Embracing AI: A Call for Online Publishers
GOCOP Urges Publishers to Leverage AI
Boost Reader Engagement with AI Strategies
BY SHEKWOPEYELO
Mediapreneurs, under the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), have received a strong call to embrace Artificial Intelligence (AI) to attract readers to their websites. They should leverage various online platforms and technologies to engage effectively with their audiences.
Olumide Iyanda, the publisher of QEDNG, made this call during his presentation at the capacity-building session of the 8th Annual General Meeting of GOCOP on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at Reverton Hotel in Lokoja, Kogi State. He emphasized that media managers must post their stories where readers can easily find them.
Iyanda pointed out that many readers prefer short video clips over long texts. Therefore, he urged mediapreneurs to incorporate videos into their stories to drive more traffic.
“Leveraging social media significantly promotes websites,” he noted. He encouraged publishers to identify where their readers engage and strategically place their stories there.
“Internet penetration in Nigeria is about 45.5 percent. Over 40 percent of these users engage with news on platforms like Facebook and TikTok. However, 75 percent of internet users do not go beyond the first page. Thus, it’s essential to use social media to promote content and interact with users,” he explained.
Platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and TikTok serve as effective channels to reach readers.
http://Chief Executive Officers (CEOs)Furthermore, Iyanda urged GOCOP members to adopt the mindset of Chief Executive Officers (CEOs). He stated that their perceptions of their roles would affect their relationships with clients.
He emphasized that publishers, as small and medium entrepreneurs (SMEs), must adapt to changing consumer behaviors to compete in the digital space.
“For instance, data is crucial for making informed decisions. Don’t assume what your audience needs. If your customers want tea, don’t give them coffee. Prioritize digital marketing and be active across all platforms,” he advised the over 100 GOCOP members present.
Iyanda spoke on “Leveraging Digital Marketing: Strategies for Online Publishers,” which was part of this year’s GOCOP conference theme, “Nigeria: Tackling Insecurity, Power Deficit, and Transitioning to Digital Economy.”
He also discussed the importance of knowing when to charge for stories and when not to. He explained that imposing fees for public relations or promotional stories does not violate journalism ethics.
Iyanda remarked that journalism should not only be viewed as a social or humanitarian service but also as a business requiring financial sustainability. He cautioned publishers about other professionals who accept payment to publish stories but later use subtle methods to bury them in the media.
Finally, he urged media professionals to adhere to ethical standards, striking a balance between ethics and business demands.
Each year, GOCOP conducts business sessions at its annual conferences to update members on the latest technology in online publishing and explore strategies for increasing revenue.
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