Facebook Live first came out in April 2016, and quickly gained popularity as celebrities and sports stars started live streaming on their accounts. Now, brands, radio stations, news channels, local boutiques, and sports teams are using the service to engage and interact with their fans and followers.

Facebook Live for Nonprofits

Think your nonprofit is ready to take on Facebook Live? Keep reading to learn more about Facebook Live and how your organization can take advantage of this social media goldmine.

What is Facebook Live?

Facebook Live is a feature that allows people and brands to share live video with their friends and followers. During a live video, you can see who is engaging with your broadcast (asking questions, live reactions, number of viewers) and gauge how well your video is doing.

Facebook Live

Ways to Use Facebook Live

Starting a Facebook Live event can seem a little daunting. You might think that it needs to be super well planned or part of an overarching campaign. And while, yes, that will help, Facebook Live can also be relaxed, fun, and something that happens because it feels right.

Here are some ideas of how to incorporate Facebook Live into your nonprofit strategy:

  • During a fundraising campaign
  • Behind-the-scenes moments while getting ready for a fundraising campaign or other event
  • Random happenings at the office
  • When you hit a fundraising goal
  • Interview high roller donors about why your mission is important them (Q&A)

There are so many other ways you can use Facebook Live to engage and interact with your audience. Ask your followers what they’d like to see or know – this will give you even more ideas for a successful Facebook Live strategy.

Or check out HubSpot’s article on the best Facebook Live videos to get your creative juices flowin’.

Facebook Live Best Practices for Nonprofits

  • Tell people when you’re going to be live! – Give your followers a little notice so they can make sure to catch the live action.
  • Have a purpose – What is the goal of running a Facebook Live event? Doing it just because could seem unorganized and give off the wrong impressions. Having a clear idea (like the ones above), gives your event purpose. There is a clear understanding of what your followers are going to see.
  • Experiment – Try new things to see what sticks with your followers. You never know what is going to get their attention or catch their eye.

Want to learn more about Facebook Live? Get additional tips and tricks here.