Objectives: To familiarize participants with different types and functions of social media; demonstrate a range of tools and provide practical guidance on using social media to communicate Cochrane evidence; provide guidance on selecting primary audiences, targeting posts, establishing channels, and tips on fitting social media into already busy schedules.

Description: Are you looking for ways to get the word out more effectively about Cochrane activities and evidence? Social media networks and tools provide opportunities to promote content and to engage with prospective Cochrane users and contributors. However, new users of social media may be daunted by the volume of information available and the prospect of integrating a social media plan into already overloaded work schedules. This workshop will familiarize participants with the social media landscape: the most popular networks (including Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and more); how each platform can be used to disseminate content (from sharing links to images and blogshots); and how audience engagement differs across platforms. We will introduce solutions for incorporating social media into daily tasks and tools to track success and measure impact. The session will provide an opportunity to explore social media in a supported environment, including hands-on exercises in disseminating content across multiple platforms. Finally, we will invite experienced Cochrane contributors to share social media 'success stories'.