Stories by Deb Hileman

Recent attacks have become bolder and more sophisticated and include invasions of government agencies, healthcare providers, schools and organizations of all types and sizes, including the likes of Twitter and Microsoft and the National Basketball Association. But while most attacks are against large, well-known brands, small business also is a big target for bad actors. The ransomware attack on one of the United States’ largest fuel pipelines is an all-too-frequent reminder that more needs doing. Now.

In today’s polarized climate, companies and CEOs take a risk when they speak out on political and social issues. On the other hand, remaining silent can be just as dangerous. Here are several tactics PR pros can employ as they help companies navigate these difficult situations.

The market’s volatility makes it more important to have PR in at the earliest stages of products and campaigns. When a misstep can result in a public backlash, getting PR’s input at the outset of product development and message creation is tantamount to having an insurance policy.

Misinformation and misrepresentation are partly responsible for the rise of hate and violence against Asian Americans. During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, communicators can help bring awareness to stories and struggles of a community that continues to be a target of hate.

We asked Infinite Global’s global COO Isabel Podda and VP Sophie Cikovsky to discuss the importance of mental health awareness in PR as communicators return to the office. Since PR traditionally is in the top 10 of most-stressful occupations, mental health awareness is critical. It’s more so in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At a time when diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) should be the norm in organizations, it is not. A new survey from the University of Georgia (UGA) and PRNEWS shows a consistent shortfall on diversity-related efforts.

Marketing and communication professionals gathered virtually Tuesday to celebrate the winners and honorable mentions for the PRNEWS CSR & Diversity Awards, which mark excellence across people, teams and campaigns. Here are this year’s winners.

There are few issues more important to organizations than disinformation, cyber crime, breaches and hacks. Communicators can contribute to the fight against these scourges by keeping one thing in mind: Know your audience. With that knowledge, it’s easier to spot aberrant behavior, which may indicate a disinformation effort.

There’s no time like spring to take a fresh look at cleaning the homestead and your communication tactics and strategies. Consider what’s working and things that need tweaking or a deep-cleaning, such as dusty media lists or social posts that haven’t aged well.

Making sustainability part of your company’s culture and communications can seem daunting. Right or wrong, some consumers are demanding organizations promote sustainable practices. On Earth Day, we offer ideas and tips that can help get you started.