Local and Hyperlocal newsrooms – listen up!
How is tangible impact measured? 📏
Francesca sits down with Nic Dawes this week, Executive Director at The City, a non-profit local newsroom in NYC. Nic shares perspectives on how to build engagement that serves public interest and mission outcomes. 💪
So how does this work for The City and what can you learn from it? One of the ways The City measures success is by its real-world effect. 🌎
This means:
🧑⚖️Real-world policy change: Laws passed, policies enacted.
💬 Shifting discourse: When reporting leads to major public or policymaker conversations.
🏋️ Individual empowerment: Actively helping people navigate complex issues and improve their lives.
Critically, while these efforts do drive long term conversions (newsletters, membership), Nic emphasises that impact is distinct from revenue—it’s about mission fulfilment.
Want to rethink your engagement strategy and deliver real-world impact? This episode is a must-listen for every local and hyperlocal journalist and publisher.
We know your time is valuable – simply browse the episode chapters below and choose the segments you’re most eager to hear.
00:00 Introduction to Nic Dawes and The City
02:50 Defining Audience Engagement in Journalism
05:15 The Importance of Community and Listening
07:50 Measuring Impact
10:19 Challenges in Audience Engagement
12:38 Strategies
14:58 Events as a Tool for Engagement
17:20 Building Trust Through Collaboration
24:31 Navigating Trust in Local News
26:43 Innovative Engagement Strategies
29:25 Building Community Through Journalism
31:43 The Emotional Connection in Reporting
33:16 AI’s Role in Audience Engagement
38:50 The Future of Audience Engagement
41:10 Impact of Engagement on Organisational Success