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Social Media is More Than Memes and Selfies

Not so long ago, if you had told me that I’d be excited about a college student joining the Social Media Association for $5 a month, I would have raised an eyebrow.

Not because I’m not excited about students, quite the opposite. But because, for a long time, “social media” was something I thought was for teenagers, influencers, or marketing departments with bigger budgets than mine.

Now? I see it differently.

From “Extra” to Essential

When social media first arrived, my cohort treated it like a shiny toy, fun to play with, maybe useful in business, but certainly not the main event. It sat somewhere in the corner, lumped under “public relations” or “marketing,” often managed by the newest intern.

Fast forward to today, and social media is no longer the appetizer. It’s the main course.
It’s where news breaks before it hits TV, where movements start before they hit the streets, and where brands, personal and professional, either thrive or disappear.

And the best part? You don’t have to be a tech wizard or marketing executive to use it effectively.

My Wake-Up Call

I’ll admit I used to be a skeptic. I didn’t need to post my breakfast or dance on TikTok to prove I was relevant. I had my network, my clients, and my reputation.

But then I realized something, social media isn’t about dancing or oversharing. It’s about:

  • Staying informed in real time
  • Connecting with people you might never meet otherwise
  • Sharing what you know so people see your expertise and trust you
  • Building your personal and business brand

As the Membership Chair of the Social Media Association, I’ve seen firsthand how social media has shifted from “just an option” to “mission critical” for anyone who wants to be seen, heard, and remembered.

The New Networking

Once upon a time, networking meant going to a luncheon, exchanging business cards, and hoping someone remembered you the next day.

Now?

You can make a connection on LinkedIn at 10AM, share an article that makes someone think at 2PM and be speaking to a potential client (or collaborator) by dinner.

Social media isn’t replacing in-person connection, it’s amplifying it. The handshake is still powerful, but now the “digital nod” keeps the conversation going long after the meeting ends.

Gravitas in the Digital Age

Here’s something I’ve learned: if you want people to take you seriously, you have to show up.

And in 2025, showing up means being visible online, not just in a once-a-year website update, but in regular, thoughtful posts that tell the world:

“I know what I’m talking about.”
“I care about this subject.”
“I’m here, and I’m paying attention.”

Social media lets you control your narrative. It allows you to demonstrate your knowledge, values, and experience before anyone even shakes your hand.

Social Media for All Generations

Some people think social media is a young person’s game. They’re wrong.

I’ve met retirees using Instagram to share stories from their careers, nonprofit founders in their 70s raising awareness on Facebook, and yes, college students using LinkedIn to build a professional reputation before graduation.

The most inspiring part? We’re all learning from each other. That’s why I’m so thrilled that students are joining the Social Media Association. They bring fresh ideas, curiosity, and a comfort with the platforms that can inspire the rest of us to try something new.

And in return, we offer perspective, strategy, and the wisdom of having seen trends come and go. Together, we bridge the gap.

Why I’m All In

I’m not a social media professional. I don’t spend my days analyzing algorithms or scheduling content calendars. But I’ve come to appreciate that if you want to be part of the conversation in your field, your community, or the wider world, you have to have a seat at the table.

And in many ways, that table is now digital.

I also want to make one thing clear and that’s I’ve been at this a long time. I started using social media in 2001, back when I was on Delphi Forums launching a national audience for my health reform speaking business.

I know firsthand the power these platforms have to connect people and spread ideas. And while I don’t do it all myself anymore because I have someone posting for me daily and a team creating content, my presence is deliberate and strategic. This isn’t about killing time online, it’s about building relationships, credibility, and visibility that matter.

Whether you’re a student just starting out, a seasoned professional looking to stay relevant, or an Aging Icon that might think social media is “for other people,” I encourage you to explore the possibilities.

Because social media isn’t just a part of PR or marketing anymore. It’s where we learn, share, connect, and yes, make an impact.

And the best part? You can start today from wherever you are.

August 13, 2025 Posted by | Uncategorized | , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Business After Receiving My Lifetime Achievement Award

Winning a Lifetime Achievement Award is an incredible honor, a recognition of years of dedication, hard work, and impact. It’s a milestone, a celebration of everything that’s come before. But let’s be clear: it’s NOT the finish line.

Too often, people treat a Lifetime Achievement Award like a period at the end of a sentence, like it’s a signal to start winding down, stepping back, or resting on past success

But for many of us, especially those who consider themselves Aging Icons, that’s simply not how we operate. If anything, this kind of recognition serves as a launching pad for what’s next. It’s a moment to reflect, sure, but also to refocus, reenergize, and recommit to what matters most.

Life is to be lived at every stage. It may require some recalibration, maybe even a few accommodations, but slowing down doesn’t mean stopping. It means evolving. And if you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or a creative force, there is always more to do, more to build, and more to contribute.

So, if you’ve just received a Lifetime Achievement Award (or you’re on the path to one), here’s how to make sure it’s just the beginning of your next chapter.

Redefine What “Success” Looks Like Now

What drove you 20 years ago might not be what excites you today and that’s okay. Success evolves. Maybe now, it’s not about scaling a business but mentoring the next generation. Maybe it’s about taking your expertise into new spaces like consulting, writing, speaking. The key is to recognize that just because one phase of your career has been celebrated, it doesn’t mean there aren’t new opportunities to explore.

Take a moment to ask yourself: What excites me now? Your lifetime of experience gives you the freedom to pursue what truly lights you up, without the pressure of proving yourself.

Keep Learning and Stay Curious

One of the surest ways to keep yourself engaged is to stay curious. The world is changing fast, and there’s always something new to learn whether it’s technology, business trends, or even a completely different industry.

Sign up for a course. Attend industry events. Read books that challenge your thinking. Engage in conversations with younger professionals to see how they view the world. Staying sharp isn’t just about relevance, it’s about keeping your mind active and engaged in ways that energize you.

Pivot, Don’t Pause

Maybe you don’t have the same energy you did at 30. Maybe you don’t want to be grinding out 60-hour weeks anymore. That doesn’t mean you stop, it means you pivot.

Find ways to work smarter, not harder. This might mean shifting into advisory roles rather than operational ones, launching a passion project instead of running a full-scale business, or structuring your work around your lifestyle instead of the other way around.

Think about what you love doing the most, and double down on this. Let passion drive your next steps, ensuring that your work remains fulfilling and impactful.

Leverage Your Legacy for New Opportunities

A Lifetime Achievement Award is more than a trophy, it’s a brand asset. Use it to position yourself as a thought leader, expert, or mentor in your field. Leverage your recognition to book speaking engagements, secure consulting opportunities, or even launch an online course.

Your established credibility gives you a unique advantage in personal branding, making it easier to attract partnerships, media features, and business opportunities. Optimize your digital presence by sharing your insights on LinkedIn, writing articles, or hosting webinars that reinforce your expertise.

The Future is Yours to Shape

Winning a Lifetime Achievement Award is not an endpoint, it’s a gateway to new opportunities, growth, and purpose. The key is to redefine success on your terms, stay engaged in learning, and pivot strategically. Whether through mentorship, consulting, or passion projects, you have the power to keep making an impact.

Embracing the next phase of your life means evolving with intention. By staying curious, leveraging your experience, and finding smarter ways to work, you can create a fulfilling future that continues to inspire. If you’re an entrepreneur, executive, or thought leader, your journey doesn’t stop here, your greatest contributions may still be ahead.

With a renewed focus and a strategic approach, you can turn your Lifetime Achievement Award into a launchpad for even greater success. Keep building, keep learning, and most importantly, keep going.

I know that I plan to do just that.

April 3, 2025 Posted by | Uncategorized | , , , , | Leave a comment

Stay Informed and Inspired: Join the Aging Icons Email List

Aging is not about slowing down, it’s about thriving, overcoming challenges and continuing to make an impact. As an Aging Icon you are someone who refuses to let age define your potential, but staying informed about resources strategies and opportunities to maintain your enthusiasm and purpose can be overwhelming.

That’s why I created the Aging Icons email list, your go-to source for insights, updates and inspiration.

Why Join?

By signing up you’ll receive:

Valuable Information – Stay ahead with expert insights on navigating the complexities of aging with confidence and resilience.

Exclusive Updates – Be the first to know about my upcoming presentations, awards and conferences where I share knowledge to empower aging individuals.

New Books and Articles – Get notified about my latest publications, filled with actionable advice for continuing to live a purposeful and fulfilling life.

Community and Support – Connect with like-minded individuals who believe that aging is not a limitation but an opportunity to grow, contribute and thrive.

This isn’t just another newsletter, it’s a community. It’s a movement. It’s about rewriting the script on aging and proving that purpose and passion don’t have an expiration date.

Meet Caryn Isaacs

I’ve dedicated my career to helping seniors break barriers and redefine what aging looks like. As a trusting advocate, author, and speaker, I empower individuals to remain independent, engaged and successful despite the obstacles that society often places in their way.

My mission is to provide the tools and strategies that aging professionals, entrepreneurs, creatives and executives need to continue pursuing their goals and dreams, whether that means staying in business, seeking new career paths, or finding ways to enhance their quality of life.

When others say, “It’s time to slow down,” I say, “It’s time to thrive.”

If you’re ready to stay informed, inspired, and in control of your future sign up today and become part of the Aging Icons community.

Join my e-mail list now.

Together we can redefine aging, one success story at a time

March 16, 2025 Posted by | Uncategorized | , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

How Do You Like to Get Your Information?

We live in a world with so many options for sharing and receiving information, and preferences vary widely from person to person. To better understand what works best for you, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Below, I’ve outlined a few common options for communication, along with some pros and cons of each.

Email

  • Pros: Convenient for detailed information, easy to save and reference later.
  • Cons: Risk of being overlooked in a crowded inbox; not everyone checks email regularly.

Text Messages

  • Pros: Instant delivery and high open rates; great for quick updates.
  • Cons: Limited space for detail; can feel intrusive if overused.

Facebook

  • Pros: Casual and community-driven; great for reaching people in groups.
  • Cons: Posts can get buried quickly in the newsfeed; not everyone uses Facebook.

LinkedIn

  • Pros: Professional tone; ideal for business-related content and networking.
  • Cons: Engagement may depend on the user’s activity level; not as immediate as other platforms.

Videos in Emails

  • Pros: Engaging and visually appealing; ideal for storytelling or complex topics.
  • Cons: May not display properly on all devices; larger emails might be flagged as spam.

Links to YouTube or Other Platforms

  • Pros: Easy to share and access; allows for longer, more detailed videos.
  • Cons: Requires leaving the email or platform to view; potential for distraction by unrelated content.

Full Posts in Emails

  • Pros: No need to click elsewhere; great for readers who prefer everything in one place.
  • Cons: Longer emails may lose the reader’s attention; not ideal for mobile devices.

Links to Posts

  • Pros: Keeps emails short and focused; encourages engagement on the linked platform.
  • Cons: Requires an extra step to access the full content; not ideal for users with limited time or bandwidth.

Your Input Matters

Now it’s your turn. How do you prefer to receive information? Do you have a go-to format that works best for your busy schedule? Are there methods you find especially engaging, or ones that you avoid at all costs?

Your feedback will help ensure that I’m reaching you in a way that’s both effective and enjoyable. Feel free to share your preferences in the comments, or drop me a quick message (using your favorite style of communication!).

January 7, 2025 Posted by | Uncategorized | , , , , | Leave a comment

The Power of Testimonials, Recommendations, and Endorsements: Why They’re Essential for Success

In today’s connected world, testimonials, recommendations, and endorsements are essential. They’re not just for politicians seeking office or students applying to college, they’re valuable for anyone looking to build credibility, gain trust, and stand out. From LinkedIn to Google, recommendations shape how others perceive us, providing powerful social proof that can open doors and cement our reputation. 

Politicians rely on endorsements to demonstrate credibility and trustworthiness, often with influential figures backing their campaigns. Similarly, letters of recommendation have long been critical for college and job applications, offering a third-party perspective on our character, achievements, and potential. In the professional world, recommendations, especially those on social platforms like LinkedIn, offer this same validation and can be incredibly compelling.

Why Recommendations Matter on LinkedIn and Beyond

When someone takes the time to write a thoughtful recommendation, it speaks volumes. On LinkedIn, recommendations serve as tangible proof of our work ethic, skills, and impact, bringing our professional narrative to life. Unlike a resume, which lists facts and accomplishments, a recommendation provides context, adding depth to our profile and helping us stand out. 

Endorsements are particularly effective when they come from people with authority or direct experience. They give readers insight into why someone values your skills and attributes, reinforcing your brand in an authentic way. A recommendation, especially when it’s detailed, helps build a relationship between the endorser and the endorsed, showing the strength of the professional bond and validating each party.

How Recommendations Help You and the Endorser

Here’s the great thing about recommendations: they’re a win-win. When you recommend or endorse someone, you’re not only helping that person, but you’re also showcasing your own expertise, generosity, and network. A well-crafted recommendation reflects positively on the endorser by highlighting their judgment and understanding of quality work and character. This reciprocal value is why giving and receiving recommendations strengthens relationships and makes both people more memorable.

For example, imagine an author who just released a book and now seeks endorsements from readers, peers, and mentors. Each recommendation posted on social media, LinkedIn, or Google enhances the book’s visibility and credibility. These testimonials also add depth to the endorser’s own brand by showing their involvement in supporting meaningful work, making it clear they’re engaged, insightful, and collaborative.

Building Trust on Google and Social Media

In addition to LinkedIn, platforms like Google are vital for establishing trust and a positive reputation. Google reviews can significantly influence how potential clients perceive you or your business. High-quality recommendations and testimonials on Google create a trusted image, encouraging people to choose your services or products over others.

Likewise, reviews on Amazon or Goodreads are crucial for authors, as they drive readers’ trust and often help new readers discover their work. Recommendations here are just as influential as those on LinkedIn and provide an additional layer of credibility.

Take Action and Start Building Your Own Bank of Recommendations

To build your own testimonials, don’t hesitate to ask those who know your work well. Start with colleagues, clients, and mentors who can speak to your strengths in specific ways. And remember, it’s a two-way street, look for opportunities to offer thoughtful recommendations for those in your network. 

Don’t be shy and start gathering those recommendations today!

November 19, 2024 Posted by | Uncategorized | , , , , , | Leave a comment

What We Can Learn About Leveraging Influence and Visibility From the 2025 Presidential Election

When it comes to building your personal brand, strategic visibility matters.

And in today’s digital world, one of the best ways to grow your visibility is through LinkedIn.

After all, LinkedIn is the platform for professionals looking to expand their network, build credibility, and reach an audience that can support their goals.

I recently experienced this firsthand when my LinkedIn profile was updated with the expert guidance of Marc Halpert, a  LinkedIn guru who truly understands how to highlight unique strengths.

With additional support from my own community, including Adrian Miller and the extraordinary Adrian’s Network, I was able to refine my LinkedIn presence to reflect my mission authentically.

(If you’re unfamiliar, Adrian’s Network is a powerful community of business professionals dedicated to mutual support, growth, and relationship-building.)

In my work, helping aging icons live their best lives means helping them stay relevant, inspiring, and connected. Here’s how you can do it, too:

Why LinkedIn Matters for Aging Icons

As we grow and evolve in our professional lives, our stories, accomplishments, and even ambitions may shift. LinkedIn allows us to showcase these transitions and communicate who we are, what we stand for, and where we’re heading. For aging icons, whether they’re retired CEOs, public figures, or emerging authors, LinkedIn is the perfect platform to amplify their message, connect with a like-minded audience, and continue to inspire.

Updating your profile isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about defining your purpose, aligning it with your audience, and communicating your value. A refined LinkedIn profile can help you stand out in a sea of professionals, attracting opportunities and inspiring a new generation.

The Importance of Reviews and Endorsements

For those who’ve just written a book or launched a new venture, endorsements and reviews can be game changers. Think of them as the modern-day equivalent of a handshake, a warm nod from someone respected in your industry, vouching for your credibility and worth.

As the author of Aging Icon, I’m sharing a message that resonates with countless people who are looking to live with purpose and passion in their later years. Now, it’s time for me to spread the word!

I’m asking you for LinkedIn endorsements and book reviews so that potential readers will see the value of my book, and LinkedIn endorsements will reinforce my authority in my field. My LinkedIn profile can be found at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agingicon/

(The link to my book is  https://a.co/d/bfGEG3J)

If you’re ready to make your mark, I encourage you to reach out to Marc Halpert for expert LinkedIn guidance, as well as explore the supportive community at Adrian’s Networ

I’d love to connect with others, and I invite you to join me on LinkedIn and share your own stories to living life fully, no matter the age.




November 12, 2024 Posted by | Uncategorized | , , , , | Leave a comment