Page 50 - Security Today, July 2017

CAMPUS POLICE
REIMAGINING COMMUNICATION
One agency’s take on social media By Anthony Greiter
FRIEND OR FOE? SOCIAL MEDIA HAS BEEN A DOWN- FALL FOR MANY ORGANIZATIONS, BUT HAS BOOSTED OTHERS TO EXTREME SUCCESS.
In 2007, social media was on the rise within college communities and it appeared to be a lasting phenomenon. More online conversa- tions were popping up every day, and face-to-face interactions were slowly disappearing. While many were worried about the downfall of society, some were identifying ways to capitalize on this switch and move with the rest of the world. But, could a police department really fit into this new space?
By creating compelling content that people will share, police depart- ments can access the billions of online conversations taking place each day. If we’re completely honest with ourselves, we can quickly realize that safety messages aren’t exactly compelling, nor do many commu- nity members choose to share them in their spare time. This is where humor plays a crucial role in community relations both on and off campus. Especially within the college and university communities, people are searching for this humor and entertainment. Let’s provide it and spread some information along the way!
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