HootUpInternational HootUpsSocial media is widely recognized as a forum for communication,spreading ideas and sharing information in a digital realm. But it’s alsobecome a catalyst for meet-ups and events offline — forming newfriendships, rallying folks together for a cause or just an excuse to share afew stories. Take part and host a HootUp!What is a HootUp?A HootUp is a casual, free event organized by HootSuite users around theworld. HootUps are planned and hosted by fans as grassroots “unofficial”HootSuite events. HootUps — a fun way to widenWhy to have a HootUp? your network,Want to share your HootSuite fanship with others? HootUps are perfect talk about yourfor relating experiences, networking, educating others on social media HootSuite skills,best practices, scoring some HootSuite swag and simply having fun. Asan organizer, it’s also a great way to draw attention to the unique ways spread culture,you use social media in your business. and make new friendsPlanning Tips1. Date & Time: Selecting an appropriate date and time is important.A Friday or Saturday night will likely conflict with busy social agendas.Consider which day of the week is best and try to send invites well inadvance (we recommend at least 1 month).2. Venue: When choosing a place for a HootUp, consider the following: Check out our keynotes• Can it accommodate your guests on the given date? There are several HootSuite• Will you be able to do what you planned: keynotes, networking, etc.? Slidedecks to give you inspiration on event themes• Will attendees enjoy the venue, does it fit their tastes? and topics. Feel free to use• Is there free WiFi? these slidedecks or make your own with the HootSuite materials available on the3. Get props and swag: Do you need a projector? A microphone? Plan in online media kit.advance and make sure you have the props required to run things smoothly. 1
HootUp4. Make some noise: No people = no HootUp. Use Twitter, Facebook,LinkedIn, and other tools to draw attention to your event. Invite friends,followers and popular local bloggers to come as they will likely share theinfo within their own circles.5. What to talk about?: Think through the agenda for the HootUp. Willthere be a panel? Are there going to be keynote speakers? Or is it just acasual networking opportunity? Depending on the format, prepare ways How can HootSuite helpto entertain your guests. And be sure to keep the conversation going with your HootUp?a hashtag like #HootUpNYC. HootSuite is happy to provide support and mentoring to6. Look for speakers: Expert speakers are always a hit — consider help make your HootUp thehaving one at your HootUp to share best practices, tips and tricks. best it can be. We will sendLook for certified HootSuite users in your area, or send an email to some #HootKits your waycommunity+hootups [at] hootsuite.com. and amplify your messages across various social chan- nels, including Twitter and7. Support a cause: HootUps are an excellent forum for spreading Facebook. We also provide aawareness and raising money for charities or disaster relief funds. guide to setting up HootUpsEncourage attendees to donate, but please don’t charge a mandatory fee. in your area.8. Share your experience: Take as many pictures as you can and tagthem “HootSuite” on Twitter, Flickr, etc. Upload videos to YouTube, orbetter yet, uStream it so fans from around the globe will know about yoursuccessful event.9. Write about it: Write a review of your event on your blog. The remarkswill help others enjoy your work – and might bring you a good shareof traffic too. And live-Tweet your HootUp so others can follow alongremotely. Invite attendees to use a HootUp hashtag such as #HootUpNYCor #HootUpLondon. Photo: by @stefkurniadi at Hootup Bandung Help others make it better More information: Have feedback about your HootUp? Collected testimo- Email: community+hootups@hootsuite.com nials from the attendees? Twitter: @HootUp Have advice about things that worked well (or didn’t)? Let us know how we can help make the experience better for other organizers. 2