Great question/comments! There are some great examples of social media being used to disseminate accurate messages about HIV prevention — i.e the FAQ Page for the PrEP on Facebook, HIV Smart and PrEP Love Campaigns and many others. And publications that talk about effective social media strategies in HIV prevention and public health.
It’s worthwhile to investigate who is doing what.. and decide on clear objectives for what you want to achieve with social media.
You also need a response plan in place! You do not want to be figuring this out when the spotlight is on you …
Does your team have a written SOP or plan (in line with your network’s or sponsor’s plan) that guides staff members about communications?
For example, it might include:
– Designated R&Rs– you need a tech and social-media savvy person working in sync with the rest of the team; this person can search for posts/key words across both internet and social media sites, for example
– Procedures for posting and responding to social media messages developed with leadership
– Answers to FAQs about the research/pre-approved messages for external communication
– Media or comms training plan for staff, CAB and participants
All food for thought!
What do others think?
