Social media is a great tool for informing and connecting with chapter members, but without proper planning, chapters run the risk of posting aimlessly. Improve your chapter’s social media presence with these three simple strategies:
1) Set Goals
Before jumping into the “what” or “how” of your social media plan, it is important to establish the “why.” Specifically, why is your chapter using social media? Knowing the purpose of your online presence and determining the goals you want to achieve will help guide planning efforts and give you better success. Some examples of possible goals include:
- Connecting with chapter members
- Recruiting new chapter members
- Increasing attendance to meetings and special events
- Educating and informing the payroll community
Example of the Atlanta Chapter using social media to promote the upcoming Georgia Statewide.
Meet with your fellow chapter leaders and decide which goals are most important to your chapter.
2) Plan Content
After establishing goals for your chapter’s social media pages, determine what kind of content will best contribute to reaching those goals. Taking the time to brainstorm with your chapter board can produce unique and useful ideas. You can also find inspiration by viewing the social media pages of other APA chapters. Examples of possible content include:
- Details on upcoming chapter events
- Photos from recent chapter events
- Payroll news from APA or other credible sources
- Polls (Polls can be simple and fun or serve a useful purpose.)
- Reminders about membership renewals
- Information about National Payroll Week
- Election deadlines and voting information
Remember: visuals draw the eye so try to incorporate graphics or photos when possible.
Example of the Washington Metropolitan Area Chapter’s use of a photo on Twitter
3) Be Consistent
Consistency is key when using social media. It benefits your overall goals by increasing exposure and also gives online visitors a better impression and understanding of your chapter. Make a social media schedule each month and designate a specific chapter leader to publish posts and monitor the page. If your chapter has a Facebook page, you can save time by scheduling posts in advance through Publishing Tools.
What social media strategies have been successful for your chapter? Share in the comments below!
