Austin Druse

Happy Friday, media professionals! In today’s post, I’ll be discussing a few social media tips for journalists. I hope these will help you create dazzling, accurate content for your followers.

1. Lean in!

Social media is not going anywhere anytime soon. Twitter and Facebook are key outlets for folks to receive news, so it’s pertinent that you curate content for those platforms. You’ll come to appreciate the ability to reach your audience quickly.

2. Look before you leap, though!

You should fact-check your information before you report it, and take a minute to consider the ethical implications of your posts. For example, TMZ reported on Kobe Bryant’s tragic death before his wife was informed. Consider if being FIRST is worth it in the long run.

3. Remember, you’re supposed to be objective!

The New York Times’ guidelines for social media and the newsroom is quite helpful. A key thing to keep in mind when posting – you’re an unbiased reporter. Do not take sides on issues as it could reflect poorly on the organization you represent.

4. “ALL VIEWS ARE MY OWN!”

If you must provide a take, make sure to write “All Views Are My Own” in your bio. It might not seem like much, but it creates that sliver of separation between you and the organization you may represent.

5. Don’t flood the TL!

If you’re live-Tweeting an event, that’s one thing. But posting over and over for the sake of doing so might turn your followers off. Consider before you post or share, “would my audience appreciate this?” The last thing we want is for them to hit the “mute” button!