Social media is an odd thing.  It's connects users worldwide, it transcends barriers, and it serves as a personal platform to share more about who you are.

But–on the flip side–it has the ability to distance people from each other based on sheer perception.

I hate to admit it, but I still get intimidated connecting with people on social media.  Here's a short list of my thoughts:

• Why would he respond to me?
• What if she thinks I'm wasting her time?
• Is this a dumb question?

But the crazy thing is that when I reach out to others Instagram, they generally respond.  And it makes me giddy.

[WHY??]

When someone responds on to a comment, tag, or direct message on Instagram, it makes them real.  It personalizes a digital experience and creates connection simply by responding.

EVERY response is really code for, I see you, and I care.

This is a game-changer for business owners.  When you can connect–personally–with prospective customers, you build trust.  And when someone trusts you, they are more likely to buy from you.

This behavior harkens to a long-ago sales approaches.  Oh, ya know, WHEN PEOPLE USED TO TALK FACE TO FACE.  😉

Social platforms, like Instagram, are empowering business owners to connect with prospective customers and offer value, build trust, and personalize their offerings.

I had the chance to connect with Jade Alectra to show how she's using Instagram to grow her service-based business around the world.

Jade and I met simply because we connected on Instagram.  I sent her a direct message, and she responded.

What's resulted from Jade's simple exchange was my metamorphosis from passive Instagram follower, to ardent supporter, to customer.

And that's precisely how it's supposed to work.  Leveraging social media to create conversations with customers is the key to growing a profitable business online.

I wish you all the best as you do the same.

Oh, and if we aren't friends yet, let's connect on Instagram: @JasmineStar