Tentative steps on Facebook from main parties in Newbury
It looks like at least the two main candidates in Newbury have realised that social media might just be worth a look, with both the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives gently campaigning on Facebook.
We have already blogged about how all bar the Green Party have failed to recognise the potential of Twitter in their campaigns to be elected MP of the Newbury constituency and thanks to some research by Newbury Twitter, blogger and photographer Jim Millen we now have some data on how they are using Facebook. We are using his interpretation here and do take the time to check out his original post.
Richard Benyon Supporters’ Group – 138 members, at least a year old, 16 main wall posts since the 6th April
Richard Benyon Campaign Page – 38 fans, only created this week, nine main wall posts
David Rendel for Newbury – 96 members, not clear when created, apparently not “official”, only three wall posts
David Rendel campaign page – 145 fans, at least a month old, three main wall posts since start of campaign
With an established Supporters Group it is surprising that Benyon does not have more members and also that it has relatively few wall posts. Clearly a missed opportunity as it can take time to build a following with viral intervention, which is why it also slightly bizarre than a fan page has been launched only this week. It will take an enormous effort to realise its potential before May 6th. Benyon does have good links that will allow curious voters to find out more about what the Conservatives are offering.
Rendel’s campaign page has even more links with details on the campaign and video links. Significantly the supporters’ page is well intentioned but does not even link to the official page.
This campaign is focused on Newbury and West Berkshire and when we advise businesses on the best uses of social media and public relations on this patch and beyond, we talk about Organic PR – using genuine opportunities in multiple channels.
For candidates that means using every opportunity to inject the undoubted energy in their campaigns into social media - and not only Facebook, but their press releases, a new Twitter feed, photos on Flickr, videos on YouTube and so on. Different people use different channels and you reach a wider audience.
As late in the day as it is the candidates need to be updating much more frequently, revealing where they are canvassing to connect with communities, putting up video vox pops among their supporters and creating sticky and attractive content for visitors and Google.
Businesses and political candidates alike have an understandable fear of social media; they worry about angry customers using it to vent – but guess what, they will anyway! At least if you are engaged you can address concerns. Besides, what is more frightening, losing business (or an election) because you failed to engage, or something that might not happen?