Considered Freelancing?

In this tough economy, it has become more difficult than ever to find a job. Some people resort to jobs that have little to do with their preferred profession using none of their PR skills acquired in college. But there is hope--- become a freelancer.

You might ask, "Well, how does one become a freelancer?"

Easy! Guru.com is a site exclusively for freelancers and employers looking for professionals to do freelance work. Sign onto the website and immediately become a freelance professional. Upload your resume, work samples, what services you offer and become part of the freelance network.

From there the site works like the classified section of the newspaper, but easier. Guru.com notifies you when an employer is looking for work that meets your services. You then place a bid on the work, describing to the employer why you are qualified for the work, what you would charge and other logistical aspects. At the end of the bid period, the employer will pick the most appropriate nominee for the work. Upon finishing the work, you are paid.

This network is perfect to make some money while performing services you enjoy doing. A lot of the employers note that if they like the work you do, they will contact you again for further assistance. Ideally, freelancers hope that if the employer likes their work enough they will eventually become hired.

Social networking, with added bonuses---show off your work, get paid and get noticed

Some Quick Pointers on Social Networking

College students today are faced with a dilemma when it comes to separating their social and professional lives. I'm sure everyone has been told this before, but it is important for graduating students to be aware of how they are presenting themselves on the web.

Jacqueline Whitmore's blog recently touched on social networking etiquette. Please follow the link for some helpful tips.

My tip is to Google yourself often. There may be information you don't want on the web coming up in those searches. Even if your digital record is presentable, it is good to know what other people are seeing when they search your name.

If you are interested in how social networking can translate into good public relations, PRSA is giving a free webinar on Wednesday, January 14. CLICK HERE to find out more about the webinar and register to listen in.

Do you have any pointers related to social networking?

Have the Media Lost Their Way

How do you feel about the level of objectivity in today’s news reporting? Do you think the media have morphed into PR people? However you want to coin the phrase – media bias or journalism advocacy – if this is something that interests you, take a break from studying for final exams and stop by Bozorth Hall auditorium at 5 p.m. for some free refreshments and fun!

A panel of media professionals will go head-to-head with others in the media field in a Crossfire debate titled, “Watchdog or lapdog: Have the media lost their way?”

Presented by students of the senior seminar Case Studies in Public Relations and Rowan’s Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) Chapter, the annual Crossfire Debate focuses on a controversial topic each year and includes both experts from the field and Rowan students and professors as panelists.

This year’s topic is fueled by recent reports that the media has become increasingly slanted in their reporting in many aspects, particularly the past presidential election.

The panel that will argue the bias of the media includes Dr. Joseph Basso, a lawyer and public relations and advertising professor at Rowan, and Laura Casey, senior public relations major at Rowan.

Panelists will argue that the media are objective include George Anastasia, an investigative reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer and author of three books and Kate Gamble, a senior student at Rowan studying journalism, public relations and English.

At the conclusion of the debate the floor will be opened to questions from the audience.

If finals have you locked in the library and can’t make it to tonight’s debate, I’m still interested on how you feel about the issue. What are your thoughts on the current state of the media? Do you think the media will ever come back to being the fair and balanced source of news it once was?

Tis' the season to save, save, save!

As the holidays approach, many companies are thinking outside the box to bring customers into their business. Will marketers be able to sell customers with their creative ideas?

Starbucks is defying the law of physics to sell more coffee. You ask, what does this mean? They are trying an experimental marketing stunt in order to bring customers into their stores. Cars throughout cities are driving around with a coffee stuck to the top of their roofs. If you are kind enough to roll your window down and let the person know, they reward you with a free coffee. Pretty clever huh? But will this be enough or will people just go in to receive their free coffee and leave without another purchase? Either way, I thought it was an excellent marketing strategy. There is nothing like a little advertising in disguise!

Not only are retail companies struggling, so are hotels. The first thing people cut back on are their travel expenses. Therefore, The Chelsea Hotel located in Atlantic City is offering to pay for your gas, if you stay overnight at their hotel. All you need is your gas receipt and a max of $50 will be adjusted off your bill.

Free is the magic word this holiday season. But companies can not afford to just hand money out. So, they are relying on their marketing departments to come up with unique ideas. What ideas do you have? If you worked for a company, what would you offer?

The Britney Spears’ “Comeback Communication Strategy “

Despite her out of control behavior, and media gossip, Britney Spears’ fans awaited her new album, Circus, and longed for the hour, commercial free “Britney: For the Record.”
And prior to Sunday’s pseudo tell-all documentary, Spears traveled to the UK to make a guest appearance on the X-factor and performed on ABC’s “Good Morning America.”

Obviously with the release of her new album, hype is expected. But was this publicity for the purpose of her new album or something else?

I put forth the Britney Spears “Comeback Communication Strategy

Consider:
Timing: Britney Spears is frequently in the news. She is the most sought out figure by the paparazzi. Paparzzi pictures of Spears are always in demand. Since her meltdown, the world has heard and seen little about her. Her last album was released over a year ago. Audiences are curious as to what happened to Britney.
Audience: Spears’ fans are loyal to Britney and the drama that surrounds her. The audience was receptive.
Message: Britney Spears has recovered from the mental breakdown and released this new album representing a Britney re-launch.

The Image Plan:
Objective: To restore faith in Britney Spears with her fans, the media, and the music industry.
Strategy: Present to the public Spears’ story. Guide and control Spears’ image in the media
Tactic: Film a documentary exposing Spears’ life and allow her to tell her audience about what she went through, her state of mind and that now she is a better, smarter person.
The Sales Plan
Objective: To increase sales of Britney Spears’ new album, Circus.
Strategy: Use the Spears’ brand (perfume, her reputation) to advertise the new album.
Tactic: During the hour long Spears documentary, display only Britney Spears advertisements.

In my opinion, I think the communication plan to re-launch an emotionally stable Britney would have been a success if the message matched the merchandise.

From the responses I have read about Spears’ documentary it seems the media does not believe that “Britney is back.”

Sales will confirm whether the Spears’ sales strategy was successful

What do you think? Were the communications strategies effective?

How to React – Crisis Communications

In times of crisis, PR practitioners become leaders. Advisers look to us to disseminate information to the public and craft strategic plans to remediate tough circumstances. Learning from one another’s experiences will in turn strengthen our profession.

Case in point, this weekend the attacks on Mumbai left India devastated. An AdAge article on Tuesday, December 2, 2008, recapped the unfortunate event.

Terrorists attacked ten targets in the center of India's financial, marketing, media and film industries. Three days of fighting between members of an Islamist group called the Deccan Mujahedeen and India's police and military resulted in 179 people dead. Most of the fighting took place at the city's premier hotels, the Oberoi and the Taj Mahal, which are frequented by foreigners.

With these terrorists’ attacks looming, the future of India’s tourism is ominous. Last year India attracted about five million tourists. This year they will see a fraction of the amount. Aware that airlines are already cutting flights into Mumbai, India's tourist board is working on a "repair" campaign to lure visitors back, said Suman Srivastava, Euro RSCG's Mumbai-based CEO, India.

A PRWeek article said Sheila Donnelly & Associates, a U.S. marketing and public relations firm, is on board to assist The Taj Mahal Palace and Tower.

Reacting quickly, PR professionals must notify the media and take responsibility for the problem at hand. Proactive planning and accountability will add to any PR person’s credibility. How one handles a crisis can make or break their career.

What do you think about the actions PR practitioners have taken regarding violence in Mumbai? Do you feel the situation was handled appropriately? Would you have done anything differently?

As well if you’ve ever encountered a crisis in the profession – please share your past experiences with us. What worked or didn’t work for you? Do you have any tips for the future PR industry leaders? We would appreciate your thoughts and insightful advice.

Where Does All the Time Go?

Please excuse our ten-day hiatus. With the holidays coming up and the semester winding down many people, including myself, lose track of their priorities and enter a personal race to “get it all done.”

When it seems like there is too much to do and no time to do it, I like to take a step back and look at the big picture. I have a confession: I am a list freak. I have a to-do list for every separate activity I am involved in. Right now my lists include one for each class, one for my internship, one for each job (I have three!), a list for PRSSA and PRaction…and a few more. It probably sounds strange and obsessive, but when I become overwhelmed with all of my tasks, it is the simplest way to get back on track. And who doesn’t love checking off something they’ve accomplished?

So, as finals approach I want to know what little things keep you on track. Do you have any habits that help when you start feeling overwhelmed? Please comment so we can get a list of helpful tips going!

The Wired World In Which We Live

By Lindsay Laubach

We live in a technology-based world where face-to-face communication has taken a back seat. Text messages, Instant Messages and e-mail take the place of human interaction, and this trip down the technology superhighway has taken a toll on our communication skills.

As PR practitioners, one of our greatest attributes is the ability to hold an intelligent, fluent conversation, either one-on-one or in a public setting. We rely on our impeccable language skills to seal an interview, pitch a proposal to a client and communicate to the media.

With our fingers doing most of the talking these days, how can we keep our minds sharp, articulation and people skills precise and keep up our reputation as well-spoken professionals?

PRSSA Call to Action

By Courtney Sizemore

Standing for what you believe in, what you have faith in, and what you
devote your free time to isn't always the popular decision. Friends
outside of the Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) say I come off obsessed, but as I see it, I am dedicated. Some of us are just becoming involved in PRSSA, and some
of us are veterans, and we come together for a variety of causes every
week/day regardless for a common cause. Some want to improve their
resume, some want the experience, some are bored, and some just
want to feel a belonging to a single organization. No matter what the
reasoning, we come together to celebrate the practice of PR, and for
good reason.

We are the coming generations of PR practitioners. Forget what you've
heard about faulty practice, the liars, the deceivers, and the
cheaters. We are a fresh start at new ideas with hearty experience. We
get to decide what kind of legacy we are going to leave. This doesn't
mean go into any future employment with the notion that nothing will
ever affect you. Know the challenges ahead, and pursue them anyway.
Believe in being ethical, believe in being right and fair, and above
anything, believe in your cause.

If you are graduating, question your motives for job positions and if
you believe that this is the right choice for you. Does this interest
you? Does this motivate you? Does this make you happy? If you aren't
graduating, ask yourself the same things. What are your strongest
assets and how can you apply them to the greater good right now!
Everyone has something they're passionate about. Seeing applications
for PRaction accounts, the staff sees your talents on paper and wants
you to apply them everyday. But you have to want to act once you're in
the position to do so!

What do you enjoy doing? Find someone to talk to in publications,
philanthropy work, entertainment, etc. Whether it is in Rowan's PRSSA
(and of course other PRSSA organizations across the country) or a
professional practitioner, don't be afraid to ask questions! Four year
olds ask questions all day long about why the sky is blue and the
grass is green because it's how they learn. Do the same. Throw
yourself into PRSSA. Immerse yourself in all it has to offer. Dedicate
yourself to the field and it will reap its benefits to you as well.

What's the job market like for the brand new PR professional?

By Asia Thompson

Who's Hiring? That is the question I have been asking myself a lot lately. I am a senior public relations student, which means that in about 6 months I will be out there looking for a job. This is the time when having a strategy to find one is most important. Especially when jobs seem to be becoming more and more elusive.

We all know the economy is in bad shape, but how bad is it for communicators? And most importantly, how bad is it for brand new ones?

According to Michael Sebastian from MyRagan.com, the outlook this quarter is pretty grim, but that doesn't mean it will be that way in May. I tell myself not to give up hope, because that is a silver lining. And isn't that all we really need? If there is one thing I have learned this year it is that hope prevails. And According to Nicole Kieta, a recruiter from Melinda Holm & Associates the market will pick up again after the New Year. She says, "it always does."

Well, that's all well and good, but what's a brand new PR professional to do? In a tight economy, how many companies will be looking for fresh faces? My assumption is not many, but some will. So how do I find the companies that are willing to hire? And most importantly how do I stand out enough for them to notice me?

I turned to my mentor Lina Duverge, Corporate Communications Manager at Lifetime Television Network with this question. She says, "New grads should rely on their reputation. They should acquire recommendation letters from previous employers, join Linkedin and even cold call companies." She also advised to go on informative interviews, because it's a good way of letting companies of interest know you exist. Getting in touch with recruiters and headhunters isn't a bad idea either, because some companies only hire through them.

After much research and advice I've come to the conclusion that finding a job in my field after graduation won't be impossible, but it will be hard work; especially if this economy doesn't turn around.

The most important thing for me and other new graduates to do, no matter how bad the economy, is to persevere. We can't let this grim market get us down. In the words of my mentor, "The tide will turn, just like it has in the past." It will not be this way forever. Now, THAT'S a silver lining!

‘Perkanomics’

As the Christmas holidays near, Macy’s credit card holders and employees will enjoy early bird benefits. They will receive an additional 15 percent off their purchase even after using their friends and family coupon collection they received in the mail

Rowan University students recently received free coffee cards to use at the newly opened Progressive Coffee House off of High Street in Glassboro, N.J..

Incentive matters.

The Internet trend firm, trendwatching.com dubs “perkanomics” as the new business trend and currency used to satisfy customers. The firm defines “perkanomics” as a “new breed of perks and privileges that satisfies consumers' needs and desires.”

In an attempt to break through clutter, a business will offer a perk to distinguish itself from the other competition. Although this is true, we have seen with industries like air travel and banking, with so many different perks from different brands, brand individuality disappears and perks end up adding to the clutter.

Although the new currency, “perkanomics” should be used sparingly. A brand like iTunes offers occasional free songs or packaged deals, yet still flourishes off of daily sales.

Trend watching is key for any successful communicator to reach audiences at aperture moments while still introducing new and exciting ideas to your boss, your client, or your audience.

Observe your own trends and see what people are talking about and what they want.

Share your results here.

Original article here.

Eat, Drink and Be Smart: 9 Ways to Avoid Disaster at Your Office Holiday Party!

By Barbara Pachter

A sales woman brought her dog to her manager’s holiday party at his home. The dog proceeded to do his business on the dining room rug! At another party, a young man got drunk, cursed out his boss and was fired on the spot. And an administrative assistant wore a very tight, revealing, short dress to her office party.

Wheter you are a professional or an intern, your behavior at the holiday party matters. People do and say all sorts of inappropriate things at holiday parties. Your behavior always matters. Just because you are out of the office doesn’t mean that your behavior doesn’t count.

I recommend that you view the holiday party as you would any other business event. It is not the time to let it all hang out!

Here are 9 guidelines for holiday success:

1. MAKE SURE YOU ATTEND. Attendance at the company holiday party isn’t optional. Your absence will be noticed, and most likely, noted by your boss and other higher ups. At a seminar a young woman asked me if she should go to the CEO’s holiday party. She didn’t want to give up a Saturday night out with her friends. I had a simple answer: Go!

2. PREPARE CONVERSATION AHEAD OF TIME. Don’t just talk business. Be up-to-date on current events, happenings in your community. Read the newspaper, newsmagazines, company publications, and your professional journals.

3. STAY SOBER. Set a limit for yourself before you go to the party. It is much easier to limit your intake that way. Or, order a drink you don’t like and sip it slowly all night. A bank manager swears that he got promoted because his boss got drunk and she made such outrageous comments at the party that she was fired.

4. MINGLE. Talk to people you know and don’t know. This is an opportunity to meet new people. Don’t just stay with your group. Go up to people, say hello, introduce yourself, shake hands.

5. PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR BODY LANGUAGE. Even if the party is dull, it’s bad manners to let others see how bored you are. Don’t frown, slouch, cross arms or yawn.

6. DRESS APPROPRIATELY. It may be a party, but it’s still business. Nothing too short, too low, too tight or too anything.

7. PREPARE YOUR SPOUSE. If you’re attending the party with your spouse or significant other, prepare him or her in advance on appropriate dress and topics of conversation. Remember, his or her behavior will reflect on you. And if your spouse is supposed to attend, make sure he or she does. A CEO told his vice president that he was not advancing any further in the company unless his wife started attending company functions.

8. DON’T FORGET THAT YOUR BEHAVIOR ALWAYS MATTERS. Have a good time but…don’t make major personal revelations nor gossip. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that just because this is a party, you can address the company president by his or her first name.

9. SAY “THANK-YOU.” Be sure to send a thank-you note to the party’s organizer.



Barbara Pachter is a speaker, coach and author of numerous business books, including The Power of Positive Confrontation ($14.95, paperback, Marlowe & Co.) and When the Little Things Count ($13.95, paperback, Marlowe & Co.). She specializes in business etiquette and communication. Her client list features major organizations worldwide, including Microsoft, Cisco, Pfizer, Chrysler, and Genentech.

For a review copy of NewRules@Work: 79 Etiquette Tips, Tools, and Techniques to Get Ahead and Stay Ahead, contact: Catherine Milne, 212-366-2149, or Catherine.Milne@us.penguingroup.comFor a free copy of Pachter's communication e-newsletter, “Competitive Edge,” call (856) 751-6141 (NJ) or go to www.pachter.com.

Good Networking Gets "A Foot in the Door"

Developing good networking skills should be number one for anyone involved with public relations. It is about establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships within the workplace - it can also be utilized in everyday life.

Katharine Hansen, who wrote the book "A Foot in the Door," gives recommendations for students and graduates about reaching the hidden job market.

She lists a number of potential contacts including:

Classmates:
They are not your rivals or your competition (although it seems that way at first). Down the line you may receive a job opportunity through that friend you had in college years and years ago.

Alumni:
Hansen adds: “One of the best ways to find alumni is to check your college’s publications for updates about what alumni are doing…Bond with them by sharing updates about their favorite professors and classes.”

Guest Speakers:
Professionals that come to speak at classes, meetings, or campus events are valuable resources. Many are ingrained within the profession and can open countless doors.

"A Foot in the Door" is sold at most book stores and provides tips including networking, maintaining solid interpersonal relationships among many many others.


Are there any connections you can think of that helped you get to the next stage of your public relations career?

Survive a Job Interview

As we prepare our resumes, polish the cover letter, collect letters of recommendations, iron the “job interview outfit,” and patiently await for the phone call back from employers, let us not forget about the interview process.

Some may think it is impossible to prepare for the interview, hoping to get by on charm, good looks, and a smile. Think again. The interview allows prospective employees to project a positive, impressive impression to the employer.

1. Tell me about yourself.
The most frequently asked question in job interviews, be sure to have a short statement or blurb prepared. It should not sound rehearsed and should cover work related items. Look to relate your experiences to the job you are interviewing for.

2. What do co-workers say about you?
JobInterviewQuestions.com suggests preparing a quote or two from coworkers, either specific or a paraphrase.

3. What do you know about the organization?
Do your research! Know what the organization does, the major players, where they have been, some of their goals, and current issues.

4. Why do you want to work for this organizations?
Monster.com explains that employers would be naive to think that every candidate wants the job because of a passion for what the organization does. It urges candidates to emit passion and motivation to work for the company’s cause instead of a matched skill set.
Sincerity is necessary and sensed. Relate your long term goals to the company’s cause.

5. Are you a team player?
YES. And have examples ready. But make sure not to brag, instead say it in a “matter-of-fact tone.”

Pointers:
“Tell me about a time when...”
This is known as a behavioral interviewing technique. Monster.com explains that these types of questions use your past experiences as an indicator of your future success. Demonstrate through examples that you have accomplished something prior.

Ask questions of your own.
Research enables you to gather thoughts for further questions about the company and the job-sphere.
Example questions:
-Describe a typical day in the office.
-What are some goals of the department

Have any tough interview questions you faced while on a job interview? Share them here. How did you respond? What would you have done differently?

Guerrilla Marketing...Coffee Anyone?

According to Jay Conrad Levinson, guerrilla marketing is, "an unconventional system of promotions, running on a very low budget, by relying on time, energy and imagination instead of big marketing budgets." Levinson wrote the book Guerrilla Marketing in 1994. There is nothing like targeting a consumer when they are not expecting it. This can make the idea that's being marketed memorable, generate buzz, and even spread virally.

The Progressive Coffee House, which is holding its Grand Opening Saturday, November 15 on W. High Street in Glassboro, is working some guerrilla marketing magic. Students on the PRaction account will be handing out Progressive Coffee House cards which have a FREE small coffee on them all week. Just a little unexpected present while walking to your next class.

Levinson believes that when implementing guerrilla marketing tactics, small size is actually an advantage instead of a disadvantage. "Small businesses and entrepreneurs are able to obtain publicity more easily than large companies; they are closer to their customers and considerably more agile," Levinson stated.

So what I am trying to say is, "Progressive has a chance!" There is nothing like relaxing at a warm, comforting, coffee house, sipping on a FREE coffee! Just remember though, the Guerrilla Marketeer must "deliver the goods." In order to sell a product or a service, "A company must establish a relationship with the customer. It must build trust and support. It must understand the customer's needs, and it must provide a product that delivers the promised benefits," Levinson claimed.

I believe the owners at Progressive have all this and more! So keep your eyes open for a FREE Progressive Coffee House card and don't miss their Grand Opening Saturday November 15th.

Check them out on Facebook: Progressive Coffee House

Learn more from Jay Conrad Levinson on Guerrilla Marketing

Comment on the Coffee House.

Industry Trend--- Audiences Blur

An article out of PRWeek entitled, “Multicultural Marketing Comes of Age,” summarized the sudden shift in reach Barack Obama’s campaign produced during the election.

Esther Novak, author of the article and CEO of Vanguard Communication, described Obama’s strategy as “ending the image of America as a ‘ one culture’ nation.”

I argue that although he ended the image of America as a ‘one culture’ nation, he created a nation working towards a common good, that within itself is a culture— a newly formed, pride-bearing American culture.

Demographically speaking, Novak makes a valid point about Obama’s ability to blur the line between separate target audiences. No longer is it about reaching either Caucasians or ethnicities or white-collar or blue-collar workers. It is more so reaching a broader audience accepting of a lifestyle— progression.

An Integrated Marketing Strategy
To reach this progressive, mixed audience the Obama campaign used television ads, social networking sites, endorsements, and the use of his website. Most importantly he organized at the grass root level.

As practitioners, marketers, and advertisers is this the beginning of the change in how we send our messages? To whom we send them to? Will demographic audiences begin to blur?

Click here for the original article.

Rowan PRSSA Darfur Division Makes Great Strides in Helping Darfur

By Gregory Richter

Perhaps public relations can save the world. Today, Nov. 10, 2008, Rowan University hosts a discussion with Darfuri refugee Garelnabi Abusikin in the group’s first Darfur Day event. Of course, while Sudan’s violence won’t end tomorrow evening (or anytime soon), I am confident in the work of the PRSSA Darfur Division.

The group raised important funds for humanitarian aid since it began a year ago. More importantly, it made the University community more aware of the violence in the Darfur region through a Rowan Radio WGLS radio panel, dirty water bottle campaign (highlighting the lack of sanitary water in Darfur), letters to world leaders urging them to take action, and other tactics aimed at raising awareness of the atrocities occurring in Darfur.

Aside from significant ignorance of the continent of Africa held by many Americans, partly shaped by years of disconnect from reports of widespread poverty and violence in some countries on the continent, the common belief about Darfur’s genocide is that certain people are simply targeted because they are of a different ethnicity; (even this assumption is controversial and is not widely agreed upon worldwide). Instead, Darfur’s violence of over five years is influenced by oil revenues, lack of resources, greed and countless other forces. Today’s event aims to change this misconception with games, materials, speakers, and other important tactics behind a simple message: Darfur has a better tomorrow but it must begin today.

PR professionals...indispensable is the key word!

Calling all seniors. Are you getting worried you picked the wrong career? Yes, public relations is a captivating and distinctive industry. But as economic times are taking a turn for the worst, profits within certain organizations are declining and public relations is the first thing to go. But hope is in the air! The industry trends seems to be just the opposite. The value of public relations is escalating to a level that is indisputable. As PR professionals, we have a special gift for affecting an organization's ability to thrive and be successful. A reputation is something a company cannot afford to lose!

Now, as future professionals it's essential to help employers understand your worth. Though public relations may be safe, that doesn't mean you are. You need to stand out! The easiest way to do so is through your actions and endeavors. Nothing speaks louder than the work you do and its overall success. If you are not sure what you contribute to an agency or an organization, then you really don't know your own worth. The key to success is making yourself as useful as possible to others. (Remember don't overload yourself, its okay to say no). You should make yourself so useful that you are indispensable to them. Being useful means meeting people's needs and desires. It is solving people's problems. But this means, you need to find what people need and meet those needs. The more you can do it, the more you will become indispensable!

Keep in mind, being positive is very important in becoming successful. Anything is possible if you give it your all. After all, we are public relations professionals, nothing can get in our way.

Does anyone have any other useful tips?

Do you think PR is the right field to get into in the middle of a recession?

Here is a helpful site to check out:  http://www.lifeoptimizer.org/2007/09/10/15-tips-to-stay-positive-in-negative-situations/ 

Comments please!

Miscommunication: The Dreaded Static

PR practitioners are masters at communication and maintaining solid interpersonal relationships. All aspects of a practitioner’s lifestyle require attitudes and techniques that aid in communication with clients, colleagues and social situations.

As future public relations professionals, we must be aware of the potential interferences (static) that can change our entire message. Here are a few:

Language

The words we use are our livelihood. Make sure your message is clear, to the point and jargon-free. Each reader or listener will interpret your words differently.

Body language

This is a big one. It is as subtle as keeping your hands in your pockets and as obvious as a firm handshake or posture. If you maintain good and confident posture when speaking, your audience will take notice and respond positively. However, if you exude too much confidence, it may be misinterpreted as cockiness and will turn your listener off no matter what you say.

Assumptions

Never, never, never assume your audience is on the same page as you are. No two people think alike and there are no exceptions. Even though they are your audience, you must allow them to walk with you along your opinions, views and solutions. If you inform your audience then your message will be crystal.

There are many more communication tips and rules than the ones listed above. The Web site below gives incite on communicating effectively. It has tips on listening, giving and receiving feedback among others.

http://web.cba.neu.edu/~ewertheim/interper/commun.htm#active

What problems have you faced when trying to communicate? How did you solve them?

Presidential Campaign Decided

The results are in— Senator Obama is the president-elect and first African American president. Democrats also took control of both the Senate and the House of Representatives. What does this mean for America? For you?

With the election over and our president- elect decided what do you expect to happen in the next year?

Your predictions, opinions, and expectations are welcomed!

Vote

Today's the day, get out there and vote.

Here's a reminder from rockthevote.com:

Tomorrow is the Big Day

The 2008 presidential election is one day away. Where do you get your information regarding the presidential candidates? Are your sources credible, fair and balanced? These are two sources I’ve used in the past:

http://www.publicagenda.com/citizen/electionguides

http://www.ontheissues.org/default.htm

Whether you’re Democrat or Republican, it’s your responsibility to know the facts. As public relations practitioners, we stay up-to-date on the news. We often read more than one newspaper, magazine and blog. We try our best to form unbiased opinions by cross-referencing the news.

With blogging and instant news at our finger-tips we’re able to stay connected. We understand the presidential candidate’s platforms on social issues. However with this informational overload sometimes we don’t analyze the news. We need to make sure all of our sources are credible. I came along this Web site http://www.politico.com/ after reading a September 2008 PRWeek article. (http://www.prweekus.com/The-medias-candidate/article/115945/) Politico is a compilation of journalists from different backgrounds across the United States reporting on national politics.

In conclusion as young professionals, we all must adhere to the public relations ethical standards. Please be an informed voter! Get out there and vote tomorrow – make your voice heard.

If you’re planning on not voting, what are your reasons? Do you feel the election coverage of both candidates has been fair and balanced? What are your thoughts?

My Unexpected College Career

by Zack Kinslow

As an advertising major working in public relations, I have found the best way to learn is by doing. Just like when I unexpectedly became a bartender on one frantic Thanksgiving Eve—the busiest bar night of the year—I jumped right into this one and hit the ground running. I can’t say I didn’t spill a few drinks, make people’s Long Island Iced Teas too strong, or even ring up the wrong prices on more than one occasion that night. But my mistakes helped me grow.

Let’s go back to the present. I currently make up half of the PR department at Philly’s largest advertising agency, Digitas Health. And I love it. I work directly with the head of Corporate Communications for both the Philadelphia and New York offices, which includes about 400 employees (and growing). Working on such a large scale in a top interactive agency, I’ve certainly gotten my feet wet.

From compiling media lists and writing pitch letters, to planning special events hosted at our office, Digitas Health allows me to get first-hand experience in media relations and external PR. I also handle internal relations, such as clipping articles about the company and sending them to all employees. One of my ongoing projects is to decide on the best promotional items to print our logo on for employee/client giveaways. When you are dealing with this many employees, even the seemingly mundane tasks become significant.

Public relations may not be the exact career I want to pursue after college, but coming from an advertising standpoint, I find my internship experience invaluable. As the industry evolves and the digital age takes over, the lines that used to divide PR and advertising are blurring. The result: marketing communication, which encompasses all that we learn in this field.

Zack Kinslow is president of the award-winning Rowan Ad Club at Rowan University.

Zack's internship has helped him see how public relations and advertising professionals work together, and sometimes even do the same tasks. How has your internship effected your outlook on work after college?

Tips and Tools: Successful Group Chemistry

Group work has become prominent throughout all upper level classes. Case Studies, Advertising Strategies, PR and Ad research, IMC— all of these classes require group work. And we all know that after college public relations careers require even more reliability and interdependent work between colleagues.

But working in groups can sometimes become tough when egos collide and work is not properly allocated. To avoid future group problems I have compiled useful tips on successfully working in a group and how to avoid conflict.

1. Get to know each other. As obvious as this may seem, coming together on a social level can avoid an awkward working environment. Before even discussing plans for working members should be honest about the way they work, their schedule, and what they are good at.

2. The first step is admittance. It’s okay to be a leader. It’s okay to need control. But acknowledge it. People will respect you for it— even make you group leader. Admit your peeves and strengths.

3. Secondary communication. Meeting face to face is not the only form of communication. There is so little time in each day. If schedules collide have online meetings. Use Facebook groups, chain e-mails, or even private chat rooms to do your work.

3. Meeting conditions are key. If you are meeting face to face, where you meet is important. Groups should meet at large flat surfaces so everyone can see each other as well as write. Only hover around one computer when necessary. A large table is the ideal condition for group work— no distractions. The library rents soundproof rooms with white boards and a table free of charge. They are easily accessible for groups to use.

4. Food softens a meeting. Use the first five minutes of your meeting to talk, unwind, and EAT before diving into work.

5. Let everyone talk— one at a time. Groups will gain so many more ideas if everyone stopped and listened. One person should talk at a time. One idea at a time. Tangents are sometimes unavoidable, but should not take away from the idea at hand. Jot down ideas and thoughts you might have about the conversation or an idea instead of interrupting group members.

Check out more helpful tips at:

The Eight Secrets of Starting a Successful Work Team

Fast Facts: Group Work

Tips for working successfully in a group

Tell us, what worked for your group?

Rowan University: Most Outstanding Chapter in the Nation

Hello and welcome to RU PRestige, Rowan PRSSA’s blog. As I travel back to New Jersey from Detroit after spending six days at PRSSA’s 2008 National Conference: Driven to Distinction, I cannot think of a better time to start a new initiative for Rowan PRSSA.

I intended to keep the first blog entry short and sweet, simply outlining what we plan to write about and how we will keep you up-to-date on the chapter and the public relations industry.

Instead, I am inviting you to come along for the ride with us, because this chapter is revved up and ready to go. I am privileged to update you on the Anthony J. Fulginiti Chapter of PRSSA’s most recent success.

Rowan University left the PRSSA National Conference in Detroit with 12 awards and honors—more than any of the 290 chapters in attendance. They are:

- Most Outstanding Chapter in the Nation: Presented to the AJF Chapter of PRSSA

- Most Outstanding Faculty Advisor in the Nation: Presented to Professor Larry Litwin, APR

- The Plank Center Ethics Advocacy Award: Presented to the AJF Chapter of PRSSA

- Lawrence G. Foster Award: Presented to Rosie Braude

- National President’s Citation: Presented to Rosie Braude, Amy Ovsiew and Rebecca Timms

- Norman S. Fenichel Scholarship: Presented to Christina Marcus

- National Golden Key Awards: Presented to Rosie Braude and Amy Ovsiew

- Codispoti Technology Grant: Presented to Brianna Rozzi

- A bid to host a Regional Activity: Presented to the AJF Chapter of PRSSA



Not only did Rowan receive awards, chapter President Brittany Vella presented the Rowan University NODAC Award to the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh for their hard work creating campaigns to educate their communities on organ donation.

Twenty-seven current members of our chapter, three alumni, advisor Larry Litwin and his wife Nancy attended the awards ceremony. When all 32 of us ran on stage to receive the award for Most Outstanding Chapter in the Nation, I felt a great rush of pride.

Detroit was my first conference for PRSSA. Until now, my only record of Rowan’s decorated reputation was from the plaques wallpapering our communication building. This year I got to be a part of it, and the experience was invaluable.

So with the close of our 2008 National Conference, I am opening RU PRestige. Check back frequently for updates on our chapter, current events, information about trends in the industry, and tips and tools for success in college and beyond. Subscribe to us through RSS, and feel free to comment. We have a lot to say, and so do you.


Click here for more information on PRSSA awards and scholarships

Click here for more information on Teahan Chapter Awards


Were you at National Conference? If so, what was your favorite part?

If you missed out, do you have any questions?