How will YOU most effectively discuss the Election on Social Media?
Posted on September 01, 2012 by @mqtodd
In about 2 months Americans will go to the polls to elect a new President. Social media is awash with campaigning and discussion.
No doubt this will accelerate as we get closer to the big day.
When I started on Facebook and Twitter 4 years or so ago the previous election was in full swing. I had also just awoken to the horrors of the Japanese dolphin hunting. In respect I was way way too noisy in both directions and “burnt” a lot of friends who may well have heard me out if I had toned things down to a political message say once every 2-3 days. Rather than 10 a day.
I do want to hear and know your opinions and passions and I would much rather you expressed them rather than not at all ( no matter what they are). In terms of effectiveness though I really do believe that you need to mix things up.
Do not get disheartened by thinking that people are not reading your stuff. Particularly in the case of political posts engagement level as a percentage is very low. Possibly as low as one like click per 1000 views and one comment per 2000.
Mainly people log into social networks to be entertained, find out what friends are up to, get connected, promote their businesses or causes, be inspired and be informed. They do not generally like to see fighting or critical posts and threads and they will be drawn to you if you are teaching them something or making them laugh.
If you are providing huge value then people will put up with you putting the odd political message across their stream. They will probably even take notice of it as you will have gained their respect. This is a very new space for most of us and we are stiil learning how best to use it. Sometimes less is more don`t you think?
If you are going to be political (and I hope you are because these are critical times) then try to keep it fun and positive. Inspire and elevate us. Make us laugh and make us think!
When posting on Facebook ask questions that will create friendly and fun debate. Keep asking questions throughout the thread and if possible make sure that people are not slamming each other overly much. We all wake up at different times in our lives after all. Post great photos and infographics that will get shared. When tweeting aim to get retweeted rather than just blast messages. Having others spread your message is far more effective than if it only comes from you.
Look forward to debating the issues of the day with you
Peace
Michael
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