Short form video can be a gold mine when it comes to reach & discovery, but all that increased visibility can also be a double-edged sword...
In other words, more exposure can = more trolls. So what’s a social media manager to do?!
Here’s how to deal with social media trolls on behalf of your clients…
📵 Block Them + Report Harassment - In order to eliminate harassing comments from one specific account, the best thing to do is report the comments & block the account that posted them.
🚫 Restrict Comments With Specific Words / Phrases - While Instagram now does a pretty good job at hiding comments that may be seen as offensive, it’s also a good idea to go into your client’s settings and add any additional words or phrases that might be considered bullying/harassment.
👏 Create An Arsenal Of Clever Comebacks - If a decision has been made to not take trolls too seriously, then we recommend brainstorming a few clever comebacks to keep in your back pocket in order to shut the haters down. Or, you can simply thank the meanies for the additional engagement & move on with your day!
👀 Call Them Out On Video - This method is a means to make an example out of the unacceptable behavior – just make sure that YOU don’t become the bully in this scenario. If your clients are onboard, you could even create awesome, controversial [hilarious] content via Video Replies using your hater / troll comments!
✌️ Ignore It & Move On - One of the most common methods of dealing with SM trolls is to simply ignore them, possibly delete their comment, and move on! Don’t even give them the time of day.
At the end of the day, trolls will be trolls. 👹
Work with your clients to determine the best course of action for when these types of comments pop up. And think of it this way, if your social media strategy is working, the account is likely growing & being exposed to more new people, more often
An increase in troll-like comments is bound to happen as you grow – meaning you’re probably doing SOMETHING right!
