social sharing

We have all done it. We all like to do it. What is it? "liking" something via a social media outlet. Are you "liked"? I am sure that your family and friends do. But that isn't really the important answer to the question. Do folks consistently like your social media comments?

Popularity of your statements matters - SocialTwist recently published a study results demonstrating the common sense result that folks are more likely to click on links supported by peers "likes" than not. Realizing that this seems like an obvious statement, I will take it the next step - how do you create content that is "likable"?

1. Keep your audience in mind - we all have many folks who clicked the fan link but how many of them and who among them consistently pay attention to you? Know who those folks are and be sure to aim your messages at them.

2. Keep it simple. Social media is immediate, now and gone. A short simple statement supported by links or opportunities to learn more is going to go further and last longer than a doctoral dissertation will - if your writers are academically centered, use some students as a filter - if they won't read it, neither will a good part of the audience - see #1.

3. Make it fun. Even better if you can get some humor included but at least keep it light, fun and enjoyable. With rare exceptions folks don't want to hear about your troubles. People achieving success is far more fun and entertaining to read about.

4. Ask them to like it. It seems self evident, but we tend to shy away from asking folks to do this. Your donors will happily share your content but you may need to give them a little push to start doing so - it matters to you and increases your reach - tell them, thank them and remind them and they will step up and spread your message.