Social Media Do’s and Don’ts During the Recruitment Process

Social Media Success: Your Complete Guide to Digital Presence During Recruitment

Your social media presence can make or break your college athletic recruitment. At Athletic Digest, we understand that navigating social media during recruitment can be challenging. Here’s your comprehensive guide to managing your online presence like a pro.

The Power of Social Media in Recruitment

Did you know? 87% of college coaches check potential recruits’ social media profiles before making offers. Your digital footprint matters more than ever.

Essential Do’s:

1. Profile Optimization • Use a professional profile picture • Create a compelling bio • Include athletic achievements • Link to highlight reels • Add relevant contact information
2. Content Strategy • Share game highlights • Post training videos • Celebrate team victories • Showcase academic achievements • Demonstrate leadership
3. Engagement • Follow college programs • Interact with team accounts • Share sport-related content • Engage with coaches appropriately • Support teammates
4. Personal Branding • Maintain consistent messaging • Show character and values • Highlight community involvement • Display work ethic • Share positive influences

Critical Don’ts:

1. Content to Avoid • Controversial opinions • Political statements • Inappropriate language • Party-related content • Negative comments about coaches/teams
2. Behavioral Red Flags • Cyberbullying • Unsportsmanlike conduct • Excessive complaints • Inappropriate jokes • Sharing private information
3. Technical Mistakes • Incomplete profiles • Outdated information • Poor quality photos/videos • Broken links • Inconsistent handles

Platform-Specific Guidelines:

Instagram: • Post regularly (2-3 times per week) • Use relevant hashtags • Share Instagram Stories • Highlight academic/athletic achievements • Maintain a clean aesthetic

Twitter: • Share quick updates • Retweet program news • Engage with coaches • Post game results • Share team achievements

LinkedIn: • Connect with programs • Share academic accomplishments • Join relevant groups • Network with alumni • Showcase leadership roles

Best Practices Timeline:

Daily: • Monitor notifications • Respond to messages • Check tagged content • Review interactions

Weekly: • Post new content • Update highlights • Engage with target schools • Review analytics

Monthly: • Audit old content • Update profile information • Review privacy settings • Adjust strategy as needed

Pro Tips:

1. Think Before Posting • Would a coach approve? • Is it aligned with your values? • Could it be misinterpreted? • Does it add value?
2. Privacy Management • Review tagged photos • Control who can tag you • Set appropriate privacy levels • Monitor comments
3. Crisis Management • Address issues promptly • Take responsibility • Learn from mistakes • Seek guidance when needed

“Your social media presence should reflect who you are as both an athlete and a student. Authenticity matters, but professionalism is key.”

Ready to optimize your social media for recruitment? Download our Social Media Checklist for Athletes or follow @AthleticDigest for daily tips. Questions about managing your online presence? Drop them below!

• Personal Branding Guide • Recruitment Communication Tips • Digital Portfolio Creation • Online Reputation Management