No doubt publishers and editors reading recent reports of Facebook’s Newswire strategy on Poynter and other media sites, had one of two thoughts:
1. Wow, wonder what that will be?
2. Wow, wonder what that means for me?
Too early to answer either one intelligently. As with many things, time will tell, though this one will become obvious pretty quickly.
An early and quick read and opinion: if I ran a news service, I’d be extremely interested in watching, reviewing and, perhaps, defending. Basically the Newswire, as outlined, gathers tips, reports, news from around the world, and content is verified before posting. Sounds like a news service – minus the reporters on the front end – doesn’t it?
So often we first find out about events from Twitter and Facebook, not traditional media. Someone has to be first with the news, and frequently it’s Twitter, and clearly Facebook is tired of being second. So, we have Newswire.
For now, this is all about the big guys slugging it out.
But it begs the obvious question: what are you – a local publisher and a local editor – doing with social media in your community?
Social media is the great equalizer. You don’t have to spend money; all you need is a strategy.
You can make money. You can build audience. You can lead the news and discussion in your community.
Sitting back and watching Newswire is about the worst thing you can do.
Build a plan, and don’t dismiss social media as a fad.
About half of all Twitter and Facebook users are seeking and finding news on those sites.
Are they finding social media news on your site?
Media Solutions Partners offers both strategy and hands-on guidance to help media companies and the media support industry transition to a creative and innovative digital future. Contact John Reetz at (404) 316-4759 or john.reetz@mediasolutionspartners.com.