CalMatters engaged with their audience during the coronavirus pandemic by asking readers for their questions through a Google form at the bottom of their stories. They asked: “What questions do you have about the state of California’s response to the coronavirus pandemic?” The newsroom also linked to an FAQ where they compiled answers to previous reader questions about the virus, showing readers they valued their questions and feedback enough to follow up.
Being responsive isn't always easy, especially when the comments are negative or critical of your reporting. CALmatters used their newsroom account and one of their reporter's personal Twitter accounts to respond to criticism about the sources they use in their stories. They never received a response when offering to have the conversation, but felt it sent the message that their newsroom wants feedback from everyone, even people who are critical of their reporting.
Being responsive isn’t always easy, especially when the comments are negative or critical of your reporting. CALmatters used their newsroom account and one of their reporter’s personal Twitter accounts to respond to criticism about the sources they use in their stories. They never received a response when offering to have the conversation, but felt it sent the message that their newsroom wants feedback from everyone, even people who are critical of their reporting.
CALmatters took to Twitter to introduce three new staffers and their coverage areas. Framing the news in terms of reader impact (an investment in quality and expanded coverage) kept it from sounding like a stodgy press release, and the news organization said readers responded with excitement.
CALmatters took to Twitter to introduce three new staffers and their coverage areas. Framing the news in terms of reader impact (an investment in quality and expanded coverage) kept it from sounding like a stodgy press release, and the news organization said readers responded with excitement.
Screenshot from the @CALmatters account on Twitter: "Feel free to DM us with areas of coverage you want but aren't getting from other outlets. I can pass along to the relevant reporters/editors."
CALmatters decided to get involved when a news consumer couldn’t find information related to a specific story by responding to a Twitter thread. They were able to point the person in the right direction and it only took a couple minutes of their time.