Do you have a preference about how you like to learn about social media? Do you like group classes? Private tutoring? What about webinars?

When I first started my business, one-on-one tutoring was the main way I helped people learn about using social media. Within the first year, I started offering training to groups. This year, I started offering both free and paid webinars.

As I reflect on the evolving nature of my business offerings, it occurs to me that for some people, one modality is best. For others, a mix of two is better. And there are times when the three modalities can work together.

Here are some things to consider when deciding how you want to educate yourself about a social media platform.

 

Groups or Classes

  • In addition to learning from the instructor, you can learn from your group/class members.
  • Questions other members bring up could provide information on topics you would like to know more about too.
  • It’s likely that your questions will address topics of interest to them.
  • Learning in groups also provides networking.
  • However, if you need a lot of personal attention, you won’t get that in a group setting.

 

Private Tutoring

  • Sessions are customized to meet your needs.
  • You get all the individual attention you could possibly require.
  • Your tutor may be available on an informal basis to answer questions that occur to you after the session. This is less likely to occur when you take a class.
  • However, the cost will be higher.
  • There may be topics that you don’t think to bring up that you would hear about in a group setting.

Webinars

  • Webinars are accessible whenever and wherever you have an internet connection.
  • You can start and stop whenever you like.
  • Unlike being in a live class, you can replay certain sections to be sure you have understood the materials.
  • Webinars work well if you are a self-directed learner.
  • However, there is no opportunity to learn from questions raised by others.
  • Access to the instructor varies considerably if you want to additional information.

 

How About You?

What kinds of approaches have you used to learn about a social media platform? Which one(s) work best for you?

About Joyce

Joyce Feustel helps people, especially those ages 45 and older, to become more comfortable using social media, especially Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Twitter.

She works with business owners, business development professionals, leaders of nonprofit organizations, job seekers, consultants, and many others. Find her at www.boomerssocialmediatutor.com.