ATIM REGIONAL OUTREACH PLAN OUTLINE
PRECONDITONS
A necessary precondition for the implementation of any outreach strategy is to
have a regional project infrastructure that is capable of quickly handling and
processing all project applications generated.
 If there is a current backlog of existing applications in the region, a
process must be in place that will clear that backlog and service
applications created by any outreach process. It is intolerable to allow
applications to languish unprocessed following an outreach push, as that
would serve to undermine the credibility of the entire project.
 All outreach plans must include a description of existing or proposed
mechanisms to fully and quickly service applications currently
backlogged, and those that should be generated by the outreach strategy.
OUTREACH PLAN
A four-step outreach approach has been identified as the minimum necessary for
a sufficient outreach plan. Outreach plans may (and should) expand or
supplement this approach, but all outreach plans must include the following
elements, along with specific timelines for the implementation and completion
(i.e., beginning and end) of each step (shown in bold) and of each specific
mechanism (shown in italics). Each specific mechanism should also include the
name of the individual responsible for its completion.
1. A substantial local media outreach push that will serve to introduce
(or re-introduce) the project to the region.
o This push should utilize as many resources as possible, but should
be tailored to be quick hitting (i.e., avoid any means that might be
delayed by bureaucratic mechanisms). These messages should be
tailored to each media outlet if possible, but again not at the cost of
delay.
o This push should include many of the mechanisms already
identified, but should be coordinated to provide maximum coverage.
These mechanisms include:
 Direct advertising in print, local radio, etc.
 Press and media releases
 Press conferences and media events
 Interviews with local print and (especially) radio media
 Social media (LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, etc.) outreach,
including the use of partner social media for this outreach
if there is not a sufficient audience of followers currently
2. Leverage relationships locally to maximize outreach, through both
wholesale and retail methods.
o Wholesale – using partners as conduits to expand the range of
outreach regarding the project, and to generate interest, application
flow, and employer utilization.
o Mechanisms and Partners include:
 Chambers of Commerce
 Non-Chamber Employer Organizations
 Local Manufacturer Organizations
 Economic Development Agencies
 Community-Based Organizations
 Community Colleges
 Adult Education Providers
 WIB & Illinois workNet Center Partners
 Other Employer Organizations
 Other Organizations That Serve Possible Applicants
o Retail – using partner relationships to generate opportunities for
individual contacts and outreach opportunities, especially with local
and regional employers.
o Mechanisms and Partners include:
 Manufacturers on the WIB(s)
 Other Employers on the WIB(s)
 DCEO Team RED Regional Staff
 Chambers of Commerce
 Non-Chamber Employer Organizations
 Local Manufacturer Organizations
 Economic Development Agencies
 Open Houses at Partner Manufacturers
 Employer Forums
 Information at Employer HR Offices
 Other Employer Organizations
3. Fully utilize IDES intermediated marketing mechanisms.
o Mechanisms include:
 IDES targeted robocalls
 IDES targeted e-mails
 IDES job seeker referrals
4. Utilize Illinois workNet intermediated marketing mechanisms.
o Mechanisms include:
 Illinois workNet targeted e-mails
DCEO staff will work with each region to set specific plan development,
implementation and completion timelines for the region.