Social Media is Not (Necessarily)

the Enemy.

Pick a Lane and Stay in it.

Social Media Calendar

Tools like Hootsuite can help you write and schedule “tweets” in advance.

Facebook has post scheduling.

Avoid jargon when communicating with reporters or posting on social media. It saves time and reduces confusion.

Bloviate loquaciously. Articulate eloquently. Verbalize effusively. Speak plainly.

Individual = Person, Man, Woman Vehicle = Car, Pickup Truck, Van Residence = Home, Apartment, House Adult Male/Female = Man/Woman

• A media release isn’t as helpful to a TV news reporter as an on-camera interview.

• Be prepared. If you’re being interviewed about a spike in pedestrian fatalities – for example – have the statistics in hand.

Provide value.

Don’t be a groundhog – only popping up when you have something to say. Be available. Return calls and emails from the media.

Reporters will rely on you down the road if you are accessible. The PIO/public affairs person also has to let leadership know that responsiveness is key to credibility.

You are not a reporter’s only

source.