Latest Posts

One of the top questions on PR pros’ minds is how often they should be pitching to the media. In the middle of the pandemic, when the public is hungry for the latest COVID-19 information, communicators, particularly those whose field is unrelated to healthcare or finance, may feel unsure. PR pros we interviewed advised returning to media relations’ basics, mixed with empathy and patience.

With global audiences stuck at home—and glued to their devices—the competition for time and attention is steeper than ever. Here, Wylie Communications president Ann Wylie shares a simple framework for increasing readership by proving you won’t waste viewers’ time.

In certain parts of Europe, where the novel coronavirus is a few weeks ahead of US hotspots, audiences have begun to reach the information and emotional saturation point. Many are no longer watching the news. PR pros have found it’s important to maintain a positive approach in their internal and external communications.

Despite the overwhelming demand on certain industries, customer service remains a reputation maker, good or bad. Fortunately, we found the basics of good customer service communications prior to the pandemic remain constant. Add to them even more than normal emotion and understanding.

We must fight against the inclination to label diversity, equity and inclusion as “nonessential” at a time when it is more relevant and pertinent than ever.

The PRNEWS staff comes across many examples of brand advertising and communications every day. We have compiled a weekly assessment, published Fridays, with staff members providing their choices of the most notable, good or bad. We hope these brief examples will provide a learning experience about what works and things to avoid during this difficult moment.

Using a catastrophe as a news hook to pitch journalists makes the PR pro and the company the communicator is pitching look callous and opportunistic.

COVID-19 radically changed every aspect of our personal and professional lives. In this time of disruption, it’s important to take a moment to reorganize.

With so many companies transitioning to online activities, standing out can become difficult. Making these virtual experiences fun, human, authentic and competitive can help companies maintain and attract new customers. In addition, companies can gather useful information about customers while displaying interest in the community. Customers likely will hold on to these memories well after these dark days are over.

It’s easy to see why some, if not all comms pros are suffering from stress or anxiety induced by the coronavirus. Longer hours and larger workloads while homeschooling children or spending days in isolation have great effects on mental health and well-being. We spoke to several agencies and practitioners to see how they are supporting staff and themselves during this time.