Using social media effectively doesn’t just mean getting good engagement. In fact, there’s a whole side to social media that many companies aren’t using effectively! While it’s a great branding tool, social media is also the perfect place to post timely communications. Unexpected closures, last-minute events, changes to your systems – all of these are great to share on your social media platforms. The question then becomes this: How do I post timely communications on my social media?
Post early and often.
If you have a big change coming up, let your audience know as soon as possible. No one wants to find out big news last minute, so make sure you’re keeping everyone in the loop as soon as you can. Similarly, send out reminders as changes get closer. Your first post might not stick in someone’s mind, and each subsequent post is proof that you care about giving everyone the information they need.
Be straightforward with your audience.
Companies love to use flowery language when trying to communicate changes. However, this isn’t always the most helpful! Make sure you’re posting what’s happening in plain language, so everyone can understand exactly what you need them to.
Clarify when needed.
Did something change after your first announcement? Social media is a great place to clarify changes, as your audience can see the timeline of announcements. Clarifying on social media ensures that the posts at the top of your feed are the most accurate, allowing your audience to find the info they need the fastest.
Don’t be afraid to address the negatives.
Bad things happen, and not addressing those bad things can actually be worse than addressing them. Anything from a tech error to a CEO’s public concert appearance can be addressed on social media! Just make sure you’re also explaining how you’re making a change for the future.
Don’t overthink it.
At the end of the day, social media is social media. It’s an important part of your marketing strategy, but it’s not life or death! You know what your audience wants to hear and how they want to hear it. If you’re using social media correctly, posting timely communications should feel like second nature.
If you’re still nervous to start, reach out to one of our account managers! Our team has experience with every part of social media, from long-term planning to last-minute communications. We’re here to help!