Big time D-I coaches from power conferences like the Pac-12 and the Big 12 have been quoted as saying that using Facebook is one of their preferred ways of communicating with recruits. Give those schools an easy way to get to know you with these three tips.
Make yourself private, yet searchable
For extra privacy, adjust your Facebook privacy settings so people cannot write on your wall or tag you in pictures. This will prevent others from making you look bad. But make sure your profile shows up in searches by coaches and admission department reps who are looking to get to know you. It’s important to be available when the right people are searching for you online.
Approach your Facebook profile as you would your résumé
You can still have fun on Facebook, message your friends and look at pictures all you want. But, think about using Facebook as a way to demonstrate that you are mature, focused, and potentially valuable as a recruit. Think before posting status updates. If a local paper has good things to say about your performance in a recent game, sure, link to it. Minimize party photos and other items that may be perceived negatively.
Don’t just tell people who you are; show them who you are
The best thing about Facebook is its ability to showcase photos and video, which help people feel like they are getting to know you. Include action shots of you on the field, but also video of you speaking directly into the camera (which also exhibits your comfort level with media). You’ll be helping coaches get a feel for the type of person you are.
Division I and II coaches are permitted to contact recruits via direct messages on Facebook and Twitter.