There are countless examples of powerful Twitter and Facebook campaigns that break records, shake up the social media world and perplex experts. One that recently caught the eye of many was how J.J. Watt converted his name recognition into an online fund drive that raised over twenty million dollars for Hurricane Harvey victims in ten days, confounding even the most cynical skeptics.
The key to his success? Tweet. Post. Tweet. Repeat.
It was a family affair with his mom using her proven business skills to start a mini campaign in their hometown in Wisconsin and helped organize the never ending flow of donations which included both cash and supplies.
We all know the back story. On Sunday, August 27 at the beginning of the storm, Watt and his teammates were stranded following a layover in Dallas after a Saturday night preseason game in New Orleans. Many players were concerned because they had families back in Houston. Watt decided to take action then and there to help Houston and jumped on social media as the torrential rains pounded the Houston area.
Let the numbers do the talking:
J.J.’s success is impressive, but you don’t have to be a football pro to leverage social media effectively. PR professionals may glean valuable lessons learned from this extremely effective social media campaign:
Anyone wanting to donate can go to YouCaring.com/JJWatt
J.J. Watt helps volunteers unload a truckload of donations.