Sadly, over the last year, our communities have been impacted by several tragedies and some recent heartbreakers that have rocked all of us to our cores. Thanks to the internet, we can’t escape the daily lousy news our local and national communities are touched by. However, brands must carefully consider how they use social media on days that create heavy hearts.
If a follower is searching X (formerly known as Twitter) for news or updates from media outlets and your business is advertising its upcoming 2-for-1 sale this weekend, many frowny faces will be on the other side of that screen. Many consumers use social media channels to keep updated on news, sports, events, and activities in their localized community. However, during newsworthy times, many also tap into mobile outlets to seek the news they need to ease their mind or keep connected. It’s for this very reason that, as social marketers, we take steps to ensure that we are always on top of the breaking news for every single client.
Here are a few helpful tips to prevent looking insensitive during sad times:
Jump onto your social media tool and DELETE those scheduled X (formerly known as Twitter), Facebook, LinkedIn, or YouTube posts! Regardless of your brand or what you do, auto-posting on any social channels during a tragic day is just bad juju and will land you on one of those lists on Mashable.
Please keep it simple and post something neutral about the events. Your image online is everything. People are watching, a
nd your soapbox does not need dusting off. Taking the time to grandstand about an event or share your feelings is simply a DO NOT on your brand’s social media
.
Follow the news, but don’t be the news. Watch other brands for cues and keep your eyes on the news media. If the aftereffects of a tragedy seem to be lasting over a few days, then don’t be afraid to share. However, try to share sparingly and keep those posts to your brand. Avoid retweeting or sharing posts from news or opinion-based media that might alienate your audience and clients.
Social marketing is not easy, but if you remember that it requires a certain amount of etiquette, you’ll be golden while traversing this tricky universe.
The most important thing to remember in all your social media marketing endeavors is to stay true to your brand and the voice you have created for it. If you display integrity and maintain consistent professionalism, an audience will turn to your social channels.
Stark Social Media Agency can help you navigate the issues that arise during tough times. We’re just an email away!
