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As Maine continues to clean up from the third, significant winter storm in the past three weeks, traditional media outlets have been bombarded with closings and cancellations. While most credit unions continue to notify TV and radio stations when they close, a growing number of Maine CUs have taken to social media to communicate information on closings and to offer alternative access channels to members. "We have spent significant time to encourage our members to follow us on social media, so utilizing it in this manner makes sense because we can update information ourselves quickly," stated Liz Hayes, President/CEO of Infinity FCU.
"There are always going to be a certain segment of people that only get their information on closings from TV or radio; however, social media allows credit unions to reach members faster without having to wait for a TV or radio station to update their closings. The trend has definitely been heading this way over the past couple of years but, with all of the inclement weather this winter, more and more credit unions are delivering information to their members in this manner. It's also nice to see credit unions offering not only information about closings but directing members to other delivery channels including shared branching, SurF, mobile and other technology. These types of messages reinforce the convenience and access options that credit unions offer," remarked Jon Paradise, Vice President of Public Affairs and Engagement.
Joe Gervais, President/CEO of Midcoast FCU, said his credit union likes the ease and convenience of social media in notifying members. "For instance, when we were closed on Tuesday this week, we posted a message to our members letting them know that online banking and the Midcoast mobile app were available for their convenience." Christine Devine, President of KV FCU, agreed, adding, "Instead of just announcing a closing or a delayed opening, we can reinforce some of our products and services in our messages, too. For us, it's another way of communicating with our members."
Despite spring being less than a week away, it's highly likely that more posts, such as this message found on KV FCU's Facebook page recently, "All KV locations will open at Noon today. All ATMs as well as KV Online and KV Mobile services remain in service 24/7."