Here is some advice on how to build involvement and increase engagement on your school council’s Facebook page.
- Add videos and photos when possible
A 30 second to 1 min video from your last school event will tell a much better story than a couple of lines of text. Be sure to always include an image when possible. - Add eye catching images
Nothing catches the eye more than an attractive image. Try using a free graphic design tool like Canva to make plain photos standout. Canva is a browser based graphic design tool loaded with enough easy-to-use features and functionality that anyone can use. - Having two administrators on your page is key
You need a backup in case someone gets sick, moves away, or has to give up her duties for whatever reason. - Be careful how you respond to negative comments
If someone complains about a group event, for example, politely explain your point of view (and listen to theirs). Use the opportunity to turn a negative into a positive. Ask questions, such as what didn’t you like about the event? And ask for opinions, what would you like to see happen differently at next years event? Using this strategy will help to get out the correct information or to clear up any misunderstandings. Remember you want to show people that you hear their concerns and that you’re open to feedback. - Post school and parenting tips regularly
Not only do they provide helpful info to your school community; they also help parents feel more connected to your group, which will make them more likely to get involved on your page. It is also a good opportunity to ask parents for feedback. Have they tried this tip before? What did and did not work for them? - Friend parents you know personally, then tag them when you post to your group page.
Those posts will show up in their notifications, and they may be compelled to share with others who might then join your Facebook community. - Ask people to get involved on your Facebook page.
Remind your school community at school council meetings, at school council events, in emails and in other correspondence. Let them know that this engagement tool is available to them. - Ask for input, and use it when you can.
People like sharing their opinions—and they want to see them translated into action. - Take advantage of Facebook’s event calendar
Take the time to post upcoming school events using the Facebook calendar and invite your group to participate. Facebook events are the perfect way to get users’ attention and keep it. - Post your parent council meeting agenda in advance
Let your school community know what is going to be discussed at your next parent meeting. Posting your meeting agenda will help keep parents informed and will encourage meeting attendance.
Keeping up your school council’s Facebook page doesn’t have to be hard.
Following the above tips should put you in the right direction to increasing involvement on your school council’s Facebook page. Still looking for more tips on making your school council’s page even better? We suggest reading our 7 things to avoid doing on your school council’s Facebook page blog.
If you are still searching for more information and can’t find it in one of our blogs/articles be sure to reach out to other parent council members via our parent engagement forum.
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