Winter athletes have a significant opportunity
to build a dedicated following leading up to the Sochi Winter Olympic games by beginning
now.
Envision yourself at the Olympic Games
representing you country with a wonderful, supportive following wishing you
well, taking this journey with you and learning more about your awesome
sport. Who knows what amazing opportunities could come from you sharing your journey.
Your experiences are unique and interesting. Folks want
to go on this journey with you. Think about the
positive impact you can have on your story, the story of your team
and the story of your sport. Building your following with authentic
posts over social media channels is one way to achieve this goal.
One of the most
powerful, influential and moving mediums on the internet are
photographs. Especially of authentic behind-the-scenes
moments in your daily lives.
They are quick and easy and you’re already posting them, so it’s a very
simple way to share. Facebook has even begun to automatically privately upload your images by "Sync."
Make only certain photos are public and shareable with your Sport’s main page.
- First open up the photo you’d like to share.
- Then select the small icon next to the date to change the privacy settings.
- Select the option to change the privacy setting.
- Hit save and now only that particular photo can be seen publicly and made shareable by the Sports organization, your subscribers, fans and friends of your fans and your own friends.
Types of posts to
create through your Active World Cup/Competition season –
Travel days –
Arrival – let your folks know you've arrived
safely
First course walk – first impressions
Group photos with your team and with other
athletes
Favorite foods, special treats you can only have
in the location
What inspires you?
What is so special about the location?
What is your history there?
How do you prepare? What are your rituals?
Quiet moments
Sled work
Race day – weather, prep,etc
Results
Podium (even if you are not on it – congratulate
the winners, it’s good sportsmanship)
Thank your supporters and sponsors – tag them in
the post inline or by photo tag
Celebration pics
And many more!
Pick 3/5 of these ideas and challenge yourself to post at
least once per day or whatever goal you feel you can consistently achieve. Make sure to describe in positive
detail what the picture is about, why it's interesting to you, why it might be
interesting to us.
Here are a few tips
-
1. Never criticize (even yourself), condemn or
complain
2. Give honest sincere appreciation
3. Smile!
4. Begin in a friendly way
5. Ask questions
6. Count your blessings
7. Let your natural enthusiasm shine
8. Follow other athletes who you think does a good job
9. Follow and re-post your teammate’s posts to build audience
Your honest, authentic and sincere sharing builds a
dedicated following of fans and supporters which is especially important as we
get closer to the Olympics in Sochi. If
you have specific questions, I am happy to help!
