Social Media

Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn & YouTube

What is Social Media?

Social media refers to websites and applications that enable users to create and share content and/or to participate in social networking.

When used properly, social media can be a valuable addition to a clubs’ communications strategy.

Just because you can be on multiple social media sites, doesn't necessarily mean you should be. Spreading yourself across too many social media sites could dilute your social strategy, preventing you from using any of them effectively. Instead, focus on the social media sites that allow you to share your content. If you are new to social media, we recommend Facebook and Instagram to get you started.

Important Tips

The quality of posts is more important than the quantity. If you have a lot of good quality content to share, feel free to post more, however, avoid posting just to meet a quota. Follow a social media schedule that you can maintain, consistency is key.

It is also important to post at a time of day that suits your audience. Think about what time your followers might be online and post then to maximise potential engagement.

It is important to set an objective for social media so you know if your posts are successful or not. Always check your stats to see what works for your account.

So how often should you...

Update Facebook?

Bare Minimum
Once a week

Better
3-5 times a week

Avoid
Sharing a bunch of posts in quick succession.
Allow at least 3 hours in-between posts.
Too many updates is the #1 reason people unfollow Pages.

Tweet?

Bare Minimum
Twice a week

Better
2-10 Tweets a week

Avoid
Disappearing from Twitter for weeks or months

Update Instagram?

Bare Minimum
Once a week

Better
3-5 times a week

Avoid
Sharing a bunch of posts in quick succession or disappearing for weeks at a time

Update YouTube?

Bare Minimum
Once a month

Better
2-3 times a month

Avoid
Posting low quality (grainy, glitchy or shaky) footage

Hashtags

Hashtags are the keywords of social media platforms and are a great tool that will help get more eyes on your content. Search engine optimization requires you to use related keywords appropriately on your posts for better reach. Social media users can also search specifically for hashtags, meaning that interested parties are more likely to see your posts.

Can’t decide which hashtags to use? Best Hashtag | best-hashtags.com

Some ideas for content

Get Personal - share pictures, quotes and success stories about people in your community

Trending topics - share a funny or viral video that is relevant to your club

Photos & videos - before and after (transformation), regatta/race, your club, people at your club, sailing awards, etc.

Share the love - mention a sponsor/local community group/member - thank someone

Promote your club – events, regattas/races, achievements, etc

Resources – post resources that could help people in your community, I.e., grant application links, diversity and inclusion resources, etc.

If you’re unsure, it’s always a good idea to check what other relevant organisations/clubs are posting. Australian Sailing posts regularly on Facebook and Instagram, have a look if you’d like an example to model off!

Take a look

Australian Sailing Facebook

Australian Sailing Instagram

Check out this great toolkit from Good Sports