Social media takeovers are a great option for offering a fresh and new perspective on the student experience at USD. They have the ability to take our social media audience behind-the-scenes and offer unique viewpoints or experiences regarding important topics. However, while it may seem like handing a phone over to a student or staff member for the day is simple, facilitating a successful takeover requires planning and effort. Here are our tips for ensuring a successful takeover:
Promote the Takeover
Utilizing your channels: Announce the takeover through newsletters, event calendars and social media once you’ve scheduled it. Share updates and reminders as the date approaches.
Cross-department Collaboration: If the takeover involves other units across campus, inform them in advance so they can help promote it as well.
Checklist for Success
Select the Host: Choose a takeover host who is comfortable using the chosen platform. Clearly Define the Content and Schedule: Decide what the host will showcase prior to the takeover (e.g., daily life, an internship, a study abroad experience), and the timeframe for the takeover to occur.
Establish Guidelines: Create and share guidelines outlining approved content and responses to questions the host should address.
Confirm Understanding: Ensure the host understands and agrees to the guidelines set forth.
Completion Notification: Ensure the host informs you once the takeover is finished.
During the Takeover
Consider Changing the Password: Update the social media accounts password for security and provide the host with this temporary password.
Save the Content: Archive the takeover as a video or save it as an Instagram highlight.
Note Analytics: Take down any available analytics on the takeover’s performance. Discuss how the takeover performed and what action should be taken moving forward regarding takeovers.
Expand reach: Post the takeover video on other social media platforms like YouTube Shorts or Facebook Story to increase reach.