Lekan Otufodunrin offers tips on better use of social media by journalists
Have active social media accounts
Having active social media accounts is no longer an option but a must if you want to continue to be relevant in the media profession. You don’t have to be on them all the time, but you should to keep abreast of latest news and professional developments.
The earlier you start building your followership on social media the better. Sooner or later you will need followers and friends to reach out to.
You can choose which one suits your time and need, but not to be on any openly or otherwise is not good for your career development.
Update your social media profiles
Years after changing jobs or accomplishing some major milestones, I still find many journalists having un-updated profiles on social media.
Regularly update your profiles, especially for those who may not know your new status and need to know for whatever reason.
Don’t just share, engage with your followers and friends
Social media is not supposed to be for one-way communication, it should be an exchange of information and engagement.
Don’t just share your information, respond to some when you should. Add your comments and contact friends and followers through direct message option if you don’t want others to see your message.
Click to check links of important posts
There is a lot to links posted on social media than the headlines. Take time to click some links and read the full content. Links to some websites may lead you to some other useful information you need to know.
Sometimes the headlines are deceptive. Don’t start commenting before reading the full post.
Promote your personal and professional brand
Social media is no longer only for social interaction but a platform for promoting your personal and professional brand. You need to be aware that you are what you post and share on social media.
You posts, comments, shares should reflect your personality and how you want to be perceived.
