Newspapers vs. Social Media – It doesn’t have to be one or the other

By Michelle | March 13, 2009

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As former newspaper reporter, it breaks my heart to hear about a publication, especially one with as much history as the Rocky Mountain News, closing its doors.

The longtime daily published its last paper last month, just shy of its 150^th birthday.

For centuries, newspapers brought local, regional and national happenings to the doorsteps of millions. The world’s historical events were told through the eyes and words of eager journalists.

Today, the newspaper industry is suffering, not only from the current economic situation, but also from the public’s fascination with social media.

From blogs to social networking sites and podcasts, social media has redefined how we relate to each other as well as how we gather our information. Social media provides instant gratification – allowing social interaction with people from all over the world on any subject.

But, social media does not have to mean the end to the newspaper industry. The two mediums can live harmoniously. Newspapers need to embrace social media and expand their online presence in order to retain the newest generation of social media socialites.

Many publications have already established thriving blogs with editorialists, columnists, reporters and editors joining the world wide blogsphere.

According to social media experts at Cision, a media research service, newspapers successes in engaging readers in 2008 provides a positive outlook for 2009.

Through its Social Media Dashboard, Cision has been tracking newspapers’ transition to digital media and assessing its success in retaining readers as well as expanding their reach across the web.

While the newspaper industry has moved forward in its web presence, the job is not over. Publications must continue to stay on top of the newest social trends and the changing behaviors of readers.

However, the public must also be wary of relying solely on blogs and other social media outlets for their information. Newspapers and seasoned journalists offer a credibility that these outlets often can’t match. Not all news can be broadcast from the comfort of a home office. Newspapers provide the frontline coverage of everything from local city council meetings to the ongoing war in Iraq.

Newspapers can continue to provide this reliable and in-depth coverage, however, they need to be mindful of the changing times and technology, and deliver the news in the quickest and most convenient way for this new social media generation.

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