Social media might be low on your priority list, but I’m here to tell you it shouldn’t be.
Social media is forward facing, just like your office, staff, products and services and your branding. And it may be the first impression a potential client has of your business.
If your company’s social media fails, can it have a negative impact on your reputation? You bet!
Here’s what you should be doing right now.
A Company’s Social Media Checklist
1. Have the passwords.
It’s your company; you should have access to all the “keys.” Consider a password management service like LastPass to keep passwords secure and accessible.
We have heard too many stories of that one employee who knew the Twitter password or was the only Facebook admin and left the company. Or worse, got fired.
Would you give an intern the only key to your front door?
Because your reputation is on the line, make sure you have access to all social media platforms – just in case.
2. Read the posts.
Take a few minutes every other day to read the company’s social media posts.
Regardless of who is running your social media accounts, make sure you are staying aware of the published content. Otherwise, risk being surprised!
BONUS: Share some of the content on your personal LinkedIn profile! It’ll help tie you back to your business when it comes to networking.
3. Encourage employee participation.
Your employees are already on social media. You need a social media policy in place that encourages the proper connections, participation, and sharing.
Educate your employees. Ensure they understand online privacy, good conduct and are aware of any company compliance issues.
4. Take it seriously.
Failing at social media is easy.
Social media might be a small blip on your radar. Taking an interest, giving it a few minutes of your time each week, and hiring trusted people to manage it (internal or external) can make a huge difference in the results.
At the end of the day, it’s your company and reputation.