Struggling to generate excitement about an upcoming school event? Whether promoting a theater production, pep rally, or fundraiser, leveraging social media effectively can transform an ordinary event into a must-attend experience. This guide outlines steps to build buzz before, during, and after the event, ensuring maximum engagement and success.
Step 1: Build Anticipation for the Event
Generate excitement and discussion about the event in advance by:
- Creating Teasers: Post countdown graphics, teaser videos, or behind-the-scenes clips to pique interest.
- Spotlighting Participants: Feature organizers, performers, or special guests through mini-interviews or Q&A sessions.
- Engaging Your Audience: Utilize polls, trivia, or “Guess What’s Coming” posts to involve followers in the lead-up.
- Sharing Key Details: Ensure the date, time, and location are prominently and accurately displayed.
Step 2: Capture the Energy in the Room
Make the event feel alive for both attendees and those unable to attend by:
- Leveraging Stories or Live Video: Share real-time moments, performances, crowd reactions, or behind-the-scenes footage.
- Encouraging User-Generated Content: Have attendees tag your account and use a unique event hashtag.
- Posting Real-Time Updates: Share highlight reels, important announcements, or shoutouts to maintain momentum.
Editor’s Note:
The following piece is by student content creator, JJ Ries. At Class Intercom, we’re passionate about empowering content creators to learn new skills and evolve existing ones. That includes formal instruction in the classroom, learning by doing, and experimenting with tools and ideas. The next step is sharing that knowledge with others. The Insights from Student Content Creators series allows students to share their knowledge and experiences with a global audience.
Step 3: Keep the Conversation Going After the Event
Extend the event’s impact even when it’s over by:
- Sharing a Recap Post: Post a highlight video, carousel of best photos, or blog recap.
- Thanking Your Audience: A simple “Thank You” post acknowledging organizers, attendees, and participants can go a long way.
- Asking for Feedback: Post a poll or question box to gather insights on what people enjoyed and areas for improvement.
- Repurposing Content: Utilize standout moments for future promotions or social media throwbacks.
Step 4: Analyze & Improve
Learn from each event to enhance future efforts by:
- Reviewing Engagement Metrics: Analyze likes, shares, comments, and story interactions to identify successful strategies.
- Documenting Best Practices: Note effective tactics to replicate in future event promotions.
Social media marketing is a skill that improves with each event. The more you explore creative engagement strategies, the greater the impact they will have. By following these steps, school events will not only draw crowds but also create a lasting online presence.
About the Author
JJ Ries
JJ Ries is a junior at Norfolk Senior High School where he is the Publicity Crew Leader for the schools drama department. In this role, he works with other students to promote drama performances and events on social media.
This story is part of a series called Insights from Student Content Creators. If you know a student, educator, or community member with a skill or story to share about the power of content and storytelling, send them our way! Amplifying student voices and sharing authentic stories is at the core of who we are. Drop us a line and let’s get in touch.
