Tweet, check-in, like, post, comment, +1 - It's no wonder that social media can feel overwhelming, even for the most technologically savvy of us. But just as my head started to spin as I was in the process of refreshing my Facebook news feed, scrolling through my Google reader, and checking on the weather report tomorrow, I saw this...
...and I remembered that one of the great things about social media is that it really is accessible to anyone who wants to use it (full disclosure: I also realized that I really wanted a donut, but unfortunately there is no social network that solves food cravings...yet). When you boil it down to the basics it isn't scary or intimidating anymore - it is meant to be a fun interactive tool to connect with family, friends, colleagues and like-minded individuals.
Social media outlets are always in the process of innovating and adding new elements to their interface. What's more exciting is that many of these changes provide great opportunities for non-profit organizations to bolster their online presence and recruit new users to support their mission, making social media for nonprofits better than ever.
Here are some recent changes and suggestions that could help your non-profit:
What's new: Facebook Timeline, the sites new profile layout, has launched three "giving" apps that can be used on the sites new profile layout: Causes, FundRazr, and Artez Interactive. These apps provide another format for social fundraising and a way for individuals to share on Facebook that they made a donation. Check out more details on how each of the new apps work here.
Keep it fresh: Have a case of "status update" block? We are very visual beings, so it makes sense that photos do consistently well at engaging users on Facebook pages. Take advantage of Pinterest, a social sharing site where people pin, repin, and like photos, for new content ideas and an easy place to find new and interesting images for your Facebook page.
YouTube
YouTube has made some new updates to its Nonprofit Program that can help make your channels even more engaging and successful. For example, the donate button is displayed more prominently on the new channel design and the site has posted a nice "how-to" resource targeted just for nonprofit organizations.
LinkedIn isn't just for job hunters anymore, it can also be a way to recruit volunteers and increase donations. Launched in May, LinkedIn for Good helps facilitate these connections between supporters and nonprofits. If your organization isn't linked up yet, you can make a Company Page for free and here's a handy list of some of the best practices for nonprofits.
So, the next time you get flustered between tweets and status updates, just remember: Keep Calm and Eat a Donut...