By Taunita Stephenson
NFL Player Engagement
Some may feel that there is no room for social media use by athletes, but if used properly social media can be a gateway of opportunity. In the past, we have seen athletes destroy their images with one click, but with the appropriate education social media is a great platform that offers positive exposure. Additionally, if kept respectful, an athlete has the opportunity to build more interpersonal relationships with his or her fans through social media. In today’s world social media has become a vital part of enhancing the personal brand of athletes while leading to unique, direct engagement opportunities with fans.
Knowing that there are so many positive attributes associated with social media, here are some tips that lead to social media success:
- Seek social media training to fully educate yourself on common do’s and don’ts and see how you can further build your brand.
- Acknowledge and define the fine line between business and personal life.
- Establish the purpose and strategy of each tweet. If it’s a strictly leisure tweet, ask yourself “How would my oldest or youngest fan perceive this tweet?” or “How would I feel if this showed up on the front page of the newspaper?”
- Simply put: Be a positive influence!
- Never tweet when you are upset or angry: Not sure about a statement? Save a draft and wait an hour to send it. If you don’t control your message, someone else will.
- Remember the great opportunity that social media affords you: Being friendly and interpersonal with fans can go a long way.
- Key tip: Social Media isn’t a diary or a weapon. It is a tool.
- Don’t respond to negativity. Period.
- Consider having one public page for fans and a private page for closer friends and family, but ALWAYS assume that everyone can see what you type – because they can!
Keep these tips in mind to make social media decisions that lead to success.
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