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Musings on storytelling, public relations & running a successful solo business
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There’s More to PR Than Media Relations
When I spoke to a group of PR pros, this former reporter told them: “I’m sorry. I used to think your job was to work for me.” Of course, there’s much more to PR than dealing with media. So much more.
When and Why It Pays to Hire a Professional
DIY has its place. But when you really need something to be done with panache and you’re not an expert in the subject, turn to someone who is. You’ll save time and effort letting a pro do what they’re great at doing, and you’ll be much happier with the results.
Think Like a Reporter to Write Quickly and Clearly
To write quickly and clearly, it’s helpful to think like a reporter. One way to do that is to write “What strikes me?” and spend a few minutes absorbing the details and points you want to make. Read on for more tips.
Useful Blogs for Communicators and Creators
When I’m looking to learn or be inspired, or procrastinate in a positive way, there are a few blogs I find myself turning to again and again.
A Simple Process for Thinking About and Planning Communications
Here is a simple process — research, plan, do and review — to help you think about your communications.
Make Time for Maintenance in Your Business
Just as it’s important to take care of yourself and make time to handle things like medical appointments, it’s crucial to carve some time out of your schedule to handle the nitty-gritty tasks that keep your business running smoothly. Doing so will help keep you from feeling overwhelmed.
How to Share Instagram Videos in MailChimp
You or your client created a great video on Instagram and you’d like to share it with your email newsletter subscribers. But, alas, MailChimp seems to only let you embed videos from YouTube and Video. Don’t worry. Canva to the rescue!
Tools for Freelancers and Independent Practitioners
Starting your own business is rewarding but also takes a lot of hard work. Here is a list of resources, including some free ones, that I’ve found helpful as a freelance writer and independent public relations practitioner.
What PR People Do That Drives Journalists Away
How many of these behaviors do you engage in when dealing with reporters? Here are actions to avoid if you want to preserve your trustworthiness as a source and get your stories covered.
Make Your Presentations Easy on the Eyes So They’ll be Easier to Read
Whether you’re using a slide deck to share information during a meeting or giving a webinar presentation, white space is your — and your audience’s — friend. No one wants to read a crowded screen. Here are a few other things to keep in mind to make your communications easy on the eyes — and easy to comprehend.
Make Your Photos Count So Your Writing Stands Out
Using boring photos is among the top pitfalls in public relations writing. Uninteresting photos can detract from your interesting writing. If the image you use makes me want to take a cat nap, why would I read your story, press release, blog post, etc.? Here are a few tips for choosing compelling images.
How to Get Started with a PR Plan
To get started with PR efforts for your organization, you need a plan — a roadmap. This will help you determine where you are, where you want to go, how you’ll get there, who is going to be in the driver’s seat and when you’ve reached your destination. Here's what to include in your PR plan.
The Professional Joy of Renewing Your APR
The process of renewing the Accreditation in Public Relations is a good time to reflect on what you’ve done over the last few years to keep your public relations skills sharp — and to be proud of your commitment to the profession.
Productivity Tips for Independent Practitioners
Being an independent public relations practitioner is so rewarding. I love working with a variety of clients, helping to tell and share their stories. Being independent, though, means that you have to do everything yourself. Here are some tips for being productive when you’re a solopreneur.
Apply Elmore Leonard’s 10 Rules for Writers
Elmore Leonard’s 10 Rules for Writers can be applied to many types of writing, not just the hard-boiled crime novels for which Leonard was famous. Your writing will be easier to read if you follow his advice.
Higher Ed Spotlight: Grandmother Inspires EVMS Student to Pursue Medicine
Growing up, Jason Bard accompanied his non-English-speaking grandmother to free health clinics to interpret for her. She inspired him to study medicine. He also was shaped by his experiences with the deaf community — both of his parents are deaf — and as an LGBTQ+ advocate.
Work with Your Hands to be a Better Writer
If you want to be a better writer, put down your pen (or shut down your computer) and pick up a paint brush or other tool that allows you to be creative in a hands-on way.
My Productive Home Office Set-up
When you set your own office hours and work from home, you want to walk into a workspace that is calm, organized and functional. Here is what I’m using these days to keep me productive (cat not included).
As an independent PR practitioner and freelance writer, I often juggle multiple clients, projects and deadlines. Running your own business means wearing all the hats — CEO, accountant, marketing manager, IT support, and more. 17hats is a way to simplify your workflow and reclaim your time. Their 2024 Black Friday sale offers up to 50% off one-year memberships, plus exclusive bonuses for new users.