Interview with Caspar van der Poel - social media day June 30

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Social media plays an increasingly important role in how we seek information, build trust, and make choices, even when it comes to health. How can acupuncturists respond to this in a way that suits them? In honor of Social Media Day (June 30), we asked Caspar van der Poel, who as project manager for the NVA focuses on the awareness of acupuncture.

What do you think social media can do to increase the awareness of acupuncture?

Through social media, we can be consistently visible to a large audience. It is a great opportunity to showcase how versatile and valuable our profession is. This way, we can positively influence the perception people have of acupuncture and ultimately help more people with health issues they are dealing with.

What would you like to see more often on social media when it comes to acupuncture?
'I really love acupuncture. I frequently witness how it changes someone's life. Take, for example, a woman from my practice who had been suffering from heel pain for years. She had tried everything: insoles, shockwave therapy, physiotherapy. Nothing helped. She could barely walk anymore.

That's when we started working together. After a few treatments, she could walk short distances again, and eventually she was effortlessly walking 15 kilometers. That's what it's all about.

These stories, about the journey clients take and the difference we can make, should be shown much more. As acupuncturists, we all have such examples. By sharing them, we demonstrate what acupuncture truly means.'

Not everyone feels immediately at home on social media. How can acupuncturists still be visible in a way that suits them?
‘There are social media experts who continuously emphasize the 'best' way to approach social media. Do X to achieve Y. But in my opinion, it is especially important to do something that suits you in a way that suits you. Choose a platform that interests you, and see how you can make it your own in your own way. It is really not necessary to do all sorts of strange antics. Start not perfect, but sincere.

The power lies in sharing stories that touch. This can be done in various ways: practical examples, tips, insights. In text, with or without photos. In videos or even podcasts.

'Start not perfect, but sincere.' – Caspar van der Poel

Do you find it difficult to write something yourself? Then it is already a great step to share messages from the NVA on your own channel. Optionally, add a few lines where you share your vision. This makes it personal and accessible.’

What do you notice in your work about the impact that social media has on how people view acupuncture?
‘The power of social media is that it can make people think: 'Hey, maybe I should give that a try.'

‘Many people really have no idea about all the possibilities with acupuncture. If they then read a story on social media about someone who has been successfully treated for an issue they have been dealing with for a long time, then acupuncture suddenly becomes a realistic option. And they immediately get a better idea of what to expect.’

If you could give one golden tip to an acupuncturist who wants to start using social media, what would it be?
‘People love stories, and our practice is full of beautiful stories. Start by sharing small pieces of them.

It doesn't have to be perfect, as long as it's sincere. What inspires you in your work? What makes your profession so beautiful? What are unique experiences in your practice? Or how did you get into the field yourself?

For example, start with one or two posts per week. Show your enthusiasm, knowledge, and love for the profession. This way, you build trust, connection, and visibility.’