#OAP101 Using Social Media to grow your Personal Brand as an OAP

Today I would like to speak a little about using social media for your benefit, as a way to help you build, maintain and grow your brand as a media personality.

The first thing to ask yourself is which platforms should I be on?
To answer that, you need to be clear on
- what your interests are
- where your audience is

A sportscaster for example will definitely enjoy twitter because it offers a great opportunity to talk about games and players, give real-time news and analysis, and have that immediate connection with your audience.

Radio hosts do well on most platforms, and I daresay, Facebook and Twitter are a must.
Television hosts on the other hand should not neglect their Instagram as that is the best tool for them.

Now a brand in Nigeria or that wants to speak to Nigerians should not neglect the big three as I like to call them- Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
This is because Facebook is still one of the most popular platforms as it is easily accessible, and there is a big percentage of Nigerians on the other two as well.

Having clarified that, the next thing to think about is your UserName.
If you do not want to be easily found, by all means, use hard to identify or search for names. If you do want to use your social media for your brand though, ensure the name is a name you are known as, whether it is a Nickname or your Real Name.
Whether or not you use your real or a nickname, ensure you have your real name in the profile so that when people search for your name, your account will still pop up.

Your Profile should state what you want people to know about you clearly and simply.
I have checked quite a few celebrity profiles and there does not seem to be any agreement as to things like, number of lines or whether or not you should have a bio at all. What is clear is everyone keeps it simple and tells you who they are.
You can try something as short and direct as 'Official Page of Your Name', or tell us what you do like 'Radio and TV Host'.
See Steve Harvey's, Dotun's, and Mine.


Your content is of course the main thing as no matter how cute your description is, if there is no content on your page, you may have followers but no engagement.
How often should you post? The jury is out on that. What everyone does agree on however is that being consistent is the key. The quality of posts is also crucial so keep your pictures and captions classy and distinct.

In my next post, I will go into a bit more detail with examples, as regards content types.

In the meantime, if you have comments and questions, do leave them below, reach me via Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, or send me an Email.

O Come on! I'm with Rachel! Why did Peter go on The Bachelorette if he was NOT going to propose?

The more i watch 'The Bachelorette', the angrier i become.
Not at Rachel ( and i will tell you why i think a lot of people are mad at Rachel later), but at Peter.

Peter, o my....
From like the 2nd episode in, you were my guy. I was #TeamPeter.
Not only are you hot (Mr A please don't read this), but you are just like a great guy it seems. I mean, we can only know so much from a tv show but that's how you came across.
So i was #TeamPeter and i kept wanting you to get another solo date.

It was obvious to a lot of people that Rachel liked Bryan. Obvious. Not only did he get the first impression rose, but he also got so many solo dates, and one of the best ones (like when he got the watch).

I thought it was Bryan's show to lose, but that i wanted it to be you so badly.

Until you started saying you were not ready to propose.
For me, i was like, do you know what show this is?
It is called, 'The Bachelorette'.
A woman comes on the show and meets a lot of men and then picks one that she wants. He proposes (hopefully), and they ride off into the sunset.

You do know that right?
So why would you come on, keep saying you were not sure, but then stay on, and then act like you were the hurt one?

I know you were probably hurt. But Peter, Rachel was on the show to find a husband.
She said it from Day 1. She was clear and not in anyway ambigious. I mean, she had been on 'The Bachelor' so this was someone who knew what she wanted.
And this is why i think some people are mad at Rachel.

People are angry that a 32 year old woman, knows what she wants and goes for what she wants. Women are supposed to be irrational or emotional right? Not clinical? You guys want a romantic novel where the girl picks 'love'.
So why do we think it is not love because it did not hurt? Have we been conditioned to accept that the only time love is worth it is when it first makes us cry? Why can't it be as simple as someone who knows what she wants, chooses someone who knows what he wants, has been clear about it from Day 1, and did not make her cry?

Rachel Lindsay, you did good. Don't let them tell you otherwise!

#OAP101 OAPs are some of the best multi-taskers, Dotun says as he kicks off the OAP takeovers

You know him as DO 2 D TUN, super hype-man and radio host with Cool FM 96.9.

The multiple award winning personality has no doubt earned his place as one of the well known and sought after on air personalities in Nigeria and it is no surprise that he is the first Man to kick off the ‘OAP takeovers’ by The OAP 101 project.

‘OAP 101’ is a guide for established, fresh and aspiring on air personalities. Media personality and the content queen, Tosyn Bucknor began recording diary type podcasts titled ‘OAP 101’ back in 2016. From there, it took on a life of its own with a blog, social media, and physical courses to come.

Dotun’s take over kicked off with some simple words of advice- “while it wasn’t the most respected profession until now, our values tripled because we've made it a culture, a lifestyle, a force, a school to learn and be entertained all at the same time. I am proud to be an OAP and so you know, we are still one of the best multi-taskers”.

His next post gives us an insight into what drives him; “ I prefer to earn it. It makes me appreciate it more ▪They say you are lucky, they have no damn idea how you competed get here. Radio is a game. A very serious game. FOCUS”

For more of his and other takeovers to come, simply follow ‘theoap101’ on Instagram and Twitter’. You can also listen to the podcasts by Tosyn Bucknor via Soundcloud. Follow us on Tumblr

The take overs are by media personalities across various media platforms (radio, television, print, digital etc) and will run on Mondays and Wednesdays. Still to come are Kaylah Oniwo of Cool FM and Lamide Akintobi of Ebony Life TV.

#OAP101 Find out why 1 post a day brings followers your way!

Whether you like social media or not, chances are, as an on air personality, you will have to use it.

Whenever i train or consult for on air personalities and it comes to social media, the one tip i s.h.a.r.e is- POST AT LEAST ONE THING DAILY.

This is the simplest must-do if you want your social media popping because one of the reasons people follow or like posts is because of consistency. We want to know that when we come to your page, we see something new so give us something new daily.

When you first start with that one post a day, you can then increase your number of posts. I like to do 3 on facebook, instagram and google plus with a little more on twitter.

Don't forget to follow OAP 101 on instagram and twitter for more tips!

#MCM Which OBFW character would Illrymz date in real life? We have the scoop!

Morning all,

I am sitting here while i watch the weather trying to decide if it wants to be really sunny or cool.

It's Monday so it's time to stalk, sorry, check in, on some of my favourite people ever. Today i want Illrymz to sit down and answer some questions.

Ill (as i like to call him) is, according to Wikipedia, " a Nigerian television host, radio personality, writer, producer, Event MC, artiste and former model. He is the Creator of the sensational daily Instagram news show #SELFIENEWS and CEO of Contagious Collective, A creative media content company that has produced hit syndicated radio shows such as: Radio Outloud with Nokia & ILL, The JUMIA WHAT AM I? Radio Show, Nunu Super Kids, and 0809ja_Radio, To name a few. Popularly known as the #GQmc, Illie's Television Credits include; The Host of Nigerian Idol, Co-Host of StarGist, Soundcity, and Nigezie. 'In 2016 he became the host of the Coke Studio Radio Hour produced out of Los Angeles USA. 'Nigerian Idol"

Na wa o!

Only him?

Ill also plays 'Charles', which by the way was his acting debut, on 'Our Best Friend's Wedding, Read my review of the show here.

TOSYN BUCKNOR: It's Monday and i know there are a lot of people that dislike Mondays. Do you?

ILLRYMZ: I Don't dislike Mondays! I don't dislike any day I make money! Lol 

TB: Lol, i feel you!

I have just watched the most recent 'selfie news' show which is honestly just laugh out loud funny. When did you think of it and where do you see it going in years to come?

ILL:  I created #SelfieNews on holiday last year, because we live in the social media age and I had to be more active on social. But I don't want to post cars and watches and money like everyone else. I want my posts to stay true to my brand. I'm an entertainer so I want people to follow me and get entertained. It's been great so far and I'm looking at #SelfieNews becoming a mobile service and fully functional website for news content. 

TB:  In 'Our Best Friend's Wedding', your character starts going through his black book to find 'the one'. First off, do YOU feel any pressure to, like him, get married and secondly, which of the exes or best friend in the series would you fall for in real life?

ILL: Lol I'm in no rush to get married in real life. I've got a lot to achieve still, but who knows... anything can happen. Hmmm what ex or best friend from the show could I fall in love with in real life? Ahh that's hard cos they are my friends in real life. Tooo awkward 😂😂

TB: (this is where i throw in a 'hian' and roll my eyes). Okay fine, let's talk advice. Who has given you the best advice ever and what did they say?

ILL: The best advice i ever got was from Jesus! Asides that, uhm my Parents... 

My mum said, " believe in yourself you are destined for greatness" and my dad said "money isn't everything".  I didn't understand this advice when I was younger, but now it's a little clearer. 

TB: What's one thing people don't know about you?

ILL: One thing about me people don't realize is that I'm a super shy guy! It's hard to believe but it's the truth. A lot of people perceive my private nature for arrogance. They can't be further from the truth. 

TB: I think i can see that. I may suffer from the same issue. Lol. Anyways Ill, thanks a lot for taking time out to chat with us!

ILL: Thanks for the interview! Let me be your MCM every week lol promise I'm going to the gym 😂

(Follow @illrymz on twitter and instagram and look out for selfie news and 'our best friend's wedding')

Review: An 'Empire' of 'Lethal Weapon' television

If you stayed up to watch the Presidential Debate between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton, please do tell me who you thought won.

But I'm focusing on fiction even though non fiction is sometimes the best.

Last weekend I was able to catch the first episodes of Empire (returning for Season 3) and Lethal Weapon (season premiere).

So what did I think?

'Empire'

Jamal is so sexy... (Great way to start. Lol).

We find out who died from last season's cliffhanger, got a lot of drama (Jamal suffering from PTSD, new baby and Hakeem needs to find his ginger) and of course it ended with an exciting climax.

I'm trying not to give spoilers which is why I am being cryptic but overall, i thought the music was grown and sexy, the acting was really good and the season will progress really well.

(Hakeem stays a brat though. Bleh.)

'Lethal Weapon'

If you have seen the original movie, you may be one of those who hates reboots. But if you haven't seen it, then good news for you, you have nothing to compare it to.

'Lethal Weapon' tells the story of a crazy younger cop (Clayne Crawford) paired with an older more careful one (Damon Wayans). Crazy cop just lost his wife so really wants to die but can't kill himself so of course he chooses to be reckless on the job instead. Older cop on the other hand has a wife, two teenagers and a new baby so he's not trying to die anytime soon.

The mismatched pairing is a cliche (one created in part by the original movie by the same name) so 'Lethal Weapon' can't depend on that natural humour and has to stand out in a sea of really good cop shows like 'Blue Bloods' and 'Chicago PD'.

Will it last? I don't know. BUT! Whatever happens, bringing Clayne Crawford to a bigger audience is its biggest blessing. He was the star of the episode and I loooooove him.

Should you watch it?
Of course!
Lol.

#TBDaily x Bonang Matheba... On Staying focused and getting what you want!

For today's Monday Motivation, i wanted to s.h.a.r.e something Bonang Matheba, radio and television personality, plus amazing business woman, told me back in December when she came to Nigeria to co host 'The Future Awards 2015' with Darey.


We were at BLD in Lekki so it was more of a laid back drinks night out with a couple of other media personalities like Ariyike, Toke and Latasha Ngwube but i still had to ask her a quick interview-type question.

There are several sides to Bonang and i was interested in Bonang the successful mediaprenuer. For me, i wanted to know her tips for staying focused and getting what you want in life, what is in store for her in the future, and of course, you do not sit with Bonang and not get her must-do beauty essentials!

On How To Stay Focused and Get What You Want

Bonang keeps it simple with these three tips

- Don't listen to other people and their negativity. Listen to yourself

- Unlock your mind. It helps you to free yourself 

- Get over what people think about you.

On What Is Next For Her

Bonang is really passionate about conquering the international stage and having a family of her own.

On Her Top Three Beauty Essentials

"Foundation, Lashes long and gorgeous and Black liquid liner"

Her message for her fans in Lagos and indeed, Nigeria

"Thank you. The love has been incredibly overwhelming. Lagos is my favourite city on the continent"

#TBDaily x What I Am Loving at the Moment: Love you Pass, BMPro and more!

Hey friendlies,
Welcome to this edition of "What I Am Loving At The Moment".
Today i am loving some music, skincare and  beauty products and a tv show about little people!

SONG
While i have been bumping a lot of cool songs on the radio and  in the car, one song that has stood out for me is- "Love You Pass' from the 'Stories that Touch" album by Falz featuring Bez.

Falz has a nicely themed album and works with different artistes to achieve that. This is one of his tributes to love and the world of alternative Nigerian music so who else but Bez?

Dope hook so please check it out from the album available on itunes now!

SKINCARE
I found an Orisade flier when i went for Locitude's Loc Appreciation Day earlier this year and i had been meaning to get some of the products like their body butter and more. I finally got complimentary soap and body butter and i have to say the soap is amazing.
You know how you wash your face with mosturizing soaps and keep rinsing because your mind feels it is still soapy but it is just the mosturising effect?
That is how i feel about 'Orisade Avocado and Aloe Vera Soap'.

It also strips your face of the day's make up and dirt so more props for it. The body butter has that powerful shea butter smell so it is taking me some getting used to but it gives your skin a natural glow.
Orisade uses natural products for their skincare brand so more props for them.

MAKE UP
When i went for a make up trial recently with Banke Meshida Lawal of BMPro and while i waited, i browsed through some of their make up products.

After the trial, i asked for one of the lipsticks they used and powder and their lipstick is giving me life. It is the 'Matte  Velvet Lipstick' and is perfect for days you have to do your make up yourself but still want that pop!

You know me i am all about the pop!
I love the shade and how long it lasts.

TELEVISION SHOW
What do you get when you put a group of women together? Usually a lot of talk, some conflict, work and relationship ups and downs and more, and that is what Little Women LA brings in spades. Add to it that the cast of this show are largely, little people.

p.s, if you have been saying 'dwarfs' or 'midgets', you have been politically incorrect so please start saying 'little people'.

Back to my current favourite ladies on reality television!
These ladies are fun, feisty, and like the average woman, have their pow-wow days and their bleh moments, Add to that some health concerns and peculiarities and it makes for one hour of pure tv goodness!

If you don't watch it yet, please catch new episodes on Lifetime now!

#TBDaily x #TV My fav 'o come on' Wardrobe scenes

I was watching "Quantico" the other day when for the umpteenth time since Priyanka Chopra had been on the run, i asked the tv, "Why hasn't she cut her hair???"

I mean, watch any prison break or fugitive movie and first thing they do is discard their old clothes, dye or cut their hair, and sometimes maybe buy chewing gum. I have never understood that last one sha.

But this is Episode 3 deep into Quantico and home girl still has her hair full, un dyed and looking like a million bucks.

That got me thinking about how

- In "Jurassic World", Bryce Dallas Howard went through the entire movie IN HEELS. She shot, fought off dinosaurs and even walked IN mud in her heels.

I can't even get through a short stroll in Lagos without needing my flats.
Na wa o

- In Quantico and indeed every cop series, the detectives chase criminals, arrest and handcuff, sometimes get punched and yet, their hair is neatly done.
My hair is natural and even the headphones at work roughen it and i have to believe wind, punches and dirt didn't get into your hair?
Hian

- In Aladdin (yes i had to go there), Jasmine and Aladdin go on this magic carpet ride (which i have now been told was a metaphor for something else but let me not ruin YOUR childhood) but Jasmine comes back and you guessed it; from hair to headwrap to make up, clothes and shoes, it was not a whole new world.

I've spent quieter days at home with rumpled clothes and stains but Jasmine can go on a magic carpet ride and not come back dishevelled????

Lol.

What do you guys think?

#OAP101 How to Schedule and Create your Content

Hello lovelies! I have this week's edition of 'OAP 101 Podcast' ready and this week, have i got tips for you! Get tips on 'Scheduling and Creating Content' for your radio, television and other shows. I give you practical tips, lace it with examples and a lot of giggling. Lol. Please check it out and then let me know if you have questions or comments.