The rise of social media over the past decade is transforming the way people think, behave and communicate. The internet is no longer just a static advertising resource for companies to push their messaging.
Today, people get their information online by engaging with trusted and relatable sources that speak to their specific interests. By its very design, social media has a degree of openness and transparency that provides excellent opportunities for local governments to build trust and a positive public perception of its work and services. Social media also makes it possible for councils and commissions to communicate directly with the
people who are impacted by their decisions – both positive and negative –
and engage in meaningful dialogue or connect constituents to services.
Local governments are utilizing social media to provide new or improved government services more and more frequently. With millions of users from very diverse demographic groups all using platforms like Facebook,Twitter and LinkedIn with similar expectations, local governments can actually meet core operational goals far more efficiently than with traditional communications and marketing tactics.
Check out the resources below for more information on the state of social media and learn a few ideas on how your city could benefit from incorporating social media into your municipal services.