Be Ready to Engage With Readers—29 Ideas for Social Media Updates to Share

by Edie Melson @ediemelson

The holidays are upon us and so is the holiday rush. While this time is filled with fun, sometimes it can be hard to keep up with a normal routine. Instead of stressing, look at this list for quick and easy social media updates to share!

These 29 tips are divided into three sections—things we can do now and share later, things we can share on the fly, and things we should avoid sharing.

Things To Do Now and Share Later

1. Keep a running list of quotes that inspire you. 

2. Use the FB save option and bookmark updates from others that you can share later.

3. Make a list of open-ended questions you can ask. 

4. Bookmark and save funny videos to share later.

Things to Share on the Fly

5. People love to complain about the weather. So share what the weather is doing in your area and ask for others to share their info.

6. Post a link to music. You can tie it to what you’re writing and get extra interest. For example, when I’m working on my Steampunk novel, I write listening to the Pandora station, Lindsey Stirling. When I’m working on my Christian living manuscript, I love to have on a station from Warren Barfield.

7. Share a picture of where you’re working. I’ve noticed that my friends and followers love it when I share pics of my screened in back porch.

8. Take a pic while you’re out shopping. Many stores will monitor mentions and they may share or like your update.

9. Post a Bible verse that spoke to you recently—the more recent the better.

10. We’re all more than just writers, capitalize on that and share a hobby or passion that gives your readers a better all-round picture of you as a person. 

11. We all feel overwhelmed. So share something you’re doing that helps calm the chaos.

12. Post a link to a recent Amazon review you wrote for another author’s book. 

13. Issue a challenge. Here are some ideas: 

• 3 Things you’re thankful for.
• Move more.
• Random act of kindness.

14. Share a favorite recipe. 

15. Or if time doesn’t permit, ask for suggestions for something quick to fix for dinner.

16. Look at the calendar for inspiration and share a silly holiday. I recommend visiting Today is:

• National Craft Jerky Day
• National Bavarian Cream Pie Day
• Pins and Needles Day
• Turtle Adoption Day

17. Everyone loves movies. List one of your old favorites, or ask for opinions about a recent release.

18. We’re writers and authors, don’t forget to share what’s on your To Be Read list.

19. Pets are always a great way to connect. If you have a furry friend, that’s a great way to connect on the fly. Share a funny story, a picture, or ask a question.

20. Everyone is engaged on social media. Ask for opinions on favorite networks and what updates people like to read most. 

21. Travel is always a good topic. Share places you’ve been and places you’d like to go.

22. Share a quick meme. I love to use the WordSwag app on my phone to make fast memes while I’m out and about. 

23. Don’t be afraid to be real on social media. If you’ve had something funny happen to you, share it. People trust those who don’t take themselves too seriously.

24. Always be aware of the seasons and share related content. With fall coming up, get ready because I love to post pictures of the beautiful changing trees. 

25. Remember the day-of-the-week hashtags. For example, Thursday is TBT (Throw back Thursday). These are great conversation starters.

Things to Avoid Sharing

26. Stay away from political rants. Yes, most of us have options. If you choose to express them, make sure they’re not inflammatory—unless you’re trying to build a platform as a political activist or political writer.

27. Don’t share anything derogatory about another person, brand, or situation. Trust me when I say that you will NEVER regret being nice. Things shared on social media will stay on social media, so avoid the negative posts.

28. Avoid the poor-pitiful me post. This isn’t a legitimate request for prayer, but more on lines of: I’m having such a horrible day. I wish people wouldn’t be so mean. These are manipulative posts meant to elicit sympathy and get us to ask more questions. 

29. I recommend you NOT share times when you’re away from home. Post vacation pictures when you return and don’t give burglars an open invitation. 

This list is just a start. Truthfully, it could go on forever. Now it’s your turn to add your favorite go-to social media updates. Be sure to leave your thoughts and suggestions in the comments section below. 

Don’t forget to join the conversation!

Blessings,

Edie

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Be Ready to Engage With Readers—29 Ideas for Social Media Updates to Share from @EdieMelson (Click to Tweet)

Edie Melson is a woman of faith with ink-stained fingers observing life through the lens of her camera. No matter whether she’s talking to writers, entrepreneurs, or readers, her first advice is always “Find your voice, live your story.” As an author, blogger, and speaker she’s encouraged and challenged audiences across the country and around the world. Her numerous books reflect her passion to help others develop the strength of their God-given gifts and apply them to their lives. Connect with her on her website, through Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.