More Social, Less Media: Social Media Strategy That Works in 2026

More Social, Less Media: Social Media Strategy That Works in 2026

To break through the noise on social media today demands a shift from chasing followers to creating content that algorithms and audiences truly value. This session explores how platforms are moving beyond the social graph toward an entertainment-first, interest-driven model. You’ll learn why DMs, group chats, and private sharing are now at the heart of social interaction, and how to build strategy around these spaces. We’ll also dive into the “searchification” of social, where TikTok and Instagram are quickly replacing Google as go-to discovery tools. Come away with practical insights on how to thrive in this new era where content relevance, shareability, and community matter more than follower counts.

Networking: 11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Panel Discussion: 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch Included: RSVP by Monday, March 9, to guarantee your meal

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Our luncheon will take place in Valley Community Center's brand new space. The Bridges Venue is a multi-use space with seating for up to 200 guests and AV technology. For more information or to reserve one of the center's many spaces, visit their website here.

Chris Snider has spent his career pushing for innovative and creative ways to tell and present stories in print and online. He’s currently a professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Drake University in Des Moines. Chris has a degree in journalism from the University of Iowa and an MBA from Drake University.

Chris teaches undergraduate classes in social media strategy, multimedia, digital media strategy and web design. He also teaches graduate classes in Drake’s Master of Communication program.

He was previously assistant managing editor for digital innovation at the Des Moines Register, editor of Juice magazine, news design director at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and a designer at the Baltimore Sun.

Chris Snider is a strong proponent of simple, clean design. He has been a leader in how media companies use social media, mobile and search engine optimization.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher AAF of Des Moines