Getting Started with Social Media

Before launching into social media, it's important to plan ahead to ensure your social media presence will be successful.

Do I have time to manage a social media channel?

Being successful with social media takes time. You have to maintain a regular posting frequency — while that may vary by channel, a minimum of weekly engagement is a good baseline — and you also have to listen and engage. By first determining your goals, and assessing the role social media plays reaching them, you can determine how to allot your resources.

You may want to maintain a personal account on a social media service before launching an institutional account, so you can observe how people and organizations communicate in the space. Watch and listen before jumping in and speaking up. If you are unsure about whether social media is right for you, feel free to contact someone in the Office of University Relations to discuss various options.

Which social media channel is best for me?

Flickr – For those with visual communication assets to offer consistently over time
YouTube – For those with video assets to offer consistently over time
Twitter – For those looking to engage an audience with a high frequency, and those able to be available to respond with some immediacy and engage in conversation
Facebook – For those looking to build brand awareness
Google+ – For those looking to build brand awareness, and those looking to communicate specifically with varying audiences

Social Media Strategy

As with any communications or marketing initiative, it's important to have a plan. The following Social Media Strategy Template [PDF] will discuss several topics to consider as you implement your plan.

Social Media Account Request

Ready to get started? Complete the Social Media Account Request Form to better allow the Office of University Relations to assist in setting up the channels you wish to use.

Getting Started with Social Media

Do I have time to manage a social media channel?

Which social media channel is best for me?

Social Media Strategy

Social Media Account Request

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