HOW TO USE SOCIAL MEDIA TO DRIVE DIRECT MESSAGES

What happens when somebody has connected with your ministry, and is no longer responding to direct messages? Ministry teams tend to think most about reaching and connecting with people online, but social media offers a powerful opportunity for nurturing and strengthening existing connections - especially when those connections “go cold” and stop responding. 

Digital ministries should think about social media campaigns that are intended to re-engage people with whom you’ve already connected, and are no longer responding. This week's newsletter provides you with some ideas and strategies for using social media to re-engage those who have already responded to your Gospel message.

1. Regularly Interact with Posts when Possible:

One of the simplest ways to engage with your existing connections is by actively interacting with their posts. Like, comment, or share their updates to show your support and keep the conversation flowing. A genuine comment can spark discussions and strengthen the bond. We understand this is not possible in every region of the world where your contacts may not want to make your relationship public. But don’t worry, we have more engagement tips for you below.

2. Personalized Direct Messages:

Sending a personalized direct message to a connection can go a long way in showing that you value the relationship. Whether it's a congratulatory message on a recent achievement that they’ve posted about publicly, or a simple catch-up, a direct message can lead to meaningful conversations beyond the public eye.

3. Share Relevant Content:

Share content that resonates with your connections' interests or aligns with your common passions. By sharing relevant articles, videos, or posts, you not only provide value but also demonstrate that you're thinking about their interests.

4. Celebrate Milestones:

Don't miss the opportunity to celebrate birthdays, work anniversaries, or other milestones of your connections. People share so much information online, and your team can usually see when these events are occurring. A thoughtful private message or a shoutout on your social media can make them feel special and appreciated.

5. Participate in Group Discussions:

Many social media platforms have groups or communities where like-minded individuals gather to discuss specific topics. MII has also encouraged teams to build their own groups. Welcoming someone into an online group Bible study would be a good example here. Engaging in these discussions not only showcases your expertise but also creates opportunities to connect and share insights with existing connections.

6. Utilize Polls and Surveys:

Engage your connections by creating polls or surveys on topics of mutual interest. This not only encourages interaction but also provides insights into their preferences and opinions.

7. Acknowledge and Respond Promptly:

Whenever someone engages with your content, whether it's a comment or a message, acknowledge and respond promptly. This demonstrates that you value their input and are actively participating in the conversation. If our teams take days or weeks to respond to a contact, why should we expect them to continue to engage with us? 

Social media isn't just about staying updated with the lives of others. It's a platform that allows us to create, nurture, and strengthen relationships. By employing these strategies, you can use social media to engage with your connections in meaningful and impactful ways, ultimately enriching both your personal and spiritual relationships.