It has taken only 3 weeks to go from idea in my head to reality! I’m very excited to have created a Twitter account for my non-profit today. I am starting off by following my personal connections and our clients in hopes that they will follow us back and get us off the ground.
When it comes to social media, setting intentions can be tricky. How many of us have fallen into the trap of “We need a Facebook page because everyone has a Facebook page” or ”We should get on Twitter because that’s where everyone’s going”? Each organization has unique marketing goals and strategies and each social media venue offers different outcomes and platforms for achieving them. No one should ever have a social media account just for the sake of having it. What is the goal? Why is this website the best match for achieving that goal? Does this website offer long walks on the beach and does it love dogs?
OK, maybe it not that last one, but it is a bit like dating. Make sure you’re both getting something out of the relationship. You want more clients, your prospective clients want interesting news and tips in your industry. You want to get volunteers more engaged, your volunteers want shout-outs and involvement in your cause. Make sure it stays a two-way street or you’re headed for a break-up in the form of declining followers, fans, re-tweets, likes, and views.
I’m keeping all of this in mind embarking on this new Twitter account but I have to admit, I’m a bit overtaken by the honeymoon phase giddiness.
Re: Facebook page. I have one for my blog… but mostly as some fantasy future place-holder where people I don’t actually know “like” it.