Nonprofits and other organizations have been tapping into the blogosphere for a while now, and with ongoing social media developments (like the advent of Google+ Communities), blogs have become an important part of getting their brand and culture out there.
Nowadays, it is more uncommon for an organization to not have a blog than to have one. But, for those organizations that are a little behind the times, or are looking to grow their membership blog, here are some tips and tricks for using social media to launch yourself into the interwebs.
Be Invested in the Blog
If you aren’t regularly updating your blog in the first place, or it doesn’t have fresh, strong, and useful content, all the social media strategy in the world isn’t going to help you. When in doubt, make sure that the blog is taken care of and represents the brand you are proud to share with the world. Only then can you start developing a following, and your efforts may result in loyal followers in place of one-shot-wonders.
Narrow Your Target
Especially if you are new to the social media game, you might be wise to narrow down the realms you are looking to target. You might not need a LinkedIn, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, and Google+ account. You might find it easier to manage and maintain only one or two forms of social media, especially if the person in charge of the accounts also keeps up the company blog. Don’t spread yourself too thin.
Develop a Presence in Social Media
Remember that social media is a space that your clients or members will use to get to know your culture. Be really mindful of sharing things that represent your organization well, and as a living, colorful thing. While your official website might require a certain level of professionalism and aloofness, your Facebook account might be just the place to portray your brand as more than two-dimensional. It is also a place to interact directly with your followers; use this to your full advantage, and people will feel more engaged and invested in what you do.
Connect Your Blog
This might seem like an obvious point, but I’ll say it anyway: connect your blog and social media accounts, and include widgets on your blog that readers can use to easily re-share your posts. For specific instructions, look here.
Publish in Both Places
If you are regularly active in both spaces, it will make sense to let your social media activity inform your blog content. It will also feel natural to share your blog content on your social media account. Let both digital spaces feed off of one another, and readership will follow.