Writing

image_pdfimage_print

PR Pros See Ethics Becoming Even More Important in 2020

January 7th, 2020 by

Ethics has long been a hallmark of public relations. In this fourth and final installment of PRNEWS’ 2020 predictions, the theme of ethics seemed to dominate. Whether it be in technology, storytelling or writing, several of our prognosticators emphasized ethics’ importance in the coming year.

Content Trends to Watch in 2020

December 26th, 2019 by

Ten years ago, PR pros never dreamed of creating warping facial filters for Instagram Stories or geotargeting users with video on Facebook. But as technology evolves, so does the ability to enrich storytelling, and stop scrollers in their tracks. Content will remain one of the most important strategies for brands to engage users and stand out from a continual deluge of media. Here are some content trends for the year ahead.

Scarcity of Attention: How to Overcome Our Biggest PR Challenge

December 1st, 2019 by

The average person is overloaded with content. Bombarded with ads, email, text and video, many of us have turned off. We ignore nearly everything. Into this hostile climate comes the communicator. Instead of throwing up your hands, we offer author Jamie Mustard, who provides some basic solutions to this complicated problem.

PR Lessons from G/O Media’s Fallout with Deadspin Staff

November 7th, 2019 by

We’re guessing the sudden and untimely death of Deadspin (no pun intended) as a purveyor of no-holds-barred sports and social commentary will provide a case study for business students in what not to do with a successful endeavor. This post, from PR pro Dave Dykes and PRNEWS staffer Nicole Schuman, argues that the incident also offers a bevy of PR lessons.

Why You Should Always Write 2 Headlines

October 31st, 2019 by

A primer from writing guru Jonathan Rick counsels that PR pros should avoid using jargon generally, especially in headlines. He also urges that you create two headlines: one for human beings and laymen; the other for search engines and insiders.

Rock the Job Interview: 5 Tips for Nailing Your PR Writing Test

October 30th, 2019 by

Having graduated college—and perhaps even embarked on a successful professional career—you may have thought your test-taking days were safely behind you. But in today’s highly competitive job market, agencies and corporate PR departments expect candidates to possess a wide range of skills, including the ability to churn out basic press materials. That’s where the dreaded pre-employment writing assessment comes in.

A Tale of Three Headlines: PR Tips from WaPo’s al-Baghdadi Obit

October 28th, 2019 by

We at PRNEWS are advocates of following the news for evidence of good and bad PR practices. Today a news vehicle, The Washington Post, is at the center of a news story. The paper’s handling of headlines for its obituary of former Islamic State leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi demonstrates good and bad PR practices.

How to Stand Out: 7 Elements to Include to Improve Your PR Writing

October 22nd, 2019 by

Good grammar is like wearing nice clothes for a job interview. Sure, it’s important, and failing to do so can be a deal-breaker, but just showing up in a suit and tie is not going to land you a job. Similarly, poor writing can be a turn-off for journalists, but merely demonstrating your ability to use a semicolon properly isn’t going to generate press coverage.

How to Make Your First Book Deal a PR Win

October 14th, 2019 by

From signage to social media ads to commercials, communicators are always on the lookout for chances to get more eyes on our brand. One time-tested way to slingshot brand awareness into the heavens? Publishing your very own book.

9 Mistakes to Avoid When Writing a Professional Bio

October 9th, 2019 by

A professional bio is a bit like an auto club card, you may not need it very often, but when you do, you’ll be really glad you have one. All professionals and business leaders, from athletes to CFOs to pediatricians to DJs, should have at their disposal a few well-written paragraphs recounting career accomplishments. A brief bio is indispensable for use in social media profiles, websites, press releases, event programs, brochures, book jackets and more.