Contributed by Olivia Thorenson | Mandan DECA, ND
With CTE month here again, advocacy is at the forefront of many DECA members’ minds. February’s advocacy activities are undoubtedly positive, but advocacy should be prioritized all year, and perhaps the easiest way to do so is to have a strong social media presence on a chapter level.
Reflection of Education
In a CTSO that doesn’t just educate about business but gets members involved, it would be contradictory to have a lackluster digital presence. Strong social media marketing is important in the modern marketing landscape, just as it should be in individual chapters. A chapter’s digital presence should reflect what students have learned, which can exemplify the value of DECA and marketing education.
Opportunity for Experience
One of the most beneficial aspects of DECA is giving students responsibilities that help them gain experience for their future careers. Social media management provides another real-world experience for members. They can get experience using social media platform tools, creating a brand for their chapter and managing content calendars.
Sponsorships
Aside from reputation, perhaps nothing conveys as much about an organization as its social media presence. An overlooked way to leverage this influence is to obtain sponsors. For a potential sponsor, a chapter’s social media presence clarifies what their financial support would go towards. If a chapter can convey DECA’s value to students, they have a higher chance of earning donations.
Opportunity for Advocacy
During CTE month, advocacy is easily at the top of the agenda. Although in-person advocacy can often be more effective in reaching distinct goals, in an increasingly digitized world, social media is the best way to get the largest audience.
Recruitment Channel
Advocacy is easily at the top of the agenda during CTE month. Although in-person advocacy can often be more effective in reaching distinct goals, in an increasingly digitized world, social media is the best way to get exposure. A strong social media presence can act as a recruitment tool for DECA chapters, exemplifying the passion and DECAcation characteristic of DECA members. Content can help answer the “What is DECA?’ question and showcase chapter achievements, inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Just as an influencer turns clicked links into cash, so does a chapter’s strong social media presence turn community members into sponsors, advocates, and volunteers. By maximizing your chapter’s social media potential, you can cultivate a better community around and within it.
