Samantha Kelly is a leading social media strategist, speaker and trainer. Samantha owns and operates Tweeting Goddess and the Women’s Inspire Network. With the support of her team, Samantha plans and delivers effective social media strategies to businesses and entrepreneurs, harnessing the power of social media and the online community.
She is passionate about teaching businesses how to leverage social media effectively and add real value to their business. She works with clients to progress brand growth, defining social media strategy with clear and precise targeting – ultimately, increasing the correct audience reach for business.
Can leadership be taught? If so, how?
Yes I think it can. I’m always learning. I didn’t know I would be thought of as a leader. If you had told me a few years ago that I would be quoted as being a ‘leader’ I would have thought you were crazy! I suppose a leader can grow and learn along the way. I know I have learned how to be more compassionate, less judgemental and I love to see others suceed so I was lucky that is one of the best characteristics a leader can have – helping others to become their best self.
What do you think is the difference between management and leadership?
Management would be something that I am still learning about. Management would be more about how you can work with others. Leadership is about how you can help others.
The world around us is changing faster than at any time in human history and we need more leaders to emerge. How do we make this happen?
I feel it should be taught in schools. For me, I was certainly not confident enough to put myself forward as the head of anything. So confidence is key and self awareness would be important. Anyone can be a leader especially in the digital space. Once you are influencing others, you can become a leader on social media. Once others are listening or paying attention to what you say and do then you can become an influencer and a leader. But you must learn key skills. E.g. listening, supporting and encouraging.
What is the one mistake you witness leaders making more frequently than others?
Not using social media more to inspire others.
What advice would you give to someone dealing with a high-pressure situation in their life or work?
Take time out and surround yourself with good people who understand you and ‘get’ what you do. More family time. Simple things like walking in nature.
What are a few resources (books, blogs, podcasts, courses etc) you would recommend to someone looking to gain insight into becoming a better leader?
Follow Ted Rubin and Bill Liao. Both totally different but both humble and inspiring and great listeners!
