3 social media lessons from Cleveland Police
The way it handled its online outreach during the Republican National Convention can be a guide for community managers.
Throughout the 2016 Republican National Convention, the Cleveland Division of Police did a stellar job managing the crowds and conflict—all while reinforcing its actions and reassuring citizens on social media.
Tensions ran high among both residents and convention attendees, but in addition to separating and protecting protestors, police also kept people informed online.
Dispelling rumors
These days, breaking stories no longer show up first on the local evening news. They develop online, unfolding in real time on smart phones, tablets and computer screens. That’s especially true when massive throngs of journalists (the RNC gave out 15,000 press credentials for the convention) and visitors descend for a specific event.
Responding quickly and authentically to questions, comments and rumors reassures residents—and people following the event online—that the police are in control of the situation and working to keep everyone safe.
It’s ultimately about transparency. By providing information about arrests, including quantity and cause, Cleveland Police projects an image of a relatively calm city and a police force working hard to keep it that way.
Providing valuable information
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