Top 3 Social Media Mistakes to Avoid

Inspired by insights from Sam Green (via NIL/mba with Bill Carter of Student Athlete Insights)

For student athletes in today’s digital world, social media is more than just a place to post highlights. It’s a platform to build your brand, grow your network, and create real opportunities for your long term goals. 

At POLARIS Student Athlete Consulting, we believe in helping you lead with purpose, on and off the field. That includes being strategic about how you show up online. Avoiding these common mistakes can make all the difference in how you’re perceived by coaches, brands, recruiters, and peers.

1. Only Posting Trends

Trends can help boost reach, but they can’t build your reputation.

While jumping on the latest sound or viral challenge might earn a few likes, it won’t help you stand out in the long run. Instead, focus on content that aligns with your values, goals, and vision. Ask yourself: “Would this post resonate with a future coach, corporate partnership, or employer?”

Build a brand, not just a feed.

2. Posting Without Thinking

Every post tells a story. Make sure it’s one you want to be known for.

Whether it’s a casual comment, a shared meme, or a game-day photo, your audience is watching. That includes college coaches, recruiters, brand reps, and future collaborators. Think before you post. Does it reflect your character, discipline, and goals?

Intentional content builds credibility and trust.

3. Chasing Followers Instead of Building Community

It’s not about how many follow you. It’s about who believes in you.

Growing a community means engaging with your audience, showing up consistently, and providing value beyond the surface. When you build relationships, not just reach, you create opportunities that last far beyond the algorithm.

Community leads to long-term impact.

Bottom Line: Build with Purpose. Grow with Strategy.

Your social media presence is part of your story. Don’t let short-term trends, impulsive posts, or follower counts define your path.

At POLARIS, we help student athletes develop the tools to build authentic, intentional, and future-ready personal brands both online and off.

Special thanks to Sam Green for these powerful takeaways, shared during last night’s NIL/mba session with Bill Carter of Student Athlete Insights. We’re excited to bring this insight and more to our student athletes and families.