13 Ways Ohio Political Candidates Can ROCK Their Social Media

In early 2011, I asked the question, “Do Ohio Elected Officials Kick Social Media Butt?”  I extended an open invitation to all Ohio political candidates on the ballot for the November 2011 election to submit a guest post to help citizens become aware of their platform.  That original post inspired a series of informational posts.  This a summary wrapping up the thirteen segments in the series on how Ohio Political Candidates can ROCK Their Social Media.

One important thing to note:

Social Media happens in real time.

Meaning, we could have the best plan of approach, but the "now news" hast to prevail.  Breaking news and trending topics must come before evergreen or potentially evergreen articles.

For example, you wouldn't be very impressed if I brought up Weinergate for the first time next week.

On four different occasions, I had a planned topic ready to go, but I set it aside for something more pressing and relevant to social media for political candidates.

So, how can you put some groovy rhythm to a good strategy?

13 Ways Ohio Political Candidates Can ROCK Their Social Media

• Your Blog is Your Social Media HQ.
• Groovy Graphics, Baby!
• Your Essential Social Networks.
• It’s Not Broadcasting!
• Draft to Win.
• Challenge the Electile Dysfunction.
• Enlist & empower social media-ites.
• Be Likeable AND Sendable.
• Tweet & Hash!
• Va…Va…Voom… Video!
• Online Etiquette – Social Media Manners.
• Put Out Your Welcome Mat.
• Kick-up Your Klout!

A fun list to help you in the heat of your campaign!

Rock It - Like "The Boss"

How about a Born-in-the-USA Bonus?

Here are the four topics you should not cover-up:

1. Combine Email Marketing with Social Media.

They should go hand-in-hand -- not either or.

2. Offer links and icons to your social media profiles on everything possible!

This includes flyers, door hangers, post cards, web pages, PowerPoint presentations, SlideShare, and orally in presentations.

3. Utilize customized Facebook Tabs for email capture and PDF formats of your flyers.

This will require someone with social media savvy to help you, but will encourage fan empowerment and the mobility of your message.

4. Make their event calendars available.

Use Facebook Events to promote your speaking engagements, coffees, and rallies.  If you really want to amp-up the reach of your message, collaborate with another candidate that can support and cross-promote you.

You are also well-advised to stay informed on social media trends in politics...

Two Articles To Be Aware Of This Week

"How To Overcome The Small Town Politics," by Becky McCray

"Weinergate, Palin & Romney," by Zachary Sniderman - A weekly mashup from Mashable.

The Open Invitation

I still extended an open invitation to all Ohio political candidates on the ballot for the November 2011 election to submit a guest post for my blog to help citizens become aware of their platform.  Candidates outside of Ohio are welcome too!

As my guest post calendar does include authors and topics on other subjects, it is recommended that political candidates make their request as soon as possible to ensure maximum impact before absentee voting begins.  Simply contact me to arrange.

A Unique Listen Before We Go

Born in the USA, Bruce Springsteen (acoustic):

You're "the boss" of your plan, your strategy - Now go ROCK your social media!

What's not on the list?

Any questions I did not approach?

Tell me in the comment box below! :)

Weinergate comic credit: David E. Owen