Just Food
Co-op

In October of 2023, I was hired at Just Food Co-op as a Social Media Specialist. Prior to my employment, the co-op's Instagram account was barely touched, and the Facebook account featured semi-frequent updates on what was available in store. When I left my position in May of 2024, I had increased engagement by over 500%. Below are a few of the things I did to help increase engagement, and make customers happy.

 

The first goal for this job, while it may sound simple, was to post, and post consistently to the co-op's social media channels. 

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With the help of my coworkers and by doing my own research, I learned what followers of Just Food Co-op wanted to see. First, I developed templates for daily hot meal options. One of the busiest areas at the co-op every day is the deli. People were curious what was being offered, and if food would still be in stock. The solution as mentioned earlier was to create and release deli menus online every morning for customers to see. The use of menus led to positive feedback both online and in person, which led me to consider other options for daily and weekly posts.

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By posting content that followers wanted to see, I realized that while there was a want for a large quantity of content, the quality of information given was also very important. I tried my hand at a few video reels, the most successful - were what appealed to the audiences interests and needs. While it was fun to make co-op ASMR videos, customers really enjoyed our staff picks series.

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For staff picks, a staff member from the co-op would give a short introduction, talk to the camera,, describe their favorite items, and tell the audience why they chose it. This series helped to showcase the personalities at the co-op, and it also gave insight into what kinds of items the store sold.

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Another goal was to tell people about how the Just Food Co-op operated and what was available to be purchased. Staff picks were a great gateway into daily product features and infographics about the co-op. The Infographics I made, were a great way for customers to learn and  share what the co-op does for the community.

 

Daily product features were a great way to show current deals at the co-op, and to feature local vendors. For co-op's like Just Food, there is a large emphasis on how much the store can support their community. One way to support the local community, is to sell local products, which is why I chose to feature such vendors.

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I view my time at Just Food Co-op as extremely valuable. I learned so much during my time there, it was a wonderful experience. I look forward to bringing what I learned into new careers and opportunities in social media.

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