Softly Social

05/09/2024

Hey there 👋

It's been a whole year since I officially launched Softly Social (under a different name), and I'm feeling incredibly grateful for the journey so far. 🎉Plus it’s my birthday tomorrow so it seemed like the perfect time for a reintroduction!

I'm Rebecca, the face behind Softly Social. I'm your go-to Instagram strategist for introverts who want to establish a strong online presence without feeling inauthentic.

As an introvert myself, I understand the unique challenges you face – feeling overwhelmed by social media, the fear of judgment, and the pressure to be someone you're not.

That's why I've created a space where you can leverage your quiet strengths and build an Instagram presence that feels true to you.

A few fun facts about me:

👩‍👧‍👧 I'm a proud mum of two amazing girls

👗 I'm only 5'2" and often find myself shopping in the children's section! (Seriously, I receive more compliments on these outfits than any others 😂)

😇 I'm not a fan of swearing. I value kindness and genuine connections, so swearing isn't really my style

🎤 I randomly burst into song when my kids unintentionally quote lyrics at me

If you're an introverted entrepreneur who's ready to reduce the stress and create an Instagram presence that accurately reflects your brand, I'm here to support you every step of the way.

Feel free to drop a comment below and tell me a little about yourself and your business 😊

P.S. If you're ready to level up your Instagram skills, check out my upcoming workshop: "Attract Your Dream Clients with a Killer Instagram Profile." It's happening online on Thursday, September 19th at 10:30 AM BST. Limited spaces available! DM me the word “PROFILE” for more info

31/08/2024

20/08/2024

Is your Instagram profile missing something important?

The other day, I wanted to send a personalised message to someone who'd voted in my Instagram story poll. But their name was nowhere to be found on their profile!

Including your name in your profile does more than identify you; it makes your brand feel more personal and approachable.

Seeing your name means followers know what to call you when they message you or comment on your posts, instantly strengthening the connection. In a crowded online place, your name sets your profile apart and makes interactions feel more genuine.

Not sure where to add your name? It could be in your username, the 'Name' field, or even a friendly introduction in your bio.

Want to discover more simple yet impactful ways to transform your Instagram presence?

Join my online Instagram workshop: Attract Your Dream Clients with a Killer Instagram Profile. We'll cover everything from your bio to your grid aesthetics, ensuring your profile is optimised to connect with your ideal clients.

📅 Thursday 19th September
⏰10.30am-12.30pm
💻via Zoom

Investment - £57.

Limited spaces available for a focused and interactive experience. Save your seat 👇

18/08/2024

If you love the idea of...

✨ Attracting your dream clients without feeling overwhelmed or inauthentic

✨ Building genuine connections with your audience, even as an introvert

✨ Creating an Instagram profile that reflects your unique personality and brand
..then my 'Attract Your Dream Clients with a Killer Instagram Profile' workshop is perfect for you!

We’ll cover all aspects of your Instagram profile from your photo to your highlights, ensuring you make the most of every feature.

You’ll get:

👉 Personalised feedback

👉 Actionable steps to implement immediately

👉 The confidence to attract your ideal clients

📆 Thursday 19th September
⏰ 10.30am-12.30pm
💻 Via Zoom

DM me the word “PROFILE” or follow the link in comments to secure your spot and start making your Instagram profile work harder for you.

⏱️ Book now to save £10! Early bird pricing ends tomorrow and investment goes up to £57 on Tuesday 20th August

14/08/2024

Why Instagram?

☝️ This is a question I get asked A LOT!

And to be honest, it's not always easy to put into words.

This platform offers unique ways to engage, share, and grow without the overwhelm.

Instagram can be a powerful tool for building a supportive network, even if you're not the loudest in the room.

Swipe through to see 4 things I love about Instagram that make sense to me as introvert.

P.S. Want to discover how you can use Instagram to connect with your ideal clients in a way that feels authentic and aligned with your introverted nature? My upcoming workshops are designed just for you! DM me the word "WORKSHOP" or head to the link in my bio to learn more!

12/08/2024

Ready to transform your Instagram presence and attract your dream clients?

I'm excited to announce my upcoming Instagram workshops! Whether you're new to Instagram or feeling a bit stuck, these workshops will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to shine online.

Choose from:

✨ Attract Your Dream Clients with a Killer Instagram Profile (Online, 19th September):

Learn how to optimise your bio, highlights, and overall profile to make a lasting impression on your ideal clients.

Early bird price of £47 available until 19th August (£57 thereafter).

✨ Instagram with Calm Confidence: Build Your Brand & Attract Your Ideal Clients (In-person, 25th September):

Gain the skills and strategies to create a captivating Instagram presence that authentically reflects your brand and attracts your ideal clients. We'll cover: the Instagram essentials, profile optimisation, content basics, Insights & more.

✨ Reel Confidence: Master the Art of Reels Without the Overwhelm (In-person, 23rd October):

Conquer your fear of reels and learn how to create engaging and effective videos that resonate with your audience.

Investment for in-person workshops is £85 each. Both are held at Doubletree by Hilton Newbury North Hotel with bonus perks such as use of hotel amenities and discount on food & drink!

These workshops are your chance to learn, grow, and connect with other like-minded entrepreneurs in a supportive & relaxed environment.

Spaces are limited to ensure you receive focused attention.

If you're ready to ditch the overwhelm and finally start seeing results on Instagram, head to my booking page to grab your spot or drop me a message.

10/07/2024

Do you have any plans for Friday 19th July?

Why not join me and other local women in business at the MIB Newbury Networking Event at DoubleTree by Hilton Newbury North Hotel?

I’m super excited to be the guest speaker! I'll be talking about the steps to take to achieve success on Instagram. Whether you're new to the platform or looking to boost your presence, there should be something for you.

I'll be covering:

1️⃣ Optimising Your Instagram Profile
2️⃣ Content Creation
3️⃣ Boosting Engagement & Leveraging Insights

Come ready to learn, ask questions, and connect with fellow business women.

Spaces are limited and you need to book to secure your spot! I'll drop the link in comments 👇

09/07/2024

Tired of feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by Instagram? I have 6 ways to help you change that ✅

Let's transform Instagram from a source of stress into a powerful platform where your brand thrives without the overwhelm.

Whether you need help with content creation, strategy, or simply understanding the platform, I've got you covered.

✨ Tailored Management & Strategy - Custom plans starting from £350 per month
✨ One-to-One training & support - Conquer your Instagram challenges with personal sessions
✨ Instagram Audits - Gain valuable insights and actionable tips to improve your presence
✨ Growth Bundle - Comprehensive support to boost your engagement and reach

Ready to ditch the overwhelm and start seeing real results? DM me "SOFTLY" to book a free consultation and let's chat about how I can help you achieve your Instagram goals.

27/06/2024

Feeling a little unsure about Instagram?

Sometimes, all it takes is the right guidance to feel confident.

This wonderful feedback from a recent client reminds me why I love helping you master Instagram.

If you’re ready to simplify your social media strategy and see real results, I’m here to guide you.

One of the most effective ways to get started is with a Power Hour—a focused, one-off investment that delivers long-term benefits.

I have limited slots available for July, including a few VIP spots at the special price of £95. This includes a 90-minute call, a recording of our session, and a personalised 30-day content plan.

Interested? Just send me a DM with “VIP” to reserve your spot!

21/06/2024

Introducing the Softly Social logo!

A big shoutout and thank you to Jo from Grey Card Creative who designed this.

I love it! What do you think?

01/06/2024

Who's free for some open networking in Nebwury next Wednesday?! (5th June)

I'm delighted to be joining the expert panel at the Cappuccino Connections event!

This will be a wonderful event with the opportunity to connect, learn and grow.

It's a free event (but please buy a coffee to support City Arts Newbury!) and all women in business are welcome - you can be a solopreneur, self-employed or work for someone else. You do need to register: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-athena-network-member-showcase-open-networking-event-tickets-909746334777?aff=oddtdtcreator

It would be lovely to see you there!

Event Details:
📅 Date: Wednesday June 5th 2024
🕒 Time: 10 -12 noon
📍 Location: City Arts Newbury

19/05/2024

Tying to beat the Instagram algorithm?

We’re always hearing about quick hacks to 'beat' the algorithm, but these can only offer a temporary boost. For sustainable growth, you need a more thoughtful approach.

Here’s how you can work *with* the algorithm for long-term success:

1. Stay consistent: Post regularly but prioritise quality over quantity. Regular posting keeps your audience engaged and coming back for more.

2. Engage authentically: Respond to comments, engage with followers' posts, and don’t overlook the power of stories! Responding and interacting nurtures a sense of community and builds trust.

3. Analyse your content: Use Instagram Insights to understand what resonates with your audience. Adapt and refine based on real data, not just trends. Understanding what resonates allows you to tailor your content for maximum engagement, naturally boosting your reach.

Remember, the algorithm favours content that engages users meaningfully. Focus on building real connections rather than chasing fleeting trends for the best results.

Post for your AUDIENCE, not the algorithm!

👉 Want more tips on creating an engaging Instagram strategy without feeling overwhelmed? Send me a DM with the word 'VIP' to book your VIP power hour session.

13/05/2024

Exciting changes coming!

I've been reflecting on things recently and I’ve decided it’s time for a little refresh. My business name is about to change!

The name 'Beechwood Rivers' was inspired by streets I’ve lived on. It has served me well, but as my business has grown, so has the vision of what it stands for.

This wasn't a quick decision! A couple of weeks ago I asked for your opinion in a Stories poll and the name I've gone for was your favourite. It has really grown on me and after seeking opinions from others it was the one that resonated the most.

Why the change? It’s about better aligning with my core values and what this community stands for. I'm excited about this new chapter and can’t wait to reveal the new name soon!

👉 Stay tuned for the reveal and let me know what you think! Any guesses? Drop a comment below!

04/05/2024

Yep, there are days when I find it hard to come up with new content ideas or stick to my content schedule.

Why share this? Because it's normal to encounter challenges—even for professionals. These moments don't reflect our abilities; they remind us that flexibility is key.

👉 Swipe through to discover how acknowledging and adjusting to these realities can transform your approach to Instagram, relieving the pressure to always be perfect.

Struggling to keep up with your content?
DM me ‘INTRO’ for a free Introduction Call, to discuss tailoring a strategy that fits your needs.

30/04/2024

Want to go from overwhelmed to confident with Instagram? I have a special offer just for you!

Hi 👋 I'm Rebecca and I help all the brilliant introverted women entrepreneurs and business owners to shine on Instagram.

Most of us know Instagram's potential for growth, but it can be tough to stand out in a crowded space, especially if you're an introvert like me. But believe me, it is possible!

I can help you craft a compelling Instagram presence that attracts your ideal client, without the overwhelm.

Here's what you get with a VIP Power Hour:

✨ A 90-minute session where we'll either give your Instagram profile a makeover or deep dive into Reels creation and editing.
✨ A personalised 30-day content plan to drive your Instagram growth.
✨ A recording of our session.
✨ The confidence to navigate Instagram with ease.

All for just £119!

Spots are limited, so if you're ready to turn Instagram into a powerful marketing tool, grab yours asap! The link is in my profile or DM me the word "VIP."

If you're looking for a softer approach to social media, I'm here to help your business grow online in a way that feels comfortable for you.

26/04/2024

Ready to feel confident when it comes to reels?

Imagine going from fear to fun on Instagram, just like my lovely client who left this review.

Many of us hold back from sharing reels because it seems overwhelming, or we just don’t know where to start.

The good news? You don’t need to be a tech expert or a natural in front of the camera. All you need is the right support and some practice.

That’s where I come in. During a VIP power hour we’ll have a focused 90 minute call on reels creation & editing. You’ll also get a personalised 30 day content plan and a call recording.

DM me “VIP” or click the link in bio to book your session.

18/04/2024

This morning someone asked me if there’s a ‘best time’ to post on Instagram. It’s a common question I get, and here’s what I always say: The best time to post is whenever works best for *you*.

Every audience is unique, and so are your personal and business rhythms. Don’t stress about sticking to supposedly optimal times. Instead, focus on when *your* audience is most engaged and when *you* are most comfortable posting. That’s how you’ll create the most authentic and effective presence on Instagram.

Experiment, analyse your insights, and adjust as you go.

And if you’re feeling overwhelmed with Instagram and would like some personalised support and guidance, why not book a VIP Power Hour? The link’s in my bio or DM me the word ‘VIP’ and I’ll send you the details.

17/04/2024

Feeling overlooked? You're more noticed than you think!

It’s easy to feel like your efforts on Instagram go unnoticed when you don’t see likes or comments flooding in. But remember, visibility isn’t always loud. Many are watching, learning, and being influenced by your posts—even if you don't see immediate reactions.

✨ Why consistency matters:
Consistency on Instagram isn’t just about posting every day—it’s about being reliably present in your followers' feeds. Whether it’s sharing posts three times a week, a weekly reel, or daily stories, staying consistent helps you stay top of mind. Think of it as gently reminding your audience that you’re there, consistently providing value.

✨ Delivering real value:
Adding value is about more than just sharing tips. It's about solving problems and answering questions. For example:

👉Photographers - Share a quick tutorial on enhancing natural light in photos.
👉Personal Trainers: Post a video series on home exercises that require minimal equipment, focusing on form and technique to maximise effectiveness.
👉Graphic Designers - Share posts explaining the basics of typography, including how to choose fonts, pairing strategies, and the psychology of type choices in design.
👉Nutritionists - Post a series debunking common nutrition myths. Use evidence-based information to clarify misconceptions about diets, supplements, or food items.

These targeted pieces of content not only help solve common problems, they also enable your followers to apply these insights directly to their personal or professional lives.

✨ Your actions count:
Every post you create builds your brand's narrative and connects you deeper with your audience. Keep delivering content that educates, inspires, connects, and entertains. The engagement and recognition you deserve will follow.

✨ Let’s amplify your Instagram impact:
Ready to be SEEN & HEARD? DM me 'VIP' to secure your VIP Power Hour. You'll get a 90 minute deep dive call, a recording, and a 30 day Instagram content plan, all for £119.

19/03/2024

Tired of chasing vanity metrics?

Me too! Here's why I focus on building real connections instead:

💫 Large numbers don't guarantee a community. It's about engaged followers who resonate with your brand.

💫 Building a loyal community is way more rewarding and beneficial in the long term.

💫 Engagement rates tell the real story. They show how impactful your content is with your audience.

Let's forget the follower focus and nurture real connections. Trust me, it pays off.

How do YOU measure success on Instagram? Let me know in the comments 👇

13/03/2024

“Being an introvert means I can’t succeed on Instagram…”

We don’t need this type of misconception holding us back, so swipe through and let’s debunk this myth once and for all!

Has the thought that your introversion might be a barrier to Instagram success ever crossed your mind?

09/03/2024

Being self-employed can be lonely and isolating, having a network of supportive women can make all the difference.

I'm lucky to have met many wonderful women along my journey, they celebrate each other’s wins, knowing that there’s enough room for all of us to shine. Unfortunately I have come across a few with a different mindset, but thankfully they are outnumbered!

We all have different skills, strengths, and niches. Surely the emphasis should be on collaboration not competition?

I think this is a saying that we should all keep in mind: "Supporting another person’s success won't ever dampen your own."

Not everyone will be supportive, but that's okay. It makes the connections we do have, with those who do support us, even more meaningful.

Shout out to all the amazing women I've had the privilege to connect with during my years as a small business owner (even the ones who weren’t so supportive!). You are all inspiring.

07/03/2024

Books are brilliant and being a massive bookworm myself, I always tell my children this.

English was my favourite subject in school, and my teacher used to joke I'd read every book she put in front of the class (most of the time, I had!). But shoutout to her for always encouraging me with reading lists and recommendations.

For me, getting lost in a good book is about escapism. I love fiction, but I'll admit non-fiction and business books often feel more like a task than an escape.

Some of my favourites from childhood (and beyond) include:

✨ Puddle Lane books ️
✨ Whatever Next by Jill Murphy ‍
✨ The Worst Witch series by Jill Murphy
✨ Matilda by Roald Dahl
✨ Harry Potter (all of them, but The Goblet of Fire is probably my favourite)

Now, I tend to gravitate towards psychological thrillers and historical fiction, but I like a more lighthearted read occasionally too.

I love that I’m now getting to relive some of my childhood favourites with my children. My eldest has read a few Roald Dahl, The Worst Witch, and most of Harry Potter. The other week, my 5-year-old brought home "Whatever Next" from the school library.

Unlike me, my 10-year-old enjoys non-fiction and she soaks up the knowledge like a sponge. She constantly amazes me with her random facts about bees, animals, and the wonders of our planet.

Books open worlds both for us and our little ones. What are some books you've enjoyed lately, or what are some favorites you share with your children? Share them in the comments

06/03/2024

There was a time when the thought of showing my face on my feed filled me with dread.

It took me two years to finally share a photo of me!

So, can you grow a brand without being the face of it?

While you can grow to some extent, nothing beats the authentic connection and trust built when you step into the spotlight yourself.

Once I started showing myself often, I noticed a shift. Not just in engagement rates, but in the conversations and connections with my audience.

Why? Because:
👉 Genuine connections start with seeing the person behind the brand.
👉 Authenticity draws in your ideal clients more effectively than any viral trend.
👉 Vulnerability, while scary, is incredibly powerful in building trust.

So, to anyone feeling hesitant: your audience wants to see YOU. Your stories, your insights, your real moments. It might feel scary, but it's also where genuine growth happens.

I’ve been there, and I promise, it gets easier and so much more rewarding.

If the thought of being more visible brings you discomfort, take it as a sign of growth waiting to happen.

And if you're ready to start showing up authentically on Instagram but aren't sure where to start, I'm here to guide you. DM me to chat about how we can tailor a strategy that feels right for you and your brand.

01/03/2024

Have you come across the 'faceless marketing' trend yet?

There's a wave of faceless accounts claiming overnight success and massive income.

They all seem to have a secret formula, selling digital products and the dream of 'passive income.'

And here are some things that you may have heard these accounts saying:

🤔 "I made 100k in 12 weeks"
🤔 "I grew my account from 0-10k in two weeks "
🤔 "Sell digital products for easy passive income…"
🤔 "You don’t need to show your face or reveal your identity to succeed…"

So what’s my take?

👉 If you're hearing promises of instant wealth and follower growth, especially from accounts that don’t share real, personal insights, just stock videos, it’s time to question the sustainability and authenticity of such claims.

👉 The push for digital products and passive income can be enticing, but true value comes from originality and genuine connection with your audience, not repackaged content that lacks originality.

👉 Marketing without showing your face or investing in original content might offer short-term gains but misses out on building long-term trust and connection with your audience. Remember, people connect with people.

👉 Rapid growth and high income claims need a critical eye. Sustainable business growth on Instagram is nurtured through authenticity, original content, and genuine community engagement—elements often absent in the faceless marketing playbook.

These are just MY thoughts on faceless marketing… and while I'm sure some will disagree, I think it’s important to share our thoughts on these topics so that when you make up YOUR mind on marketing strategies, you’ve done so with a well-rounded thought process.

Do you have any thoughts on faceless marketing?

24/02/2024

What does a story about football have to do with Instagram engagement? 🤔

Well it taught me a valuable lesson about human connection.

Why does this matter?

👉 In a world full of curated feeds and polished posts, genuine stories stand out. Sharing something personal such as your love for a sport, a hobby, or a passion invites conversation and builds community.

Connecting with your audience on a deeper level helps to build trust. You’ll be more memorable and they’ll be more likely to recommend you.

If you’re ready to make your Instagram a place of genuine connection I’m here to guide you.

DM me “MINI” for a free mini audit of your account to get you started.

19/02/2024

Ever feel like you're getting pulled in a dozen directions with all the 'must-do' advice out there?

Yeah, I hear you.

The truth is, what works for one account may not work for another. It's all about understanding your unique audience and aligning your content with what matters to you and them.

Forget about chasing every trend. Your focus should be genuine engagement and authentic connections.

Concentrate on what makes your brand special and how you can share that with your community.

If you're feeling stuck or unsure where to start, I'm here to help. Send me a DM with the word 'MINI' to book a free mini Instagram audit.