OK, I stole the idea for this headline from Abbie Hoffman, author of “Steal This Book.” But let’s call it an homage instead of outright theft. My headline was inspired by WFMU radio host Tom Scharpling, who was, in his show last nigh…
Archive:
Paula Deen, J.Lo, Next Crisis: What is PR’s Role in a Hot Mess?
July 1st, 2013 by Diane SchwartzThere are countless communications takeaways from the recent celebrity gaffes. Whether it’s Paula Deen dealing with allegations of being a racist and then dropped like a buttered sweet potato by every brand partner, or Jennifer Lopez singing “H…
Firing of Zimmer Doesn’t Exactly Suit a Social Media Age
June 25th, 2013 by Matthew SchwartzIn abruptly firing Men’s Wearhouse founder and executive chairman George Zimmer, the men’s clothing company has sent a few messages to the marketplace, none of which are likely to help the brand’s reputation or its PR efforts.
How to Avoid the Stink in Your Storytelling
June 20th, 2013 by Diane SchwartzMy son Max tells very long stories that veer in curious directions. By the time he’s nearing the point, he forgets the ending. It’s rather cute and endearing – he is, after all, only 12 years old. He will sometimes exclaim frustrating…
Are You a PR Pro From Krypton?
June 14th, 2013 by Steve GoldsteinIf you’re an immigrant from Krypton living in the U.S.—or in any spot on Earth—then flying without the benefit of a wingspan or jet propulsion and hearing the flutter of a butterfly in Ensenada while you’re leaping over the Empire State…
Lessons From The Dunkin’ Donuts Customer’s Racist Rant
June 13th, 2013 by Tony SilberOne of the bigger viral stories of the last two days was the foul-mouthed racist rant by a Dunkin’ Donuts customer in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, who filmed herself abusing the store’s employees and posted the video online. The coffee-shop chain has …
PR Takeaways to Die For from ‘Game of Thrones’
June 4th, 2013 by Diane SchwartzThe beloved Starks could really benefit from communications counsel.
What Should Adam Levine Do? The Voice of Reason…
May 30th, 2013 by Diane SchwartzBy now you’ve heard the news that Adam Levine hates his country. No, he loves his country. Wait a minute: what does he really feel and why do we care? If “The Voice” coach and Maroon Five singer truly hated America, the worst that could…
Tips From a Reporter on Great PR Writing
May 28th, 2013 by Tony SilberWe’ve been doing a lot of writing in PR News lately on great PR writing and as I was reflecting on this very intricate craft—a form of writing that requires immense skill—I thought it might be useful to reflect on what a journalist looks for in P…
Media Inquiries Into PR Departments Should Not Be an Exercise in Frustration
May 20th, 2013 by Matthew SchwartzYou’re a busy journalist. You’re on deadline. You’re trying to round up sources and interviews for a story you need to crank out today. One of your most promising sources is not responding, gone off the grid. But you’re still hopeful, especiall…