Source: David Meltzer
That’s right, one wrong move on social media and a student-athlete or a professional athlete’s brand could be seriously damaged. So, is it beneficial for an athlete to use social media? The answer is unequivocally yes.
It doesn’t matter if it’s FaceBook, Twitter, Instagram, SnapChat, Tumblr, Pin Interest, or even Google+. All of these social media tools, or applications, have benefits that increase an athlete’s brand which means possible endorsement deals and even a better pay check from one’s own team.
But these same applications can cause dramatic issues if not used carefully. Ask Donte DiVincenzo of the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Championship team, Villanova. After poor choices during his high school and college days tweeting offensive messages, DiVincenzo had to remove his Twitter account. And yes, there is the argument of young and dumb, but there is also an argument that his parents and Univeristy should have instructed and monitor his use of social media to help him further his future. His outstanding performance on the basketball court now be undercut by his lack of restraint.
So, how do you avoid such mistakes? Follow these simple tips when using social media:
⦁ Never attack a member of the media or fan even when provoked-try not to take things personally;
⦁ Allow designated player association personnel to speak about labor disputes-some version of “no comment” works well in this situation;
⦁ Stay humble and think before you speak (write);
⦁ Make supportive statements about teammates and players associations without lying;
⦁ If you get caught in a sticky situation, accept responsibility;
⦁ Remember the media and your fans will either be your allies or become your enemies;
⦁ What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas–the same is true of the locker room;
⦁ Zip the lips–avoid gossip (off the record comments), lies, omissions, and do not over share information;
⦁ It is okay to be express yourself but remain empowering and not ignorant;
⦁ Be professional, respectful and engaging;
⦁ Know your brand and be yourself; and
⦁ Share those causes and concerns you have in a positive light.
If an athlete still has questions or concerns, he can learn from some of the pros like Aaron Rodgers, JJ Watt, Nadri Kazem or Colin Kaepernick. An athlete can also seek guidance from a press or social media agent.
The proper use of social media can increase one’s standing in the eyes of sponsors, teammates, owners, leagues, the media as well as with fans. Social media used properly is a means to help improve not just the athlete’s future but the future of society too.