Georges Seurat, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte, 1884-84. Public domain.
The Social Media department is a relatively new department thanks to a rise in the usage of social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X (formerly known as Twitter), Bluesky, etc. In some companies, the Social Media Department can be a part of either the Marketing or Publicity Department as well. Nowadays, most big publishing companies have a social media department specifically to do social media outreach and how to best promote books on social media platforms (such as reaching out to influencers for the promotion of books), as well as . Employees within this department also keep track of past and present social media trends in order to better understand the demands of the markets and their demographics.
Positions within this department vary from roles such as Social Media Assistants to Project Managers. In some cases, this department can also include roles for graphic designers and illustrators in order to create the graphics and visuals for the social media posts (besides the jackets and covers).
Employees within the Social Media departments also run the social media accounts of their respective companies in order to promote their products and keep up with current trends. Both the Marketing and Social Media Departments can utilize promotional strategies such as book giveaways and newsletters as well.
Instagram is a free photo and video-sharing app within the Meta network. Users can post visual content to their feed or Stories and interact through likes, comments, and shares. With features like Reels and Instagram Live, the platform is especially popular for visual storytelling, lifestyle branding, and creative expression.
TikTok
TikTok is a fast-growing video-sharing app owned by ByteDance, known for its short-form content and viral challenges. Users can create videos to reach a massive global audience, based on the app’s algorithm. It is especially popular among Gen Z and has become a space for cultural trends and digital creativity.
X (formerly known as Twitter)
X is a social networking platform where users share text and image content within a limited character count. It encourages open dialogue and fast-paced interaction through posts, reposts, replies, and hashtags. A space for news, commentary, and public conversation, it remains a hub for cultural and political discourse.
Facebook is one of the world’s largest social media platforms, used for connecting with friends and joining communities. As part of Meta, it offers features like Stories, Reels, and even event planning tools. It appeals to a broad age range and supports long-form content, group discussions, and business pages.
Threads
Threads is a text-focused social media app developed by Meta as a companion to Instagram. It allows users to share short posts and engage in threaded conversations. Threads is positioned as a more positive and community-focused alternative to X, without the push of algorithms.
BlueSky
BlueSky is a decentralized social media platform initiated by Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey. It aims to give users more control over their data and content moderation. BlueSky encourages free expression, appealing to those seeking alternatives to mainstream platforms.