How To Utilize Your Free Event Resource: Social Media
- Erin Anderson
- Mar 4
- 3 min read
When it comes to planning an event, staying within budget is often a top priority. That is why it is important to tap into one of the most powerful and free tools for event promotion: social media. More than just a communication tool, social media can build buzz before your event, enhance engagement during it, and sustain momentum long after it ends. If you are not leveraging social media to its fullest potential, you are leaving untapped opportunities on the table. Here are some strategies for using social media at every stage of your event– from pre-event prep to post event follow-up so you can connect with your audience and drive success without stretching your budget.
PRE-EVENT
1. Create a Content Calendar
Consistency is key to building momentum. Plan out your social media posts in advance with a content calendar. Schedule posts to cover event updates, reminders, and highlights. Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn all have features that allow you to schedule posts to go out on certain days and times. Pro Tip: Include a mix of content types—static images, reels, carousels, and live streams—to keep your feed dynamic.
2. Start Posting Early with Teasers
Create anticipation for your event by sharing sneak peeks, behind-the-scenes content, or announcements well in advance. Use Instagram Stories or Facebook stories to show behind the scenes preparations for the event. Highlight special guests, exciting features, or exclusive activities to build intrigue and encourage attendance. At one event, we asked our emcee to send out a promo video prior to the event to welcome and share excitement with guests.
3. Leverage the Power of Visuals
Social media is a highly visual medium. Create eye-catching graphics, videos, and photos to promote your event. Use tools like Canva or Adobe Express to design polished promotional content, and ensure your visuals are consistent with your event branding. Tailor your visuals to the platform - for instance, use vertical formats for Instagram Stories and carousels for LinkedIn or Facebook.
4. Utilize Previous Content
Personality and authenticity go a long way to draw in guests and showcase what’s in store for your event. Share photos and videos from past events to give a glimpse of the fun and memorable moments attendees can expect. Smiling faces and sentimental scenes can evoke emotional connections and drive interest.
5. Engage Your Audience
Social media is a two-way street. Don’t just post; interact with your audience. Respond to comments, answer questions, and encourage user-generated content. Keep the audience engaged by sharing what to expect and the unique ways your event will be different.
Pro Tip: Use Instagram Stories’ interactive stickers, such as polls, quizzes, and countdowns, to boost engagement.
DURING
1. Encourage Real-Time Engagement During the Event
During the event, encourage attendees to post about their experience. Set up photo-worthy spots with branded backdrops or props, and remind participants to take videos or photos. Guest photos and videos are a great way to commemorate the event both during and after. Pro Tip: Re-share attendee posts to your stories to show appreciation and build a sense of community.
2. Live Updates
Consider having a designated social media coordinator on-site to monitor posts, respond to comments, and share behind-the-scenes content that highlights the event’s unique moments. Real-time engagement not only keeps your audience connected but also allows you to adjust your strategy if you notice a particular post or activity is sparking extra interest.
POST-EVENT
1. Post a Recap Video or Photo Album
Post a recap video or photo album that captures the highlights of your event. You can share thank you messages from your team or testimonials from attendees that showcase the event’s impact.
2. Invite Feedback
Ask attendees what they loved most and what they would like to see at the next event. Feedback will help you to refine your event from year to year.
3. Call to Action
Share a call to action that encourages ongoing engagement, whether it is signing up for a newsletter, joining a volunteer program, or supporting your cause through donations. This approach turns a one-time event into a continuous conversation and deepens the connection between your audience and your mission. Pro Tip: Use the insights gained to refine your strategy for future events.
Social media is more than just a marketing tool; it’s a way to connect and engage with your community.. Best of all, it’s free to use! With a bit of creativity and strategic planning, you can turn social media into your most valuable event asset.
Want to discuss your event and how GFS can assist in reaching your goals? Schedule a consultation call today!