Your Digital Brand: How Social Media Can Power Your College Recruiting Journey
In today’s recruiting landscape, your social media profile is just as important as your highlight reel. College coaches are no longer just looking at your stats and game film; they are also using platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok to get a feel for your character, work ethic, and personality.
Think of your social media accounts as a digital resume. When used correctly, they can open doors and help you stand out from the crowd. When used poorly, they can end your recruiting journey before it even begins.
Here's your playbook for using social media to your advantage.
1. Be Professional and Public
Make Your Profile Public: This is non-negotiable. If a coach can't view your content, you don't exist in their recruiting pool.
Use a Professional Handle and Photo: Your username should be easy to find (e.g., your first and last name). Your profile picture should be a clear, recent photo of you in your athletic gear.
Fill Out Your Bio: Use this prime real estate to include essential information: your full name, graduation year, position, high school/club team, and key stats. Add a link to your recruiting profile or highlight video.
2. Curate Your Content
Your feed should be a reflection of who you are as a student and an athlete.
Showcase Your Skills: Post high-quality video clips of your athletic achievements, training sessions, and game highlights. This is your chance to show coaches what you can do on the field or court.
Highlight Your Character: Post about your academic successes, community service, and team accomplishments. Coaches want to see that you're a well-rounded person, not just an athlete. Show your dedication to your teammates and coaches.
Think Before You Post: Everything you post, like, or share reflects on you. Avoid inappropriate language, controversial opinions, or any content that could be seen as a red flag. If you have to wonder if a coach would approve, it's best not to post it.
3. Engage with Coaches and Programs
Social media is a great way to show genuine interest in a school.
Follow the Right Accounts: Follow the official accounts for the colleges you're interested in, as well as the head coach and assistant coaches.
Engage Respectfully: "Liking" posts is a good way to stay on a coach's radar. You can also retweet or share their content (without adding comments that violate NCAA rules).
Use Direct Messages Wisely: When the recruiting calendar allows for direct messaging, be professional. Treat a DM like a formal email. Introduce yourself clearly, state your purpose, and ask thoughtful questions. Don't spam or ask for a scholarship.
4. Understand the NCAA Rules
The rules for social media recruiting vary by division and sport.
Division I and II: Coaches have strict rules on when they can initiate contact with you. Before specific dates, they can "tap, don't type," meaning they can like or favorite your posts, but can't publicly comment or DM you.
Division III: DIII coaches have the most flexibility and can contact you at any time.
Always remember that these rules apply to coaches, not to you. You can reach out to a coach at any time, on or off social media, to express your interest.
The Bottom Line
Your social media profile is a powerful tool. It's an opportunity to build your brand, tell your story, and show coaches that you have the talent and character to be a great addition to their program.
Use it to your advantage, and you might just find your dream school sliding into your DMs.