Stories by Nicole Schuman

When is it the right time to fire a client? And how do you do it? Some PR firms have issued statements about no longer working with tobacco or foreign dictators, for example. Refusing a client is never an easy decision, but sometimes it’s the only choice you have. We inquire with PR pros about the best ways to break up. 

The White House has turned up the gas on a campaign to discredit Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. The Washington Post published an article July 11 outlining the various ways the White House has silenced Fauci over the past several weeks. The report aired a statement from the Trump administration claiming “several White House officials are concerned about the number of times Dr. Fauci has been wrong on things,” which, according to the Post, “included a lengthy list of the scientist’s comments from early in the outbreak.”

Recently, our team at PRNEWS decided to revive a series for our readers: “Ask a Reporter.” With logistical changes in the workforce, as well as a news cycle that just won’t quit, PR and media need to work more harmoniously than ever to get the public the information it needs. During “Ask a Reporter” we will interview a fellow journalist, finding out what works best for them when it comes to media relations.

It’s understandable that some want a break from the constant barrage of social media. But for brands and celebrities, spending more time engaging in social listening might be appropriate, particularly before making big decisions and announcements. Reading the room is basic PR.

Developing relationships with content creators remains a top priority for media relations pros. The pandemic has forced adjustments in this area, but the fundamentals of media relations remain stable.

It’s no secret that during times where marketing and communications budgets continue to be slashed, that teams have to do more with less. Whether it is a reduction in team members or resources, everyone needs to work together even closer to get the job done. One aspect to look at to help alleviate this burden is technology and the tech tapestry.

While the announcement of an effective drug treatment available worldwide for those suffering from the cryptic virus should be something to celebrate, delving into an explanation about pricing for a possibly life-saving drug may cause some reader’s stomachs to churn. Gilead’s statement attempts to strike a delicate balance, focusing on the importance of the treatment while justifying its value. 

There is plenty for PR pros to learn as they watch America’s tourist playgrounds pivot with the increase of coronavirus cases in the south and west. Public officials and companies are scrambling to massage initial guidelines that bolster health and safety for visitors. The state of Nevada and its Las Vegas casinos are walking a fine line as they take a stand in the politicized debate around mask wearing.

With the return of sports comes real challenges. It’s not only the configuring of a shortened or limited season, but ensuring employee and player safety and well-being through a global pandemic. How should these entities communicate to stakeholders that restarting sports is a viable option?

A group of several civil rights organizations banded together last week, launching a campaign against Facebook in response to the allowance of what they define as hate speech. The NAACP, Anti-Defamation League, Color of Change, Sleeping Giants and Common Sense Media have all called for advertisers to halt all paid-post spending for the month of July.