Using Social Media to Promote Democratic Engagement
The day after the excitement of the Crewe and Nantwich by-election, we recorded a podcast at an event very close by, where over 130 elected members representing the new shadow authorities in Cheshire were gathered.
It was the first joint meeting of all the newly elected Councillors since their election on 1st May and one of the key messages of the event, was the importance of communicating well with local constituents.
The guest speaker was Dame Jane Roberts, author of the Councillor’s Commission Report which makes over 60 recommendations for improvements to the current systems. In her interview with us, she talked about how the newer digital technologies (podcasts, blogs, wikis and social networks etc) can be used by local authorities to help communities understand and engage with local politics.
From our own experience, we can see that the level of interest amongst local authorities in using web 2.0 as a means of communication is growing dramatically and therefore support Jane’s views.
Posted in: General
Podcasting in Plain English
We’ve blogged about the team at Common Craft before when they published their fab video explaining Twitter. They’ve now produced one that explains podcasting, check it out below.
Posted in: General
Listen to an exclusive podcast interview with Alan Duncan MP
I’ve just published the latest Business Ears podcast show that features an interview with Alan Duncan MP, Shadow Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (The old DTI).
In the interview, Alan outlines The Conservative Party’s plans for UK business, which given the latest opinion polls and Boris’s mayoral victory in London, seem increasingly likely to become reality.
It was fascinating going to Portcullis House to record the interview – it’s the large building right next to Westminster, where MP’s have their offices. The reception has to be one of the most secure places in the UK and every other face was one I recognised – I even saw my own MP – small world!
To listen to the interview visit www.businessears.co.uk
Posted in: General
It's No Wonder Some UK Managers Have Poor Communication Skills
Last week I interviewed a number of influential people for a podcast we were producing. Disappointingly, the only person to refuse to be interviewed was a very senior individual from the professional association that represents managers.
We all know how important it is to take the time to communicate, particularly for those in management positions. I do hope that this is not the usual standard set by this organisation, otherwise how are managers ever expected to value the importance of communication, when their professional body chooses not to lead by example.
Posted in: General
