Eighteenth Thing: Engaging with Social Media

Thinking about using social media to share your research, but not sure where to start? This Thing written by Lucy Napthali and Andy Hurt outlines how to build a social media profile, pick the right platform, and manage any risks. Plus, read an interview with TikTok sensation Mary McGillivray, aka @theiconoclass, about how she uses social media to share her research on the late Middle Ages in northern Italy.

Why should researchers use social media?

Using social media is beneficial, not only for you as a researcher, but for other academics and wider general audiences. Some benefits include:

• Reach: you’re able to communicate your research to a broader audience than traditional publishing channels.
• Networking: you can establish your online identity while connecting with others, providing opportunities for collaboration regardless of location.
• Speed: it allows for instant communication of your ideas.