Sometimes it seems that Social Media has a bad reputation. Amidst all of the misuse, which tends to get a bit more publicity (hello political scandals) it is important to shine a light on the Social Media Awesome that happens all of the time. Social Media is a great way for people to connect, for businesses to grow and it provides so much opportunity for Social Good.
What is Social Media but a community created online to bring people together? We share ideas, opinions and personal messages to the great wide open of the internet and collect new information in return. It’s a powerful tool that non-profits can and should be using to start a conversation and send their message to a wide internet audience.
Non-profits often find themselves working with a limited budget when it comes to promoting their social causes. Whether looking to raise funds, find volunteers or simply spread awareness, Social Media is the way to speak to our now hyper-connected world for little to no cost at all.
Think about how often you find yourself checking Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn or any other of your favourite Social Media sites. Now think about the latest worldwide disasters and tragedies and how much you read about them online. We’re going to guess a lot.
Who can forget seeing hashtags of #OneBoston after the Boston Marathon Bombing? Or watching your Facebook and Twitter explode with stories and support for Bell Canada’s #LetsTalk, a mental health awareness campaign. Just last week, our hearts broke as images of the train derailment in Lac-Mégantic filled our Facebook news feeds. The message gets out there. It spreads loudly, quickly and effectively.
In a world where we’re doing so much online and on our mobile devices, including donating to social causes (even though SMS or text messages!), your non-profit can and will benefit from proper use of Social Media. Your message will be heard. It will be spread. It will make a difference.
If you are wondering how to step up on your Social Media soapbox and start spreading your message for Social Good, contact us at Hughes & Co. and we’ll help you start spreading your word! And keep your eye on our blog for more tips on how Social Media can do Social Good! We can also help with all of your Niagara social media management and St. Catharine's content creation.