what they do best. For instance, if you help customers, but are used to one-on-one conversation, opening the door to social media will allow you to do the same after learning the tools. So you can get in, where you fit in. Helping customers is number one, and using these sites allows this infinitely.

Also in my experience, having a plan with guidelines to follow will help to navigate these sites and make the most of your networking. If you are new to this, conducting a Google search on the appropriate topic will land you some guidelines.

Time and time again, I hear about the wonderful connections made with customers and colleagues through these social sites, so if you’re still nervous about joining in on the fun, just try it out. I think you may be amazed at just how easy and beneficial it is.