Okay cheerleaders, let's have a talk about social media. It's your instant access to all the best cheerleading news and the easiest way to keep in touch with all your best cheer friends from other gyms across the country.

From fun puppy filters on Snapchat to hilarious cheer memes on Twitter, what's not to love about social media? Unfortunately, sometimes there can be too much of a good thing.

With all the wonders of social media, there comes great responsibility. It's fun and exciting to gain new followers, rack up retweets and likes, but let's take a step back and make sure we have our social media etiquette in check before we pick the perfect filter for our next after-practice selfie.

Friends Over Followers

Remember your team should always come first. Don't let your desire to reach social media stardom keep you from accomplishing great things with your team. When it's go time at practice or competition, put your phone down and focus on what you came to do. Go slay a routine with your teammates and you can post  that cute action shot when you get off the mat.

Think About The Power Of Positivity

Whether you're at school, at home, in practice, or on the web, manners matter. All posts and comments should evoke positivity. Your image is your brand and you want to promote yourself in a positive light, so remember that when you're crafting your next post.

When commenting on someone else's post, remember that it's a person you are talking to. Always build people up and empower them to be their best selves. If you can't think of anything nice to say, don't comment at all.

Always remember to tweet others how you want to be tweeted!

Keep It Classy: There Are Little Eyes Upon You

My parents gave me my first cell phone when I started cheerleading in case I needed them for an emergency, and I can promise you it was not a smart phone; texting hadn't even been invented.

These days, everyone has a phone and kids are getting smartphones and social media at a very young age. Don't forget that these little ones look up to you and follow your every move. Be a good role model for them and be aware of the example you are setting for cheerleaders who dream to be like you one day.

Stay True To Yourself

Don't post something because "it's cool" and it will gain you followers. Stay true to yourself and your character. You are a one-of-a-kind original darling, so don't let the world change you. 

Likewise, the more followers you do have the greater your social presence reaches outside the cheerleading community, and businesses will begin to recognize you. Don't represent a product you don't wholeheartedly believe in and always consult with your coach and parents before promoting anything on your account.

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