IVETTE MARQUES, SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
This week, I participated in the FAMU Career Fair representing the FPRA Capital Chapter. It was such a refreshing event that I felt the need to write about it. During the hour I spent at FAMU’s School of Journalism and Graphic Communication, I interviewed three young men who are in the PR program. Talking to them about the industry and hearing about their hopes and dreams was so energizing.
These students who have yet to enter the working world are full of life and ideas and excitement. It was wonderful hearing about what they’re involved in right now from launching a female rapper to volunteering at a local middle school to writing poetry. They were fascinated by stories about some of my clients and work experiences and eager to get their feet wet in PR. They want to be role models and change agents and influencers – they want someone to take a chance on them when they graduate this December. And I hope someone does as Ron Sachs took a chance on me, giving a TV reporter the opportunity to work in PR.
I know sometimes we have long, hard days and we feel down, but during those times we should channel our college selves. Go back to those days when everything was fresh and unknown and full of possibilities. I think that’s how we should approach every day of our lives. In reality, we don’t know what’s going to happen on any given day and if we start each day with that sense of wonder and excitement things can only look up!
Showing posts with label public relations. Show all posts
Showing posts with label public relations. Show all posts
Friday, October 23, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
Ron Sachs Rhinos in the Community
MARILYN SIETS, BUSINESS MANAGER
On Saturday, October 17, 2009, the Ron Sachs Communications staff participated in the Start! Heart Walk to support the Big Bend Chapter of the American Heart Association. The overall turnout was great and Ron Sachs Communications raised $1,000 towards the Heart Association’s $350k goal.
Joining me at the walk were Michelle, Carmella, Ivette, Marlene and Erica. Our family members and four legged friends accompanied us at the walk, too. It was great weather for walking and entire team enjoyed it immensely.
Ron Sachs Communications has a long tradition of community involvement. We love supporting events and causes that work to improve the lives of our friends and neighbors. In fact, we are currently gearing up for this year’s United Way fund raising campaign!
In recognition of our deep community involvement, Florida Trend recently recognized Ron Sachs Communications as one of the Best Companies to Work for in Florida.
A big "Thank You!" goes out to all those who had a part in our efforts!
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Survey Shows Social Media Use Gaining Ground
MICHELLE UBBEN, CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
A new national survey of corporations about their use of social media tools and strategies, published in the October issue of PRWeek, confirms that social media is changing corporate communications, probably permanently. But the shape of that change is very much in flux. The survey responses confirm that we are in a period of intense experimentation, with varying levels of acceptance, styles of application and evidence of ROI.
One fact is clear: Although social media is essentially “free,” lots of dollars are flowing in an effort to harness its power, most of them diverted from advertising budgets.
The primary application of social media by corporate America is to shape conversations about the brand, but fully 45% use it to simply listen. Does all that listening have an impact? Apparently so: More than a third of those surveyed say they have changed their products or marketing efforts based on social media feedback.
The introduction of the two-way conversation is surely the most radical change ushered in by the social media phenomenon. While much of the focus of traditional communication – PR and advertising – involves shaping perceptions by controlling the message, social media is only effective if it is treated as a true conversation. Nobody likes someone who does all the talking. That means customers get to say what they think of corporate brands, products and services, unfiltered and unvarnished. And that’s scary.
In fact, fear does play a role in companies’ failure to implement social media strategies – engaging in a public conversation seems risky to a brand. And yet, fear is not even close to being the biggest barrier to implementation: 53% cite lack of internal resources or time and 43% cite lack of knowledge or expertise.
Primary uses of social media? Sixty-five percent say they connect with customers, 63% build brand awareness and 49% manage brand reputation, yet only 29% found it important for crisis communication.
Where will all this tweeting lead? Look for growing acceptance among the 37% who say they don’t currently use social media tools and increasing experimentation among those who do. And, of course, expect everyone to attempt to find ways to use social media to boost sales without turning conversations into a sales pitch. THAT would surely be bad form.
A new national survey of corporations about their use of social media tools and strategies, published in the October issue of PRWeek, confirms that social media is changing corporate communications, probably permanently. But the shape of that change is very much in flux. The survey responses confirm that we are in a period of intense experimentation, with varying levels of acceptance, styles of application and evidence of ROI.
One fact is clear: Although social media is essentially “free,” lots of dollars are flowing in an effort to harness its power, most of them diverted from advertising budgets.
The primary application of social media by corporate America is to shape conversations about the brand, but fully 45% use it to simply listen. Does all that listening have an impact? Apparently so: More than a third of those surveyed say they have changed their products or marketing efforts based on social media feedback.
The introduction of the two-way conversation is surely the most radical change ushered in by the social media phenomenon. While much of the focus of traditional communication – PR and advertising – involves shaping perceptions by controlling the message, social media is only effective if it is treated as a true conversation. Nobody likes someone who does all the talking. That means customers get to say what they think of corporate brands, products and services, unfiltered and unvarnished. And that’s scary.
In fact, fear does play a role in companies’ failure to implement social media strategies – engaging in a public conversation seems risky to a brand. And yet, fear is not even close to being the biggest barrier to implementation: 53% cite lack of internal resources or time and 43% cite lack of knowledge or expertise.
Primary uses of social media? Sixty-five percent say they connect with customers, 63% build brand awareness and 49% manage brand reputation, yet only 29% found it important for crisis communication.
Where will all this tweeting lead? Look for growing acceptance among the 37% who say they don’t currently use social media tools and increasing experimentation among those who do. And, of course, expect everyone to attempt to find ways to use social media to boost sales without turning conversations into a sales pitch. THAT would surely be bad form.
Friday, October 2, 2009
David Letterman Scandal Demonstrates Smart Crisis Management & Public Relations
RON SACHS, PRESIDENT
In what is surely his most important monologue of the year, David Letterman used his glowing star power – and a national network broadcast platform -- for the biggest, best new textbook example about getting out in front of a 'bad' story, even when it involves a subject as salacious as workplace sexual encounters. Instead of waiting for the scandalous facts about his dalliances with female members of his own "Late Night" show staff to break on the national publicity landscape, Letterman 'outed' himself to his in-studio and viewing audience. It is the story of the day and week in show biz. As a result, rather than the focus being on Letterman's behavior, the 'bad guy' is an alleged extortionist who tried to intimidate the comedic star into coughing up $2 million in hush money to keep the scandal quiet.
Letterman wisely went to authorities, rather than buckle to such pressure. Now, the would-be shakedown artist is charged with major crimes. And, Letterman's voluntary disclosure on "Late Night" was brilliant in its unexpected candor, earnestness and stated concern about the well-being of his own family (he married his long-time companion and mother of his child earlier this year) and the privacy of the women he was involved with on his own staff.
Regardless of morality questions that may dog Letterman for a while, he came off as a sympathetic figure because of his bold decision to break his own bad news -- on a grand scale. While network execs at CBS may be properly focused on HR issues of propriety regarding Letterman's affairs, the shine on his star may grow even brighter for the lessons he has learned -- and for the strategic, surgical strike he delivered on behalf of others and himself. Few public figures ever have done a better job early enough to really matter in making a difference in public perception of their own misdeeds or shortcomings than Letterman's example this week.
In what is surely his most important monologue of the year, David Letterman used his glowing star power – and a national network broadcast platform -- for the biggest, best new textbook example about getting out in front of a 'bad' story, even when it involves a subject as salacious as workplace sexual encounters. Instead of waiting for the scandalous facts about his dalliances with female members of his own "Late Night" show staff to break on the national publicity landscape, Letterman 'outed' himself to his in-studio and viewing audience. It is the story of the day and week in show biz. As a result, rather than the focus being on Letterman's behavior, the 'bad guy' is an alleged extortionist who tried to intimidate the comedic star into coughing up $2 million in hush money to keep the scandal quiet.
Letterman wisely went to authorities, rather than buckle to such pressure. Now, the would-be shakedown artist is charged with major crimes. And, Letterman's voluntary disclosure on "Late Night" was brilliant in its unexpected candor, earnestness and stated concern about the well-being of his own family (he married his long-time companion and mother of his child earlier this year) and the privacy of the women he was involved with on his own staff.
Regardless of morality questions that may dog Letterman for a while, he came off as a sympathetic figure because of his bold decision to break his own bad news -- on a grand scale. While network execs at CBS may be properly focused on HR issues of propriety regarding Letterman's affairs, the shine on his star may grow even brighter for the lessons he has learned -- and for the strategic, surgical strike he delivered on behalf of others and himself. Few public figures ever have done a better job early enough to really matter in making a difference in public perception of their own misdeeds or shortcomings than Letterman's example this week.
Friday, September 25, 2009
APR: PR Boot Camp
IVETTE MARQUES, SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
After much consideration, I have taken the plunge -- starting classes to prepare for the APR (Accredited in Public Relations) with my colleague and PR partner in crime, Erica Villanueva. This is something I’ve put a lot of thought into and have been eager to accomplish, particularly because I don’t have a PR degree and I entered the field after working in television.
Two classes in and I’m feeling pretty good. But don’t get me wrong; it’s not easy. We have classes every Monday after work and I usually don’t get home until 8:30 p.m. There’s a lot of reading, terminology and theories to master, but I know that in the end the APR designation will be worth the time and effort and hours of reading, classes and preparing for the readiness review and exam.
The pluses: We have a teacher (Rachel Smith) whose passion is accreditation and who wants us to succeed. Our class is diverse, but small, so we can learn from each other, play off our strengths and shore up our weaknesses. I think in the end we will all be better professionals for it. The APR designation is universal, and like a diamond “it’s forever.”
A poll on TWT Poll (http://twtpoll.com/r/qssvjf) asks “Is earning the APR designation worth the time and effort?” The poll will close on September 30th, but so far 64% of the votes indicate that most APRs and non-APRs think it’s worth it. I have to agree with the majority.
As a young professional, I’m a firm believer that the more distinctions and designations you can acquire, the more you will stand out in the marketplace. And in this economy, with so many people competing for scarce jobs, you need to do everything in your power to shine brighter than your competition.
I have a feeling there will be days when I’m exhausted and freaking out, but when I think about the APR, those three little letters always make me smile.
I plan on tracking my APR experience on this blog, so until next time…
After much consideration, I have taken the plunge -- starting classes to prepare for the APR (Accredited in Public Relations) with my colleague and PR partner in crime, Erica Villanueva. This is something I’ve put a lot of thought into and have been eager to accomplish, particularly because I don’t have a PR degree and I entered the field after working in television.
Two classes in and I’m feeling pretty good. But don’t get me wrong; it’s not easy. We have classes every Monday after work and I usually don’t get home until 8:30 p.m. There’s a lot of reading, terminology and theories to master, but I know that in the end the APR designation will be worth the time and effort and hours of reading, classes and preparing for the readiness review and exam.
The pluses: We have a teacher (Rachel Smith) whose passion is accreditation and who wants us to succeed. Our class is diverse, but small, so we can learn from each other, play off our strengths and shore up our weaknesses. I think in the end we will all be better professionals for it. The APR designation is universal, and like a diamond “it’s forever.”
A poll on TWT Poll (http://twtpoll.com/r/qssvjf) asks “Is earning the APR designation worth the time and effort?” The poll will close on September 30th, but so far 64% of the votes indicate that most APRs and non-APRs think it’s worth it. I have to agree with the majority.
As a young professional, I’m a firm believer that the more distinctions and designations you can acquire, the more you will stand out in the marketplace. And in this economy, with so many people competing for scarce jobs, you need to do everything in your power to shine brighter than your competition.
I have a feeling there will be days when I’m exhausted and freaking out, but when I think about the APR, those three little letters always make me smile.
I plan on tracking my APR experience on this blog, so until next time…
Thursday, September 24, 2009
So, you want to be an intern... Now what? Part 1: The application process
ERICA VILLANUEVA, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/INTERNSHIP COORDINATOR
Why should you listen to me? I have been the internship coordinator at Ron Sachs Communications for nearly two years and during that time I’ve hired and managed more than 20 interns. To be honest, I didn’t always know what qualities to look for, but along the way I’ve come to learn exactly what makes the perfect intern applicant.
Many employers rate internship experience as one of the most important criteria in selecting a new hire. You can even pay some companies to find you an internship. For only $750, Intern Abroad will place you in a position. But why dole out all that cash, when you can score a spot on your own?
Timing is everything
Don’t just apply when you feel like applying. Find out when the company you’re applying to is actually looking to hire. This will help keep your e-mail out of the “abyss of forgotten intern applications.” The internships we offer at Ron Sachs Communications coincide with school semesters and we begin interviewing a month before the beginning of the new semester. This is the perfect time to apply!
Its important to follow up, but don’t be a stalker about it. A polite follow-up e-mail to check on the status of your application is plenty. Several calls and voicemails are too much, so don’t over do it.
Creating a complete application
In an application e-mail, I always like to see a cover letter, resume and writing samples. Including your availability is also helpful; that way I know if I can work you into our office schedule. Sometimes I’m looking for a specific time to fill, like Tuesday or Thursday, for example. Of course, your experience and writing samples matter, it’s just helpful to know how much time you can dedicate to your internship.
Make your resume relevant
Try to keep your resume to one page. I think it’s best to pick and choose the most relevant experience you’ve had.
You shouldn’t include summer or high school jobs like your position as a grocery bagger or a babysitter for your neighbor, since those jobs probably didn’t give you much PR experience. If they did, explain how.
Remember to highlight scholarships or awards you’ve received. It’s important to document all of these honors because it tells me you are dedicated to school and would therefore be dedicated to your job.
Extracurricular activities matter
Look for opportunities to get the experience you need to stand out. Set yourself apart from the other applicants by being involved in clubs or associations that provide opportunities for professional development.
Your church or temple may need help writing their newsletter, your sorority may need to ramp up new member recruitment or you can volunteer to work on a political campaign if that interests you. You can pretty much turn any of your hobbies or clubs into opportunities. Everyone needs PR, even if they don’t know it.
FPRA, PRSA and AAFT are all professional organizations with student chapters you can get involved in. Student newspapers like the FSView and the FAMUAN are other great ways to build your portfolio.
If you’d like to apply for an internship at Ron Sachs Communications you can e-mail your application to erica@ronsachs.com. So, go ahead and start working on building your resume because I’m always on the look out for those few stand out applicants to join the Ron Sachs team.
Coming up in my next blog, I’ll talk you through the interview process and give you tips and tricks on how to knock the socks off your interviewer.
Why should you listen to me? I have been the internship coordinator at Ron Sachs Communications for nearly two years and during that time I’ve hired and managed more than 20 interns. To be honest, I didn’t always know what qualities to look for, but along the way I’ve come to learn exactly what makes the perfect intern applicant.
Many employers rate internship experience as one of the most important criteria in selecting a new hire. You can even pay some companies to find you an internship. For only $750, Intern Abroad will place you in a position. But why dole out all that cash, when you can score a spot on your own?
Timing is everything
Don’t just apply when you feel like applying. Find out when the company you’re applying to is actually looking to hire. This will help keep your e-mail out of the “abyss of forgotten intern applications.” The internships we offer at Ron Sachs Communications coincide with school semesters and we begin interviewing a month before the beginning of the new semester. This is the perfect time to apply!
Its important to follow up, but don’t be a stalker about it. A polite follow-up e-mail to check on the status of your application is plenty. Several calls and voicemails are too much, so don’t over do it.
Creating a complete application
In an application e-mail, I always like to see a cover letter, resume and writing samples. Including your availability is also helpful; that way I know if I can work you into our office schedule. Sometimes I’m looking for a specific time to fill, like Tuesday or Thursday, for example. Of course, your experience and writing samples matter, it’s just helpful to know how much time you can dedicate to your internship.
Make your resume relevant
Try to keep your resume to one page. I think it’s best to pick and choose the most relevant experience you’ve had.
You shouldn’t include summer or high school jobs like your position as a grocery bagger or a babysitter for your neighbor, since those jobs probably didn’t give you much PR experience. If they did, explain how.
Remember to highlight scholarships or awards you’ve received. It’s important to document all of these honors because it tells me you are dedicated to school and would therefore be dedicated to your job.
Extracurricular activities matter
Look for opportunities to get the experience you need to stand out. Set yourself apart from the other applicants by being involved in clubs or associations that provide opportunities for professional development.
Your church or temple may need help writing their newsletter, your sorority may need to ramp up new member recruitment or you can volunteer to work on a political campaign if that interests you. You can pretty much turn any of your hobbies or clubs into opportunities. Everyone needs PR, even if they don’t know it.
FPRA, PRSA and AAFT are all professional organizations with student chapters you can get involved in. Student newspapers like the FSView and the FAMUAN are other great ways to build your portfolio.
If you’d like to apply for an internship at Ron Sachs Communications you can e-mail your application to erica@ronsachs.com. So, go ahead and start working on building your resume because I’m always on the look out for those few stand out applicants to join the Ron Sachs team.
Coming up in my next blog, I’ll talk you through the interview process and give you tips and tricks on how to knock the socks off your interviewer.
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