Author: Ashleigh Mavros

President-Worthy PR Advice

Ashleigh Mavros Leave a comment

When it comes to marketing your brand and yourself, maintaining strong public relations is the key to finding success. Those that are able to nail their PR strategies and handle mishaps with grace are typically able to overcome challenges and move forward in their careers. Today’s consumers are quick to react to negative PR; therefore, doing PR right the first time is essential.  


Perhaps the best examples of professional public relations strategies leading to success come from this season’s presidential candidates. With the amount of media attention given to those running for political office, it is easy to examine and understand the broad impact of PR successes and failures. Here are just a few tips on personal branding to be taken from the individuals running for the oval office.

Shock and Awe

In an age of internet and short attention spans, it doesn’t bode well to forget that your target audience doesn’t want to see the same branding ploys over and over again. They want to be surprised and entertained. Furthermore, they want to learn something new and share the information with friends. Using a shock and awe approach to branding is a great way to break into a new market and achieve notice.

Donald Trump is the obvious voice of success for the shock and awe method whether or not you agree with his politics. Trump entered the Republican race with little political experience and even fewer political allies, yet he has skyrocketed to the top of the polls and has remained there ever since. His personal marketing strategy has worked out well in garnering attention; people cannot wait to hear and share his next bombastic comment and the media can’t get enough of him.  

Use the Internet Wisely

The internet can be a fickle place where potentially great PR strategies turn into living nightmares. It can also be a massive boon to your personal brand if a post goes viral. Either way, a strong understanding of trends and a close eye on changes is imperative to internet branding success. Before posting anything, be sure to think of all the possible implications of sharing it with the world.

A number of presidential candidates have struggled with internet related PR nightmares. For instance, numerous Tweets and website based mishaps have prompted multiple inquiries as to whether or not many candidates even understand the internet or if they are too disconnected. Backlash for many of these mishaps can be swift and harsh, as well as spell the end to running for an election.   

Try Something New

A number of presidential candidates are finding new avenues for connecting with a younger audience. One of the primary targets has been appearances on late night television with hosts that are just as likely to poke fun at the establishment as ask about any policies. One notable example is Jeb Bush’s appearance on the Late Show, which is now hosted by traditionally mock-conservative politico, Stephen Colbert.

Creating a successful personal brand involves a lot of innovation and the ability to put yourself out there and attract new audiences. Much like presidential candidates appearing on comedy tv to build relations among both the young and those that don’t regularly follow politics, it involves entering a realm of relative discomfort and making the most of it. Triumphing in this arena opens numerous doors and provides countless opportunities for your brand.  

Be Responsive

Another aspect to a successful PR strategy during a presidential campaign is responsiveness. For candidates especially, something negative will eventually happen and how he or she responds in the aftermath can make or break a political career. Often times voters demand a public apology or acknowledgement of the situation, they want to remain informed and see that something is being done to rectify it. Take Hillary Clinton’s email fiasco as an example.

Whether your PR campaign goes really well or poorly, perhaps the most important aspect in retaining appreciation in your audience is to follow through. Be as responsive and transparent as possible to both good and bad comments. Your audience appreciates a response and feeling as though their voices are heard.

The 2016 presidential candidates provide an excellent ground for observing and learning about the costs and benefits of specific public relation strategies. Because of their high level of media attention it is easy to discover the flaws in plans and the quick adjustments that can be made to boost personal branding. Taking the time to learn from the candidates and adapt your personal branding strategy can be a significant benefit.

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HeadshotBrittni Brown is a current Masters candidate at The University of Idaho. In her free time she enjoys a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and camping.

The Little Things Matter: How to Act in the Workplace

Ashleigh Mavros Leave a comment

It’s your first day at your new job and you are feeling a lot of pressure. What do you wear? How do you act? Do you go around talking to everyone or do you stay behind your computer screen and starting knocking out all of the press releases that were assigned?

We’ve all been there. Being in the workplace as a new graduate is thrilling, yet overwhelming. You no longer get to rely on excuses, but rather are required to give your best each and every day, all while being a team player. WHEW!

Little Things That Make a Difference in the WorkplaceHow do you accomplish fitting in and knowing how to act?  Follow these four tips that will surely make you a part of the team and not just the “new” person.

  1. If the coffee pot is low, fill it up

If you know anything about public relations, you know that professionals need their coffee. Between juggling demanding clients and extinguishing the flame in a recent crisis, their veins are filled with caffeine. If you notice that the coffee is getting low, replenish it. Be a team player – even if you don’t drink it. Most likely though, three cups a day will eventually be the norm for you.

  1. Always say “Good Morning”

I know that not everyone is born a natural extrovert, but that doesn’t mean you have to be a hermit. Even though it may be awkward at first, say good morning when passing by desks. I promise you that your colleagues will not bite you. The best way to fit in is to engage in conversations and possess a positive attitude. I, by all means, am not trying to stereotype communications professionals, but you should be able to communicate and engage with others easily.

  1.  Participate

Whether it be a brainstorm session or drinks after work, get involved. To be a team player means you need to be a part of a team. You were hired for a reason, so join in on the fun. A lot of agencies will have monthly meetings or webinars that you can benefit from. You should always go to those. Continuing to learn is the continuation of success. It also doesn’t hurt that you have the opportunity to make new friends who have similar interests.

  1. Treat the company like it is your own

I don’t advise acting like you own the company, but rather be a great representation about what your company stands for. Whether that is your presence on social media, greeting clients as they are in the waiting room, or even picking up trash around the office – act as if the company is your own. It also doesn’t hurt to have the mindset that you are working like the CEO. A CEO is usually putting in extra hours, so it may be nice every once in a while to switch up your morning routine and pop into the office early to start cranking out work.

Even though a few of these tips may seem silly, they are practical and will get you more comfortable in your new setting. There aren’t etiquette books for new employees, but it’s always said that the little things matter. The two biggest things that everything contributes back to are your attitude and effort. Once those are in line – your work and friendships will start to bloom.

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CS Katie Headshot copyAside from stalking the latest fashion trends and blogging about the best shoes to buy, Katie Wenclewicz enjoys everything and anything media relations. Katie graduated from Anderson University with a bachelor’s degree in public relations and marketing. Currently residing in Indianapolis, Indiana, Katie is a publicist at Bohlsen Group.  From heading national campaigns to staying active in the Hoosier PRSA chapter, she is a valuable PR tool for young professionals. Connect with Katie on Twitter or LinkedIn.

October Twitter Chat Highlights: Using Integrated Approaches to Drive Social Results

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oct recapWe would like to thank everyone who participated in the October #NPPRSA Twitter chat to discuss social integration. We would especially like to thank Emily Rasowsky and Lucy Mink of Social Driver for co-hosting a great discussion!

Join us again in November for our next #NPPRSA chat and stay up-to-date with PRSA New Professionals on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Google+.

Review highlights of the chat below. What did you learn from the October chat? How can you improve your social media strategies? What thoughts do you have?

 

 

You can receive FREE New Professionals Section membership for PRSA by using code AM15!

Lauren Lox HS

 

Lauren Loxterman is the PRSA New Professionals Social Media Co-Chair. You can connect with her on Google+, LinkedIn or Twitter.

How to Manage Your Next Job Interview Process

Ashleigh Mavros Leave a comment

Untitled design (3)Many people assume that job interviews would be “no big deal” to a PR professional. After all, don’t we get paid to interview and be interviewed for stories? Here’s the catch–most interviews aren’t job interviews. Job interviews are intimidating. They are a necessary evil that many people fear, yet we all encounter.

If you’re getting nervous just thinking about job interviews, don’t worry. There’s several tips that can help you manage the interview process and put some that PR training to work!

Before the Interview

The interview process begins long before you put on your best outfit. It begins with the job application. How you present yourself in your resume and cover letter impacts whether or not you’re even offered an interview.

To be successful you must customize your cover letter and resume for every job application.  Job coaches suggest creating a “master” resume that includes everything in your repertoire so when you apply for a job you can select only the information that best reflects your qualifications. From this list you can also choose a few examples to highlight in your cover letter.  

This is where your PR training comes into play. You have spent several years learning how to write persuasively. Take that training and infuse it into your cover letter. Target your writing and convince them that you are the right person for the job.

During the Interview

Believe it or not job interviews aren’t about you, your abilities, or your education. They are about how you can fill a need in their company. More importantly, job interviews are about connecting with people. Hiring is expensive.  That’s why companies are concerned with hiring the right person and not just anyone that can do the job.

Yes, you need to be prepared with your resume, portfolio, and lots of great questions that show your interest, but none of that matters if you can’t connect with the people who are interviewing you. Be genuine and leave a lasting impression with everyone you meet—from the secretary to the CEO. You never know who may influence the hiring decision.

Don’t be surprised if companies have researched you on the internet. They recognize that cover letters and resumes are “sterile” representations of your personality. They want to know what you be like on Monday morning after your car broke down and you walked to work in the rain. No, seriously, they want to know who you really are and if you are a good fit for their culture and their current team.

After the Interview

After your interview follow up with a thank you note and include any additional information from your interview. While emails are appropriate, you may find that a handwritten note will leave more of an impression. Electronic communication is easier, but don’t let that stop you from picking up the phone or writing a note.

Be mindful and patient as you wait for their decision. Remember, it’s all about people, so use any follow up conversation to build on the relationships that you began in your interview. At the end of the day, whether you get the job or not, it all comes down to people. They are life’s common denominator no matter what situation you are in or profession you may pursue

As PR professionals we are trained to relate with people. Take that training into your next job interview. You may be surprised to see what happens!

RuthannCampbell (1)Ruthann Campbell graduated from Pensacola Christian College with a bachelor’s degree in advertising and public relations. She is currently the Communications Specialist for a non-profit organization located in Rochester, NY. You can connect with her directly to network or share ideas on LinkedIn or Twitter.

Three reasons to revisit grad school three years after undergrad

Ashleigh Mavros Leave a comment

We’ve all had that nightmare— you know, the one where you’re arriving to class late for your first exam, frantically trying to grab a seat while also recouping the information you crammed into your overtaxed brain during a late-night study session.

Should I go back to grad school?Grappling for information on the periphery of your skill set when reputations are on the line is a familiar feeling for many new pros. For a while, on-the-job training coupled with experience from your undergrad coursework is enough to get through, but at one time or another you start to wonder whether an advanced degree is the best fit.

I always knew that I wanted to pursue an advanced degree and felt that I was falling behind my peers as year after year, more of them made the decision to go back to school. However, after meeting my classmates and professors and diving into my coursework, I’m convinced that three years out of college is a great time to reevaluate grad school. Here’s why:

You’re either about to, or have thought about, making a move

Quarter-life crisis, anyone? No matter who you are or where you landed after undergrad, it’s natural to look at your career three years out and wonder where it’s going and whether or not you want to go with it. For instance, three years gave me a chance to realize that, while I love the business of communication, my passion was streamlining processes to maximize creativity and efficiency. For that reason, I chose to pursue an advanced degree in business rather than communication. Even if you aren’t sure what you want to do, a master’s degree can give you vision during this transitory time, helping you demonstrate proficiency in a particular skill set or open the door for an entire career revolution.

You’re much more budgeted

There’s no doubt that grad school can cost a pretty penny. When I was making my enrollment decision, balancing my budgets and making smart assessments about financial aid helped me view the cost as an investment and not a burden. That type of analysis would not have come quite so easy to me fresh out of college, when gearing up for student loan payments, finding an apartment near my new job and operating as a fully functioning, salaried adult took up most of my time.

You’re still keen on the idea of college

Remember the intrigue and excitement of starting a new class? Or, perhaps, the feeling of elation when you walked across the stage at graduation? That nostalgia is a powerful driver. In fact, I’m convinced that three years removed from undergrad falls right within that sweet spot; you’re experienced enough to make strategic decisions about your career, but nostalgic enough to be open to the notion of recapturing those collegiate feelings. Don’t brush it off as sheer wistfulness— that motivation can be the factor that drives you through your advanced degree and into a career you love.  

It’s never too late to go back for an advanced degree. However, three years out of college is a great time to sit back, evaluate your plan (or, let’s be honest, start drafting your plan) and really think long and hard about whether grad school is part of the approach.

Have you given thoughts to your grad school decision? Tell us more in the comments!

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Lauren - profile picLauren Cascio is an executive for account services at Bohlsen Group, an integrated communications agency in Indianapolis, Ind. She graduated from Purdue University in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in communications. A PR pro with a passion for process-driven creativity and operations management, Lauren is currently pursuing her MBA at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn and Twitter (@LaurenCascio).