Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 by LincsConnect LincsBlogger. #LincsConnectDiscount

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 isn’t what we want but we can work together to turn it to our advantage. If you work with #LincsConnect we can get results together. As the country enters its second Covid-19 lockdown on Thursday 5 November 2020 we need a plan. Lincolnshire has been in this situation before and as a result we’re better prepared now. Do you have a plan for Lincolnshire lockdown V2.0?  Your first round of plans may have worked well and as a result you’re just needing to make some minor adjustments to keep trading. Perhaps the first lockdown was a disaster for you? As a result you’ve tweaked and manipulated your plan to make it work this time. Good for you, that’s exactly what is needed to keep going.

Free Advertising

We all like something that’s ‘free’ but we probably also know that nothing is truly free! Twitter – that’s free! Facebook and Instagram are also free too so where’s the catch? Simple! If you want ‘free’ advertising you have to invest your time. By investing your time your posts are more likely to be seen and acted upon. Would you like to know how to do it?

Social Media Interaction

I’ve said it many times before; the clue is in the name. ‘Social’ media should be exactly what it says in the title. Actually ‘talk’ to your followers.

There’s a TV advert for a room freshener implying that the character has gone ‘nose blind’.  In social media terms, if you post, post, post with no interaction your followers will see your posts but they won’t register in their mind.  Because of this you need to talk to your followers. Talking and interacting with your followers will help them to remember you as that nice person/organisation/business who takes an interest.  Talking to your followers doesn’t mean telling them how good you are and what you have to sell them.  Instead, you should show an interest to let them know you care. As a result they’ll ask you what you do and what you have to offer.  Regardless of your product or service you don’t need to do the ‘hard sell’.

 

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 by LincsConnect LincsBlogger. #LincsConnectDiscount

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 – Lincolnshire Discount Scheme

Would you be interested in joining a local discount/special offer scheme?  A scheme where ‘you’ set your discount level or special offers.  As a result it could lead to more people visiting your social media pages and/or shop and buying your products. Shopping in your physical store, website or virtual store could suddenly be more appealing.  What if the logo is readily downloadable from social media platforms to be stored on a mobile device ready for use when shopping? Matching the downloaded logo from a smart phone with the logo displayed in your window, on your social media page or website to claim a special offer sounds appealing.

What if the download is free? Surely that would make it even more appealing to the shopper. As a result they try your shop over others because they know there is something in it for them. Store cards sound great but often don’t live up to expectations! What if you offered a 5% discount to customers who present the logo? Perhaps you might prefer to have a special offer on selected items rather than all of your stock. It’ll work for service providers too of course.

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 – Feedback Please

Does this discount/offer idea sound good to you?  I really need your feedback (positive or negative) before I decide to take the idea forward so please do let me know your thoughts.  You can leave a comment at the bottom of this blog or email me at martin@lincsconnect.co.uk

Advert

#MandarinTherapies is here to help de-stress you in these uncertain times.

The Mandarin Therapies Covid19 safe treatments will resume after the lockdown

Gift voucher for a Christmas, Valentine or Mothers Day gift are available now.

Call 07966 174878 to book  

Help Me, Help You

To help me help you please add a link to this blog in your social media advertising.  If you’re talking about Christmas, Christmas gifts, Christmas offers and postage you can add a link to this blog to help explain that you’re trying to compete against ‘the big boys’ but at the same time you’ll be increasing readership of this blog.  With that achieved I’ll be able to reach out to more people to help advertise your business.  We really can help each other.

LincsConnect by LincsConnect LincsBlogger

Incase You Missed It

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 – Local Shopping

Below is a list of some local traders taking part in the #LincsArtCraftHour on Monday lunch times. Please take a look to see what they have to offer. After all, Christmas ‘is’ coming and I’m sure that you’ll agree that it’s good to support our local traders:

Twitter, Facebook & Etsy/Folksy          

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 Mel Langton Art

Twitter:      @MelLangtonArt Facebook:                       Mel Langton Art

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 Burton Ward Craft

Twitter: @BurtonWardCraft Facebook: BurtonAndWard      Etsy/Folksy          BurtonWardStudio

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 OriginalArtPrints Fiona Duncan

Twitter:      @origartprints Facebook:        fiduncart

Twitter: @elliestreasures Facebook:     elliestreasures     Etsy/Folksy:    elliestreasuresuk

Twitter    @chrisdobbinart Facebook:     watercolourportraits    Etsy/Folksy:   ChristineDobbinArt

Twitter: @Amanda_Schonhut Facebook:          aschonhutphotography

Twitter:  @jpbphotography Facebook:                 Light And Dreams Photography

Twitter: @Scarletimpress1 Facebook:                    Scarlet Impressions Art                      Etsy/Folksy Scarletimpressions

Twitter:    @EnglandCreate Etsy/Folksy:            Create-England

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 Shalini Austin

Twitter:         @ShaliniAustin   Facebook:      Shalini.Austin

Twitter:       @Blackbird1976 Etsy/Folksy:   HDArtandIllustration

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 KC Braids & Beads

Twitter:      @KcbraidsBeads Facebook:                       KC Braids And Beads   Etsy/Folksy:     KCBraidsandBeads.

Twitter: @Anitas_Cards_4U Etsy/Folksy:  HeCraftsAndSheCrafts

Twitter:         @TuluDraws    Facebook:                                Tulu Draws 

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 Jane Haigh

Twitter:    @JaneHaighArt Facebook:                         Jane Haigh Country Art

Lincolnshire Lockdown V2.0 2021 Visual Arts

Twitter:     @2021VisualArts Facebook:                            20-21 Visual Arts Centre

Twitter:    @MadeWithMud Facebook:                           Made With Mud Etsy/Folksy:               Made With Mud

Stay Safe

Look after yourselves and you neighbours.  I’ll be back with another blog very soon.

#LincsConnect putting the social back into social media

 

Don’t Rely On Algorithms

Don’t Rely On Algorithms

Don't rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections by LincsConnect Lincolnshire Blogger

Don’t rely On Algorithms

Don’t rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections. In short, a computer algorithm can be set to find a solution to a single or set of questions.  If you want any further information about algorithms I’m afraid I’m not the best person to ask!  However, I do know that social media platforms use algorithms to plot your interests and feed you the information it thinks you want to see. If that’s the case, it’s pretty obvious that you don’t rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections unless you use key Lincolnshire phrases regularly.

Here’s an example to (hopefully) make things clearer:  If your main interests are in makeup and beauty and you tweet and search for messages on that subject Twitter will feed you more. However, if your interests are in football and you tweet and search for messages on that subject, guess what….?  You won’t be seeing tweets on makeup and beauty but you will see tweets about football.  That’s algorithms for you!

That sounds great; you’re getting to see all the information you want (good or bad, true or false).  However, you may have been steered away from your primary goal which is talking to, or doing business with your Lincolnshire neighbours.

I’m not a football fan so I don’t see posts about football.  I do like to help and support all sorts of local businesses, charities and organisations though so I get to see a wide range of messages on social media. The algorithms have identified that I like Lincolnshire and connecting with Lincolnshire people to help and support them. However, if you’re mainly posting about football it’ll be pretty clear that you can’t rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections.  However, help is at hand…

Don’t Rely On Algorithms – Connecting Lincolnshire – Reset The Algorithms

From what I can gather, the more you engage with the information fed to you by the algorithms, the more you are likely to see related posts.  You can bypass the original algorithms though to reconnect with your Lincolnshire friends using these methods:

Lists

On twitter you have the option to Create lists. I have lots of Lincolnshire lists ranging from ‘Accountants’ through to ‘What’s On’ with all manner of Lincolnshire trades in multiple lists (depending on their expertise) as well as geographical location.  You can create a list and call it whatever you like and you can add or remove people to/from the lists at will. You can even make the lists private or open for everyone to see.  Looking at your lists you can quickly see the recent posts by the people you want to hear from.  It’s an excellent way to keep up to date with your favourite social media friends or influencers.

Hashtags

The beauty of the hashtag is that it is useable across various social media platforms.  If you type into your search bar ‘Lincolnshire’ you’ll see all of the posts that have used that hashtag.  However, that could be overwhelming as so many people use that tag.  I’ve seen many, many people adding the hashtag #ShopLocal to their posts but I have a strong suspicion that they haven’t searched the hashtag to see what’s on it!  If you want to sell something ‘locally’ to Miami, Adelaide or Ontario then by all means carry on using that hashtag.  However, if you really want to get the attention of your local Lincolnshire, Newark, Retford or Hull based contacts you need to be using the hashtag #LincsConnect.  Try searching it now to see who and what pops up.  I can guarantee that it’s going to be local.

#LincsConnect

My account has been through several guises before I settled on #LincsConnect.  Would you believe that I even created the hashtag #ShopLocal over 12 years ago? It quickly became evident that, although it was extremely popular, it was neither use nor ornament for the local Lincolnshire area.  After a few months I stopped using it and tried several other hashtags before settling on the one we all know now.

Don’t Rely on Algorithms – Connections In Lincolnshire

Searching the hashtag #LincsConnect will instantly show you who has been posting locally.  The easiest way to connect with people is to get into polite conversations so why not give it a go now? The more conversations you have with local people on #LincsConnect the more the algorithms are likely to pick up what you want to see and feed you more relevant information.

Don't rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections by LincsConnect Lincolnshire Blogger

Don’t Rely On Algorithms – What Else?

The #LincsConnect hashtag is an ideal way to search and connect locally. There are also some other hashtags that you may be familiar with that will be more specific to you:

Don't rely on Algorithms for Lincolnshire connections by LincsConnect Lincolnshire Blogger

If you’re looking for local traders to support or are a local trader yourself with something to sell or offer for Christmas you might want to search the #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag or add it to your posts for more people to see. I’ve had this hashtag trending on Twitter, Google, Duck Duck and other search engines

 

Don't rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections by LincsConnect Lincolnshire Blogger

No introductions needed! The hashtag is plain and simple so use it to advertise your gift ideas and services.  If you’re shopping for Valentines ideas simply type #LincsConnectValentines into your social media platform search bar to see who and what is there. I’ve also had this hashtag trending on Twitter, Google, Duck Duck and other search engines.  My hard work pays off for you!


Don't rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections by LincsConnect Lincolnshire Blogger

Many people use the #ShopLocal hashtag thinking that they are encouraging people to shop in their area.  However, in reality, the #ShopLocal hashtag is far from local.  I invented the hashtag around 12 years ago but scrapped it not long after when I realised it was being used globally.  It was literally ‘too successful’!  The hashtag to use on your local Lincolnshire tweets is now #ShopLincs as it truly is ‘local’ to you.  Add it to your posts to show you’re a Lincolnshire seller and search the hashtag to find locals in your area who have something to sell.

Don't rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections by LincsConnect Lincolnshire Blogger

I’m sure this doesn’t need any explanation?  If you’re looking for jobs or are advertising jobs the #LincsConnectJobs hashtag will be very useful to you. The #LincsConnectJobs Hour is on Mondays from 10.00am.

Don't rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections by LincsConnect Lincolnshire Blogger

Two hashtags! Adding a hashtag to a post sends your message to the relevant section in a massive global database.  If you add two hashtags your message will be sent to both locations in the database. Using a specific ‘hour’ hashtag is extremely useful and can help you reach people with the same or similar interests as you. Have a look at #LincsArtCraftHour

Don’t Rely On Algorithms – Get The Picture?

In summary, the algorithms can steer you away from the people you really want to talk to so don’t rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections! Using the hashtag #LincsConnect and making your own lists can bring you back to the people you want to connect with.  Adding a picture or video to your message will help you to be seen but it will also allow you to put a lot of information into a poster while making your initial message short and to the point.

New Lincolnshire #LincsConnect Hours

Would you be interested in joining a new themed #LincsConnect Hour to help you connect with like minded people as well as new customers?  Some of my plans include other Hours. What would you think of a #WhatsOnLincs Hour each week?

I have lots of new plans for the new website but can’t run everything at the same time.  With that in mind, would you like to take on one of the hours?  It’ll help you connect with lots more people while at the same time encouraging people to use and search the #LincsConnect hashtag to expand our readership and support network.

Lincs To Useful Blogs

I hope you find this blog of mine interesting. Simply click on the blue link or picture below to go straight to the blog:

Help Me Help You in Lincolnshire

Help me help you in Lincolnshire by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire Blogger LincsBlogger

Free Advertising In Lincolnshire

Advert 

Don't rely on algorithms for Lincolnshire connections by LincsConnect Lincolnshire Blogger. Mandarin Therapies bespoke mobile complementary therapies in Lincolnshire

#MandarinTherapies provides Covid Safe bespoke mobile complementary therapies sessions from the comfort of your own home in and around Lincolnshire. Call 07966 174878 to book your appointment today. #ShopLincs

Local Shopping

During the recent #LincsArtCraftHour sessions we have seen quite a few artists and crafters joining in and showing their gift ideas.  Below is a list of some of them so please take a look to see what they have to offer. After all, Christmas ‘is’ coming and I’m sure that you’ll agree that it’s good to support our local traders:

Twitter                                        Facebook                                        Etsy/Folksy                                      Website

@MelLangtonArt                        Mel Langton Art

@BurtonWard9                          Burton&Ward                                     Burton Ward

@origartprints                            fiduncart artist 

@elliestreasures                       elliestreasures                                     Ellies Treasures UK

@chrisdobbinart                       watercolourportraits

@Amanda_schonhut               Amanda Schonhut Photography

@jpbphotography                    Light And Dreams Photography 

@Scarletimpress1                   Scarlet Impressions Art                        Scarlet Impressions

@EnglandCreate                                                                                  Create-England

@ShaliniAustin                        Shalini.Austin

@Blackbird1976                                                                                   HDArtIllustration

@KcbraidsBeads                     KC Braids & Beads                              KC Braids & Beads

@Anitas_Cards_4U

`                                                TuLuDraws

@HeyBeretDesigns                                                                             Hey Beret Designs

@JaneHaighArt                     Jane Haigh Art

@2021VisualArts                   20-21 Visual Arts Centre

@MadeWithMud                    Made With Mud                                    Made With Mud

Advertising

Would you like to advertise on the #LincsConnect blogs? You could be reaching a wider Lincolnshire audience if you do so please get in touch if you’re interested. You’ll be able to speak to me on 07966 174878.  Likewise, if you have a blog that you would like linking here please get in touch.

Stay Safe

Covid 19 is still around and threatening to disrupt our lifestyle once again so please follow the rules.  Wear a face covering that covers your nose and mouth, keep a safe distance from other people and keep washing your hands.  Don’t forget to clean your trolly and sanitise your hands when supermarket shopping and keep your distance wherever possible.  It could save your life!

LincsConnect Lincs Connect Lincolnshire Blogger

 

LincsConnect Lincs Connect Lincolnshire Blogger

                Your very own Lincolnshire Blogger – Copied but never beaten

 

 

Christmas Is Coming To Lincolnshire

Christmas Is Coming To Lincolnshire

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire. Use LincsConnectChristmas by LincsConnect the LincsBlogger

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire – Three Months And Counting Down…

As I write this blog (25 September 2020) it’s exactly three months until Christmas.  Yes, I’ve said it again …. Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire and businesses need to be ready for it.  I’ve been talking about it for a few weeks and now the BBC have finally caught up with me. Dare I say, if you haven’t started gearing up for Christmas you’re already late to the party!  The major shops are gearing up for Christmas NOW with predicted record online sales. To those of you who groaned when I mentioned Christmas I sincerely hope you manage to catch up with the traders who are already planning. The big spending retailers ‘will’ take your market from under you so isn’t it time to get your advertising sorted?

Don’t forget, Christmas ‘is’ coming to Lincolnshire so make sure you’re prepared.

#LincsArtCraftHour every Monday at 12.00pm by LincsConnect the LincsBlogger

Click on this picture to find out what you’ve been missing on Twitter

 

Time To Catch Up

You may already know about the Lincolnshire based #LincsArtCraftHour and #LincsConnectChristmas hashtags on twitter but did you know that the hashtags also work on Facebook? Try it today because it’s free and local. Just type in #LincsConnectChristmas to your Facebook search bar to see what and who are there. FREE and it’s LOCAL sounds good so isn’t it time you engaged with the hashtags?

Search for the hashtags on Google, you’ll find that they’ve been ‘trending’ – now ‘that’ really is impressive! Follow the links below to go to the relevant pages for the Lincolnshire people who’ve already started planning and producing fabulous creations for Christmas.  The blue links under their logos will take you straight to the relevant pages to make life easier for you too.

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire So Join The List

To have your name added to this list just join in the Twitter hour on Monday lunchtime to qualify. It doesn’t matter if the day or time doesn’t fit in with your schedule because the hashtags are always there and ready for you. Shouldn’t you try it when you have a moment? Additionally, if you’d like to have a feature here and a link to your website please talk to me about advertising. The rest is FREE.

Remember, the #ShopLocal hashtag doesn’t work as a medium to get local customers because it’s used so widely around the world. Trust me, ‘I’ invented it!  As a result I went on to invented #LincsConnect and can assure you that this hashtag ‘does’ work. After all, it’s truly local to Lincolnshire and our neighbours.  You can use and search the #LincsConnect hashtag on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram to find your truly local traders so why not give it a try today?

Christmas ‘is’ coming to Lincolnshire so shouldn’t you be a part of it?

#LincsConnect is here for you 24/7/365.

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire. Follow Mel Langton Artist for gift ideas

Twitter:      @MelLangtonArt Facebook:                       Mel Langton Art

Twitter: @BurtonWardCraft Facebook: BurtonAndWard      Etsy/Folksy          BurtonWardStudio

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire. Follow Fiona Duncan for Original art gifts

Twitter:      @origartprints Facebook:        fiduncart

Twitter: @elliestreasures Facebook:     elliestreasures     Etsy/Folksy:    elliestreasuresuk

Twitter    @chrisdobbinart Facebook:     watercolourportraits    Etsy/Folksy:   ChristineDobbinArt

Twitter: @Amanda_Schonhut Facebook:          aschonhutphotography

Twitter:  @jpbphotography Facebook:                 Light And Dreams Photography

Twitter: @Scarletimpress1 Facebook:                    Scarlet Impressions Art                      Etsy/Folksy Scarletimpressions

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire and Create England has handmade gifts for you

Twitter:    @EnglandCreate Etsy/Folksy:            Create-England

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire so follow Shalini Austin of Stamford for gift ideas

Twitter:         @ShaliniAustin   Facebook:      Shalini.Austin

Twitter:       @Blackbird1976 Etsy/Folksy:   HDArtandIllustration

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire and KC Braids & Beads have beaded gifts for you

Twitter:      @KcbraidsBeads Facebook:                       KC Braids And Beads   Etsy/Folksy:     KCBraidsandBeads.

Twitter: @Anitas_Cards_4U Etsy/Folksy:  HeCraftsAndSheCrafts

Twitter:         @TuluDraws    Facebook:                                Tulu Draws 

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire. Contact Jane Haigh Art for art commissions

Twitter:    @JaneHaighArt Facebook:                         Jane Haigh Country Art

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire. 2021 visual arts centre have a selection of locally produced gifts

Twitter:     @2021VisualArts Facebook:                            20-21 Visual Arts Centre

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire so look for Made With Mud on Instagram for gift ideas

Twitter:    @MadeWithMud Facebook:                           Made With Mud Etsy/Folksy:               Made With Mud

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire so follow Fiona Hodges for gift ideas

 

 

 

Twitter:
@FionaHodgesArt
Etsy:
Fiona Hodges Art 

Advert – Because Christmas Is Coming To Lincolnshire

Christmas is coming to Lincolnshire so contact Mandarin Therapies for bespoke gift vouchers

Christmas is coming so now is the time to order your Lincolnshire Christmas Gift Voucher for that extra special gift. A luxurious Mandarin Therapies bespoke massage from the comfort of your own home. What better way to let someone know how much you care? Call now to book your voucher 07966 174878. Click on the picture to start the video

Lincs To Past Blogs

Help Me, Help You

Click the link or picture to go to the blog

 

 

 

 

 

What are your thoughts on holding more LincsConnect dedicated Twitter hours? Try following the link above to read some of my ideas and perhaps come up with some of your own.  The more people interact with these hashtags, the more we will be able to help each other.  Give it a try.

If you’re a Lincolnshire blogger and would like to have a link to your blog on here?  I’ll be more than happy to hear from you.

Download The Covid-19 App

The NHS Covid-19 App by LincsConnect the LincsBlogger

Get the Covid-19 App NOW. If you haven’t got it already, click on this picture to go straight to the NHS website that will help you produce the required posters and direct you to the .Gov link to produce your own QR code. It’s easy – even I can do it!

Create A Coronavirus QR Code For Your Venue

Coronavirus QR creator by LincsConnect the LincsBlogger

Click on this picture to go straight to the relevant .Gov website page 

 

If you are a Lincolnshire business, charity or organisation that has a venue or multiple venues you need to generate a QR Code for visitors to scan using the new Covid-19 App.  The QR code will be sent to your email address for you to print and display.

Mobile businesses can still generate a QR code with your home or office address as the location. On arrival ask your client(s) to scan your QR code.  The App will scan distances between smartphones and will send an alert to the person or people you have been in contact with if there is a risk of infection.  It’s pure voluntary and does rely on people having the App on a smartphone but, as the saying goes, ‘every little helps’.  Obviously it isn’t a substitute for keeping a 2m safe distance, washing your hands or wearing a suitable face covering over your mouth and nose but it is another tool to be utilised in the fight against this invisible virus.

Stay Safe

Be good to yourself and to others.  Keep your distance, keep washing your hands and keep a mask that covers both your nose and mouth with you and wear it as instructed.

You can find Lincs Connect on twitter @LincsConnect or on Facebook Lincs Connect

#LincsConnectChristmas – Looking Forward To A Bright Lincolnshire Christmas

#LincsConnectChristmas – Looking Forward To A Bright Lincolnshire Christmas

#EatOutToHelpOut Ends But…

The #EatOutToHelpOut scheme officially comes to an end on Bank Holiday Monday 31 August and I sincerely hope it has been a great boost to our local businesses and economies.  Not all of us have been able to take advantage of course as we’ve experienced some serious income deficits during the lockdown period.  However, ‘every little helps’ so let’s hope that the Lincolnshire restaurateurs have been able to recoup enough income for them to feel confident to spend more of their money locally.

Recession?

We’ve heard the stories about the recession and possible price rises over the coming months but there are also stories about ‘green shoots’ in the economy and the resilience of the British people to get on with their businesses to make money and pull the economy forward.  There’s much speculation with stories of ‘doom and gloom’ but I think it’s important to remember that many of the stories are literally just ‘stories’ written by journalists (trained or untrained) who may have an agenda unbeknown to us.  With that in mind, my cup is definitely half full.  Focusing on the bright side and being determined to make business work is what I do.  I truly believe that we (that’s you and I) are capable of making our businesses successful regardless of the circumstances surrounding us.  Do we need help?  Do we need to collaborate? Do we need to focus on the good things?  Absolutely!  I’m prepared to accept help and advice all day long and I believe it’s one of the keys to success.  Knowing when you’re out of your depth and needing help is crucial as is knowing when to employ an expert to do a job properly.  When we work together we can often achieve much more so let’s Keep working and talking to each other.

#LincsConnectChristmas 

Use the hashtag to promote your business, charity gift idea or event this Christmas

After a pretty dreadful summer I believe we need to look forward to a bright Lincolnshire Christmas.  We don’t know what the future will bring with Covid-19 but we do know that Christmas is coming! Whether you like it or not, celebrate it or not, or even believe in it or not, the fact remains that it will be here on 25 December and we need to be prepared for it.  We may not be out partying as we have in previous years but we are resilient enough and creative enough to make it a good celebration.

#LincsConnectChristmas starts on 7 September to coincide with the new #LincsArtCraftHour.  Combining the two will give us the opportunity to see what our local talented and creative people have to offer.  We’ll have the opportunity to shop early and safely by avoiding the usual Christmas rush because, well, let’s face it, we really don’t know yet if there will be movement and shopping restrictions in place to avoid another Covid-19 wave of destruction.

A Christmas Hamper

In previous years we’ve had a virtual Christmas hamper where we’ve been able to add items of our own or recommend items from other traders.  The idea seemed to work well so I think it’ll be a good idea to do it again.

It’s time to start filling the Christmas Hamper…

 

The hashtag works on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram so let’s start thinking about filling it up with lots of local goodies.  Perhaps an example here might be useful.  How about these messages:

“I think the #LincsConnectChristmas hamper needs some speciality chocolates.  I highly recommend @BonBonLincoln who produce exquisite designer chocolates”

“No #LincsConnectChristmas hamper will be complete without some bespoke Christmas cards by @CardsOfGrimsby”

Adding a picture with each message will soon get the attention of local shoppers and will make the #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag the place to look for local independent Christmas shopping. With your help we can get this hashtag noticed and talked about around Lincolnshire and beyond to turn it into the ‘shop window’ for everyone to see.

A Christmas Meal

With no #EatOutToHelpOut scheme in place hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars will want to advertise their special meals and party events so the #LincsConnectChristmas hashtag is going to be ‘the’ place for them to advertise and I’m sure they’ll appreciate our support.

Let’s Work Together

I’m sure we can make Christmas a huge success but I do think that we will have to work together to achieve it.  Am I confident? Absolutely!

Put It In Your Diary

The #LincsConnectChristmas and #LincsArtCraftHour both start on Monday 7 September at noon.  Use the hashtags, search the hashtags and tell your friends about the hashtags.  They’re here for ‘you’. 

Advert

Mandarin Therapies & Mandarin Mothers provide bespoke mobile complementary therapies in the comfort of your own home, hotel or nursing home across the whole of Lincolnshire and beyond. Gift vouchers are available for that special person too.

Previous Blogs

To find out more about the #LincsArtCraftHour follow this link to the previous blog:

#LincsArtCraftHour For Lincolnshire, Newark, Retford And Hull 

Community

A message from Supt Paul Timmins of Lincolnshire Police following some sad and tragic deaths on Lincolnshire roads recently:

Click on this picture to open the video in Twitter 

Click on this picture to open the video on Facebook

We see far too many road deaths in Lincolnshire so please always ‘be aware’ and don’t become a statistic.  We love you just the way you are…. ‘alive’!

Domestic Abuse

Domestic abuse doesn’t have age limits. If you know someone who is suffering call the police today.  You’ll find some useful numbers here but if there is an immediate threat of harm call 999.

 

 

A Helpful App

Visit your App Store to download this free App to your device

Let’s pretend you’re out walking or have gone for a drive when you come across an accident.  You dial 999 to contact the emergency services for help but then you don’t know exactly where you are.  You know you’re in the middle of a field or on a country road but you couldn’t direct the emergency services to the incident.  I imagine you might feel completely helpless!

I saw a post on Twitter asking the public to download the App What3Words so obviously I did.  I didn’t expect to ever have to use it but thought it would be a good ‘insurance policy’ should the unexpected ever happen.  I have actually used it though.  I was able to give the three words that were displayed on my iPhone screen to the control room who directed the fire service to the field fire that I had discovered on my way home last winter.  That’s it!  It really is that easy.  All you have to do is open the App and you’re immediately given 3 unique words that identify your exact location.

When opening the App you’re given the option to share the 3 words via social media or email or send it directly to one of your contacts so it’s a great way to pass on your location to friends if you are meeting them in town.  Typing the three words into the search bar your friends are able to navigate directly to you using the App so as well as being the all important navigation tool in emergencies it’s also a brilliant tool for finding your friends.

Louth Museum

Perhaps you could try out your new What3Words App with your friends.  If you’re on your travels why not pop in to Louth Museum?  It’s open to the public again and there is no need to book.  The museum is over two floors (stair lift available for those who may need it) and you’ll be respectfully requested to wait outside if the museum is full when you arrive.  Covid-19 regulations are in place of course so don’t forget your mask.  I’ve had a look at the website www.louthmuseum.org.uk and discovered a virtual tour as well as Ruth’s Blog page.  I thought you might find this interesting; It’s a factual account of the Lincolnshire floods in Louth on 29 May 1920.  Imagine seeing a 2m wall of water heading into town…

Click on the picture to read the blog

 

Just imagine how useful What3Words would have been in this situation if it had been available then.  Technology has certainly moved on at a remarkable pace!

Stay Safe

That’s the blog done for now but if you have something that you would like me to include or would like to advertise please get in touch. Have a lovely Bank Holiday everyone.  Look after yourself and look out for your neighbours.

LincsArtCraftHour

LincsArtCraftHour

The LincsArtCraftHour Is Here:

The #LincsArtCraftHour by LincsConnect the Linc onshore blogger LincsBlogger

7 September 2020 – Was A Very Important Date

The LincsArtCraftHour is here! Monday 7 September 2020 was a very important date because it was the first LincsArtCraftHour and it’s here for all Lincolnshire artists and crafters of all genres. All are invited to post promotional messages and network using ‘two’ hashtags.

LincsArtCraftHour 

The LincsArtCraftHour is on Twitter from 12.00pm – 1.00pm every Monday lunchtime from 7 September 2020.

The idea behind it is to highlight the talent that we have in the County and to allow you to view what’s on offer.  You’ll find everything from cards to jewellery and paintings to sculptures with everything ‘arty’ in between. This weekly hour will give you the opportunity to see what’s on offer and even follow links to local online shopping.

Those posting will be able to include links to their Facebook pages, Twitter accounts, websites and online shops while at the same time showing off their huge talents.  ‘Christmas’ is coming (as it does every year) but don’t just see this as a virtual shop window for your Christmas shopping.  A gift for yourself, a ‘thank you’ card, a birthday gift or even a Mothers Day gift for next year are all possibilities.

You’ll also find some info on the Lincs Connect Facebook page too so please have a look to see what you think. I’ll also be interested to hear if you have any other ideas of course.

LincsArtCraftHour by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

LincsArtCraftHour – How It Works

If you’re posting messages on the #LincsArtCraftHour slot follow these simple steps:

Be sure to have your tweets ready to post (in real time or scheduled) by 12.00pm each Monday

Add a picture (or two) to show what you are advertising

Include a link to your website, Facebook, Instagram or online shop for people to follow

Use the two hashtags #LincsConnect and #LincsArtCraftHour in your tweet

Search the #LincsArtCraftHour hashtag to retweet and support others and to do your own free networking either live on the day or later in the week.  You can search the hashtag at any time 24/7.

Don’t ‘dump’ a load of tweets on the hashtag in the first couple of minutes (even if they are scheduled tweets) as it won’t look good on you.  Make sure your tweets are spread out over the hour.

How To Search The Hashtag

Searching the hashtag may be easier than you think.  Simply go to your search bar, type in #LincsArtCraftHour, click search (or enter – depending on what device you are using) then go to ‘Latest’.  That’s it! It really is that easy so make sure that we make the hour a success by supporting each other.  To make life even easier, each time you see the hashtag highlighted in blue here, that link will take you straight to the hashtag.

Finally, don’t forget to let your contacts know too.  Obviously the more people we have using, searching and talking about the #LincsArtCraftHour the more likely you are to increase your following and make more sales.

LincsArtCraftHour – Old Maps

The Lincoln Map Lady LincsArtCraftHour map painting by Fiona Duncan by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Click on the picture to follow Fiona on Twitter or click on this link to find her on Facebook: @fidunkart

I know I’ve posted this before but it’s worth another mention.  I think these painted old maps are an excellent idea.  If there was ever a way to bring a map to life, this is it!  Why not give Fiona a follow on Twitter or Facebook to see what other delights she has in her portfolio?

Advertisement

#LincsArtCraftHour with Mandarin Therapies by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Mandarin Therapies provides ‘the’ stress buster you’ve been looking for. Bespoke complementary therapies from the comfort of your own home with full Covid-19 safety certification. Gift vouchers available. Call 07966 174878 to book your appointment. Click the start button to watch the video.

LincsArtCraftHour – Christmas Is Coming…

Like it or not, love it or hate it, celebrate it or ignore it… It’s still coming and we need to start preparing for it

Many artists and local traders are still suffering with lost sales since March 2020 (Covid) so if you are going to recoup anything from that shocking year ‘now’ is the time to start planning it.

NOW is the time to plan your advertising for Christmas.  If you don’t, someone else will.  If you want to salvage some of your lost selling opportunities, NOW is the time to do it.

Charity

Age UK Lindsey on the #LincsArtCraftHour blog by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Visit the Louth Age UK website for more information about their charity shop. Your safety is in mind and fundraising for those in need is at heart. Click on the logo for details

LincsArtCraftHour, Louth Age UK Shop by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Are you a ‘vintage’ fan? If you are I think you’ll like this room in the Louth Age UK Shop. It’s your chance to grab a bargain while supporting a local charity at the same time

YMCA Lincoln advert on the #LincsArtCraftHour blog by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Click on the YMCA logo to find out how they serve our community and discover why they need our financial support

LincsArtCraftHour YMCA Lincoln furniture and Brik-a-brac shop by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

YMCA Pop Up furniture and Brik-a-brac shop, The showroom, Tritton Rd, Lincoln.  The next dates are 26-29 Aug from 10.00am to 3.00pm.  Click on the picture to find them on Twitter 

Advert

Mandarin Mothers and Mandarin Therapies advert on the LincsArtCraftHour by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBlogger

Mandarin Therapies & Mandarin Mothers provide a bespoke mobile service throughout the whole of Lincolnshire and beyond. Call 07966 174878 to book your Covid-19 safe appointment or click on the picture to go to the Mandarin Therapies Facebook page for more info. 

 

LincsArtCraftHour - Mel Langton Art by LincsConnect the Lincolnshire blogger LincsBloggerMel had a solo art exhibition in Lincoln starting on 7 Sep at the Gallery At St Martin’s, Lincoln with lots of new original artwork. Entry was FREE. The art was on sale of course and the gallery is happy to take card or cash sales. If you would like to know what Mel has planned next click on the picture to find the link for more information. 

Additional Blogs By LincsConnect:

 

That’s about all for now but please don’t forget to make a note in your diary for the #LincsArtCraftHour on Mondays from 12.00pm.  Tell your friends too

Stay safe everyone

Help Me Help You In Lincolnshire

Help Me Help You In Lincolnshire

Help me help you in Lincolnshire

LincsConnect has been busy on your behalf and things are set to get even busier. Click on the picture to see what’s been happening… Help me help you in Lincolnshire and beyond

Help Me Help You In Lincolnshire With #LincsConnect

Help me help you in Lincolnshire with #LincsConnect by interacting with the many local users. It can’t have escaped your attention that I’ve been busy on your behalf. #LincsConnect help and support is a given of course with retweets on twitter and posts on Facebook to help promote your business and events. Blogs too of course! I know you appreciate what I do and I appreciate the fact that you share what I’m doing too. I still need you to help me, help you in Lincolnshire though.

#LincsConnect – is here to support all things Lincolnshire but it only works when we work as a team. With 12,500 Twitter followers (steadily growing) I know that your help is working for me too.  However, at the risk of sounding cheeky, I still need more help.  Working together as a team is even more important than it ever has been.  You’re still posting your work using LincsConnect and I’m very grateful.  LincsConnect is trying hard to share your work around Lincolnshire, Newark, Retford and Hull but I really need to ask more people to search the hashtag #LincsConnect (on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) to help share the messages and support each other.

Just imagine, if all 12,500 local followers each searched the #LincsConnect hashtag and shared just one message….!

How Can LincsConnect Help You More?

What else can LincsConnect do for you?  Please let me know as I have plans for the account and need to know that it isn’t missing something important.

#LincsArtCraftHour

If you read my last blog you will recall that we have a dedicated weekly hour set aside on Monday lunchtimes to help promote artists, crafters, jewellery designers and sculptors.  Please take a look at the link below to refresh your memory:

#LincsArtCraftHour

Help me help you in Lincolnshire

Keep your eyes open for the #LincsArtCraftHour.  Click on the picture to go to the blog

I had a question for the Artists who join us and those of you who will be looking to see what masterpieces and bargains are on offer:  Which hashtag would you prefer?  Are you happy with #LincsArtCraftHour or do you think it would be better as #LincsArtCraft hour?  The latter is shorter and more general as it can be used at any time while the original idea is very specific to the Monday lunchtime hour.  Jointly you chose #LincsArtCraftHour so that is what we have been using for the last two years.

Guest Blogs

Do you have something to say that you would like to have included in the regular #LincsConnect blogs?  Please do get in touch if you would like to have your work included as it’s always nice to see you here.

Help me, help you in Lincolnshire

Help me, help you in Lincolnshire and beyond. If you would like to collaborate with your blog here please email me at martin@lincsconnect.co.uk 

 

Help Me, Help You In Lincolnshire With Featured Twitter Hours…

Do you have any featured hours that you would like to see on twitter? How about #LincsAuthors, #LincsMarkets, #LincsConnectJobs #LincsIT, #LincsHousing, #LincsGardening#LincsCharities #LincsFoodDrink …..?  Who do you think should have their own featured hour?  The hashtag is here to help you so whether you’re a trader, a charity or a potential customer, I wan’t to make sure that #LincsConnect has something for you.  Please do email your suggestions to me at martin@lincsconnect.co.uk  Perhaps you would like to host your own #LincsConnect hour?  I’m always open to suggestions so please do get in touch. After all, help in Lincolnshire with #LincsConnect is a two way process.

Here To Help

If there is something you need would you like to do a skills swap?  Would anyone be interested in a #LincsSwaps hour?  An our each week where you can offer your skills to swap for something of equal value?  Some of us may be finding finances a little tight at the moment but are willing to trade to get what we need.

Here’s an example:  A local restaurant may be in need of leaflets for a local leaflet drop and be willing to swap a meal to the value of £xxx in return for 200 hundred leaflet.  That’s just an example of course.  The exact figures would have to be agreed privately by the restaurant and the designer/printer but you get the idea I’m sure.  Again, if this interests enough people I’ll happily organise it.  You’ll need to get in touch though so that I know whether to go ahead with the idea or not. Help in Lincolnshire with #LincsConnect only happens when we work together.

Advertising/Local Discounts

Advertising space is always available on the blog so if you would like a spot here please let me know.  I could also arrange a feature with your advert to help highlight your business/organisation.  Again, just get in touch to make arrangements.  You can email me at martin@lincsconnect.co.uk

Help me, help you in Lincolnshire

Perhaps you have a special offer or would like to offer readers a discount?  You could have a voucher on here to share across the County.

Advert

Help me, help you in Lincolnshire

20% discount on Mandarin Leisure services for all NHS, 999 and military members across the County.

Featured Song Of The Week By A Local Artist

Each week I include a local artist, band or choir on twitter to highlight their work and show off the great talents that we have in our county.  If you have a favourite band with music on YouTube that you think should be featured please let me know.

All last week I featured Alex Cavan from Grantham with his song ‘Waterfall’.  If you would like to hear him just click on the picture below to go straight to his YouTube upload.

To hear Alex singing ‘Waterfall’ just click on the picture and if you would like to follow him on Twitter you’ll find him at @AlexCavanMusic

It’s For You…

The blog is here for you to support everything from the North to South, East and West of the County and bordering towns and villages too.  It’s for you and the rest of our community so please, please, please do share this blog and lets see if we can get more people reading it and interacting.

Stay Safe 

Stay safe everyone and keep looking out for your neighbours.

Sponsored by Mandarin Therapies and Mandarin Mothers. Bespoke complementary Therapies throughout Lincolnshire