In a world where social media has become a primary source of news, the pressure for reporters and anchors to build a bigger presence on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter is on the rise. So how do you get that coveted verified checkmark, and how important is it really?

The value of the verified little blue checkmark is often debated.

Some argue it’s crucial to growing a big following, and others say it’s really just about esteem. The major platforms insist that verified accounts do not get special privileges when it comes to sharing and reach algorithms.

The true importance of the verified badge is to separate authentic accounts from the phony ones. This was once a problem that only affected journalists in large markets. However, with the growing number of fake news and online trolls, smaller markets are now being affected too.

In the past, the quality of your reporting was the biggest factor in building your fan base and following. Today, some argue that people are more likely to follow an account with a verified checkmark, because there’s an appearance of professionalism and a bit of celebrity status.

So how exactly do you get the checkmark?

Verified status is reserved for select public figures, celebrities and large brands.

The specifics vary depending on the social platform, but it all boils down to the likelihood that you will be impersonated. For example, someone with only a handful of followers will most likely be rejected by the checkmark gatekeepers, because who would create a fake account in your name to mislead your 214 followers?

So be sure to work on organically building a larger following, and engage with those people regularly in ways that promote interaction.

On most platforms, follower engagements are ranked in order of importance: Saved>Shared>Commented>Liked. So if your followers are liking your posts, but never interact past that, you might have a hard time wooing the verification gods.

Twitter’s verified program is currently on hold. The site posted a message saying requests are not currently being accepted, but will resume later this year.

Twitter is typically generous with its verified checkmark, when it comes to journalists.

In order to be considered, make sure your page refers directly to the name, and official URL, of your news agency. Providing proof of at least three bylines at your organization within the past six months can also help.

The general criteria for getting verified on Instagram and Facebook is:

          1. Authentic: Are you a real person, registered business, or brand? No fan accounts allowed.
          2. Unique: Only one account per person or business can become Instagram/Facebook verified.
          3. Public: Private Instagram accounts do not qualify for verification.
          4. Complete: Account must have a bio, profile photo, and at least one post.
          5. Notable: Instagram/Facebook defines a notable name as one that is “well-known” and “highly searched for.”

When completing the online application for verified status, be prepared to wait three to four weeks for acceptance. It’s also important to note that the social media giants won’t tell you why you were denied verified status.