This is a series on the blog that highlights quick, winning hits from teams or leagues on social/digital. We’ve already talked about the Raiders and Michigan Football. Next up: The Panthers.
The Panthers always come up in #smsports conversation about being one of the best of the best in the NFL. They are a brand that isn’t afraid to have fun (it is social media after all), they always show up prepared and they get community. If you don’t follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, then go ahead and do so. And while I could write on and on about all the things they do right on social media, here are my three #smsports highlights from the Panthers’ approach to this season so far.
No. 1- They know fun (within reason).
Social media should be fun, but never come at the cost of the brand. The Panthers have found a way to be fun on Twitter without resorting to over-the-top gimmicks that take away from the brand. They save humor for the moments it makes sense, stop-ed-meds.com a bigger and more impactful splash.
Here’s a look at some of on-brand fun the Panthers have been able to have this season:
Nice win @Lions. pic.twitter.com/iXeTHllN2U
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 15, 2015
https://twitter.com/Panthers/status/663431813902303232
Hey @TheAcademy…are you still taking submissions? Asking for a friend. pic.twitter.com/z0VfApwiCS
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) October 26, 2015
https://twitter.com/Panthers/status/658491008611688448
If you look up reliable in the dictionary, @gregolsen88's picture will be there. #CARvsTEN
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 15, 2015
From the sample tweets above, it’s clear you can remain on brand and still have fun. The Panthers are proof that fun in social media doesn’t mean snark and edge that crosses the line. Take notes and pay attention!
No. 2- On fire design.
The Panthers have a sharp look and feel that’s consistent across platforms. I like their design for several reasons. First, it’s clear they do the prep work necessary to execute well during live coverage (templates are your best friend). Second, they make the information as consumable and possible (say no to info overload). And finally, they design for the platform (can I get a hallelujah?). Take a look at some of their content here:
#Panthers improve to 9-0 for first time in franchise history. #CARvsTEN
Rapid Recap ➡️ https://t.co/zGdFBULnuT pic.twitter.com/Bueri0oKF4
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 15, 2015
#Panthers take a 27-10 lead with 2:42 left! #CARvsTEN pic.twitter.com/X3NZBoA55V
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 15, 2015
#Titans win the toss and will receive. Go Time. #CARvsTEN pic.twitter.com/77C5yvVXe5
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 15, 2015
No. 3- They get the social piece.
All too often teams and leagues just push on social media. Twitter and other networks aren’t a broadcast platform; social media is about a community where teams and leagues need to engage. The @Panthers get the social piece of social media. They take the time to engage with their fans and their voice is fun, human and on point:
@DocHeelfire @UMwolfpack87 @NCSU_99_17_24 @belkbowl Nah, but we love having them over at our house.
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 17, 2015
@joeyellis Awesome and terrifying at the same time. You are an artist.
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 15, 2015
@madisonmaness This does not seem like a problem to us
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) November 13, 2015
As you can see above, even the @Panthers replies earn engagement. If you want to build the strongest community possible, then replying and engaging with fans is key. No, you don’t have to respond to every single person, but it is important to take time for your fans. Don’t be a robot either… have some fun!
Extra Points
And while I typically try to keep these posts short and sweet, the Panthers presence gets a few extra points for:
This quote Vine (cool creative).
And, sponsored content that is a natural fit.
What do you stands out to you about the Panthers’ social? Share your thoughts below!
Thanks for reading!
