Wondering about best practices for using social media in youth ministry? Then check out these valuable insights from veteran youth leader Brandon Early.
Awhile back, I asked my supervisor for budget approval to purchase a new video camera. I expected to hear that I was asking for too much money. I presented my request, and there was no discussion. It was a resounding “yes.”
I asked, “It’s that easy?” My supervisor replied, “Why wouldn’t I say yes? That camera will help you tell the story behind your ministry. Many teens will go on your trips. But through video, our whole church will be able to experience those trips and see their impact.”
I thought the win was getting a nice camera. But my supervisor saw the camera as a tool that would help our youth ministry move the needle toward a greater win. That brief conversation many years ago expanded how I think. It bleeds over into how we approach social media today.
My success isn’t tied to cool tech, followers, or likes. Instead, I use four guardrails to leverage our resources. When using social media in youth ministry, these guidelines help me build momentum to fulfill our mission.
4 Guidelines for Using Social Media in Youth Ministry
1. Content is king.
First up: Yes, we know Jesus is King. But a friend who works at a TV station shared that phrase many years ago. While expensive equipment makes things look good, the worst-shot YouTube video can get hundreds of millions of views. Just because your TikTok was shot in 4K doesn’t mean people will come back to your stream.
Small Win: The product was high-quality and beautiful.
Big Win: The content brought viewers back.
2. Credibility is your currency.
If you want teenagers to return, you must build trust with them. If they think you’re only going to sell them something, push them toward an event, or make them do something for you, chances are they will keep scrolling. There is power in trust. How are you building trust with your community of students?
Small Win: I told them what I wanted to tell them.
Big Win: We are building trust.
3. Leave kids wanting more.
We make this mistake all the time with games. We quit the game when the fun gets out of hand instead of leaving everyone wanting more. When using social media in youth ministry, don’t post too much or too little. Always quit before the peak.
Small Win: I overloaded kids with everything I had.
Big Win: I left them on the edge of their seats.
