Canadians Want to Engage Governments Online
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A recent Fleishman-Hillard public engagement survey revealed that Canadians want to connect more with governments online. The online study, conducted by Vision Critical in August 2011, surveyed 1,005 people across Canada.
Some of the key findings:
- 54% of those surveyed agreed to the statement, “I would be more engaged in conversations of government policy if there were ways to participate online.” Agreement was strongest at 57% among those aged 18-35, followed by those 35-54 (53%) and 55+ (52%).
- Youth were more likely to access a government service if they heard about it online: 46% compared to 37% of those surveyed overall.
- 33% said the seeing that an elected official is using social media improves their perception of them. Only 14% said it worsened their perception. Those aged 18-35 were most likely at 49% to favourably perceive elected officials using social media.
According to Jennifer Torney, Senior Vice President of Fleishman-Hillard Vancouver. “Government organizations need to recognize the value in reaching out to the public through social media as an important aspect of meaningful citizen engagement.”
This news is music to PlaceSpeak’s ears. We are especially happy to note that while youth are leading the way, the desire for online engagement is occurring across the age spectrum. PlaceSpeak is ready to help governments at all levels respond to this trend. We have already partnered with the City of Vancouver and the Town of Gibsons in some pilot topic and will be announcing an exciting new partnership very soon. Stay tuned!
Photo Credit: cogitosergiosum on Flickr
