How can you use Snapchat to prevent a social media crisis?

2 Plan your content

Snapchat is a fast-paced and ephemeral app, where your snaps disappear after 24 hours or after being viewed by your followers. This means you need to plan your content carefully, to make sure it is relevant, engaging, and consistent with your brand voice and message. You also need to avoid posting anything that could be offensive, misleading, or controversial, as it could spark a negative reaction or backlash from your followers or the public.

3 Monitor your feedback

Snapchat allows you to see how many people viewed, screenshot, or replied to your snaps, as well as how many people follow your account. You can use these metrics to monitor your feedback and gauge your audience's interest, satisfaction, and sentiment. If you notice any signs of dissatisfaction, confusion, or anger, you should respond quickly and politely, and address any issues or concerns. You should also keep an eye on other social media platforms, where your snaps could be shared or discussed.

4 Be transparent and authentic

Snapchat is a platform where you can show your brand's human side, by sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses, sneak peeks, or exclusive offers. You can also use Snapchat to showcase your social impact, values, or causes, and connect with your followers on a personal level. However, you should always be transparent and authentic, and avoid any false or exaggerated claims, or any attempts to hide or cover up your mistakes or failures. If you make a mistake, admit it, apologize, and explain how you will fix it.

5 Be creative and interactive

Snapchat is a platform where you can unleash your creativity and have fun with your followers. You can use filters, stickers, emojis, lenses, or music to spice up your snaps and make them more appealing and memorable. You can also use Snapchat to create interactive content, such as polls, quizzes, games, or challenges, and encourage your followers to participate and share their opinions, feedback, or experiences. This can help you build engagement, loyalty, and trust with your audience.

6 Be prepared and proactive

Snapchat is a platform where you can prevent or manage a social media crisis, by being prepared and proactive. You should have a social media crisis plan in place, which outlines your goals, strategies, roles, and responsibilities, in case of a potential or actual crisis. You should also have a crisis communication team, which monitors, responds, and updates your followers and the public, using Snapchat and other channels. You should also have a crisis recovery plan, which helps you restore your reputation and trust, after the crisis is resolved.