Hello PRSSA members,
The results are in and here are the new officers for 2010:
Alivia Wildey - President
Alise Cool - Vice President
Brittany Kapps - Director of Special Events
Natalie Badinghaus - Director of Communications
Danielle Brabaw - Director of Professional Development
Danielle Everts - Director of Administration
Melanie Pray – Treasurer
Whitney Shelley - National Conference Coordinator
Be on the look out for new professional development sessions courtesy
of the new executive board starting in the spring.
Thank you to all who participated in the election survey and
congratulations to the new officers!
~Sarah Frantsi
Monday, December 14, 2009
Friday, November 27, 2009
Don't forget about the next Professional Development Session, Thursday, Dec. 3 at 5pm. The speakers for this session will include the 5 PRSSA members that went to the National Conference in San Diego. They have a ton of information and advice from PR professionals to share with us, so don't miss out!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
We Save the Ugly Animals Too!
The San Diego Zoo is a sanctuary to animals and a leader in conservation communication efforts. Christina Simmons, Public Relations Manager of the San Diego Zoo spoke about her efforts with this special zoo.
Elephant Odyssey is the newest exhibit and largest project ever at the San Diego Zoo. Considering the current economic situation, this was a daring project. Tourism is down, yet they launched their biggest exhibit to date.
Despite this fact, zoo attendance is up 14% since the exhibit opened. They even had to open the zoo 30 minutes early on the Elephant Odyssey’s opening day. The PR team used this exhibit as a chance to educate the public on elephants and elephants’ needs. Conservation is never far from the PR team’s minds.
There is still ongoing publicity about the Panda exhibit. This was another daring move because only two other panda bears had been born in the United States and both died shortly after death. Another obstacle to overcome was the fact that panda bears cannot always be open to the public. This had the makings of a public relations nightmare.
So the PR team did what they do best and came up with a creative idea: the Panda Cam. With the Panda Cam, the public can peek in on the animals whenever they want making this exhibit a success as well.
Simmons also focused on what she called “Zen PR” or finding a communications balance. She proposed a few situations the PR team had dealt with in the past and I will do the same now. Think about what you would do in each situation.
1) An advertising agency approached the zoo with the idea of doing a Super Bowl commercial where a bicyclist would tackle a cheetah. Would you do it?
2) The team is planning the relocation of panda bears to the San Diego Zoo. Do you tell the public? And if so, when?
3) A man jumps in to the bear pit resulting in minor injuries and it is all caught on tape. Minutes later the video is being shown all over the country. Do you cash in on the extra publicity or not?
Here is what Simmons and her team did for each situation.
1) This does not promote the San Diego zoo’s overall message of conversation. Therefore they passed on the offer despite the publicity they would have received.
2) They knew they had to tell the public the pandas were coming, but waited until the pandas were one hour away from the arrival destination. This way it was a sure thing and no one could interfere with the plan. They did not tell the public when the pandas would be arriving however, just that they would be coming. Can you imagine everyone rushing to the highway to see panda bears being relocated? CRAZY!!!
3) They had the tapes pulled off air as soon as they could. Simmons believes this is not how you promote conservation and said “not all PR is good PR.”
Well, did you agree or disagree with the San Diego Zoo public relations team? Let us know what you think.
~Sarah Frantsi
Elephant Odyssey is the newest exhibit and largest project ever at the San Diego Zoo. Considering the current economic situation, this was a daring project. Tourism is down, yet they launched their biggest exhibit to date.
Despite this fact, zoo attendance is up 14% since the exhibit opened. They even had to open the zoo 30 minutes early on the Elephant Odyssey’s opening day. The PR team used this exhibit as a chance to educate the public on elephants and elephants’ needs. Conservation is never far from the PR team’s minds.
There is still ongoing publicity about the Panda exhibit. This was another daring move because only two other panda bears had been born in the United States and both died shortly after death. Another obstacle to overcome was the fact that panda bears cannot always be open to the public. This had the makings of a public relations nightmare.
So the PR team did what they do best and came up with a creative idea: the Panda Cam. With the Panda Cam, the public can peek in on the animals whenever they want making this exhibit a success as well.
Simmons also focused on what she called “Zen PR” or finding a communications balance. She proposed a few situations the PR team had dealt with in the past and I will do the same now. Think about what you would do in each situation.
1) An advertising agency approached the zoo with the idea of doing a Super Bowl commercial where a bicyclist would tackle a cheetah. Would you do it?
2) The team is planning the relocation of panda bears to the San Diego Zoo. Do you tell the public? And if so, when?
3) A man jumps in to the bear pit resulting in minor injuries and it is all caught on tape. Minutes later the video is being shown all over the country. Do you cash in on the extra publicity or not?
Here is what Simmons and her team did for each situation.
1) This does not promote the San Diego zoo’s overall message of conversation. Therefore they passed on the offer despite the publicity they would have received.
2) They knew they had to tell the public the pandas were coming, but waited until the pandas were one hour away from the arrival destination. This way it was a sure thing and no one could interfere with the plan. They did not tell the public when the pandas would be arriving however, just that they would be coming. Can you imagine everyone rushing to the highway to see panda bears being relocated? CRAZY!!!
3) They had the tapes pulled off air as soon as they could. Simmons believes this is not how you promote conservation and said “not all PR is good PR.”
Well, did you agree or disagree with the San Diego Zoo public relations team? Let us know what you think.
~Sarah Frantsi
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Media Relations with Joe Trahan
Before I begin I would like to say Joe Trahan is an amazing speaker. This was by far my favorite session not only because of the lessons but because of how he interacted with the crowd and how passionate he was about his topic.
Joe Trahan is President and CEO of Trahan and Associates. He is a media trainer. This basically means he trains people how to deal with the media in everyday situations and in crisis situations. If you are interested in this time of work read over this blog and remember the points he outlined for us.
3 C's of media relations
Preparation is yours
A trainer should always have 15 questions and answers ready to be talked over with the trainee.
5 questions that will allow the trainee to get something good out about their organization.
5 questions that will pull something bad out about the organization
5 questions that will pull something ugly out about the organization.
Mr. Trahan believes it is better to do a 10x10x10 model.
Anticipation is the key.
Finally, always tell the truth! Do not talk about anything but the facts.
For an easy way to know what to do refer to SAPP.
Security-What is restricted?
Accuracy-Don't release anything if it is not confirmed.
Propriety-Protect families. (Always make sure next of kin notification is used)
Policy-Agree with policy in public. Never disagree with policy when you are representing the corporation.
For more notes on this session (it was a long one full of great information) feel free to contact me at dani.brabaw@gmail.com
-Dani Brabaw
Joe Trahan is President and CEO of Trahan and Associates. He is a media trainer. This basically means he trains people how to deal with the media in everyday situations and in crisis situations. If you are interested in this time of work read over this blog and remember the points he outlined for us.
3 C's of media relations
- Control- Never lose control with a reporter. That is what they want, don't give it to them.
- Competence- Stay in your own lane. In other words, stick with what you know, if you don't know anything about engineering don't talk about it as if you do.
- Concern- It must be on your face, in your actions, and in your words.
Preparation is yours
- Before you get on scene or begin the interviews prepare, prepare, prepare.
- Trahan's practice is 1 hour of preparation for every minute in front of the camera. Thirteen minutes on camera means thirteen hours of preparation ideally. (this will not always be possible but it is ideal.)
- What is the format? (Live or taped)
- Who is the reporter/news agency?
- What are the deadlines if there is one. The world is quickly doing away with deadlines, everyone needs it now. Always ask.
- Reporters questions are always negative. Do not repeat the negative parts of the questions. Be ready to turn the answer into something positive.
- The trainer should have their own questions to ask. Play the devil's advocate and ask the hard questions to the trainee.
- Focus on topical issues.
A trainer should always have 15 questions and answers ready to be talked over with the trainee.
5 questions that will allow the trainee to get something good out about their organization.
5 questions that will pull something bad out about the organization
5 questions that will pull something ugly out about the organization.
Mr. Trahan believes it is better to do a 10x10x10 model.
Anticipation is the key.
Finally, always tell the truth! Do not talk about anything but the facts.
For an easy way to know what to do refer to SAPP.
Security-What is restricted?
Accuracy-Don't release anything if it is not confirmed.
Propriety-Protect families. (Always make sure next of kin notification is used)
Policy-Agree with policy in public. Never disagree with policy when you are representing the corporation.
For more notes on this session (it was a long one full of great information) feel free to contact me at dani.brabaw@gmail.com
-Dani Brabaw
Mona Pasquil Keynote Speaker
Mona Pasquil was the Keynote Speaker on Saturday November 7th during the National PRSSA conference. She is a minority woman in the very competitive world of politics and has recently become the interim Lt. Governor of California. Her speech to the PRSSA students was the first public speech since becoming Lt. Governor. She was a very interesting woman and a wonderful speaker. I learned a few things from this successful woman. First, Mona shared what she calls "The Mona Rules." Rule 1: Be Prepared. To me this meant be prepared for anything you may come to. Always be prepared to pitch yourself, always be prepared to deal with issues, always be prepared for interviews, business dinners, network opportunities and more. Rule 2: Think about your plans. Always have a plan for anything. Know your plan and execute it.
Mona also reiterated to us that TIME IS EVERYTHING! She repeatedly said, "if there is a problem, deal with it. Don't wait!" This spoke volumes to me and immediately made me think of examples in today's world. David Letterman for instance did not waste time with releasing his story to the media. This worked in his favor and in most situations will work in anyone's favor. You have to respond and quickly. You need to get your information out there to fight whatever else might be out there. Address it and move on to the next task. With media and technology today we no longer have a days to address something. There is news twenty-four hours a day seven days a week and this means you have to move quickly.
It was an honor to hear Mona speak and I hope by reading this blog you will learn and understand the things she told us and use them in your professional career.
-Dani Brabaw
Mona also reiterated to us that TIME IS EVERYTHING! She repeatedly said, "if there is a problem, deal with it. Don't wait!" This spoke volumes to me and immediately made me think of examples in today's world. David Letterman for instance did not waste time with releasing his story to the media. This worked in his favor and in most situations will work in anyone's favor. You have to respond and quickly. You need to get your information out there to fight whatever else might be out there. Address it and move on to the next task. With media and technology today we no longer have a days to address something. There is news twenty-four hours a day seven days a week and this means you have to move quickly.
It was an honor to hear Mona speak and I hope by reading this blog you will learn and understand the things she told us and use them in your professional career.
-Dani Brabaw
Monday, November 9, 2009
Entertainment & Sports PR Roundtable
At the PRSSA National Conference in San Diego, CA, a Sports and Entertainment PR roundtable featured:
Rita Tateel, President, The Celebrity Source
Harry Medvet, Head of Public Relations, Fandango
Bill Shaikin, Sports Writers, LA Times; and others
The panelists encouraged students to build credibility and not to be afraid to take on a new adventure.
The entertainment and sports pr industry is different from others because you don’t have to convince people to like movies, teams or celebrities. They are already going to have an opinion about them. Therefore, their responsibilities are somewhat different.
The professionals took time to give PRSSA members several helpful tips, which included:
Start in non-profit pr, you have the opportunity to do many tasks and take on many projects
You HAVE to learn how to write, and be a great writer.
INTERNSHIP & VOLUNTEER
If you’re interested in sports pr, begin in minor league baseball.
Find a passion, something you really love, and focus on what area you really want to get into.
They closed in mentioning mistakes young professionals sometimes make and what you don’t want to do:
Nothing about enthusiasm gets on their nerves, but lying will.
It is a mistake to have young pr professionals get on the phone and pitch an idea to a significant person, unless they know the subject and story extremely well.
Do not work for a firm that requires you to get on the phone, people prefer email!
You need to have a professional email address, correct contact information and very current resume.
-Alivia Wildey
Rita Tateel, President, The Celebrity Source
Harry Medvet, Head of Public Relations, Fandango
Bill Shaikin, Sports Writers, LA Times; and others
The panelists encouraged students to build credibility and not to be afraid to take on a new adventure.
The entertainment and sports pr industry is different from others because you don’t have to convince people to like movies, teams or celebrities. They are already going to have an opinion about them. Therefore, their responsibilities are somewhat different.
The professionals took time to give PRSSA members several helpful tips, which included:
Start in non-profit pr, you have the opportunity to do many tasks and take on many projects
You HAVE to learn how to write, and be a great writer.
INTERNSHIP & VOLUNTEER
If you’re interested in sports pr, begin in minor league baseball.
Find a passion, something you really love, and focus on what area you really want to get into.
They closed in mentioning mistakes young professionals sometimes make and what you don’t want to do:
Nothing about enthusiasm gets on their nerves, but lying will.
It is a mistake to have young pr professionals get on the phone and pitch an idea to a significant person, unless they know the subject and story extremely well.
Do not work for a firm that requires you to get on the phone, people prefer email!
You need to have a professional email address, correct contact information and very current resume.
-Alivia Wildey
Sunday, November 8, 2009
How to Lose a Job in 140 Characters
Did you know that your blog entries and tweets are considered published material, and you can be held liable for them? BYU's presentation Saturday on social media ethics addressed these and other concerns regarding legal liabilities in the social media world.
Professor and PR professional Susan Balcom emphasized a recurring theme among communications ethics: It doesn't matter if what we said or did was intentional or not; We are still accountable!
"Someone who does something and doesn't mean to should be fired. Someone who meant to should be prosecuted," Balcom said.
Social media lawsuits are a rising trend and can involve any of the following (and more):
* Tweets
* Blogs
* Message boards
* Music downloading
According to Balcom, there are only three protections for online publishers: truth (your best defense), opinion or fair comment (identify as such, but it won't protect you if it's a false statement), and qualified privilege.
With such great risk, what is a PR professional to do? Here are several tips to help you avoid social media lawsuits:
1.) Control your emotions! Counsel your client/managers to the same. Use the "I before E rule": intelligence before emotion!
2.) Choose your words carefully. Make sure there is as little opportunity as possible for them to be misinterpreted.
3.) Be accurate and truthful.
4.) Stick to the facts!
If you are in a situation when you are worried about your emotions getting the best of you, Balcom suggested the following strategies to avoid saying something you'll regret:
* Physically leave the computer area.
* Before sending the email, call someone you trust and talk it through with them.
* Save the draft or send it to yourself, then reread it the next day.
* Ask yourself: Would you say this face-to-face? Would you be comfortable seeing it in print or in court?
* Obey the 24-hour rule! If possible, just set the matter or issue aside and don't respond for 24 hours. This will give you time to calm down and approach the situation calmly and with a clear head.
If you are a blogger, it is important to have a blog moderation policy in place. The best disclaimers are clean, noticed, read and reflect what's actually occurring on the blog.
"Use others' comments or not, but don't change or edit them," Balcom said.
The key message of this session wasn't to be scared away from using social media altogether. Social media is a great and powerful tool. However, PR professionals need to stay constantly educated on how to use it correctly to avoid negative legal complications.
- Alise Cool
Professor and PR professional Susan Balcom emphasized a recurring theme among communications ethics: It doesn't matter if what we said or did was intentional or not; We are still accountable!
"Someone who does something and doesn't mean to should be fired. Someone who meant to should be prosecuted," Balcom said.
Social media lawsuits are a rising trend and can involve any of the following (and more):
* Tweets
* Blogs
* Message boards
* Music downloading
According to Balcom, there are only three protections for online publishers: truth (your best defense), opinion or fair comment (identify as such, but it won't protect you if it's a false statement), and qualified privilege.
With such great risk, what is a PR professional to do? Here are several tips to help you avoid social media lawsuits:
1.) Control your emotions! Counsel your client/managers to the same. Use the "I before E rule": intelligence before emotion!
2.) Choose your words carefully. Make sure there is as little opportunity as possible for them to be misinterpreted.
3.) Be accurate and truthful.
4.) Stick to the facts!
If you are in a situation when you are worried about your emotions getting the best of you, Balcom suggested the following strategies to avoid saying something you'll regret:
* Physically leave the computer area.
* Before sending the email, call someone you trust and talk it through with them.
* Save the draft or send it to yourself, then reread it the next day.
* Ask yourself: Would you say this face-to-face? Would you be comfortable seeing it in print or in court?
* Obey the 24-hour rule! If possible, just set the matter or issue aside and don't respond for 24 hours. This will give you time to calm down and approach the situation calmly and with a clear head.
If you are a blogger, it is important to have a blog moderation policy in place. The best disclaimers are clean, noticed, read and reflect what's actually occurring on the blog.
"Use others' comments or not, but don't change or edit them," Balcom said.
The key message of this session wasn't to be scared away from using social media altogether. Social media is a great and powerful tool. However, PR professionals need to stay constantly educated on how to use it correctly to avoid negative legal complications.
- Alise Cool
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Entertainment- "Lights, Camera, Control: THe World of Entertainment & Sports PR"
Do you want to know what it's like to work with Prince, on the set of "Desperate Housewives" or with the San Diego Padres? This panel of public relations professionals shared their experiences of doing just this.
The panel consisted of the following three members:
- Karen Lee, Media relations Consultant, W&W Media Relations
- Warren Miller, Director of Media Relations, San Diego Padres
- Nicole Y. Marostica, Director, ABC Entertainment Group
According to Lee, one of the main things to understand about the entertainment industry is it is not a job, but a lifestyle. Do not sign up for something unless you're ready for it.
"It is imperative to know who you are and your relationship with your client," said Lee.
It can be easy to be intimidated when working with celebrities. After all, how many people would really be brave enough to tell Eva Longoria she can't have something she specifically requested? This is what sets the professionals apart from the fans.
"I want them [celebrities] to know I'm not a fan," said Marostica, someone who works with celebrities such as Eva Longoria and Sally Fields. "I want them to know I'm there for them."
As always, social media and media relations were two main topics the panelists all discussed. Technology can be a friend at times, and an enemy at other times.
Lee joked Twitter was not her friend. This is because it can be difficult to make clients understand the importance of what they post. It is hard to put an emotional response aside, but this is exactly what needs to be done at times. Once something is posted, it can't be taken back.
Miller explained that win or lose, the media was allowed into the players' clubhouse for ten minutes after a game. This is a time that the players must remain professional no matter what kind of mood they are in.
"A bad sports franchise will be around for a long time unlike a bad t.v. show," said Miller.
Marostica used the example of Isaiah Washington's incident with the television show "Grey's Anatomy" to explain how technology has affected her industry. After the incident occurred, people knew about it five minutes later. There may be times when the media knows about something before an actual PR professional. This is why having strong relationships with the media is important.
All in all, the entertainment and sports industry is exciting and fast-paced.
"Our hours don't fit into a box," said Marostica. "We are paid how we are because we don't have a normal life. We have to always be prepared and be there for our clients when they need us."
- Sarah Frantsi
The panel consisted of the following three members:
- Karen Lee, Media relations Consultant, W&W Media Relations
- Warren Miller, Director of Media Relations, San Diego Padres
- Nicole Y. Marostica, Director, ABC Entertainment Group
According to Lee, one of the main things to understand about the entertainment industry is it is not a job, but a lifestyle. Do not sign up for something unless you're ready for it.
"It is imperative to know who you are and your relationship with your client," said Lee.
It can be easy to be intimidated when working with celebrities. After all, how many people would really be brave enough to tell Eva Longoria she can't have something she specifically requested? This is what sets the professionals apart from the fans.
"I want them [celebrities] to know I'm not a fan," said Marostica, someone who works with celebrities such as Eva Longoria and Sally Fields. "I want them to know I'm there for them."
As always, social media and media relations were two main topics the panelists all discussed. Technology can be a friend at times, and an enemy at other times.
Lee joked Twitter was not her friend. This is because it can be difficult to make clients understand the importance of what they post. It is hard to put an emotional response aside, but this is exactly what needs to be done at times. Once something is posted, it can't be taken back.
Miller explained that win or lose, the media was allowed into the players' clubhouse for ten minutes after a game. This is a time that the players must remain professional no matter what kind of mood they are in.
"A bad sports franchise will be around for a long time unlike a bad t.v. show," said Miller.
Marostica used the example of Isaiah Washington's incident with the television show "Grey's Anatomy" to explain how technology has affected her industry. After the incident occurred, people knew about it five minutes later. There may be times when the media knows about something before an actual PR professional. This is why having strong relationships with the media is important.
All in all, the entertainment and sports industry is exciting and fast-paced.
"Our hours don't fit into a box," said Marostica. "We are paid how we are because we don't have a normal life. We have to always be prepared and be there for our clients when they need us."
- Sarah Frantsi
Our Top Ten
As we were dancing to the mariachi band at the PRSSA Bring Us Something Fiesta, we decided to scout out the best PRSSA chapter shirts. Here are our top ten favorite shirts from the evening. Take a look and see if one seems familiar. You may have seen fellow PRSSA members sporting them around campus.
10. I ♥ PR
9. PR-voke
8. Make an inPRint
7. imPRessions
We make you look good
6. Hello Public
Lets Relate
5. Trust us we're
PRofeSSionAls
4. My Relations are Public
3. We Put the PR in Party
2. Doin' it in Public
1. Looking for:
An open public relation(ship)
We also found a quote on the back of a shirt we really liked. After doing some research, we're not sure if this statement was ever made. Let us know if you can find it documented anywhere.
"If I was down to my last dollar, I'd spend it on PR" ~Bill Gates
- Kendall Rich
Alivia Wildey
Sarah Frantsi
Alise Cool
10. I ♥ PR
9. PR-voke
8. Make an inPRint
7. imPRessions
We make you look good
6. Hello Public
Lets Relate
5. Trust us we're
PRofeSSionAls
4. My Relations are Public
3. We Put the PR in Party
2. Doin' it in Public
1. Looking for:
An open public relation(ship)
We also found a quote on the back of a shirt we really liked. After doing some research, we're not sure if this statement was ever made. Let us know if you can find it documented anywhere.
"If I was down to my last dollar, I'd spend it on PR" ~Bill Gates
- Kendall Rich
Alivia Wildey
Sarah Frantsi
Alise Cool
"Bonfire to Bona Fide Events"
Before you plan a bona fide event, you must first know the difference between a bonfire event and a bona fide event. A bonfire event is an event with snack foods and prom decorations. A bona fide event is an event well planned out and has guests leaving happy.
The first step to planning a bona fide event is to know the purpose, know who the event is for and know the events objectives.
Once you know these three points, Lorimer and Anderson say you need to establish an event profile. The event profile should include who the guests are, the history of the event, what the budget is, whom on staff do you have to help you will the event, and a quick list of event elements.
When planning an event, the two speakers suggest you pick a venue before you pick a theme. When you are on your site visit, they suggest you make a list of equipment and features of the venue and take photos to use later on when planning. Lorimer and Anderson also suggest you ask the hotel what they have in house for you to use, because they usually will not charge you.
When it comes to design, Lorimer and Anderson over and over again talked about using spandex and lighting. Spandex can be used on chairs, tables, stages, or just around the room to help bring your theme to life. You can also use lights under the spandex as a cheap way to decorate the room and save money.
A technology the two suggested using also involved lighting. This technology is called Gobo. Gobo is nothing more then an image projection. These projections can be used on walls or on floors to interact with guests.
At the end of their presentation, Lorimer and Anderson gave us a list of tools and resources. They suggested using groupsite.com, google doc, doodle.com and Biz Bash.
The key message they told us to remember was to learn as much as you can to identify yourself in the profession and find a mentor. Having a mentor seems to be a theme mentioned by all the speakers this week. So go out there get a mentor and plan a Bona Fide Event!
- Kendall Rich
Styling the Trends: Fashion PR
If you're into fashion apparently you should know mustache shirts are in, in, in! And by mustache shirt I mean a big graphic-printed mustache design on a tee. Thanks to guest speaker today, we now know the new trend.
Crosby Noricks, founder/editor of PR Couture and www.PRcouture.com, spoke to PRSSA National Conference attendees today on the fashion public relations industry.
"Fashion PR specialists and publicists help apparel companies and retail stores
build and maintain a favorable public image," Noricks explained.
As a fashion PR specialist your main goal is to get client's merchandise, clothing, accessories, etc. in magazines, on celebrities, on TV and just seen.
Timelines are important when working with magazines because of their deadlines, which can be months ahead of time. Therefore, you must think ahead and into the future.
Another tip Norick gave was to make things as easy as possible for editors, go above and beyond pitching itmes and go the extra mile to prove to them the products you are dealing with matter.
She then went on to explain how social media has changed the fashion industry because lines and products can be leaked so easily. Fashion Week and other events have become unexclusive because of technology. This means the PR department has to work harder and think outside the box to gain attention for their cleints.
She provided us with websites that can be used to upload a client's line, create look-books, online boutiques and more.
www.polyvore.com; www.smashingdarling.com; www.stylehive.com; www.lookbook.nu; www.twig.com
In closing, she informed us Charlotte Russe clothing is often featured in the CWTV drama Gossip Girl. If you're anything like me, that's GREAT news!
-Alivia Wildey
Crosby Noricks, founder/editor of PR Couture and www.PRcouture.com, spoke to PRSSA National Conference attendees today on the fashion public relations industry.
"Fashion PR specialists and publicists help apparel companies and retail stores
build and maintain a favorable public image," Noricks explained.
As a fashion PR specialist your main goal is to get client's merchandise, clothing, accessories, etc. in magazines, on celebrities, on TV and just seen.
Timelines are important when working with magazines because of their deadlines, which can be months ahead of time. Therefore, you must think ahead and into the future.
Another tip Norick gave was to make things as easy as possible for editors, go above and beyond pitching itmes and go the extra mile to prove to them the products you are dealing with matter.
She then went on to explain how social media has changed the fashion industry because lines and products can be leaked so easily. Fashion Week and other events have become unexclusive because of technology. This means the PR department has to work harder and think outside the box to gain attention for their cleints.
She provided us with websites that can be used to upload a client's line, create look-books, online boutiques and more.
www.polyvore.com; www.smashingdarling.com; www.stylehive.com; www.lookbook.nu; www.twig.com
In closing, she informed us Charlotte Russe clothing is often featured in the CWTV drama Gossip Girl. If you're anything like me, that's GREAT news!
-Alivia Wildey
Keynote Address: Politics & PR
Keynote speaker Mona Pasquil, vice president of MSHC Partners, Inc. and business development consultant/sales strategist for IBM, opened up PRSSA's National Conference for 2009. Pasquil, who has worked on four presidential campaigns, three gubernatorial campaigns and many local elections, gave members key advice and insight into the political sector of the PR industry.
Paquil outlined four steps necessary to succeed as a PR professional working in politics.
"Be true to yourself. Remember who got you here, remember your journey, and remember the lessons you've learned," Pasquil said.
Also stressed were the two "Mona Rules": always be prepared and think about your plans.
Here are other pieces of advice directly from Pasquil:
* "Timing is everything. It's the difference between winning and losing."
* "Weigh the situation and think about it. You've got a millisecond."
* "You have to know who you are and know your story. Your name is all you've got, so don't screw it up."
* "Don't let others define you. Be true to yourself."
* "Get your information out. Don't wait."
* "Think about all of the other potential situations out there."
* "Don't try to spin things. People don't like it and you're going to lose."
* "There are just a couple of those tough stories [that journalists want from politicians], but there are so many good stories."
* "Never make a joke out of a tough situation."
* "Working for the public is tough, but when you see your work out there, there isn't anything like it."
* "There's that moment when you've got your moment to make your mark on history. You get the opportunity to tell the story the right way. TAKE IT!"
As a person interested in political PR myself, I thoroughly enjoyed Pasquil's address and believe it was a great jump-start for the conference. I am looking forward to the sessions that lie ahead!
- Alise Cool
Paquil outlined four steps necessary to succeed as a PR professional working in politics.
"Be true to yourself. Remember who got you here, remember your journey, and remember the lessons you've learned," Pasquil said.
Also stressed were the two "Mona Rules": always be prepared and think about your plans.
Here are other pieces of advice directly from Pasquil:
* "Timing is everything. It's the difference between winning and losing."
* "Weigh the situation and think about it. You've got a millisecond."
* "You have to know who you are and know your story. Your name is all you've got, so don't screw it up."
* "Don't let others define you. Be true to yourself."
* "Get your information out. Don't wait."
* "Think about all of the other potential situations out there."
* "Don't try to spin things. People don't like it and you're going to lose."
* "There are just a couple of those tough stories [that journalists want from politicians], but there are so many good stories."
* "Never make a joke out of a tough situation."
* "Working for the public is tough, but when you see your work out there, there isn't anything like it."
* "There's that moment when you've got your moment to make your mark on history. You get the opportunity to tell the story the right way. TAKE IT!"
As a person interested in political PR myself, I thoroughly enjoyed Pasquil's address and believe it was a great jump-start for the conference. I am looking forward to the sessions that lie ahead!
- Alise Cool
Friday, November 6, 2009
Portfolios & E-Portfolios: Creating Connections during this Wave of Change
"You're never fully prepared without a portfolio."
The Indiana State PRSSA Chapter presented conference attendees with helpful tips and information on how to use portfolios to their fullest potential.
In the ever-changing new media society, you can use two types of portfolios; print and electronic.
A print portfolio is an excellent tool to have for interviews to present to the employer. It gives them concrete evidence and showcases your talents and abilities.
A good portfolio will show the professional you are willing to go the extra mile and put in valuable time and effort.
The portfolios can be versatile, changeable and tailored to the specific job you're applying for.
You must remember to keep your portfolio up-to-date!
The portfolio should include:
1. Resume
2. Personal Code of Ethics
3. Table of Contents
4. Public Relations materials (examples of your work)
5. Research
6. Examples of Creativity (designing)
7. Additional Writing
8. Awards & Achievements
An e-portfolio is basically your personal/professional website. You use it as a branding tool for professionals to get a feel of who you are as a PR person.
It will help to market yourself for career searches and identify your career interests.
Some of the top free portfolio sites are:
http://www.webs.com/
http://www.leadyou.com/
http://www.visualcv.com/
http://www.wix.com/
http://www.weebly.com/
Now all you need to do is choose a username and begin assembling!
Establishing portfolios can be a tedious process and something you should put hard work and a lot of effort into. You want to be proud to show yours off to professionals in the field.
-Alivia Wildey
The Indiana State PRSSA Chapter presented conference attendees with helpful tips and information on how to use portfolios to their fullest potential.
In the ever-changing new media society, you can use two types of portfolios; print and electronic.
A print portfolio is an excellent tool to have for interviews to present to the employer. It gives them concrete evidence and showcases your talents and abilities.
A good portfolio will show the professional you are willing to go the extra mile and put in valuable time and effort.
The portfolios can be versatile, changeable and tailored to the specific job you're applying for.
You must remember to keep your portfolio up-to-date!
The portfolio should include:
1. Resume
2. Personal Code of Ethics
3. Table of Contents
4. Public Relations materials (examples of your work)
5. Research
6. Examples of Creativity (designing)
7. Additional Writing
8. Awards & Achievements
An e-portfolio is basically your personal/professional website. You use it as a branding tool for professionals to get a feel of who you are as a PR person.
It will help to market yourself for career searches and identify your career interests.
Some of the top free portfolio sites are:
http://www.webs.com/
http://www.leadyou.com/
http://www.visualcv.com/
http://www.wix.com/
http://www.weebly.com/
Now all you need to do is choose a username and begin assembling!
Establishing portfolios can be a tedious process and something you should put hard work and a lot of effort into. You want to be proud to show yours off to professionals in the field.
-Alivia Wildey
Monday, November 2, 2009
Professional Development Session
Ashley Kasdorf, a recent IUPUI PR grad, stopped by the Campus Center Media Center on Oct. 19 to speak with PRSSA members and PR students about media relations. Kasdorf now works in the public relations department at Miller Brooks, which is located in Zionsville. With her experience at Miller Brooks, Kasdorf had plenty of good advice to tell PR students about first-class media relations.
“I work on 6 different client accounts, so I work with the media a lot,” she said. Positive media relationships are crucial when working with clients. Not only do you want a positive relationship with members of the media to build your own credibility, you need good relationships for your client’s sake.
Kasdorf first suggested, when trying to pitch an idea, story or send a news release, you must know your publication. For example, don’t send a news release about commercial washing machines to a publication that only covers commercial dryers. Make sure you know whom it is you are talking to and know the type of story or beat that particular person covers or has covered.
It is also helpful to make sure you are speaking the jargon or lingo of the editor or reporter you are pitching to.
Kasdorf said to make sure to pitch the idea in enough time. Remember, journalists have deadlines!
“What ever it is that you are pitching, they’ve heard it before,” Kasdorf said. “Don’t be alarmed if there is no response. Make sure you do a follow-up call or email. If they don’t respond after that, drop it.”
Another great way to spark the reporter or editor’s interest is to offer photographs, captions and interviews. “Don’t ever offer anything you can’t follow through on,” Kasdorf said. “Make the lives of the reporters easy.”
Besides offering pictures and interviews, there are other ways you can make reporters lives easy. Contacting reporters and editors in their preferred method is one way to build positive relationships with them. Some PR professionals recommend contacting the reporter or editor in the way they contacted you. Don’t send an email to an editor that always contacts you by telephone; call him or her.
Writing well and correctly will also reflect positively on you, your client and help the reporter out.
“Always, make sure you are AP correct,” Kasdorf said. Misspelled words and incorrect grammar is one way to jeopardize your relations with the media.
Above all, Kasdorf suggests that you be confident. “Be firm, assertive and confident,” she said. “Act and write like you’re enthused about your pitch, because it shows.”
Kasdorf left IUPUI PR students and PRSSA members with a plethora of knowledge about how to achieve good media relations.
“Ashley really knew what she was talking about,” Danielle Everts, PRSSA Executive Board Member, said. “She came prepared with detailed examples of what it takes to have media relations. It was nice to hear about the "real world" from someone who just graduated from IUPUI two years ago.”
Make sure you read all of your emails from IUPUI PRSSA. We will announce new professional development sessions and other things going on with PRSSA. Don't miss your chance to get involved!
Josie Harvey
IUPUI PRSSA
Director of Communications
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
E-board meeting: 10/25/09
Here is a quick recap of the latest meeting:
- We discussed Half Day With a Pro (registration deadline 10/28)... a great opportunity to get some PR experience and network afterward at the PRSA luncheon (only $18 for students)
- We have a new office in the Campus Center... 3rd floor media room. The new office will be in functioning order soon.
- SoJ t-shirts are coming... and will be hilarious
- The national conference date is oh so close... have fun in Cali! Some of the girls plan to blog from San Diego and keep us posted.
- Please read your PRSSA emails. They contain information that you do not want to miss out on. i.e. internship opportunities, PRSA/PRSSA events, organization updates
Danielle Everts
Director of Administration
IUPUI PRSSA
- We discussed Half Day With a Pro (registration deadline 10/28)... a great opportunity to get some PR experience and network afterward at the PRSA luncheon (only $18 for students)
- We have a new office in the Campus Center... 3rd floor media room. The new office will be in functioning order soon.
- SoJ t-shirts are coming... and will be hilarious
- The national conference date is oh so close... have fun in Cali! Some of the girls plan to blog from San Diego and keep us posted.
- Please read your PRSSA emails. They contain information that you do not want to miss out on. i.e. internship opportunities, PRSA/PRSSA events, organization updates
Danielle Everts
Director of Administration
IUPUI PRSSA
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