Social Media Toolkit

If you have an interest in hosting a VUMC social media account, first think about these questions:

What would you like to accomplish?

If you want to promote an event or share news about your department, a website or an e-newsletter, or submitting content for VUMC’s existing social media sites might be a better choice for you. Social media outposts such as those on Facebook and Twitter require daily maintenance and a desire to engage with others.

Whom do you want to reach?

Figuring out the type of people you want to have a conversation with will help determine which platforms are best for you.

What is your message?

This is a trick question. Social media is all about connecting, not pushing a message. To be a good participant, you must first be a good listener. Your online community will tell you what they want to hear from you.

Do you have what it takes?

To be successful at social media takes not only time and strategy, but it often takes an outgoing personality. If you've been described as a people person or friendly, you may have what it takes. Or you may be a connector — someone who enjoys making connections and providing helpful information. In any case, you'll need to have some personal or professional experience with social media before hosting an account on behalf of VUMC.

According to the social media policy, the social media team must review and approve any proposals for any official VUMC social media accounts. The review process begins by understanding your business objectives for the account, which must align with the medical center’s missions in education, research and patient care. You may begin the process by completing this application.