Social media use has increased dramatically in recent years and is now mainstream. Most Americans use social networks, with Facebook being the largest. Younger generations are more likely to use mobile social apps. Extension services are increasing their use of platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and blogs to share information with broader audiences. Effective social media use involves listening to audiences, being transparent, and using analytics to measure engagement.

2. Social networking is now mainstream. Don't ignore it. Americans using social networks increased from 24% in 2008 to 48% in 2010 Facebook 800+ million ~42% of U.S. adults are active

3. 106+ million Twitter accounts 17 million Americans, 87% are aware 33% of monthly users are 25 to 34 years old 53% are “lurkers”-read but don’t post

4. Social networking is now mainstream Blogs – short updates – images and videos 226 blogs registered on eXtension www.extension.org/people/colleagues/socialnetworks

7. YouTube Extension Channel Examples K-State Research and Extension 519 videos 278 subscribers 290,000+ views Ohio State University Extension 91 videos, 82 subscribers 30,000+ views University of Wisconsin Extension 148 subscribers 90,000 views

8. Mobile and social Mobile Social Networking App audience grew 126% to 42.3 Million users in the past year. 38% of Americans own a smartphone. An average of 35 apps installed. 40% of tablet and smartphone owners use them while watching TV.

9. Access to technology is changing quickly Electronic communication survey (123 of 600 responded 12/2011 LA Rice Industry Desktop computer 69% Laptop computer 64% Smartphone or cell phone with data 64% Cell phone without data 47% iPad 28% Don ’t make assumptions about your audience – ask questions

10. Farmers ’ Use of Technology Get information to where the audience is: Farmers smartphone ownership 2009: 3% 2010: 10% 2011: 41% Trend is moving upward; what will next year be? http://connect.ksre.ksu.edu/p32157833/?launcher=false&fcsContent=true&pbMode=normal

11. Source for info about politics (rely on most) Local Newspaper Local TV 18-39 years old 16% 40+ years old 34% 18-39 years old 19% 40+ years old 34% Internet 18-39 years old 26% 40+ years old 12%

12. Generic analysis of online consumer profile http://www.forrester.com/empowered/tool_consumer.html

13. Let's hear from you Why do you need to use social media? What do you need to use social media? What do you want to accomplish with social media? What prevents you from using social media?

16. Tips on Measuring Start with goals How many times content is reshared Comments made Increase likes Analytics of how many start and continue

19. K-State Demo Garden Blog stats

20. Photos used with posts result in engagement!

21. Google Analytics: KSU Turfgrass Blog

22. Google Analytics: KSU Turfgrass Blog

23. Klout