Employment and career services

 

Theme 3

Connecting with young people on 

digital media platforms

Let’s be real—young people practically live online these days. Whether it’s scrolling through TikTok, chatting on Discord, or creating content on Instagram, digital media is a huge part of their daily lives. If you work with youth, whether as a teacher, social worker, or mentor, meeting them in these digital spaces isn’t just an option anymore—it’s a necessity. But how do you do it in a way that actually works?

Meet them where they are

First things first: if you want to connect with young people, you have to go where they are. That means understanding the platforms they use and how they interact with content. TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, and Instagram are big, but don’t sleep on platforms like Twitch or Reddit, where communities thrive. Instead of expecting them to come to you, step into their world and see what’s trending.

Keep it real

The last thing young people want is another adult showing up online trying too hard to be “relatable.” They can spot fake energy from a mile away. Instead of forcing trends or using outdated slang, just be yourself. Speak naturally, be open, and most importantly, listen. Engagement isn’t about posting perfect content - it’s about having real conversations.

Make content that grabs attention

Short, visual, and interactive content works best. Think quick videos, memes, and polls instead of long text posts. If you’re trying to share useful information, break it down in a way that’s easy to digest - think of it like texting a friend, not writing a school report.

Encourage two-way interaction

Young people don’t just want to consume content - they want to be part of the conversation. Ask them questions, create polls, respond to their comments, and let them have a say in what gets talked about. If they feel heard, they’ll be way more likely to engage.

Set boundaries and stay safe

While digital spaces are great for connection, they also come with risks. If you’re working with youth online, be mindful of privacy, safety, and ethical guidelines. Set clear boundaries about how and where interactions happen, and make sure young people know how to protect themselves online too.

Final thoughts

Working with young people on digital media platforms isn’t about trying to be the coolest adult in the room - it’s about showing up, being present, and creating spaces where they feel seen and heard. If you can do that while respecting their world and their digital culture, you’re already on the right track.