TV has always been a stubborn industry; slow to embrace change and give what the viewers want in real time. Local TV stations struggled with this the most, but not anymore. They’ve overcome their challenges to stay relevant and engaging.
From simply going online to embracing social media and removing paywalls, local TV stations are truly adapting to digital trends. For local stations and their viewers alike, it is transforming the way their content is consumed. Here’s how local TV stations are embracing digital trends and leveraging new technology to connect with the local community:
Moved Online With Websites & Apps
This is probably the most significant digital trend that local TV stations have embraced. They realized the changing habits of their viewership and have catered to it by going online. Most viewers opt to TV streaming online using mobile or their smart TV. Many local TV stations now have robust websites and mobile apps. They offer content all day long, even outside of traditional broadcasting hours, through on-demand content, breaking news updates, trending articles, and videos.
Embracing Social Media
Social media is here to stay. It took a while for local TV stations and other news outlets to really embrace it, but they have. It’s a fantastic way to engage with their audience in real time. Social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram give local stations the opportunity to share news stories, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and community events outside of traditional broadcasting hours. Some local stations are even going to social media to get feedback on potential stories and find reputable sources that will speak out on issues the station would like to report on. There’s still some room to grow; local TV stations have been largely absent from trendier platforms like TikTok.
Removing & Reducing Paywalls On Online Articles
Some news websites are known for slapping a paywall on nearly every article you click on. Fortunately, a lot of news stations have learned their lesson and removed or at least reduced how often paywalls popped up. It just angered viewers and wasn’t helpful to anyone. Instead, local TV stations have monetized their websites in other ways by utilizing online ads.
Creating More Personalized Content
TV stations are in the business of creating content. To capture and retain viewers’ attention, it needed to get more personal. Local TV stations are leveraging data analytics to understand their viewer preferences better and report on content more tailored to their interests. By analyzing all this information they’ve been sitting on, stations can curate quality content that really resonates with their current audience; therefore, increasing engagement and loyalty.
This Well-Known TV Show and Representation(Opens in a new browser tab)
Getting Involved With Community Initiatives
TV Stations are in a good place to do good within their community. Many have been actively reporting on community initiatives and amplifying local citizens’ voices for positive change. Some examples of this are local stations running stories on adoptable animals from their local rescues, reporting on fundraisers, job fairs, community events and other local issues. This benefits the station too, to strengthen their connection with viewers and build trust in the communities they serve. Viewers flock to stations that they believe care about them.
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