Getting started with social media
Before getting started on social media, it’s important to understand where you should focus your efforts. Where does your target audience spend most of its time online?
Then, beginning with just one platform, aim to get a feel for how your organisation fits into the social media landscape; things to consider include:
- Who will manage the page, and in what capacity?
- What updates will you share?
- What language and tone will you use in your posts?
- In which format will your updates be shared (photo, video, links)?
Setting up your page
Now that you’ve decided which platform (or platforms) to use, it’s time to get set up. Head to the below links for instructions on how to create your page:
Typically, platforms will require you to upload a profile photo and cover images, as well as filling out details about your organisation. Remember to fill out your ‘about’ section with as much information as possible, as well as links to your website and contact details.
People using social media expect to have all of the information they need at a glance. Make sure your page conveys as much detail as possible. That is key! (Don’t worry about saying too much, Facebook and other social media sites have word limits.)
Tip: Best practice is to use your logo as a profile photo, and a header image that visualises what your organisation is about. Grampians Community Health does a great job of this!
Rotate your header image to reflect activity you’re working on (like events or programs). You can change your header at any time. On the Good Sports Facebook page for instance, we feature a video that captures the spirit and passion found in community sporting clubs, while the ADF’s Facebook page features our mission statement.
For image size specifications for different social media platforms, refer to Sprout Social’s cheat sheet here.
Planning posts
Updates for your organisations page can be a mixture of curated or created content.
Curated content: updates from other organisations, news articles or video content that are aligns with your LDAT, or speaks to your program and target audience.
Good Sports regularly shares news content relevant to the program.
Created content: updates owned and created by your organisation, like video, images and articles and events.
We regularly share our insights and resources content on our social media channels.
Tip: Plan your posts in advance! Download this social media content calendar template to get you started below.
Monitoring your page
Set aside time every day to check and update your page. This doesn’t have to take too much time out of your day; think 5-10 minutes in the morning and evenings. Responding to comments and nurturing conversations on your social platforms are a key driver in gaining engagement, fans and followers.