Archive for September, 2013

Top Social Media Missteps: Are You Making These Mistakes?

Thursday, September 26th, 2013

There is no doubt that the rapid introduction of various social media platforms has dramatically changed the communication climate for businesses of all kinds. Whether you’re an independent consultant or author, work in a small “mom and pop” retail outlet, or a large multi-national conglomerate, social media is likely to play a part in communicating with key audiences. Unfortunately, sometimes the role of social media isn’t carefully considered. Messages are shared, but is anyone listening? Most importantly, are the right people listening? (more…)

We All Have Something to Learn From Dairy Queen. What Impression Are You Making When You Think No One Is Watching?

Tuesday, September 24th, 2013

I used to tell my son that the true test of a person’s character isn’t what they do when they know someone is watching, but what they do when they don’t think anyone is watching. I don’t know who originally said that; it wasn’t me. But, it’s a sentiment that has always really resonated with me. And, I’ve had opportunities to observe people (when they didn’t know they were being observed by me) who made both positive and negative impressions.
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Don’t Tell Them What You Think Before You Know What THEY Think!

Tuesday, September 10th, 2013

My husband likes to say: “Opinions are like noses, everybody has one.” There’s truth in that, of course. We do all have opinions and even if they’re not strongly held–or strongly expressed–they impact the way we interact with those around us, including individuals and organizations.

For businesses and business professionals attempting to shape those opinions (often called “public relations” or PR), there can be a tendency to start the process by sending out “key messages,” from the standpoint that “we need to get the word out!”

To that, I like to say: (more…)

The Thing About Strategy – Why You Will Never “Get It Right”

Wednesday, September 4th, 2013

Both the current situation in Syria and the start of my classes for this semester have me thinking about strategy. In fact, my pondering about the news reports I’ve been hearing regarding our strategy (or lack thereof) for addressing the situation in Syria helped me to frame what I believe are some important point for students in my PR Campaigns class, as well as for some clients I’m currently working with on strategic planning projects. (more…)