SORRY, BUT INSTAGRAM DOES MATTER!

I know we like to say that social media and sites like Instagram don’t matter, but they do. In the words of Demi Lavato “Sorry, not sorry.”

 

INTRODUCTION

Effectively using Instagram in the Newsroom

 

What will we learn in this module?

This module is about learning how to effectively use Instagram in the Newsroom.

Objectives:

After completing this instruction, learners will be able to:

  • Understand what Instagram is

  • Create an Instagram account

  • Describe the type of content that lives on Instagram

  • Make a post on Instagram

  • Understand why it is important for journalist to get “on board” with the app

Motivation:

Knowing how to effectively use Instagram in the Newsroom allow for journalists and media organizations to:

  • Stay in tune with the social conversation

  • Allow for media personalities to directly contact their audience for immediate feedback and information

  • Create more revenue opportunities

  • Find more stories

  • Verify the validity of stories

  • Increase fame/ stardom

  • Reach audiences across multiple platforms

  • Create more creative content

Key Terminology:

Here are some key words that are important to note when working on Instagram (although these may not be words we use in today’s module … they are still important to note).

  • Post - The photo or video on the screen

  • Caption: Description placed under the post

  • Direct Message: A message that only goes to a selected person/ persons

  • Insta/ IG: Slang for the app known as Instagram

  • Handle: The username you chose (remember that everyone can see this)

  • Mention: The act of tagging another user by placing the @ sign before their username.

  • Newsfeed: The “homepage” of the social media platform you’re looking at, and typically the first page you’re directed to immediately after logging in.

  • Hashtag: The # symbol in front of words. This makes it easier for people to find a specific type of content. #AtlantaAnchor

  • Trend: Popular topic based on how many users have posted a topic with a specific hashtag.

  • Business Page: A free feature for companies who wish to be recognized as a business on Instagram. This feature provides a contact button that allows the company to decide how their audience can get in touch with them, as well as get directions to the brick and mortar location.

  • Filter: A way for you to personalize your photos and enhance their look.

  • Private vs Public Profile: Profile with settings such that you can approve or reject other users’ requests to follow you and see your content vs any user can find your profile, follow you, and see your content.

*Some definitions came from: https://thrivehive.com/social-media-glossary/

Prerequisites for this module:

This module is being taught under the pretenses that all learners are adults (21+), working in the media space, creating a digital product (even if the product is you) and has reasonable knowledge of the media/ journalism jargon and landscape.

Standards:

This module is so important because there aren’t any specific standards for journalist in the Instagram space. The industry is behind, which is why we have to address the curve that is hindering the industry. With that being said, most journalist in general follow the SPJ CODE OF ETHICS. The code of Ethics breaks down into four main areas which should be able to translate across most platforms:

  • Seek Truth and Report It

  • Minimize Harm

  • Act Independently

  • Be Accountable and Transparent