Orange County NC Website
7 <br />Information Specialist) should divide up these assignments and be <br />sure coverage is provided. They should also develop and implement <br />a method for apprising the Manager and Commissioners monthly,. in <br />advance, concerning. the automatic releases to be issued. <br />c. For events that require more than a simple, straightforward <br />notice, and when there is time, every effort should be made to <br />Increase the: attractiveness of press releases to members of the news <br />media, as for example, adding a human interest "peg" or "hook" to - <br />attract attention. <br />d. The staff should develop and implement methods for <br />_ .-addressing fast breaking and /or potentially controversial public <br />relations issues in. a timely manner. , If such proactive <br />communications methods are put.intoplace; the County can be' <br />In a position to anticipate these situations and respond with an <br />appropriate message quickly and effectively when dealing with <br />matters of a controversial or fast breaking nature. <br />3. Strategies for Expanded Coverage <br />The Information; Specialist and the Management Analyst should <br />develop and implement a plan to obtain expanded media coverage: <br />Any such plan should :ensure .that at least the following elements are <br />accomplished: <br />a. - These two staff members should foster relationships with <br />members of the media who cover Orange County, including phoning <br />them to offer assistance or. to ascertain what information might be <br />most helpful. <br />b. The County .Commissioners should be notified in advance, <br />when possible, of press'briefings involving the Manager or <br />department heads. This would allow the media easy access to <br />decision - makers and might lead to expanded coverage. <br />c., The two staff members should seek additional avenues. for <br />coverage. For example; they could ensure that meetings by the <br />Board of Commissioners and County advisory boards are included in <br />the weekly "bulletin boards" published by local newspapers.. <br />