Every small business owner knows the drill — show up on social, post often, like generously, and engage authentically. But behind the screens, what really goes through the minds of entrepreneurs when they hit “like” or hesitate to post? That’s exactly what the Small Biz Breakdown crew unpacked in a heartfelt and honest live conversation. This weekly show features Brent Leary (tech analyst), Ivana Taylor (DIY Marketers), Shashi Bellamkonda (tech analyst), Leland McFarland (SmallBizTrends.com), Ramon Ray (ZoneofGenius.com)

Key Takeaways

• Intentional engagement beats blind support: Commenting with care builds relationships and boosts visibility more than passive liking.
• Not all platforms fit all personalities: Entrepreneurs should show up where they feel most comfortable and confident.
• Consistency and authenticity drive engagement: The most meaningful interactions often come from personal, vulnerable posts.
• You don’t need to be everywhere: Focus on the platform and style that align with your voice and goals.
• Support others the way you want to be supported: Reciprocating likes and comments keeps your network strong.

The Power of a Simple “Like”

Brent Leary opened the discussion with a familiar dilemma: being asked to like content without actually reading it. Most entrepreneurs can relate. Ramon Ray likened it to seeing a friend in the mall — sometimes a nod is enough. “If Ivana or Shashi wrote something,” he said, “I trust what they’re saying. I might scan, nod, like, and move on. It’s support.”

Shashi Bellamkonda added a deeper lens — LinkedIn’s algorithm favors more than just likes. “Publishing regularly, commenting intentionally, and even contributing to LinkedIn’s AI content boosts your reach,” he explained. For him, reading before engaging isn’t just respectful — it’s strategic.

Building Your Own “Shortlist”

Ivana Taylor offered a thoughtful twist, inspired by their friend Brian Moran. She keeps a mental “shortlist” of people whose content she actively seeks out — clients, collaborators, or peers. “That’s who I make time for. I want to read, comment, and support them intentionally.”

It’s a practical way to maintain relevance without spreading yourself too thin.

The Inner Critic Is Loud — But Push Through Anyway

In one of the most resonant moments, Ivana admitted she often talks herself out of posting. “The voice inside my head says, ‘It’s stupid. No one’s going to like it.’ And I back out.”

It sparked a wave of empathy. Ramon encouraged creators to embrace their voice, even when it’s raw. “I’ll post about an argument I had with my wife or a tough financial season,” he said. “It’s not for kicks. It’s therapy. And people relate to it.”

Leland echoed that struggle. “I’ll type a comment out and then delete it,” he confessed. “I just don’t feel confident enough to hit send.”

Authenticity Wins — Every Time

Ramon’s reflections landed deeply. He recounted one of his most engaging posts — not about business wins or press coverage, but a heartfelt message on struggling with depression. “That post got thousands of responses,” he said. “People crave real.”

This vulnerability isn’t a marketing tactic. It’s what builds trust and community — something small business owners rely on heavily, especially in an increasingly noisy digital world.

Choose Your Platform, Choose Your Style

The conversation closed with a consensus: You don’t need to be everywhere or follow a formula. Ivana summed it up perfectly: “Not every platform is for everyone. Be where you’re comfortable.”

Some entrepreneurs thrive on video. Others prefer thoughtful written posts. Whether you’re the type to share daily reels or post once a week with intention, what matters most is showing up in a way that’s true to you.

Final Word: Find Your People, Find Your Rhythm

If you’re a small business owner struggling with social media, you’re not alone. Even seasoned experts with large followings feel the pressure. But by being intentional, authentic, and a little bit vulnerable, you can turn your feed into a meaningful part of your business and life.

Keep showing up — not to impress, but to connect.