Social Media as a Dual Tool for Recruitment and Resident Collegiality

Over the past few decades, we have watched social media transform from an obscure hobby to a mainstream method of communication and interaction. Newer social media platforms include the Gen Z preferences of Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, and Reddit. With Facebook falling out of favor, Twitter remains relevant because of its steeped presence in medical education and as an excellent tool to disseminate evolving research and medical literature. The value of a strong social media presence for a residency has a twofold benefit: recruitment and resident wellness. As a recruitment tool, social media has allowed for applicants to glimpse day to day happenings within a program, from the birthdays celebrated on a night shift to a resident winning a research award. Especially with virtual only recruitment since 2020, more than ever social media may be one of the best ways for applicants to get a sense of the program. These same social media posts have the added benefit of improving residency morale, where achievements are applauded and personal accomplishments and life's joys are shared in a public space where residents feel celebrated and appreciated.

In this workshop, we will share and show examples of the various ways social media is used within our residency. Participants will create their own social media post highlighting a resident accomplishment, a research publication, or an event.