Savvy Social Media from the Sewer
You might think managing social media for a regional sewer authority is a crappy job.
But don’t tell that to the unnamed communicator who manages the Twitter feed for the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District.
If you’re not already a follower – and, really, why would you be? – I invite you to join the 10,000-plus people who follow @neorsd.
You can thank me later.
The account blends lighthearted takes with Tweets about the heroic work being done by the agency’s field crews; environmentally friendly tips: and ongoing and relentless advice on what is flushable – and what isn’t.
The account has super fans who post gushing praise and allegiance to their local sewer department.
The Twitter feed’s popularity flows from a simple choice: It embraces and exploits the bathroom humor inherent in its work, all in the name of the greater good.
A recent gem was a retweet of “July 21st is National Junk Food Day” with the comment “Proud to serve you on July 22.”
And
“Are wipes flushable? Wrong answers only.”
The account’s fun and conversational tone provides a perfect set up when it’s time to get serious.
Take, for instance, this June 19 Tweet:
“Our feed is a steady stream of humor and humility. But in these critical times, we also post with humanity and honesty. Yesterday our Trustees issued a public commitment to equity and justice against the ongoing impacts of racism…”
And this one that got 1,123 likes and 253 retweets.
“Things that should be flushed:
Toilet paper
Bodily waste
Racism”
Now and then, we’re all faced with communications tasks that would appear to stink.
But the communicator (or communicators) behind @neorsd proves that every assignment can be an opportunity.
This is true whether you’re working on social media, sending media pitches about a new product, or writing copy for a website.
No matter what your mission or focus there is likely an opportunity to interject some personality and humor when appropriate.
It makes you human, engages your key audiences, and, most importantly, helps you deliver your message in ways that really resonate.
Why flush away an opportunity like that?