Coconino Community College - Flagstaff

Social media doesn't have to mean posting every day, chasing trends, or trying to go viral. In this practical, hands-on course, small-business owners, entrepreneurs, and local service providers will learn how to build a simple, sustainable social media presence that supports real business goals.

Participants will learn how to choose the right platforms for their audience, develop an easy-to-follow content strategy, create engaging posts and short-form videos, write effective captions and calls to action, and turn social media engagement into meaningful business opportunities. The course will introduce five essential content pillars: education, showcasing, behind-the-scenes, community, and social proof.

Through guided exercises, participants will identify their primary social media platform, develop content ideas, and create a simple first-week posting plan they can put into action immediately. The course also covers engagement strategies, meaningful social media metrics, and ways to build a repeatable content system.

Participants will leave with a practical social media framework, content ideas, and a plan for building a consistent and purposeful online presence. 

Instructor Rachel Starke is a freelance marketing professional with experience leading marketing initiatives for both small businesses and larger organizations. Her background includes working as a Digital Marketing Specialist, Social Media Manager, and Marketing Manager. She has experience in social media strategy, content creation, digital communications, analytics, and campaign development across multiple industries. She now brings that experience to her freelance work, helping small businesses build practical, effective marketing systems.

Rachel also holds a Master of Education, giving her a strong foundation in communication, audience engagement, and making complex concepts approachable. Her combination of professional marketing experience and an educator’s perspective allows her to teach business owners how to create a social media presence that is strategic, sustainable, and connected to real business goals.