Social media has become such a large part of the way businesses are run today that it’s not hard to see how many misconceptions there are on how to do it properly. Healthcare corporations are no different, and can sometimes get stuck in a bad habit of talking at their audience through social media instead of engaging their followers. So we’ve put together four common social media myths to avoid when your healthcare brand is thinking of your next move.
Myth #1. Everyone is on social media
This Pew Research Study found 43 percent of people over the age of 65 are on Facebook, a number that has grown considerably in the last ten years. Although that number is nothing to scoff at, it still isn’t wise for a brand to assume that their entire patient base is on social media and will use it for a connection. Instead, if you find out someone doesn’t have a social media account, encourage them to check yours out and discuss the benefits.
Myth #2. Social media is only a broadcast medium
It’s a great way to get your message out to the masses, but remember it’s called social media for a reason. For a good example, check out Nationwide Children’s Hospital Twitter feed @nationwidekids. They have over 7,000 followers, but as you scroll through their feed you can see they regularly take the time to respond to tweets and reach out to their audience!
Myth #3. If it doesn’t go viral, it’s not worth the effort
Although it’s always great when a social media post does go viral, it’s more about adding value over time. Just because your followers aren’t liking and commenting on everything doesn’t mean they’re not paying attention. Marysville Obstetrics & Gynecology (client) has a Facebook page with 840 likes, and an active posting schedule. It’s not as if every one of their posts has 100 likes, but they stay true to their voice and have loyal followers who stay up-to-date with the OBGYN practice through their page.
Myth #4. Social media requires a ton of content
It’s true that you will need to have regular content to post on your accounts, but don’t think that to compete in the social media world you have to be updating every twenty minutes. Notice how Medical Group Management Association’s twitter @MGMA schedules their tweets throughout the day with relevant, interesting content. And if a certain post of yours does very well, don’t be afraid to post it again in a few days!
What do you think are some common social media myths? Let us know in the comments!