Democracy lives online. As an elected official, social media allows you to educate and build a strong following on the issues you are passionate about. It also gives you the opportunity to influence members of the public and showcase your political knowledge.

Follow these tips to gain an edge in your social media communications.

1. Use honesty to gain respect

People tune you out if you sound too polished. Your followers will respect you if you are upfront with them about your views.

We already have extreme vetting for refugees. What is dangerous is the White House is not allowing a thorough vetting for cabinet nominees.

— Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) February 3, 2017

2. Be personal and don’t be afraid to be emotional

Don’t over-rely on numbers when informing your followers about policy points.

Cold facts and figures may be helpful in making an argument, but remember to make your posts personal with stories.

Appeal to your followers’ emotions: their compassion, trust, and anticipation.

3. Be proactive

As elected officials, we have to respond to news stories in a political environment we have little control over.

Be proactive about obtaining key lessons from current events to establish yourself as a thought leader for your followers.

4. Find your inner circle

Tag or mention other elected officials or advocates who are as passionate about an issue as you.

This is a win-win for your audience and reach.

Thank you @SenSanders for reading Coretta Scott King's letter on the Senate floor. It is powerfully important. https://t.co/3VMZuE8tdp

— Elizabeth Warren (@SenWarren) February 8, 2017

5. Provide a snapshot of personality

Use your real voice with each post. By adding a personal touch, your followers will embrace your unique personality.

We will not go back to the days when being a woman was a “pre-existing condition” because you could get pregnant. #DebateWithBernie

— Bernie Sanders (@SenSanders) February 8, 2017

6. Respond to comments

If you respond to comments, even ones you disagree with, you will get credit from your followers for your honesty. Be careful to not engage in an argument.

.@realDonaldTrump, you should know by now that your hate and lies have no place in Minnesota, especially while our Vikes are playing.

— Al Franken (@alfranken) November 5, 2016

7. Read it and check it twice

Don’t hit send on a post without consulting a trusted source. Be deliberate and thoughtful in every post you communicate with. Think of each post as if were going out on your own personal stationery.