Coronavirus: Getting Back to Normal Yet?

On the positive side, NuVoodoo Research reports seeing the lowest levels of extreme concern about the coronavirus in their on-going tracking that they’ve seen since mid-March.

According to a new blog post, Leigh Jacobs writes the three-day snapshot shown from June 8-11 puts extreme concern at just 32% overall – though as high as 48% in the Northeast and as low as 22% in the Midwest. With reports of increases in cases and hospitalizations in parts of the country, we should be prepared to see concern levels increase.

With mainly lower levels of concern, NuVoodoo is seeing a marked increase in the numbers saying they’re comfortable returning to work (with extra safety precautions) – and a few more saying businesses and stores should reopen. The new “abnormal” we’re all experiencing requires a deft touch from programming teams. The more local car trips listeners are making – as they increase their shopping, head back to work, set up socially-distant visits with friends – will have many approaching these encounters with some concern. Information, assurance and empathy from a familiar, relied-upon voice (your station) will be of value.

And, while some listeners are ready to take these new steps as governments ease stay-at-home restrictions, the data says that many are still looking for a regular touchstone from their favorite music radio station in terms of what’s going on with coronavirus.

At a time when listeners are getting tired of restrictions and the routine imposed by restrictions, content will burn faster than ever. The specific content recommendations published recently showed greater interest in advice from medical experts than from government officials.

The pandemic remains a fast-moving target with a general trend of improvement masking increases in some places and hot spots in some localities.