The business case for diversity and inclusion is well known. Now, the pandemic and wrongful death of George Floyd in Minneapolis have teed up an opportunity for corporate communicators and PR agencies to re-shape their organizations’ values on diversity and inclusion. It’s a moment that PR should not miss.
Crisis Management
Marilyn Laurie: How She Emerged from Humble Roots to a Woman in Charge
June 2nd, 2020 by Shelley SpectorMarilyn Laurie (1939-2013) worked her way up to become CCO of AT&T, the company’s first female in that position. She did so, in part, by holding un-traditional views, including seeing PR’s role as representing the consumer inside the board room. Our monthly history feature is a Q&A with Dick Martin, author of a forthcoming book about Marilyn. In addition, Martin succeeded Laurie at AT&T.
A Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls and Reaping Benefits of Influencers During COVID-19
June 2nd, 2020 by Allison Fitzpatrick and Paavana KumarSome marketers are reluctant to emphasize influencers during the pandemic. Yet it could be an advantageous in that social media use is exploding with homebound audiences. In addition, influencers have a personal connection with audiences, which is greatly needed now. Two attorneys offer a guide for working with influencers at this difficult moment.
Applying Communications Research to Solve PR Challenges
June 2nd, 2020 by Mark WeinerMark Weiner discusses research showing how media relations opportunities change as the pandemic curve flattens. In short, as countries re-open, opportunities for pitching become less stringent.
How to Position for Re-Entry and Communication in the Post-COVID-19 World
June 2nd, 2020 by Seth ArensteinWe see more and more agencies preparing for life after the pandemic by establishing practices and offshoots dedicated to post-virus communication and strategy. We asked M Group chief Jay Morakis to dive into the thinking behind establishing such a practice.
Virus Communication at U of Oregon: Consistent with Reasonable Repetition
June 2nd, 2020 by Juan-Carlos MolledaIn our series with Institute for PR, the dean of the University of Oregon’s communication school discusses the lessons he’s learned about maintaining contact with the academic community during the pandemic.
Mixed Bag: 88% Bullish on PR Returning to Size After Pandemic, but 70% Concerned about Future
June 2nd, 2020 by Seth ArensteinOur latest survey of PR pros finds uncertainty about the future is a major issue. On the other hand, nearly 90 percent believe PR will come back from the pandemic as strong as it was or stronger. Their thinking is that PR’s strategic importance has come to the fore during the pandemic.
Governor, CNN Show Strong Crisis Chops in Jimenez Arrest
May 29th, 2020 by Seth ArensteinToday, June 1, 2020, we are suspending our social posts and essays to take time to reflect on how we as writers and communicators can stand in solidarity with the Black and Brown communities in the fight against racial injustice and inequality. The following article, published May 29, seems even more important today. Our staff wishes you health, peace and well-being today and in the tumultuous days ahead.
Buy Advertising, You Just Might Save American Journalism
May 29th, 2020 by Bonnie D. ShawSimilar to many in the work force, media relations pros continue to do their jobs, albeit from home. Unfortunately, their counterparts in journalism are absorbing unpaid furloughs as well as layoffs and outright shut downs of media outlets. A simple suggestion might help slow these trends and bring brands benefits.
During the Pandemic, PR Pros Find New Ways to Communicate
May 28th, 2020 by Seth ArensteinOne of the pandemic’s few bright spots is that it has been a catalyst for communicators’ creativity. Examples abound, including a virtual red-carpet/press screening that National Geographic Channel staged for a new series recently.