The 2010 Census data the U.S. government has released can be used as a laser-like tool to better focus your public relations, communications and branding efforts to gain new audiences if you know how to properly analyze the statistics. There is no better place to get information that is free and from a trusted source than from the Census Bureau. For instance, the Bureau is releasing demographic profiles this month.
Also, if you believe time is money then mining, analyzing and categorizing this information now can save you time in the future when you’re quickly working on things such as a media pitches or grant proposals.
Don’t be afraid of the pages of tables, rows of numbers or the many lists and subsets you’ll find. Just dig in with a focus on unearthing nuggets of information that speak to the audiences you work so hard to connect with every day.
An article that piqued my interest and launched my own research efforts is by Ron Fournier in the National Journal, “The Next America.” http://www.nationaljournal.com/magazine/u-s-transforming-into-majority-minority-nation-faster-than-expected-20110331?page=1
For instance, it is very clear in my home state of Georgia that its ethnic demographics are changing, and have changed. In the past 10 years there have been an increasing number of Latinos moving into Georgia.
Nationally, the number of people of color increased in all 50 states, particularly young people. If your company or nonprofit’s mission is to target either one, or both, of these groups, then you thankfully have your work cut out for you. As business people in this economy, isn’t this what we want?
So here are a few interesting links to help you get started. Some of them will have links to other helpful, relevant sites:
1.) http://quickfacts.census.gov
2.) http://blogs.census.gov/2010census/
3.) http://2010.census.gov/mediacenter/
4.) http://pewsocialtrends.org/category/all-things-census/
Finally, once you do the hard work you should share your information with your clients and partners so that together, you can better collaborate on projects and initiatives that need a precise focus.
RUMINATIONS 