The Pierce County Auditor’s Office hired Engage Northwest to manage social media on two contracts: in Fall 2016 during the November General Election and from February-June 2017 to manage social media for all of their services – licensing, recording, animal services and elections.
As a part-time contractor, Liz Satterthwaite created and published content daily on the Auditor’s social media channels, including setting up the Instagram page.
- Facebook (@PierceCoAuditor)
- Twitter (@PierceCountyAud)
- Instagram (@piercecountyauditor)
The types of posts included original pictures, videos, graphics, links, and status updates. Liz monitored social media and responded to comments.
Results
During this time, the number of Facebook fans increased by 33.4% (almost 200 new fans). Social media encouraged Pierce residents to vote – more people registered and voted in the November 2016 election in Pierce County’s history. (See PCTV’s episode “Social media’s impact on the Pierce County General Election“).
Social media also encouraged candidates to run for political office. In May 2017, the most local candidates filed for office in an “odd-year” election (no national races). Which Facebook post received the highest social engagement? It occurred when one candidate decided to withdraw from a race after the withdrawal deadline:
Digital screen in the lobby
Using Canva, Liz created slides for a digital screen in the Auditor’s Office. The digital screen provides information to customers in the lobby, answering questions about car tabs, passports, pet licenses, voting, and more.
Staffed meetings and events
Liz attended meetings and events with the Auditor, including voter registration at a local high school, get out the disability vote, television interviews, and a community open house about Pierce County’s new voting system.
Pictures and videos
Liz took and edited pictures and videos, uploading them from the office and field. For example, she filmed the Auditor giving voting tips at five voting centers in Pierce County and regularly took pictures of customers, voters and employees. Some of the most engaged posts featured the employees in the Auditor’s Office.
The County Council recognizes Pierce County’s Animal Control Officers.
Thank you to the wonderful team at the Auditor’s Office!
Here is a compilation of photos from the November 2016 General Election.
Clear Ballot is just one way the Auditor’s Office uses new technology to make voting and licensing easier for residents.
