According to a survey from Pew Research, 46% of social media users say they are “worn out” by political posts and discussions on social media. But as an elected official or candidate a little less than a year away from an election, you need to be engaging your supporters and voters. Unlike other parts of your campaign, digital can’t just be turned on a few months before Election Day.
How do you keep in touch with your supporters without wearing them out? Try these strategies.
Get Personal
Research shows that likeability is the key factor behind whether a supporter donates to a candidate or not. Share content on your social media that shows your personal side. You don’t have to do a complete behind the scenes, but post photos or videos of you doing regular, non-politician things, like cooking, working out, or enjoying a hobby.
Promote Your Community
With local media on the decline, local charities, communities, and other groups need more help than ever promoting their events, news, and causes. Use your social media platform as a signal booster for these groups. You’ll be helping your community, you’ll grow your following, and you won’t wear people out with politics all the time.
Solicit Feedback
As you’re thinking about key issues, use your social media following to gather real, actionable feedback from your voters. Getting meaningful feedback is the key here because your supporters will appreciate that you’re actually listening to them. Use a platform like Voterfied to ensure you get constructive input from known voters.
Be Authentic
A statement that has been wordsmithed beyond all recognition and posted on Facebook isn’t social media. You’ve got to develop and use your own, authentic voice.
While it’s true your voters are tired of politics on social media, you still have to keep in touch and maintain engagement on social media. Use these strategies to keep engaged without wearing them out before election season heats up.