About this summary
A talk on “Using Digital for Recruitment and Marketing: No IT Expertise Needed! Part 1 – Supporting the discovery of information about your side)” was given by Brian Kelly on a Morris Federation talk held on Zoom on 10 December 2023.
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Summary
Summary of “Using Digital for Recruitment and Marketing: No IT Expertise Needed!” (Part 1)
A Talk by Brian Kelly, Organised by the Morris Federation (10 December 2023, via Zoom)
Brian Kelly’s talk focused on how Morris sides can enhance their digital presence to support recruitment and marketing, even without technical expertise. He emphasised the importance of making information about a side easy to discover online, ensuring that potential dancers, musicians, and audiences can find key details quickly and effortlessly.
Key Themes and Takeaways
1. The Importance of Online Discovery
Brian highlighted how people typically search for activities and events online, making it essential for Morris sides to be visible in search results. He explained that while a website remains valuable, other platforms, such as social media, event listings, and community websites, also play a crucial role in making a side discoverable.
2. Optimising Your Website for Search Engines (SEO Basics)
For those with a website, Brian suggested simple improvements to boost visibility on Google. He recommended:
- Ensuring key information (name, location, practice details) is clearly displayed.
- Using descriptive page titles and headings.
- Adding metadata (such as keywords and descriptions).
- Regularly updating content to signal activity.
He reassured attendees that many website platforms, such as WordPress, make these adjustments easy, often without needing coding skills.
3. Leveraging Social Media for Discoverability
Many potential new members might not visit a website first but may instead come across a side via social media. Brian advised:
- Creating and maintaining a Facebook page (not just a group) to appear in public searches.
- Using Instagram and TikTok to share engaging visual content.
- Posting regularly and using relevant hashtags.
- Encouraging members to share posts to increase visibility.
He pointed out that engaging posts—such as videos of performances, practice clips, or behind-the-scenes insights—help attract attention and demonstrate the side’s personality and appeal.
4. The Power of Google Business Profile
Brian strongly encouraged sides to set up a Google Business Profile (previously Google My Business), which helps groups appear in Google Maps and search results. He noted that this free tool allows sides to display contact details, website links, photos, and even receive reviews—making it easier for newcomers to find and assess the group.
5. Getting Listed on Other Websites
Beyond their own platforms, Morris sides can benefit from being listed on:
- Local event websites and directories.
- Arts and cultural organisations’ listings.
- Folk dance networks and festival sites.
- Community Facebook groups.
Brian recommended checking where other successful groups are listed and ensuring the side’s details appear in similar places.
6. Encouraging Word-of-Mouth and Engagement
Digital tools complement traditional recruitment methods, but word-of-mouth remains powerful. Brian suggested encouraging members and supporters to share posts, leave Google reviews, and engage with content to boost visibility through social proof.
Conclusion
The session reinforced that improving digital presence doesn’t require deep technical knowledge—just small, consistent actions. By making key information easy to find online and using free, user-friendly tools like social media and Google Business Profile, Morris sides can attract new members and audiences effectively.
This was the first in a series of talks, promising further insights into digital strategies for the Morris community.