"Parks and Recreation," the NBC sitcom will air its first show on April 9 at 8:30/7:30 central. While the show promises to poke fun at our beloved profession, the publicist in me can't help but look for the silver lining AND exploit the opportunity. So here are three things you should (MUST) do to prevent any backlash the show might cause...
1. Admit that it's coming. Don't bury your head in the sand and hope no one will notice that the show is about you, the parks and recreation profession and people who work in the parks and recreation profession. Let people know that you have a sense of humor and that just like other TV sitcoms is highlighting extreme caricatures of public agencies. Send a letter to the editor of your local paper acknowledging the show, but also stressing your benefits.
2. Contact your NBC affiliate today if possible. This idea is a must! Let your local NBC program directors know that you feel compelled to tell your side of the story. Explain that you are concerned that some viewers might not understand that the show is a parody and you want to offer some balance to the story. Offer one of your parks, facilities or offices as a backdrop for a story related to the REAL people behind YOUR parks and recreation department. Why not suggest a news story following the Thursday line-up (doesn't have to be this week -- could be any week that the show airs this spring) that highlights the many amazing aspects of your department. Some ideas (based on the trailers)
- Playground Safety -- "No, there are NO speed bumps on the slides, but we do have a fully certified playground safety inspector working on staff to insure that playgrounds are as safe as possible for children of all ages and abilities." Stress ADA improvements you've made over the past few years.
- Public Input -- Early trailers (previews) for the show have poked fun at the lack of respect for public input, on the part of department leadership. Suggest a story that showcases the many ways your department reaches out and incorporates suggestions, ideas (and even complaints) from the public. This is a great chance to highlight volunteer opportunities, boards, commissions and committees.
- Staff Expertise and Professionalism-- More than likely the show will amplify the blunders and "idocracy" of park and recreation leaders and staff. Pitch a story about the experience, education, passion and commit that drives your professional leadership. You may want to bring in college or university professor from a nearby parks, recreation, tourism or public administration programs to educate the public about the course work required of park and recreation graduates. It's more than stacking chairs and counting basketballs, right?
3. Hold a Party with Staff, Friends or Peers! Watch the show with others who can relate to your experiences/frustrations. Downloading the show and watch with staff as a way to add some humor to upcoming trainings or staff meeting. Watch a scene and talk about similar situations staff has truly encountered and how to best handle the scenario.
Be sure to check out my other posts pertaining to the show and share your stories here.
