Social media continues to change at a rapid pace, which can be challenging for individuals who manage their organizations’ social media presence. As social media channels evolve, the best practices for how organizations can use social media to engage with their audiences also changes. In an effort to help organizations navigate these changes, use social media effectively, and stay up-to-date on current best practices, HIV.gov routinely hosts Social Media Labs at conferences and offers Virtual Office Hours.
Recent labs include the United States Conference on AIDSExit Disclaimer; Circle of Harmony HIV/AIDS Wellness ConferenceExit Disclaimer; and SYNChronicity: The National Conference for HIV, HCV, and LGBT HealthExit Disclaimer. Participants come to the labs with a range of questions: from individuals who need help getting started with social media to more advanced users ready to enhance their current strategy. HIV.gov’s lab teams are equipped to handle almost every social media question. Common questions include:

• How does [insert channel] work?
• How can I increase the number of followers on my organization’s social media platforms?
• Can you help me create more engaging social media content?

When it comes to answering these questions, lab staff work to provide practical advice and materials that attendees can apply to their social media work. The goal of each lab experience is to provide the attendee with the information and tools they need to expand their digital work. Here’s what some previous attendees said about the labs:

“I must admit, I have no desire to use social media and I'm behind the trend, but realize it can be useful for helping the audience I serve. Most people I know, who know I’m not on social media, have such negative things to say about me not being on it, which makes it difficult for me to ask questions. The lab trainer was aware I was not on social media, but made me feel EXTREMELY comfortable, met me where I was and was a fabulous teacher. This session has been so very helpful.”

“I’m so glad that this training was available for people like myself who need help with social media!”

“Excellent. This was so useful and so helpful. It helps me learn about social media resources and how I could best develop a social media platform and content for my audience.”

Virtual Office Hours
If you’re interested in receiving technical assistance but can’t attend a lab in person, you’re in luck! HIV.gov offers Virtual Office Hours every Tuesday and Thursday from 2-4 pm ET.

Simply register online for a 45-minute session, and a member of the HIV.gov team will call you directly on the date and time of your appointment. You can make the appointment for yourself if you’re interested in one-on-one coaching, or invite your colleagues and learn together. No question is too simple or complex—all skill levels are welcome!