Think the traditional news media no longer have power? Viewers aren’t watching TV news? Listeners aren’t tuning into local radio? Readers aren’t picking up the local daily or weekly newspaper?
Yes, viewership, listenership and readership numbers are down as we all have so many more options for our news. But, there’s still some life in the old-school stand-by’s.
Take a look at what happened in Yakima, Washington recently when neighbors complained about a few weeds near a Wal-Mart construction site. The city was supposed to keep the public land cleaned up – but apparently didn’t. Neighbors called a TV station, the TV station made a few calls, and by the time the cameras arrived on scene in the neighborhood, the city crews were on location, responding to concerns.

For the news media, yes, it’s a win. For the rest of us, it’s a lesson learned. Don’t let any situation get to the point where people are so frustrated they start calling news media to find resolution.

Whether a public entity or business, if it’s too late, and customers become disgruntled, act now. If the local news media is already working on a story, reach out to all involved. Admit mistakes, fix the problems and explain steps being taken to keep a similar situation from recurring. Transparency goes a long way in righting a wrong.