Public relations professionals are not the only ones getting involved and invested in social media. One of the more influential industries and entities that is investing both time and resources in social media are government agencies. The Department of Defense has created a new site called the Social Media Hub, where it provides various guidelines, resources, how-to guides, and best practices for government officials and others to use when operating and engaging with social media. The overall purpose of this new development according to the website is “to help the DoD community use social media and other internet-based capabilities to share responsibility and effectively, both in official and unofficial capacities.” The site has policies and procedures as well as providing lessons and other resources. Not only is the DoD have an integrated social media site, but other military branches such as the Army, Navy, and Airforce are being transparent and interactive with the new technology with the online community.
There are many reasons why it does make sense for these government agencies to be on social media. First, it is important to make sure to be engaged and interactive with audiences (ex. community residents, employees, other government officials and agencies, and others) to answer questions, address concerns, and monitor comments. Second, listening and monitoring social media for these agencies and departments is about doing proactive issues management and address any potential issues or security events that may occur. Cyberterrorism is definitely a growing concern, and these agencies need to be aware, active, and understand the new technologies and forms of communication emerging.
Overall, it appears that these government agencies and the military are on top of what is going on in social media and practicing proactive public relations with social media. All of these agencies are sharing information, are actively connected across multiple platforms, and are up-to-date with the latest trends. The DoD is definitely on the right track for effectively using and sharing the responsibility of social media with their agencies, employees, and the government community – this is a very interesting case study to look at from a public relations and issues management perspective.
Hope you all are having a wonderful day.
Best Wishes,
Karen
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