I just listened to a very popular social media podcast that opened with a VP of Digital Strategy very dangerously saying that if you want to work in social you have to mentally prepare yourself to be glued to your device 24/7.

(đŸ§”)
I’m asking our leaders to do better.

Don’t promote and celebrate such an unhealthy work environment. Working in social isn’t supposed to be warfare.

Instead of glorifying burnout, create an environment that protects us from it.
A good strategy doesn’t stop at growth and engagement. It includes a coverage plan that allows your social team to unplug when they aren’t on the clock.

A great strategy has tactics in place that allows your channels to run 24/7 without a SMM glued to their phone.
Having your team members "on" 24/7 isn't good for business either.

Other professions (doctors, pilots, truck drivers) have safeguards in place that prevent working non-stop because you make mistakes when you're burnt out.

No one wants their SMM making mistakes on their channels
The ONLY person that should be thinking about a company or brand 24/7 is the owner.

Instead of celebrating your social team being on 24/7:
-Pay them overtime
-Ask them about their mental health. -Create a culture that đšđ„đ„đšđ°đŹ them to use their PTO and unplug on days off.
The episode ends with the VP saying they’re an advocate for mental health, but social pros should be prepared to work 24/7.

That statement is an oxymoron.

They acknowledge all the hats we wear in this field, but acknowledgment isn’t protecting our mental well-being.
As a VP and self-proclaimed advocate for mental health, how is this mentality protecting theirs?

It isn’t, it’s gaslighting.
If anything, this should serve as a reminder to social pros that an employer will never care about you as much as YOU can care about yourself.

They'll work you 24/7 but lay you off when things get tight.

Please prioritize yourself and your own mental health.
You can follow @AYakatally.
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