Patrick’s presentation “Social Gov: How Local Governments Can Engage Citizens Through Social Media” gave local government PIOs, non-profit and agency marketers examples of the social media platforms most helpful in reaching constituents and provided unique strategies and tactics in using these channels for civic engagement. During his presentation, Patrick provided helpful tips on how Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, Foursquare, Instagram, Yelp and NextDoor can be utilized by local governments to inform, educate and engage citizens. Patrick also shared with session attendees data on why these social media platforms were important for promoting the involvement of milliennials in civic life.
Session attendees were most interested in utilizing new tools, techniques and tactics such as the employment of Instameets to promote community landmarks, historic buildings and parks and Twitter’s alerts service for local government agencies to inform constituents in an emergency. There was also discussion of the recent availability of the NextDoor platform to local government agencies nationwide for neighborhood specific public safety and emergency alerts.
The energy from the sessions of the SouthWiRED Social Media Track was so enthusiastic that #SouthWiRED14 was able to be the #9 trending topic on Twitter that day. Other rising social media stars from notable companies such as Cox Communications, AirWatch, IHG, Home Depot, and ScoutMob also presented sessions as a part of the social media track.
Are you a local government PIO or elected official and want to learn how social media can promote civic engagement in your community? Please contact Patrick Burns at pburns@rare-light.flywheelsites.com for customized social media training for your local government.