Arrow pic. from Word ClipArt
In today’s world, everything is constantly changing. And media is no exception to this rule. However, the importance or role of the “traditional” media has drastically changed over the past decade, especially when it comes to print. In my local area in particular, the popularity of news sources such as the Lansing State Journal newspaper was a trusted and popular format some twenty years ago, however throughout the past years the subscription rate continues to decrease, staff has dwindled, and many more people turn towards online publications or quick email updates for their latest news updates. In addition, more and more organizations are including live feeds of their most recent FB updates or Tweets, blogs, and “media room” on their websites
Being of the younger and possibly more tech-savvy generation, I can say that I never read the Lansing State Journal newspaper anymore. I will look at the City Pulse, or Lansing Noise from time to time, but overall I too have turned to online publications such as Capital Gains and online updates from various other providers to fill me in on the latest. One main reason – the Lansing State Journal is no longer a trusted news source for me or many that I come in contact with. This may be due to the fact that heir inability to provide good LOCAL coverage is astounding, and the percentage of negative topics compared to positive news stories in our community is quite frankly, only helping lead to the general negativity that surrounds our community. I personally love the positive vibe that organizations such as LEAP, #Lovelansing, Accelerate Lansing, Capital Gains and countless others have brought to the Lansing community. And these organizations and movements continue to work tirelessly to create a positive vision and movement for continuous improvements towards Lansing’s overall vitality. But this couldn’t happen without all of them working collectively and linking via social media, professional networks, etc. One thing that many of us have realized through the advent of social media platforms, is that we have the power to drive our own routes and create our own momentum. No longer must we rely on media to share our story for us. Yes, they can definitely help aid our endeavors-when they choose to cover the local stories- but we must take responsibility in building Lansing’s prosperity, instead of tearing it down!
In summary, we can post our own news stories on our website, and then share the links on our social media pages or in monthly newsletters, e-blasts, blog postings and more. All businesses that engage with their audience and want to keep them up to date on the latest should include a “Media Room” on their website. I guarantee that it won’t be just the media will be looking at this for information on your organization. So come on Greater Lansing…let’s drive our own news and let the media know what we really want to hear about! #LoveLansing
CEdge Social 