Social networking. Love it or hate it, social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook play an important role in our media and communications culture. Savvy yearbook staffs have learned how to take advantage of these sites, which surpass in popularity other technology tools such as email. A recent NPR report noted that most college students get email addresses so that they can then sign up for social networking. Rather than communicate or collaborate via email (or in person), these students prefer to “Facebook” one another or send tweets.

High school and middle school students aren’t far behind.

So, sign up for Facebook and watch your yearbook take off, right?

Well, some good planning helps.These goals for the use of social networking sites will help you become an effective user of networking sites to not only promote your book, but also to involve your community in the creation of it in ways not possible just a few years ago.

1. Social networking is two way communication.
2. To be effective, your staff must provide an online experience that customers – the student body, staff and other community members – will want to remember.
3. Build a community of contributors.
4. Create a staff position for on-line editor.

Intrigued? You should be. Ask us how we can help you develop a new and exciting – and potentially game changing – part of your approach to yearbook.