For years, watching TV meant passively slumping in front of the flickering glow of a television set. Now, TV shows are reaching out to viewers through social media. In some cases, masterfully balancing social media technology with television can elevate a show to cult status. Here are ways you can marry TV and social media technology in order to develop an energized, engaged community of viewers.
Share updates and reminders
Many people spend more time online than watching TV, particularly those in the younger demographics, so TV commercials often aren’t enough to drum up awareness for a show. Various social networks provide a convenient platform for keeping viewers up to speed about what is coming up with their favorite shows.
Offer sneak peeks and insider information
Sites like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube are all excellent for providing fans a glance behind the scenes of their favorite shows. Sharing photos or tidbits about upcoming episodes helps TV shows energize their fanbase by involving them more in the show.
Hold frequent Twitter sessions between fans and those involved with the show
While Twitter is an excellent vehicle for driving traffic to a show’s website, it is even better for engaging viewers in creative ways. One approach is allocating times for eager fans to communicate with those involved in the show. Actors and members of the creative team can chat through social media a certain time each week, which is an extra promotional step that can make loyal fans even more devoted.
Tweet in-character while episode is running
A show can add another dimension to characters by providing in-character tweets throughout the show that relate to the events unfolding on the screen. Not only is this a way for fans to stay in the loop about plot twists if they can’t get to a television, but it is an added bonus for anyone who wants to know more about their favorite characters. It is a creative, modern way to further immerse viewers in the characters’ world.
Devise socially-driven apps for the show
Encourage viewers to interact through socialized apps based around the TV show. You can incorporate incentives for using the app to its full potential, like badges or honorary titles, to increase the chances that people join in. The more viewers who contribute to show-based discussions, games, and contents, the more of a community that will develop, which can quickly and effectively boost a show’s following.
Upload notable clips for people to re-watch and share
Select the best parts of each episode for circulation on video-sharing websites. Not only can fans watch their favorite parts over again, but they can share their favorite ones, too. Make sure all the videos you upload are embeddable. By allowing viewers to share their favorite moments on their websites and social media pages, you are likely to gain viewers through their contacts.
Many shows know that, in order to succeed, they need to reach out to fans. Social media serves as the perfect vehicle for accomplishing that aim; whether spreading awareness about upcoming episodes, offering behind-the-scenes information, communicating directly with fans, or providing clips that viewers can watch again and share, socially-driven networks seem to be future of a viewer-centered television experience.
About The Author
Guest post contributed by Peter Nevis, on behalf of Orangeline.com.au. Peter contributes to various marketing blogs. He’s a marketing expert and enjoys writing articles about SEO & online marketing strategies.