Storytelling with Social Media

If someone were to write the story of your life (up to this point), what would be the title? Chapter headings? Who are the supporting characters in your story? Wouldn't you want those of us reading your story to understand the real you?

The same rules should be applied to your social media accounts. Looking through all of your previous entries and pictures, would your new connections be able to understand the real you? What would they learn about you?

When thinking about your social media strategic plan, consider what you want those looking at your entries to learn about your department. Recognize that you might need those from other areas of your department to help outline your academic cycle. These same folks will help you draft the messages that will go out to your followers. Also, be sure to share your strategic plan with colleagues you collaborate with in other departments. You're likely to find you have similar messages or themes around certain times of the year; work together!

Once you map out your social media plan for the academic year, it will make life so much easier. Then you can focus on the conversations that result from your messages. Be sure those that assisted in drafting a certain message are answering any questions or addressing any situations that may come up. Be okay with the plan changing as the semester rolls along. Also, be sure to sprinkle spontaneous messages into your plan- those that fit your theme and some random ones.

Have fun with social media and have fun with your followers! When the time comes that they are utilizing your department, they will feel like y’all are old friends.☺

Social Media Training Sessions in June

Submitted by —
Marietta Delarosa,
Associate Director,
Housing and Residence Life