You’re likely reading this because you’re interested in exploring social media etiquette further. Posting regularly is a necessity for organizations that want to stay on people’s radars. Without a consistent posting schedule, algorithms are less likely to pick you up and surface you frequently. However, hasty or uninformed posts can cause serious issues down the road.

To ensure your organization’s social platforms contribute positively to its image and goals, here are the top 5 things to check before hitting that ‘Post’ button.

#1 Before posting, have I fact-checked for accuracy?

This is a big one. Before sharing any information, it’s imperative to fact-check thoroughly. Inaccurate information can damage your organization’s credibility and reputation. 

According to a study by the Pew Research Center, 64% of Americans say that fake news has caused “a great deal” of confusion about basic facts of current events. 

Did you know that it is thought that 10% of the content could be generated by Artificial Intelligence? Furthermore, experts say that “90% of Online Content Will Be AI-generated by 2026”. 

This means that fact-checking is doubly important to remain a credible source of information. Ensuring the accuracy of your posts not only builds trust among your audience but also safeguards your organization from potential backlash.

It is critical to stay clear of this type of backlash, considering there is a significant amount of AI-generated content. AI-produced information is not always accurate. And while it can be a valuable tool, it remains distinct from human capabilities.

#2 Am I optimizing my content for each platform before I post?

Tailoring content to suit the specific features and algorithms of each social media platform is essential. 

A study by Social Media Today revealed that posts with images receive 2.3 times more engagement on Facebook, while tweets with images are 150% more likely to be retweeted. 

Some platforms are designed for videos, others for text, and others for pictures. Adjust and post strategically for the biggest impact. Understanding and utilizing the nuances of each platform can significantly enhance your organization’s reach. 

#3 Does my post maintain consistency in brand voice?

Maintaining a consistent brand voice across all social platforms is vital for brand recognition and loyalty. According to a survey by Lucidpress, consistent brand presentation across all platforms increases revenue by up to 23%. 

Inconsistencies in messaging can confuse your audience and dilute your brand identity. Before posting, ensure your content aligns with your organization’s established brand voice and values.

#4 Have I monitored for cultural sensitivity prior to posting?

In a globalized world, cultural sensitivity is paramount. A misjudged post can lead to significant backlash and damage your organization’s international reputation. 

A journal post from Sage Journals found that consumers have stopped purchasing from a brand due to a perceived lack of cultural sensitivity. It’s crucial to conduct thorough cultural sensitivity checks to avoid unintentional offense and foster a positive global image.

While we know it’s impossible to please everyone, it’s important to keep kindness at the forefront. Posts that aren’t empathetic or thoughtful about who or how it may affect should be handled with great care. 

#5 Before posting visual content, have I double-checked for accessibility?

Accessibility is often overlooked but plays a critical role in social media engagement. 

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 15% of the world’s population lives with some form of disability. 

Ensuring your visual content is accessible to all users, including those with visual impairments, not only broadens your audience but also aligns with ethical and inclusive business practices. 

Run your images through alt-text descriptions and check for color contrasts to make your content universally accessible.

All-in-all, a well-thought-out social media strategy involves more than just posting updates. By fact-checking, optimizing content, maintaining brand consistency, monitoring cultural sensitivity, and ensuring accessibility, your organization can confidently navigate the complex landscape of social media, fostering positive relationships and long-term success. 

Need help with knowing what or when to post? Onya has got you covered. Reach out today to learn more!