Let’s address the big issue first and admit that many communities are strapped for cash these days. Both public and private sector utility budgets have been slashed as a result of inflationary spending, and it’s getting harder for certain areas to do the kind of infrastructure improvement work they would like to. Fortunately, there are a few ways that business representatives can still reach members of these communities and share with them just how important it really is to get their utility poles in good working order. Here are three techniques you can deploy on social media to help people see the gravity of the situation.

1. Try Some Humor

Admittedly, the current state of the power grid is no laughing matter but that doesn’t mean that you can’t find any humor in it. Take a look at the various uses of utility poles and you’re sure to be able to find at least some shred of satire you can build on. There’s a perception that nobody knows who actually owns telephone poles in many communities since these ownership contractors often date back to the days of the Bell System. If you use this to break the ice, then there’s a possibility you can keep the conversation going.

2. Focus On Reduced Cost Of Ownership

Steel and concrete utility poles actually have a much lower total cost of ownership than many other types. That’s because they tend to last much longer than wood ones, so they don’t have to get replaced anywhere near as often. City councils and telephone company representatives are used to thinking in terms of what kind of improvements can fit into their budget. If you can show them how much money they can save over the long term with a few well-placed charts on social media, then there’s a good chance you’d be able to connect with them in other ways as well. This is an especially good tactic if you’ve been following a conversation where other people are already discussing the costs of utility pole replacement.

3. Show Some Surprising Videos

There are plenty of sites around the country where telephone and electric poles are literally falling over. Considering that charge always flows through the past of least resistance, there’s a good chance that at least some of these videos will be literally shocking. If you can find something with plenty of sparks in it, then there’s a good possibility that you’ll make an impact on anyone you share it with. That’s not to say that you want to use scare tactics by any means, but it is a good idea to show potential clients that power pole damage is no laughing matter.

Even if you decide to combine all three of these tactics, you won’t want to get too confrontational because that could turn people away from your service. People on social media these days have a tendency to fly off the handle. Positioning yourself as a cool-headed voice of reason will help you stand out from the crowd as a polite and knowledgeable expert.