Social media is traditionally thought as source of entertainment and platform for informal connection with friends and family. However, in the field of marketing communications, it is also an important industry tool. Social media provides a platform for networking, idea sharing and a source of industry news.

WVU Marketing Communications Brand Ambassadors Alexis Rogers and Marissa Bailey share tips on how they leverage their professional social media channels.

Alexis Rogers

Integrated Marketing Communications

Social Media Coordinator, Raven Fine Art Editions

Professional Twitter: @alexismrogers

What platforms do you use to promote your professional, personal brand?

I mainly use Twitter and LinkedIn to promote my professional, personal brand. I’ve had a Twitter account since 2012. I originally used the platform for entertainment and to pass time. It wasn’t until this past May that I started thinking of the platform as a networking tool. I started following and connecting with marketing professionals, and have developed some amazing relationships. There is such a supportive community within Marketing Twitter and I’m thankful for everyone I’ve met.

How would you describe your professional personal brand?

I would describe my professional, personal brand as authentic and relatable.
It’s so important to be authentic. Staying true to myself is very important for me. If someone met me in person or over Zoom, I would want them to feel that it’s the same person that’s tweeting. I love engaging with people and having conversations. I may be late on responding to people or liking tweets, but I do my best to always stay engaged and respond as much as possible.

I try to share informative content that’s also relatable. Everyone is going through something and sometimes sharing your story or experience can be very helpful.

Why do you think engaging on these platforms and keeping up with these channels is important?

Twitter is a powerful platform. I’ve heard many stories about how people got jobs from Twitter. You never know when an opportunity will present itself. Staying active and engaged on these platforms helps you stay up to date with industry news and trends. It also helps increase your credibility. Monitoring conversations or reading posts from credible people in the field is an incredible way to learn. Sharing your ideas or jumping into a conversation can help you stand out.

What tips do you have for those who are interested in running a professional account?

Find a community. Marketing Twitter is filled with amazing and knowledgeable people. I haven’t explored communities on other platforms as much, but I’m sure they exist, too. Follow people, learn from them, connect with them. Social media is like any relationship. Be supportive, genuine, helpful, and kind. Joining Twitter chats is a great way to meet people, to be able to share ideas, and to learn from others. The chats may seem overwhelming at first but Twitter chats have their own communities of great people. Once you join one, you’ll want to keep chatting in the future.