Season 2, Episode 30 - The Backbone of Community Engagement

The Backbone of Community Engagement

 

In this week's episode of Beyond the Dais, I was joined by the powerhouse duo of Natalie Sosa, Deputy Director of Communications, and AmyJo Fields, Marketing Communications Manager, both of El Paso County, Colorado. Together, they dive deep into the complexities of emergency management, the excitement of county fair promotions, and the finesse required in public communications.

Emergency Preparedness and Communication:  A prime focus of the episode was the pivotal role that preparedness and communication play before and during emergencies. Natalie Sosa stressed the importance of early messaging and effective crisis communication, underscoring the utility of Peak Alerts for emergency notifications. The on-call procedure her team employs is not just a protocol but a proactive strategy to enhance their communication skills, allowing for timely updates and coordination with various stakeholders – a critical endeavor that can save lives and maintain community trust.

El Paso County Fair Excitement:  Moving forward to a lighter note, AmyJo Fields illuminated this year's El Paso County Fair, injecting new energy into the beloved event with a theme that promises EPIC experiences. Attendees can look forward to a pirate high dive, lumberjacks, fire dancers, and the art of chainsaw carvings, creating a buzz that sets the scene for an unforgettable fair. The introduction of mascots Kyle and Farley, not only add a layer of charm but also forge a connection with attendees, young and old.

Strategic Communications Team Dynamics:  One significant takeaway from our discussion was the strategic maneuvering of roles within the strategy team. Natalie and I shared our insights on the advantages of role-switching, highlighting how it not only promotes professional development but allows for a richer understanding of the county's various departments. This practice is asserted as a key component in representing the department with the utmost knowledge and authenticity.

Media Relations Mastery:  Natalie Sosa’s initiative of organizing media relations training is a testament to El Paso County's commitment to transparency and effective communication. She elaborated on the importance of preparing non-media-trained spokespersons to handle the limelight confidently. The training sessions blend public speaking with core messages and preparedness for any wave of questions, ensuring spokespersons embody the values of trust and openness essential in public service.

Impactful Marketing Campaigns:  AmyJo and I discussed the significant impact of our marketing campaigns on the community, particularly the Pact Act promotion. This initiative led to a dramatic increase in claims filed by local veterans, highlighting the tangible benefits of precise and impactful marketing strategies. The campaign not only served veterans but also earned recognition from the national level, showcasing the excellence of the El Paso County communications team.

Listeners are encouraged to follow and subscribe to "Beyond the Dais" on their favorite platforms such as Podbean and Spotify, where enriching discussions continue to unfold, shaping the fabric of El Paso County's vibrant community.