Convincing a Ministry Leader to Use Social Media~Part 1
Occasionally someone will ask: How can I convince the pastor, the principal, the religious superior or the communication director to put our parish, school, religious community or other Catholic ministry on social media?
While the specifics will differ depending on the person you are trying to “convince,” my experience is that offering a pathway to consider social media is a more effective approach than any convincing argument.
Be Understanding
Many people in ministry leadership positions did not grow up using social media nor have they been in positions where social media was a tool to be used. They have a lot to deal with every day and Facebook, Twitter or Instagram are not on their radar at all. So when they are urged or challenged to get their organization on social media, usually they are not sure what is being asked and they have no idea how to make it happen or even if they should go down that path. So they just say “No.” “I’ll think about it.” or “Not now.” And nothing happens.
Be Strategically Helpful
My suggestion is to take an approach that is supportive and helpful. That approach has four steps which usually take place over time:
- Present a good ministry-based reason for a ministry leader to consider social media for their organization and ask if you can find examples of how others do this.
- Find examples of how other similar ministries use social media—take screen shots and show them. Ask if you can work out a little more detailed plan of how this could work for your organization.
- Supply details of who would be responsible, how often they would post (2-3 times a week is sufficient), what guidelines they would follow (i.e. original or royalty free images only, no tagging, etc.). If your diocese has social media guidelines include those. Ask if the leader would consider a trial run for 6 months or a year. All social media accounts can be deleted. If it doesn’t work for your organization that is an option.
- Volunteer to make this happen and then follow through with as much input from leader as they want to give. Remember that the person who will be responsible must be able to undertake the postings as a ministry and have the writing and graphic skills to create effective posts. This person could be on the staff already or hired on a part time basis or be a volunteer. If the person is not on the staff, he/she should have a staff contact person who will give them guidance and/or feedback. You could also contract out this service. In terms of the latter—I prepare and post weekly content for three–four parishes every year. You may find others who do that in your ministry field.
Be Patient and Positive
A “no” today is not necessarily a “no” tomorrow. If you plant the seed, show your willingness to help, the leader may surprise you one day and say: “Let’s try it.” That will only happen if you have been gently and respectfully encouraging.
Your comments are welcome!
Next week I will give details and examples of some ministry-based reasons to use social media that I have used with success.
Here is a quick little video that you may use on social media or your website when you are looking for an uplifting post.
