If there is one thing that yearbook club has taught me, it is that its near impossible to get people to send you pictures. Even if you set a deadline.
I have been spending my time in yearbook doing the service and ASA pages but have been facing a lot of issues when it comes to actually getting the media for it. Out of all the services I emailed, only half of them responded with pictures with some completely ignoring the message until the 2nd follow up. The same goes for the ASA pictures. I know I can’t force people to send me pictures but if they don’t send them to me I can’t add them into the yearbook, and they will complain about it.
To tackle this issue (and my need for work) I emailed the teachers from both primary and secondary and highlighted the importance of sending in these pictures in a timely manner. I had to do a lot of thinking about the way I was phrasing this email as I didn’t want this to come off as pushy or rude. I took different perspectives while rereading it to ensure that a teacher who is stressed, has a lot of work on their hands won’t interpret it in the wrong way. I am happy with the way I managed to phrase my email and since then have received many more pictures for the yearbook.
I also contacted Mr Van Zijl, as he is the ASA coordinator, and has power within that field. This collaboration will ensure that I get my needed pictures as soon as possible.
Featured Image Credit: Eloise Golding