the leading edge

PRSSA Day

2012-02-17T10:11:00.000-06:00

From our President Tom Ellis:

Earlier this month, the PRSSA chapter at Missouri State University asked our chapter to host the 2012 PRSSA Day tentatively scheduled for April 27. Your board of directors enthusiastically agreed. This is a great fit for our chapter. We enjoy having a good relationship with the PRSSA chapter and one of our goals for 2012 is to further strengthen those ties.

Our SWMissouri Chapter will also host a booth at the event and donate $100 to PRSSA to help with the costs of the event.

Chapter members Claire Faucett and Andrea Harp are serving on the planning committee. Anyone interested in helping out should contact Claire at claire@springfieldchamber.com or 862-5567 or Andrea at aharp@ochonline.com or 874-4523.

Wikipedia & PR

2012-02-17T10:06:00.000-06:00

I am writing you today to provide information on a matter of importance to every PRSA member. PRSA has been engaging in a series of discussions regarding the proper role of public relations professionals in editing entries on Wikipedia, the self-described “free encyclopedia that anyone can edit.” Given that Wikipedia is one of the most widely used information resources in the world, we believe it is important that our members are made aware of this ongoing debate.

Marcia DiStaso, co-chair of PRSA’s National Research Committee, has developed a survey that examines the profession’s experiences with Wikipedia. You can take the survey here.

Survey: Wikipedia and PR

We encourage you to send this survey to members of your Chapter, Section or Committee and ask them to take a few minutes to answer the questions. Please also post it to your website, LinkedIn groups, Facebook pages and other forums.

We believe that PR professionals should engage with Wikipedia in a responsible manner that respects the community’s rules and protocols, while also ensuring they act in their clients' best interests. But the engagement must be a two-way street in which Wikipedia is willing to see and accommodate both sides of the issue.

We have made this position clear in a variety of forums. Recently, I wrote an op-ed for technology news publication, Techdirt, in which I made the case the for PR professionals editing Wikipedia. We have also provided the profession’s perspective in PRWeek, The Financial Times and through a special Facebook group dedicated to this discussion.

There are many other initiatives and causes in which PRSA is currently engaged. From modernizing the definition of public relations to enhancing the business value of public relations, we are committed to advancing the profession and the public relations professional. We hope you will continue to stand beside us in this commitment by encouraging your members to share their wisdom via this important PRSA survey.

Please let me know if you have any questions or suggestions. Your input is always welcomed and appreciated.

Best regards,

Gerard Corbett, APR, Fellow PRSA
PRSA Chair and CEO

Integrating Social Media in your Marketing

2012-01-23T11:39:00.002-06:00

The Association for Women in Communications presents: "Integrating Social Media in your Marketing"

Learn to use social media strategically to advance your business while keeping it from eating your life! Dana R. Fowler, founder and President of Media Flashpoint in St. Louis, will be in Springfield on Tuesday, February 7 to answer your most troubling questions. The extended lunch will be from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.

Ms. Fowler has 20 years of experience in broadcast journalism and marketing, specializing in video and interactive production and development. She started Media Flashpoint in 1994 (formerly called DRF Productions). As President and CEO, her responsibilities include hands-on project management as well as vendor and client relations.

Previously, Dana served as Executive Producer of Interactive Marketing for Busch Creative Services, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch and Director of Interactive Marketing for Adamson Advertising in St. Louis, MO. She has also served as Executive Producer of television news for an NBC affiliate in Oklahoma City, OK where she produced a nationally award winning documentary in the former Soviet Union.

Join us at 425 Downtown, which is located at 425 W. Walnut, Springfield 65806. Parking is available across the street in the lot marked 425 Downtown, as well as in the garage on Campbell Avenue.

The cost for the luncheon is $15 for members and first time guests, $18 for returning guests and $14 for AWC student members and full-time degree-seeking students. RSVP to ecoulter@pension-consultants.com.

The Association for Women in Communications is a professional organization that champions the advancement of women across all communications fields by recognizing excellence, promoting leadership and positioning its members at the forefront of the evolving communications era. New members are welcome!

New year, new officers and new goals

2012-01-18T14:15:00.000-06:00

The new year is here, and the new board is already planning another spectacular year.The following members have been selected for the 2012 board of the Southwest Missouri Chapter of PRSA.

President: Tom Ellis
President-Elect: Lori Marble
Immediate Past President: Don Hendricks
Secretary: Becky Lucas
Treasurer: Tamera Heitz-Peek
Chapter Liaison Director-at-Large: Regina Waters
Membership Director-at-Large: Paula Ringer
Communications Director-at-Large: Jill Finney
Assembly Delegate: Andrea Mostyn

These new board members met on Jan. 12 and began making plans for the year.
Chapter goals for 2012:

Offer PRSA webinars to the community as a membership recruitment tool and to create the potential to generate new revenue
End the year with at least 50 members (we are currently at 46).
Create a Speaker’s Bureau to share chapter members’expertise with the community.
Strengthen student chapter relations.

Social: IRL Events in KC and Wichita

2012-01-04T10:07:00.000-06:00

New from Social: IRL - Top social media links and resources, upcoming events in Wichita and Kansas City.

Exclusive discount code for our Kansas City workshop - IRLNEWS for $95 full day registration.
.
Coming Events
No BS Social Media Marketing with Jason Falls
Wichita, KS, January 31
Limited registrations at just $35
Details and Registration | View Current Attendee List
.
Rethinking Business in the age of the Social Consumer with "Conversation Agent" Valeria Maltoni
Kansas City, February 9
Regular registration $145, limited $95 registrations using discount code IRLNEWS
Details and Registration | View Current Attendee List

Call for Presentations - Midwest District Conference

2011-12-14T09:27:00.000-06:00

The Midwest District Conference Planning committee has opened the call for presentations for the 2012 PRSA Midwest District Conference, which will be held July 19-20, in Chicago, Ill.

The theme for the this year’s conference will be Reestablishing the Value Proposition: Trust and Transparency in PR.

Click the link to visit the district’s conference web page where there is a link to begin the process of suggesting a presenter: http://www.prsa.org/Conferences/MidwestDistrict/

Invitation from Women in Communications

2011-11-29T13:02:00.000-06:00

Invitation from Women in Communications:

Unravel the secrets of extracting creative thought from the right side of the brain. Dr. Jo Van Arkel, author and professor at Drury University, will guide us through time-proven exercises and techniques that will put more punch and color into everyday writing. Bring an open mind and a blank piece of paper!

Join the Association for Women in Communications on Tuesday, December 6 for this fun program. Networking at 11:30 am; program at noon. $15 for first time guests, $18 for returning guests, $14 for AWC student members and full-time degree-seeking students. Lunch catered by Olive Garden. Meeting location is Associated Electric Cooperative, 2814 S. Golden Ave., Springfield. RSVP to Ashley at awood@aeci.org by December 2 at 12 pm.

How to produce a social media news release

2011-11-28T16:36:00.002-06:00

PR Daily Webinar
How to produce a social media news release
A webinar featuring Shel Holtz and Cassie Péan

Thursday, Dec. 8 • 2-3:45 p.m.

At the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce

Melinda Arnold, Friends of the Zoo, and Claire Faucett, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, are hosting this webinar for southwest Missouri public relations professionals and students. Cost* is $10/person for professionals and $5/person for university students. (The actual cost of the webinar is $139 – so $10 is a BARGAIN!)

Are you producing social media news releases?

Did you know they get picked up more frequently than traditional releases?

Want a practical, introductory course on how to produce a social media news release?

Join us for this NEW PR Daily webinar airing on Thursday, December 8 at 2:00 p.m. Central with online communications expert Shel Holtz and PR Manager for Vocus, Cassie Péan.

This session is filled with step-by-step instructions to write an SMNR, tag content, add important files, distribute releases to social media outlets and more.

PR pros should use social media news releases far more than they do. Research from Realwire shows that reporters and editors like them and that they get picked up more frequently than traditional releases do.

Veteran communications consultant Shel Holtz and PR practitioner Cassie Péan explain the components of the SMNR and offer tips on how to get online reporters and bloggers to read and watch these releases.

For more details on the sessions with Shel and Cassie, please visit the webinar description online.

To attend the webinar, please email your RSPV to Melinda Arnold by noon, Wednesday, Dec. 7.

Attendance is not limited to SWMO PRSA members. Please forward this to coworkers, colleagues and friends who might be interested in attending.

* The per-person cost will reimburse Friends of the Zoo for the webinar registration. Any amount exceeding the registration price will be given to SWMO PRSA.

Congrats to last night's award recipients

2011-11-18T09:26:00.003-06:00

I really enjoyed the inaugural Evening of Stars event last night and appreciate all the positive feedback from members.

I especially want to congratulate the award recipients, all of whom were very deserving.

Dr. Regina Waters, associate professor and chair of the department of communication at Drury University, received the Outstanding Faculty Award. This award recognizes a public relations faculty member from a college or university within the Southwest Missouri PRSA service area for efforts supporting the education of future public relations professionals.

Andrea Harp, social media and marketing coordinator at Ozarks Community Hospital, received the Rising Star Award, which recognizes a professional with less than three years experience who shows dedication to the ethical and professional practice of public relations and engagement in the Southwest Missouri PRSA Chapter.

Lisa Cox, media relations specialist at St. John’s Health System, received the Legacy Award. This award recognizes a Southwest Missouri PRSA Chapter member’s contributions to the chapter through service on the Board of Directors or a committee.

The Booster Award was given to the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce for its support of the public relations profession and chapter. The Chamber has promoted events to its membership, hosted conferences and offered other support.

The Intrepid Award was given to Melinda Arnold, public relations and marketing manager for Dickerson Park Zoo/Friends of the Zoo. The Intrepid Award recognizes a senior practitioner with at least 10 years of experience who shows dedication to the ethical and professional practice of public relations and engagement in the Southwest Missouri PRSA Chapter.

How to engage employees

2011-10-25T13:36:00.001-05:00

David Grossman, who recently spoke at our Professional Development Seminar, shared this piece via Twitter in the Harvard Business Review about employee engagement. Nice fit with the webinar offered this afternoon.

Interestingly, Gallup research indicates that more than 70 percent of employees in the typical company are "not engaged" or "actively disengaged."

Maximizing Online News Releases

2011-10-18T10:23:00.002-05:00

We all know that news releases are increasingly irrelevant, so why is this room packed?

We all know about SEO. And I know that Monday and Friday are not the best days to put a release out. But according to the presenters and their case study, Thursday is far and away the best day. Next best? Wednesday.

We also know about Google analytics. What I did not know is there is a free URL builder that allows you to track and measure clicks on links. And of course, those links should be call to action links that result in a purchase, registration or other activity that can be measured as a dollar value to your organization. Impressions, of course, doesn't mean much to anyone.

This has given me a few ideas about formatting the structure of our releases, or at least verified some of the thoughts I had prior to attending.

Imagineering

2011-10-18T10:08:00.002-05:00

This is Orlando, so it's all about Disney. And they are a major conference sponsor. So not surprising that one of the keynotes works there. But Joe Rohde is not what you would normally expect. The long, dangling earring made up of trinkets given to him from his travels is one thing. His experience developing the Animal Kingdom theme park and the Hawaiian resort, Aulani, is another.

Theme park takes on new meaning when you think about it like you did in lit class. In fact, according to Joe, much of the planning, or imagineering, that is done is very much framed around those literary notions of theme, character, setting and so forth. Again, if there is a thread to this conference, it is storytelling and the primal effect it has on people.

We use narrative to see, imagine, experience emotion and reactions. Developing themes expands opportunities, some of which can't be envisioned until the creative process unfolds. The melding of creativity and practical goals is an ongoing challenge at Disney. For example, how do you incorporate a thrill ride into Animal Kingdom, which theme is the intrinsic value of nature? Though usually a disconnect at first glance, they managed to do this in a way that did not detract from the original concept. His presentation was well recived.

Tried and True

2011-10-17T17:27:00.003-05:00

I attended another session today worth discussing: Rethinking Social Media by Gerald Braud. The premise is that social media is not a substitute for traditional PR tactics, but in crisis communications in particular, can compound some of the communications challenges. "Tried and true beats shiny and new" is his motto.

He did a couple of exercises with interesting results. One was to ask people to tweet "Free prize for first 2 people to shout out "PR Rocks" in our meeting room. No one did. The time-delay aspect of social media has consequences in all aspects of communications, but is particularly relevant in crisis communications messaging. Thea other I won't mention because I might want to use it myself someday.

In discussing the Domino's Pizza You Tube fiasco, he made the point that issues like that should be addressed using the medium in which they are raised and using the same In responding, you should not wait until the issue becomes a media story, or hope the silly video plays out.

Visit his website for more background. He is a New Orleans guy and mentioned Joe Trahan, who presented at our seminar last fall.

Volunteers, Planners Needed

2011-10-17T14:52:00.001-05:00

PRSA’s Midwest District is planning to hold a district-wide conference in 2012. The district board of directors is forming subcommittees to plan the conference and chapter members are encouraged to volunteer. Those interested should contact Jim Streed with the Northeast Wisconsin Chapter at jgstreed@integrysgroup.com or (920) 433-5786.

PRSA International conference so far

2011-10-17T13:37:00.002-05:00

One of the great things our chapter does is to send its president or his/her designee to the annual international conference. For me, this is the first such conference and I have found it to be almost overwhelming in information. I do want to share some what I learn and would encourage you to follow the twitter feeds at #prsaicom. There are some pretty serious tweeters here and the tweets cover the gamut of topics.

One of the more notable presentations this morning was from Chris Brogan. I would characterize his style as irreverent, but insightful as well. His key message was to cultivate, leverage and develop a sense of belonging. To cultivate visibility for clients/organizations and to make your customer the hero of the stories you tell are key aspects of his approach. He
defined PRSA as "passionate relationship-minded storytelling association." Interesting.

Storytelling is the common theme of many of the keynotes and presenters so far, and I even overheard another attendee make the same observation. I did not follow Chris before; but I made that correction after hearing him speak.

Another point he made was that your web page is your home -- social media is the outpost and you should not live there. Not everyone you interact with on the outpost are stakeholders in your town, so to speak.

He also recommended two books: "The Referral Engine" and "Trust Agents." Like just about everyone here, he has written a book. I better get started.

Proposed 2012 Officers

2011-10-14T14:51:00.000-05:00

The year is coming to an end, and the board is wrapping up its duties as we look forward to next year. The following members have been nominated for the 2012 board of the Southwest Missouri Chapter of PRSA.

President: Tom Ellis
President-Elect: Lori Marble
Immediate Past President: Don Hendricks
Secretary: Becky Lucas
Treasurer: Tamera Heitz-Peek
Chapter Liaison Director-at-Large: Regina Waters
Membership Director-at-Large: Paula Ringer
Communications Director-at-Large: Jill Finney
Assembly Delegate: Andrea Mostyn

We plan to vote on this slate of officers at the
October meeting.

Thanks for a Wonderful PDC

2011-10-13T14:52:00.000-05:00

Big thanks to everyone who attended the Professional Development Conference on Sept. 20 at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce. We had more than 55 business men and women professionals in attendance, including several of you. In particular, I’d like to recognize the Professional Development Committee: Lisa Cox, Tom Ellis, Ann Elwell, Andrea Harp, Don Hendricks, Paula Ringer and Sharina Smith. Their creative energy, dependability and attention to detail made this conference truly exceptional!

Comments on the conference evaluation forms demonstrate that the event fills a professional development gap for professionals seeking up-to-date ways to communicate. There were several great suggestions that next year’s committee will review and, most likely, implement. Thanks again and I can’t wait to see what the chapter puts together for next year’s conference!

Oct. 25 Monthly Meeting

2011-10-12T14:51:00.001-05:00

Generation Y. The Millennial Generation. Generation Next. The Net Generation. Whatever you call them, today’s public relations practitioners born in the 1980s are making their presence known in the work force. So what do supervisors need to know to effectively manage millennials?

Get the answer to that question at our October chapter meeting when we will feature a PRSA webinar titled “Managing, Motivating and Mentoring Millennials: An In-Depth Look at Engaging the Largest and Fastest-Growing Pool of PR Professionals.”

The webinar is presented by Ken Jacobs, principal at Jacobs Communications Consulting, LLC. Ken’s presentation will cover such areas as the differences between millennials and GenXers, the 10 most important millennial traits, the 20 most important actions supervisors should take when managing millennials, understanding their demand for freedom and more.

This meeting will be held at noon on Oct. 25 at the Great Southern Operations Center.

Please RSVP to rsvp@swmoprsa.org by noon Friday,
Oct. 21. Cancellations must also be made by noon that day to avoid being invoiced for the cost of the meeting.

Lunch for members is $12, students cost $8 and first time guests are free. Subsequent meetings for non-members cost $17.

This will be the final meeting of 2011.

Nominate a Colleague Today!

2011-09-30T10:09:00.000-05:00

Today is the final day to nominate a colleague for "An Evening of Stars!" It's a great way to honor those who have made an impact through their volunteerism in the chapter, or have shown exemplary support to the public relations profession. Take a moment today, and send a nomination to nominations@swmoprsa.org (limit 250 words).

Mike Koehler's "Recommended Reading List"

2011-09-20T13:39:00.000-05:00

Whether or not you attended SWMO PRSA's Professional Development Conference this afternoon, here is a helpful list of recommended books from presenter Mike Koehler.

"Crush It" by Gary Vanyerchuk
"Thank You Economy" by Gary Vanyerchuk
"Tribes" by Seth Godin
"The Long Tail" by Chris Anderson
"Good to Great" by Jim Collins
"Entreleadership" by Dave Ramsey
"Little Big Things" by Tom Peters

Mike also recommends following Mashable and TechCrunch.

Subscribing on Facebook

2011-09-16T15:47:00.000-05:00

Facebook has a new subscribing feature. You may have heard. While it will have very little implication for most of us in our personal usage, it could directly impact how you use it for your business or organization. Do you want to know when you get a new subscriber? Do you want everything you post to be viewable? The key to everything we do should be this: strategy.

Read "The Complete Guide to Facebook's Subscribe Button."

St. Louis event with Valeria Maltoni

2011-09-15T12:09:00.002-05:00

See the message below from Ben Smith, Social: IRL.

I'd hoped to bring Social: IRL back to Springfield this year with a follow up to February's boot camp with Sarah Evans.

Unfortunately the timing didn’t work out for this year, but I hope to schedule another event in Springfield for the Summer of 2012. In the meantime, we will be in St Louis on November 3 with "Relationships and Brand Building in the Social Media Age."

Since I wasn’t able to return to Springfield this year, I'm offering each of you who attended the Sarah Evans boot camp a special $50 discount if you'd like to make the drive and join us in St Louis. I can promise an event that is well worth the trip, and the $50 discount can be applied to both the regular rate and the early bird rate this is currently available. If applied to the early bird rate it would take registration to just $95.

This event delves a lot deeper than the event you attended with Sarah and features Valeria Malltoni, known online under the "Conversation Agent" brand. Valeria brings more than 20 years of real-world business experience, specializing in taking companies to "what's next" in their business cycle by planning and building value creating systems that add momentum and performance to deliver strength, resilience and endurance to the business. Valeria has been responsible for overseeing engagements for companies including Busch, InBev, Allstate and GE Appliances. During her career, she's held senior business roles executing growth strategies at global Fortune 500, mid-sized businesses and small start up companies in five industries. Her Conversation Agent blog is consistently ranked among the top 30 marketing blogs in the world on the AdAge Power150. You can also connect with Valeria on Twitter @conversationage.

You can learn more about the event and register at:

http://socialirl.com/relationships-brand-building-conversation-in-the-social-media-age/

If you attended the Feb. conference in Springfield, use discount code IRLSGF to get the 50% discount.

Hope to see you in St Louis.

Ben

Distractions Detract from Work

2011-09-14T10:10:00.000-05:00

Ironic that I'm blogging about distractions detracting from work, when I probably could be doing something more productive myself. I just saw this article being tweeted about by Vocus, and I was intrigued.

Once, after a loss, former Tennessee Titans’ coach Jeff Fisher made this statement to the media about his team’s effort:
“I think you have to be able to deal with distractions, put them in perspective and move on. Distractions are the primary reason for losing football games. ”
He didn’t chalk up the loss to a poor planning, a bad strategy, or lack of effort. He pinned the losing effort on distractions.

Reflections on Sept. 11

2011-09-09T09:05:00.002-05:00

I've been challenged for the past week with the numerous options of mediated remembrances of Sept. 11. I have avoided consuming most any of it because I was skeptical of the motivations behind some of the programming (ratings vs memorials). Until now.

The PRSA Tactics post by John Milton Wesley is a must read. And, if you don't develop a little catch in your throat, and maybe a teary eye, you're not human.

Growing up, I remember my parents and a few teachers talking about how they remembered what they were doing when they heard Pearl Harbor had been attacked and JFK was assassinated. After Sept. 11, 2001, I understood this completely. To this day, I can tell you absolutely everything about that day.

Sept. 11 was a turning point for this country, for business and certainly for the profession of public relations. Wesley's personal story is heart-wrenching. But, his five rules are good reminders when we, as professional communicators, are put in difficult positions sharing the stories of tragedy and loss.

10 years later: Reflecting on the tragedy of Sept. 11, 2001: PRSA

Volunteer, Nominate, Attend: 3 Easy Ways to Support "An Evening of Stars!"

2011-08-26T13:57:00.001-05:00

Mark your calendar for “An Evening of Stars!”

Thursday, Nov. 17 ¶ 6 p.m.

Wellington South, 5021 S. National Ave.

From Melinda Arnold

Join your SWMO PRSA colleagues for our inaugural banquet, an evening to celebrate our successes and recognize outstanding contributions to the public relations profession. The flier (PDF attachment) includes the details for the evening. (Note: This event takes the place of our November “holiday” meeting.)

As chair of the event, I’m asking for three actions from each chapter member:

1. Mark your calendar today and plan to attend the banquet. Details will be posted soon on the SWMO PRSA website for purchasing tickets.

2. Give thought to our members and consider those who you believe should be nominated for the “Rising Star” or “Intrepid” awards. While we’re specifically focused on those two awards, we also have three additional awards that could be given if there are nominations to support them. Again, complete details are on the flier.

3. Think beyond “I’m busy,” and consider volunteering for the either the event or awards committee. We’re all busy, but neither of these committees will take a tremendous amount of time. And, the more the merrier (and easier)! Contact me by email or phone (833-1570) if you are willing to serve.

Making QR Work for Your PR

2011-08-25T09:43:00.000-05:00

We all know what QR codes are, and what they do, but few of us have figured out how to use them consistently and effectively in our public relations and marketing efforts. We might have stuck a toe in the water to see if the general public knows what to do with them, but being tentative in this case doesn't get the job done. Just like any effort in public relations, there must be solid strategy behind it.

Read 5 Steps to a Successful QR Campaign

Videos available from August meeting

2011-08-24T14:38:00.000-05:00

We've tried with varying degrees of success to catch video of speakers this year during the meetings - sometimes forgetting the camera, sometimes not having the speakers' permission to post, sometimes I was gone on maternity leave, sometimes I just got bogged down and never edited the videos- but I thought it was particularly fitting that this set of videos from yesterday's meeting should be accessible. It is in 3 parts, and while it is a study in exactly what NOT to do according to our speaker (just pointing and shooting a lecture on a blank background), it might still be a resource for those who were unable to attend, would like to hear a specific section again, want to share some ideas, need to look up some resources that he mentioned.
Part 1: http://youtu.be/_RijcSqTZ2k
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUdHMzvJj7c
Q&A Session: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcK9K8laYvQ

Slides are also available at http://t.co/5c65W03.

Listen up! Network. Get engaged.

2011-08-15T12:57:00.000-05:00

Listen up! Network. Get engaged.

A new era for PR and marketing professionals.

2011 Professional Development Conference

September 20, 2011

Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce

Register now and get $10 off at http://www.swmoprsa.org/.

Sessions are geared toward professionals at small and large businesses alike. Sessions include:

• GET ENGAGED! BE A LEADER FROM WITHIN YOUR COMPANY. David Grossman, ABC, APR, Fellow PRSA, founder and CEO, The Grossman Group, in Chicago, will talk about the importance of getting communication “right” and will provide proven and practical insights, methods and tools to enhance results and ensure overall organizational engagement.

• PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD! ETIQUETTE TIPS FOR BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS. Shari Hawkins, owner, 2balance, a PR and communications agency in Springfield, will discuss best practices when it comes to etiquette in today’s business world.

• LISTEN UP! BE SOCIAL. GET TANGIBLE RESULTS FROM YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA EFFORTS. Mike Koehler, president and chief strategist, Smirk New Media in Oklahoma City, will delve into best practices and the how-to’s for effective online brand monitoring and engagement through social media networking -- in a way that provides tangible benefits for your business or organization.

• EXTREME NETWORKING. Students and professionals will get a chance to meet and learn from one another. Students should bring resumes and questions. Professionals, this is your chance to learn how education is evolving and ideas on staying current.

NEW! Showcase Sponsor

We've added a new sponsorship level for just for attendees. Showcase your company throughout the conference for an additional $50.

As a Showcase Sponsor you receive:

-- Placement of promotional material on Showcase Tables inside the conference room

-- Recognition during the event

-- Special designation as a Showcase Sponsor on your name tag

-- Recognition via Facebook, Twitter and other social media as applicable

PR boot camp July 28

2011-07-19T10:04:00.003-05:00

The SWMO PRSA chapter is sponsoring a PR Boot Camp, featuring Maria Neider, Jonathan Groves, Joel Alexander, Zac Rantz and Mark Miller. This promises to be a strong program with practical tips and suggestions for improving media relations for businesses and non-profits. Complete information and registration is available online. See you there!

Are you ready for a digital crisis?

2011-07-07T08:54:00.003-05:00

I'm preparing for a crisis communication presentation next week, and this Forbes post listed on today's "PRSA Issues & Trends" caught my eye. Maybe it caught yours, too.

What do you think? How prepared are you for a social media/digital crisis? Do you have a social media crisis communication plan?

Tips for a Solid Online Newsroom

2011-06-20T12:26:00.002-05:00

Ragan's PR Daily has another great post focused on tips for the content and structure of an online newsroom. As you go down their list of 15 points, how many are reflected in YOUR newsroom?

Do any of our members have what you would consider to be an effective/successful online newsroom to share with the chapter?

Don't let these phrases suck the life out of your writing - or your readers!

2011-06-13T14:58:00.000-05:00

In a world where you only get a minute - or more realistically, less than 5 seconds - to grab your readers' attention, learn to be succinct. While some of us appreciate flowery prose, poetry and literature, when you're talking about newsworthiness, promotion and public relations, get the extra words out of the way.

Ragan's PR Daily shares "8 terms that suck the life out fo your writing" - read the rules now!

AAF Invitation: Using Your Noodle to Promote Local Services

2011-06-08T13:46:00.000-05:00

AAF of the Ozarks presents...Using Your Noodle to Promote Local Services
Brian Ash, Business Development Manager for ServiceNoodle.com, will explain how the company’s online database works to connect businesses and consumers with local service providers, 24/7.

Service categories include Home (such as landscaping and remodeling), Family (such as dentists and financial planners), Business (such as attorneys and IT consultants), and others.

A variety of creative and marketing-related services also are represented on the site, including photographers, graphic designers, sign and promotional products companies, and marketing consultants.

Service Noodle launched its Springfield website last summer and has set out to make “noodle” a household verb. Come and learn how the Service Noodle concept works and how you and/or your clients might utilize its services to promote your business and find the services you need.

When: Tuesday, June 14, 11:30a-1p
Where: 319 Downtown Banquet Facility, 319 W. Walnut, Springfield
Cost: $15 AAF members & first-time guests; $20 repeat guests; $10 students
RSVP: Click the Reservations button at our website by noon on Monday, June 13; sign up online and receive an email confirmation!

Pass the word to friends and associates who might be interested in this informative program!

Recognizing the Best in our Business

2011-06-06T13:13:00.000-05:00

Mark your calendars now for the evening of Nov.17 as the local PRSA chapter is hosting a new recognition banquet to honor the best of PR in our community. The event will be held 6-8 p.m. at Wellington South, 5021 S. National. Tickets will be $25 and it is going to be open to the public. Stay tuned for details on nominations and registration.

Kick Up Those PR Skills at PR Boot Camp

2011-06-03T08:41:00.000-05:00

It's summertime already, and you should take this time to relax, soak in some great outdoors time and sharpen your PR skills. That's right...there's never rooom to be complacent in what you know about your profession.

You (and the entire community) are invited to take part in our 2011 PR Boot Camp Thursday, July 28 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (registration begins at 8:30 a.m.) at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, 202 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway.

We have an amazing lineup - especially for those who are new to the industry or who perform multiple functions in an organization.

9 a.m. - How to Pitch a Story. Maria Neider, KY3
10 a.m. - Social Media: Why You Shouldn't be Afraid of It. Jonathan Groves, Drury University
11 a.m. - Inside Job: Why Internal PR and Marketing are Important, Too. Joel Alexander, City Utilities
Noon-1 p.m. - Lunch and networking
1 p.m. - How Technology is Changing PR and Marketing. Zac Rantz, Nixa Public Schools
2 p.m. - News Releases Aren't Dead Yet (at Least Not in the Ozarks). Joel Doepker, Ozarks Technical Community College

Registration is $40 for PRSA and Chamber members, $50 for non-members. Breakfast and lunch will also be provided.

Hope to see you there!

Questioning the Media

2011-06-01T09:14:00.000-05:00

In our local chapter, we have had a few speakers over the last couple of years address those scary moments in PR - the ones where you are on the defensive or are in desperate need of your crisis communication skills. Even this last month, we had Jeff Nene from Convoy of hope relay a great message about keeping communication lines open with all audiences during crisis mode.

Today, I found a quick article about Media Training to share - one that addresses the kinds of questions you should ask the media BEFORE responding to their questions. The author points out that this is your opportunity to get your information out there, you don't want them to have the opportunity to manipulate your words and you need to protect your organization (and your job).

Take a look and see if you have anything to add - feel free to sound off below!

May 2011 Meeting Recap

2011-05-25T09:05:00.000-05:00

Although it was a relatively small meeting yesterday, the payoff was great. We were honored that Jeff Nene, from Convoy of Hope, was able to take time away from the Joplin efforts to speak to our group about crisis communication, strategic communication and the power of a story. He was able to easily draw on the recent examples to show how his organization works with the media and other audiences to communicate a strong message. Below are the highlights:

Multi-faceted career: Started education pursuing a criminal justice degree. Decided ministry was more of what he was wanting. So he went to a bible college to pursue that. From there he went into television. Now he works for Convoy of Hope doing public relations.
Telling the story is important
Why did Convoy make the big push into public relations?
Always has had a PR position but didn’t always know the value and importance of it.
The organization was growing so fast in the past 9.5 years that focusing on PR in the beginning wasn’t made a priority.
Past 8 or 9 months the organization decided they needed to look into how to get the word out more about their organization and the needs they help with.
With the Haiti earthquake and the aid Convoy of Hope provided, the organization got ahold of the Jonas bothers. The brothers tweeted about Convoy of Hope’s efforts which brought national attention and crashed their website because of the volume of people.
After the publicity from the organization’s Haiti efforts Convoy of Hope realized the value of good public relations.
The department is split in two areas, the writing side and the relation side.
The organization realized they needed to better their media list from their simple excel spreadsheet to a license with Vocus. The media coverage Convoy of Hope received because they reached the right reporters at the right time was astronomical.
Shortly after they started using Vocus, March 1, the March 11 Japan earthquake hit, and they had to rush to reach the right people. With the use of Vocus the organization reached people they have never reached before. CNN, people.com and other national news outlets have spoken about the organization.
The program also has a great back end reporting function.
Power of a story
The impact a story can have in pulling the audience in is important.
If you can find a compelling story then you’ve got your audiences.
Jeff challenged the meeting to find our story and tell it.
Think about your organization and what makes it unique.
Stories grab people’s attention.
The stories of how you’re helping or of what’s going on is what brings the audience.
Text CONVOY to 50555 to make a donation to the organization.
For every $1 donated to Convoy of Hope $7 worth of goods is given as relief.
Believing in what you’re talking about is important and crucial to getting the story out.
Jeff recommends organizations develop a checklist for if a disaster or accident happens, what steps are followed. Have the plan and if you can, rehearse it.
The plan most likely won’t be executed the way it is written but at least there is a guideline to go by.

Press releases still relevant

2011-05-20T14:50:00.000-05:00

On this rainy, gloomy day in Springfield, take heart PR pros! What we all knew to be the truth has just been confirmed via research: a new survey of journalists shows that journalists still rely on traditional PR methods for the facts and much of their initial story-building. Social media and less traditional methods are still gaining credibility and popularity - and some day they may be the first thing a reporter looks at - I'm sure this depends on your market - but the journalists polled in the study still wanted a press release. Read the article here
What are the takeaways:
1. Know your audience - know which journalists want different forms of communication and how to best reach them
2. Stay up-to-date with the latest communication methods - understand the benefits, styles and needs for each type of social media
3. Integrate your communications plan to best accomodate all audiences - an integrated plan means you should never get left completely behind and that you are working with early and late adopters

May Meeting Update

2011-05-10T15:04:00.000-05:00

We’ve had a change of plans for our May meeting. Our speaker will be Jeff Nene, senior director of public relations for Convoy of Hope in Springfield. Jeff will talk about Convoy of Hope’s decision to place more emphasis on public relations. Learn why the organization made that strategic communications shift and how it has benefitted them. Convoy of Hope made another decision just before the earthquake and tsunami hit Japan, and Jeff will talk about that. Also learn about “the power of a story.”

Peter Shankman in Lawrence!

2011-05-10T14:44:00.000-05:00

Ben Smith, of Social: IRL sent this opportunity to extend to our chapter.

Just a quick follow up on the Peter Shankman boot camp Social: IRL is hosting in Lawrence in July.

If you aren't familiar with Peter Shankman, you can read his bio at: http://shankman.com/about/. Peter founded HARO, advises Fortune 500 corporations, is a respected VC and angel investor, acclaimed author and regular interviewee on national and international media.

The boot camp will focus on customer service in the socal age - engaging prospects, providing customer service, customer generated PR, creating brand advocates. Lots of powerful content. You can read more at: http://customerservicebootcamp.eventbrite.com/. The event is about to go live on socialirl.com but I wanted to offer prior Social: IRL attendees a final pre-sale opportunity. The event registration is a fraction of the cost you'd typically pay to see Peter keynote, let alone in a boot camp format.

The discounted pre-sale rates are:

Regular registration $145
Non-profit registration $120
Student registration $95
Group registration $500

These are some substantial discounts and won't be available after the event is live on socialirl.com. At this point the pre-sale discounts arent available online, you'd need to call me to process registration and payment over the phone. You can reach me at 785-423-4538.

Hope you'll be able to take advantage of this opportunity to learn from Peter, an industry leader I have a great deal of respect for an an excited to be working with, and to make accessible for a much more afordable registration rate than just about any other event he's ever been part of.

Joplin's Crisis Notes

2011-05-09T12:38:00.000-05:00

For those of you who weren't able to attend the April meeting, here are some great notes about the discussion:

City of Joplin & MoDot Preparing for Snow Storm

News outlets calling asking for preparation plans, ride alongs with salt trucks and snow plows.
Customer Service calls
MoDot took 3,500 calls regarding the storm
MoDot phone bank has 2 full time people answering and an additional 17 to pull from during snow fall season.
City did internal communications to ensure all city workers had the correct information for if they got a call from someone.
Joplin Mayor declared the city a disaster area and told citizens to stay off the roads so they could prepare and clear them
Prepared talking points a week in advance.
400 linear miles of roads.
City does not plow residential roads. Mall shut down for two days. Missouri Southern closed for a week.
By that Wednesday citizens wanted out.
Grated snow on the roads so cars could get around.
The snow fell so hard and so fast that doing much prep work for the roads was tough. Smaller crews were pulled to work on I-44.
Calls starting to take too long per call.
Governor told MoDot to clear county roads. Their normal roads weren’t in good condition yet.
Some issues can’t be touched on in a news release.
Citizens needing food once their government checks were deposited, needed oxygen, doctors couldn’t get to the hospitals.
Medical community was told the National Guard would be plowing their roads. But they ended up saying they couldn’t do it.
City’s audience was stuck at home MoDot’s audience was out on the road.
News releases started including roads that were cleared and citizens were to assume the rest were covered.
MoDots social media was huge. 800 to 28,000 followers on facebook. Had conversations with facebook users.
Users became advocates of MoDot for their response to the snow.
MoDot’s community became Facebook and Twitter
Oklahoma shut down I-44. They have concrete guard rails but had 8 ft snow drifts.
Trucks were a big issue on the roads. Large trucking traffic. MoDot had to communicate with Springfield and other communities to help stop the truck traffic to Joplin.
Media requests became large because of the truck traffic back ups.
City published all the names of the maintenance and people answering the phones in the Joplin paper to thank them for their work.
Mistake: Double commenting on facebook
Mistake: Not keeping their cool on the phones.
Mistake: Should have looked sooner for volunteers to shovel walks of people who really needed.
PR is one on one relationships. PR is listening too.
Quit being concerned about the media and cared more about the customers and public directly.

Invitation from AAF

2011-05-05T11:41:00.000-05:00

AAF of the Ozarks presents...

Catch some rising stars: Drury Student Ad Team Presentation
When: Tuesday, May 10, 1:30a-1p
Where: 425 Downtown Banquet Facility, 425 W. Walnut, Springfield
Cost: $15 AAF members & first-time guests; $20 repeat guests; $10 students

RSVP: Click the Reservations button at www.aafozarks.org by noon on Monday, May 9, to sign up online

Each May, AAF of the Ozarks is pleased to showcase our local university student advertising teams, whose presentations are the culmination of months of research, strategy and campaign development.

This year, the Drury Student Ad Team will present their entry in the 2010-11 AAF National Student Advertising Competition: a $100 million integrated marketing communications plan for JCPenney. The campaign is designed to increase market share among women 25-34 years old, while remaining consistent with the JCPenney overall brand position. Campaign elements include market and customer research, strategy, messaging, creative, media, public relations, merchandise and marketing partnerships, and in-store and online shopping experiences.

The Drury team’s plan book took second place and the team finished third overall at the AAF 9th District Student Advertising Competition last month in Kansas City. The team’s faculty instructors/advisers are Ron Schie, who serves on the AAF board of directors, and Regina Waters.

Reserve your space now, and pass the word to your coworkers and business associates. You’ll be impressed and inspired by the marketing savvy, creativity and professionalism of these dedicated young people!

April 2011 Video Presentation

2011-05-03T08:20:00.000-05:00

If you missed the April SWMO PRSA meeting, featuring three of our Joplin members, you can watch their presentation here in five segments. This is a test run, and we will hopefully continue to improve on how these are accessed. You can only watch this video if you have the direct link - it is not searchable from YouTube.

Part 1: http://youtu.be/bxOQNfK7OBA
Part 2: http://youtu.be/AzYft-5AcwE
Part 3: http://youtu.be/19Fe95uv3p0
Part 4: http://youtu.be/RRhjp7hUOZA
Part 5: http://youtu.be/D_HdePmowiQ

So many choices

2011-04-27T08:57:00.003-05:00

Facebook, in a seemingly never-ending quest to become the "be all, end all" of social media, is launching a competitor to Groupon and LivingSocial. The blog "Search Engine Land" has the details this morning.

There are so many options with these national programs and the local media-based program. I'm curious what kinds of success you have seen if you have used them for your business.

And, do you buy them personally? (I do!) What's your pattern - businesses you already frequent? Places you'd like to try out, and the discount makes it more attractive?

The perfect opening

2011-04-14T08:39:00.000-05:00

It’s that time of year again – students are scrambling for internships and many new graduates are looking for that perfect job. If you have a job or internship opening, or if you are currently seeking one (and don’t mind having your resume posted on our website), send the listing or your resume to communications@swmoprsa.org. We’ll post it to our website – it is just one more way to network with the great people in our organization.

Best in Business Brought to Springfield

2011-04-13T14:55:00.000-05:00

You are invited to join us for the 2011 Professional Development Conference from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Sept. 20 at the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce. This annual conference features national-level speakers in the communications profession and is rapidly becoming known in the business community as a must-attend event. Cost for PRSA members is $85, includes a light breakfast and lunch.

Speakers and sessions include:

• David Grossman, ABC, APR, Fellow PRSA, founder and CEO, The Grossman Group, in Chicago. The communications consultancy focuses on organizational, strategic leadership development and internal communications. David is one of America’s foremost authorities on communication inside organizations. He will talk about the importance of getting communication “right” and will provide proven and practical insights, methods and tools to enhance results and ensure overall organizational engagement.

• Mike Koehler, president and chief strategist, Smirk New Media in Oklahoma City. A Springfield native and graduate of Missouri State University, Mike is a leading social and new media strategist, having directed new media efforts for Oklahoma’s largest news website and the state’s largest public relations firm. Mike will delve into best practices and the how-to’s for effective online brand monitoring and engagement through social media networking -- in a way that provides tangible benefits for your business or organization.

Then stay tuned for student-professional speed-networking. Students will meet and ask questions of us about what the future in this profession holds and gain resume and interviewing tips. You will be able to target and meet potential candidates for internships/positions, along with gaining an understanding of the emerging talent from our area schools.

Questions? Contact Claire Faucett.

Lunch meeting April 26

2011-04-13T08:38:00.000-05:00

The long, cold winter of 2010-2011 is finally over. Well, not quite. Bring your parkas and snow boots to our April meeting and learn how February’s blizzard challenged the communication skills of three chapter members in Joplin. Lynn Onstot with the city of Joplin and Wendy Brunner-Lewis and Lori Marble, both with the Missouri Department of Transportation, will discuss how the blizzard impacted their responsibilities as communicators and how they handled the situation. Here’s a question to ask during the Q-and-A: how does one communicate with frustrated long-haul truckers who just learned I-44 is closed?

The meeting will be held at 12 p.m. April 26 at the Midtown Carnegie Library, 397 E. Central St. (at the corner of Jefferson and Central). Arrive at 11:45 a.m. to network with your colleagues!

Please RSVP to rsvp@swmoprsa.org by noon

Friday, April 22. Cancellations must also be made by noon that day to avoid being invoiced for the cost of the meeting.

Kick your PR skills up a notch at the PR Boot Camp!

2011-04-12T08:38:00.000-05:00

PRSA and the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce will co-host the PR Boot Camp Thursday, July 28 for individuals wanting to build or improve their PR skills. The event will be held from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the, 202 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway.

The program incorporates five sessions designed to help individuals who want to learn or brush up on tools to promote their business or organization – whether it’s a small business, non-profit organization, church or public office. Those sessions will include information on starting a social media program, the importance of internal communications, working with the news media, and more.

To register, visit www.swmoprsa.org. The cost is $40 for PRSA and Chamber members, and $50 for other non-members.

This fee includes a light breakfast, lunch and all program materials. For more information, contact Stacy Fender at 417-269-4113.

Searching for Scholarships?

2011-04-07T14:48:00.000-05:00

For those of you with direct student contact, now is your time to share some of the great benefits of PRSA! The Dr. Joe McAdoo Memorial Scholarship committee is again looking for the best and brightest to award this scholarship, and the deadline is May 27. For more information, visit http://swmoprsa.org/members/scholarships.

Ladies, you get what you grab for!

2011-03-29T12:56:00.000-05:00

Public relations is a field for both men and women, but this article is geared specifically toward helping women get noticed and promoted for their own abilities. I think the content is worthwhile for anyone, though, so take a moment and read Sarah Evans' piece, "Five Social Tips for Women to Increase Media Exposure." You'll see how you can gain credibility to draw in business - especially for those who choose to freelance or work in an agency (rather than working for one organization).

Recap of Crisis Communications Presentation

2011-03-25T09:02:00.002-05:00

For those of you who were unable to attend the meeting, here is a recap of the notes given by Lisa Rau, Herschend Family Entertainment, on Crisis Communications. The video will not be posted.

• What is your institution/organization’s reputation/image – how is it viewed by others

• Remember: the press is not the enemy

• Everyone has a job to do – the press included, and if you don’t provide information/help, you’re opening your org up to a BIGGER crisis

• Rumors love a void.

• Crisis of the day

• Constant barrage of information coming to us

• The first 48 hours are critical used to be the norm, but now the first 48 minutes are the most important.

• There is an incredible need to be first. Release information first before the media or anyone else.

• You can’t stop the news

• You have to know the people in your industry and the agencies who service you

• You shouldn’t be surprised when a story hits

• It is not ok to say “No Comment” There are ways to say something without saying anything.

• Having 3-5 message points is a good start – more than that, you’ll forget some. If you stick to these, you’ll have a concise, clear message.

• #1 the Media will find out

• #2 the Media will show up at your property

o where will you put them, where will they plug their equipment in

• #3 the media will expect you to talk

• #4 the media will have the last word

• We have to be ready for the tough questions

• You can’t turn bad news into good. But you can handle with honesty.

• Get on your own web sites, social networking site. Place your own messages and videos

• You have control today that didn’t used to be there. You have your own vehicles of distribution

• Play the drills

• Play the “what if” game

• Practice your message out loud – get used to the wording – otherwise, you might stumble over the phrasing, which makes you appear less prepared (and nervous).

• Don’t “wing it.” It never comes out right

• Preparation is critical

• Off the record is not off the record

• If there is a microphone near you assume its always on

• Save your jokes for later. When it comes to your company and a crisis, there are no jokes

• Vet your words

• Watch your body language

• If you don’t know your weakness – find it

• Watch your back

• “Microphone is not a verbal vacuum cleaner”

• Think in threes

• Say what you need to say and stop

• You don’t have to tell everything you know but you do need to tell the truth

Experimentation - it's part of the job!

2011-03-22T13:56:00.000-05:00

For those of you who were at our PRSA meeting today, you probably noticed that we were recording Lisa Rau's presentation. The hope is to make these presentations available to members (and non-members) on our website, especially for those who can't attend meetings regularly. When it is posted, I'll let you know!

Annual PRSSA Day At MSU Announced

2011-03-14T11:39:00.002-05:00

The Missouri State University Chapter-Public Relation Student Society of America (PRSSA) would like to extend you an invitation to our Annual PRSSA Day, Friday, March 18, 2011. Our theme for PRSSA Day is Social Media. Social Media is currently prevalent in the Public Relations field that all students should stay abreast on with current trends.

SUMMARY

PRSSA will be having two insightful key note speakers at the event: Tressa Robbins and Ryan Knapp, who will share their in depth experiences in their professional career field dealing with social media. The organization will also host many public relations executive professionals during our Speed Networking Segment, we will proceed with a social media panel question and answer segment with the social media club from Springfield, MO. During the seminar we will hand out awards, recognizing select students and faculty that have been a tremendous help to our chapter during the 2010-2011 school year.

Our goal for PRSSA Day 2011 is to provide the members of PRSSA, the COM Department, and the over-all student and professional community an in depth look at social media and how it is affecting careers, businesses, and our economy. The Missouri State Chapter of PRSSA also wants to enlighten everyone with what we have accomplished as a chapter and what we do as an organization

All boutiques and businesses involved with this event will be recognized in all programs, as well as, permitted free admission to all aspects of the seminar and complimentary meals.

DETAILS

‘2011 Missouri State PRSSA Day: Moving Forward with 140 Characters’

Who: Missouri State University PRSSA

What: Networking event coupled with ‘Fall into la Mode’ fashion show

When: March 18^th, 2011 9:30am-2:00pm (Please arrive at 9am)

Where: Missouri State University Plaster Student Union, Ballroom West

901 S National Ave, Springfield, Missouri 65897

We Would Like You:

PRSSA will be honored if you spoke to our students, faculty, and community about your profession in direct correspondence with social media. You will be interacting during our Speed Networking Segment, directly with students sharing their profession, answering questions, and hopefully looking to recruit for possible internships and future careers within your company.

Contact Jasmine Booker at (816) 810.9315 or via e-mail at jasbooker2@yahoo.com.

DaZZee Integrations and Cisco come to Springfield

2011-03-04T09:48:00.001-06:00

Here's another opportunity open to the people of Springfield:

AAF Invitation: Who are you Becoming?

2011-03-03T09:46:00.000-06:00

AAF of the Ozarks presents “Who Are You Becoming?”

A mini workshop with executive coach Kim Hartmayer
When: Wednesday, March 9, 11:30a-1p
Where: University Plaza, 333 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway
Cost: $15 AAF members & first-time guests; $20 repeat guests; $10 students
RSVP: rsvp@aafozarks.org by noon March 7

What’s your BIG dream? What’s getting in the way?
Kim Hartmayer is passionate about helping people to face and overcome the obstacles that keep them from fulfilling their highest potential. Professionally trained through The Coaches Training Institute (CTI), Kim gets to the heart of what matters most in your life and your business. She asks the key questions and shares tools you can use to create the future you want.

Kim’s interactive, customized presentation will address some of the top issues that advertising professionals are facing today and dig deep to uncover what REALLY gets in your way. Don’t miss this unique luncheon program that will help you see yourself and your career in a positive new way!

Reserve your space now, and pass the word about this valuable program!

February Meeting Recap

2011-02-28T11:11:00.002-06:00

The digital age and libraries was the topic of the February chapter meeting for Southwest Missouri PRSA. Member Kathleen O’Dell, community relations director for the Springfield-Greene County Library District spoke to the membership about how the digital age has brought on many changes for the district.

During her discussion with the chapter, O’Dell shared some statistics about the circulation of the district. In the 2001-2002 fiscal year the Springfield-Greene County Library District saw 1.3 million items being circulated. During the 2009-2010 fiscal year, they saw 3.9 million items. Circulation includes books, movies, electronic books, etc. O’Dell said because of the digital age, the library is providing more to more people on more platforms.

Some highlights of offerings the district has include free WiFi, banks of computers at all branches which O’Dell said were seeing an increase in use by individuals who are job searching and applying for jobs. Many companies have moved into the digital world as well and are asking all potential employees to visit their websites to apply for positions. In addition to the banks of computers available for library card holders, there are a series of computer training classes offered for individuals regardless on if they currently hold a library card or not. The series is called The Edge and offers classes ranging from basic computer how-to skills to “how to use that e-reader you got for Christmas.” These classes are available for people of all ages and are tailored for the age group that is participating.

The district also offers through their webiste a free download of software called Overdrive which allows library card holders to download e-books to be played on their mp3 players, e-readers, etc. In addition to the books available through Overdrive, the library also has many e-books available through their regular library catalog which can still be searched through CoolCat, the library’s electronic card catalog system. O’Dell referred to the district’s website as their “11th branch” due to the large amount of resources available on the site.

The site has numerous research databases available to library card holders ranging from recipe database search engines to databases that will assist you in starting your own business in the area. The site also has areas for kids and teens with age appropriate links including reading assistance for younger children and an area for teens to write a blog and book reviews.

One challenge O’Dell outlined was the fact that though we are in the digital age and all of their information is available in an electronic format, they still produce them in print. So the digital age hasn’t always made their jobs easier or quicker, it has just added to the workload of employees and expectations of their constituents.

PRSSA Day Invitation

2011-02-22T09:06:00.001-06:00

On March 18, the Missouri State University chapter of PRSSA is hosting the 2011 PRSSA Day in the Ballroom of Plaster Student Union (on the Missouri State University campus) from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The entire day is going to be social media themed, because it is currently so prevalent in the public relations profession, and the timeline of the day is going to include:
• Speed networking
• Lunch
• A panel featuring some of the members of the Springfield Social Media Club
• An award ceremony
• 2 speakers: Tressa Robins speaking about the myths and misconceptions of social media, and Ryan Knapp is going to speak about the value of social media for students and young professionals.

We would love for local professionals to attend our PRSSA Day this year, and if you are interested in attending and networking with Missouri State PR students, please e-mail Lindsay Vanquaethem at vanquaethem487@live.missouristate.edu or Jasmine Booker, PRSSA Day chair, at Jasmine2@live.missouristate.edu.

If you would like to attend, you are welcome to come for some of the day or for all, and you would receive a free lunch, and goodie bag.

Share the Wealth and Spread the Word

2011-02-15T09:39:00.000-06:00

Many of us from the chapter were lucky enough to attend the Social: IRL Boot Camp with Sarah Evans on Feb. 8 - learning tips and tactics to keep on top of all things in the communications world. If you are interested, you can download the presentation. In it, you will find tutorials on jargon, setting up accounts, making them interact with each other as well as more advanced examples of extracting results in the real world.

If you don't have time to sift through the entire presentation, I'd still recommend you ooking through some of the sections that you're less acquainted with - for example, the information on social media releases. Great stuff there!

If you are still trying to convince your organization or client to even use social media, you might try these basic Social Media 101 guides Sarah provided:

Upcoming Conferences - Mark Your Calendars!

2011-02-14T09:09:00.000-06:00

PR Boot Camp is tentatively scheduled for July 21 - a great opportunity to fill a need in the community! We can share our knowlege of public relations with many local companies and non-profits that may need an extra push in the right direction. Think about how you might be able to contribute, and contact Stacy Fender (stacy.fender@coxhealth.com) if you would like to help.

Our annual Professional Development Conference will be held Sept. 20, and we are already well underway in the planning of this great event. We are excited to be having a nationally recognized speaker and author as our keynote for the day - you'll find out more soon. Contact Claire Faucett, claire@springfieldchamber.com, if you'd like to help in bringing this event to the Springfield community.

How restrictive is your social media policy?

2011-02-11T09:18:00.003-06:00

Disparaging Facebook comments are always a concern for image management. In response to these concerns, employers have developed social media policies that run the gamut of restrictiveness. I came across this article through a link on Ragan's PR Daily that may cause some employers to rethink or retool restrictions stated social media policies.

What do you think? How restrictive are the social media policies for your employees?

Free Local Membership if You Join in February

2011-02-11T09:07:00.002-06:00

A great deal for your colleagues in the public relations profession:
Join PRSA in February and receive a FREE one-year local chapter membership! Contact membership@swmoprsa.org for more details or visit http://www.prsa.org/JoinUs?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=tweet&utm_campaign=membership_promo_feb.

Message from the President

2011-02-11T09:07:00.000-06:00

I wanted to share with you the goals the board has chosen to focus on this year.

· Provide value to members through monthly programs, professional development seminars, online resources and networking opportunities. (Success measured through annual membership survey.)

· Hold at least two engagements with outlying area members this year.

· Increase average number of members attending monthly meetings to 25 and increase student membership.

As you can tell, these revolve around ensuring you get your money’s worth regarding PRSA membership. We also hope to grow the chapter by offering opportunities to areas outside Springfield and through increased student membership, both of which will benefit the chapter in the long term.

Having an engaged and committed membership is critical to the success of our chapter, and I hope you will either volunteer to help plan and organize our key annual activities or answer the bell when called on by one of our directors. So far, several have committed to assist the three directors-at-large initiatives including:

· Claire Faucett, Professional Development Seminar

· Stacey Fender , PR Boot Camp

· Lori Marble, APR accreditation

· Becky Lucas, web site

· Angela Frizell, social media

· Melinda Arnold, communications

· Zac Rantz, scholarship

· Andrea Cramer, student liaison

· Ann Elwell, membership

We may be small (boutique!) but our expectations are not thanks to the time and energy these folks are willing to give.

Finally, the members who responded to the last survey regarding changing the day/time of the monthly meetings voted overwhelmingly to keep it where it is, so we will consider the issue closed and plan on meeting the fourth Tuesday of each month in the same location this year.

Watch Your Wordiness

2011-02-07T09:26:00.000-06:00

Regardless of your specialty in the public relations realm - social media, event planning, media relations, writing for publications, etc. - great communication skills are key. If you're trying to get the attention of the media, you need to be precise and succinct, and you have to, above all else, keep their interest. One way of doing that is packing a punch with your words.

This short article, "Seven Examples of Passive Voice (and How to Fix Them)," emphasizes the need to scrutinize your text before sending, rethink the construction of your sentences and eliminate unneeded words. In even the most informal communication, these tips can help you engage your reader - which is what we all want, right?

Student Registrations Up for Grabs!

2011-02-03T13:28:00.000-06:00

If you have any contact with students who'd be interested, tell them that there are two free registrations for Sarah Evans' Social: IRL event up for grabs. Find all the details TODAY at http://www.socialirl.com/.

Feb. 22 meeting announced

2011-02-03T10:11:00.002-06:00

Libraries – they’re not just for books anymore! Ever wondered how the digital age has affected the way libraries communicate with and serve the public? Come to our Feb. 22 chapter meeting and find out. Our presenter will be chapter member Kathleen O’Dell, community relations director for the Springfield-Greene County Library District. She will bring us up to date on how the district has been impacted by the Internet, social media and all things digital.

Are Free Press Release Sites Worth The Effort?

2011-01-28T16:11:00.005-06:00

With so many budget cuts over the past few years, many PR professionals are forced to use all the free resources they can. I recently had a discussion with a local professional over the value of free press release sites. Here's how the conversation went:

She: Do you get much "benefit" from using the free press release sites? I wonder if my professional organization shouldn't take advantage of these, but I also wonder whether it's worthwhile to do?

Me: I have found great value in the free press sites. With one free upload, I saw over 600 hits on the free platform alone, generated three separate media interviews and propagated prime time television coverage.

There are different levels of "free" and even by paying a small amount, you are able to increase your visibility. In the past with the free uploads, I have seen an increase in SEO through using specific long-tail key words within the post and tags. I also frequently upload to local media calendars when the release is specific to an event. Of course, the more places I share the article and information, the more traffic it potentially generates. I send my media list the news release as well.

She: I was thinking submissions would probably get lost in the abyss, but it sounds like you've had good results with those sites so I won't discount them!

Newsletter content, community calendar information, social media updates and physical mailings are all valuable in public relations. Though every channel may not get the same amount of attention, each view the potential to generate more word of mouth.

One lone effort isn't going to get you the results you want. Instead, think of the acronym "RIG":

Re-purpose your content - don't let one article die alone, use it for several different things. Small edits can make a whole new opportunity for your content.
Integrate your efforts - online, offline and in person. All communication channels are valuable
Generate interest - spice up your content. Give value to your offer.

How do you make the integration of new media work for you? What are your favorite free release sites? I'd love to hear your feedback.

~Angela Frizell, PRSA Member

Monthly meeting schedule survey

2011-01-27T13:51:00.002-06:00

As I mentioned at the January meeting, the board has discussed the possibility of changing the day/time monthly meetings are held if such a change allows more people to attend or to attend more often. We would like to have a larger sample size to base our decision on, since roughly 50 percent weighed in on the question earlier.

There is a five-question survey online I hope you will respond to before the board meets next on Feb. 3. It will not take more than a minute of your time. Really.

Thanks in advance for your input and if there is anything on your mind concerning the chapter, please feel free to let me or another board member know.

Hyper Alerts - the notifications Facebook doesn't provide

2011-01-26T08:51:00.004-06:00

For all it's benefits for organizations, Facebook lacks function to notify page admins when someone posts to a "fan" page. I came across a Facebook post from Social:IRL linking to a Hubspot blog post about Hyper Alerts, a free service that sends these missing e-mail notifications.

Note: Apparently, because of its popularity, the "ASAP" option on e-mails is temporarily suspended while they move to a new server. But, once it's back functioning, won't that be nice?

Mark your calendars for Feb. 8!

2011-01-24T09:23:00.000-06:00

The Sarah Evans Social Marketing Boot Camp is just a few weeks away!

A couple of quick updates for you from Ben Smith, Social: IRL:

We created a Facebook Event for the boot camp. Please take a moment to RSVP as attending. It's a great way to connect with other attendees, and connecting with your fellow attendees to create a shared learning experience is something we really encourage. You can also use the Facebook event to invite others you think might be interested. You can find the event here: http://on.fb.me/SarahEvansSGF

We are pleased to welcome two new sponsors for the event - Klout and mBlast. Klout are internationally recognized as leaders in measuring online influence. mBlast recently launched a new product, mPact, a specialized tool for marketers. Both Klout and mBlast and major national names and bring some real national level focus to Springfield. You can learn more about each of these sponsors at: http://klout.com/ and http://www.mblast.com/mpact/.

Finally, if you are interested you can visit http://www.socialirl.com/ to view notes from the event I held earlier this week with Brian Solis and Jason Falls in Wichita KS. Included are links to blog posts from a number of attendees. These might give you an insight in to the type of event we create and the buzz we try to generate among attendees. You'll see from the posts those attendees wrote that they left with a lot of new knowledge they were anxious to go and apply. You'll also see the event attendees were very engaged with each other, including real time Twitter conversations during the event which continued well after the event and are still continuing now. Just the day of the event and following day, we tracked 1,446 Twitter updates about the event. We hope to see a similar engagement in Springfield. If you aren't on Twitter yet I'd encourage you to sign up and be part of the online conversation that takes place between attendees.

We have people traveling in to Springfield for the Sarah Evans event from all across the country. I look forward to seeing you there on Tuesday, February 8.

Just a reminder that information such as location, times, and agenda are available at: http://www.socialirl.com/sarah-evans-boot-camp/.

Presenters Announced for Jan. 25 Chapter Meeting

2011-01-19T14:59:00.003-06:00

Three students from Missouri State University's PRSSA chapter will be the presenters for our Jan. 25 chapter meeting. Giving an overview of the chapter's PR firm, Bear Communications, will be Lindsay Van Quaethem, PRSSA chapter president; Sara McClendon, Bear Communications director; and Jackie Deluca, account executive for the firm. Be sure to attend! RSVP by noon Friday, Jan.21, with Kelly Polonus, kpolonus@greatsouthernbank.com,

Keep up!

2011-01-18T14:02:00.000-06:00

You've all heard that the zodiac chart changed recently leaving some people with a new astrological identity. Read this Journalistics article that uses this recent discovery as a case study to showcase how quickly news moves and how traditional news stations are being left out.

2011-01-14T10:19:00.002-06:00

If you don't follow Brian Solis (and I know several do) you should. Here is an eye-opening piece regarding what he terms the Social Compass.

From the article: "Inspired by a moral compass, The Social Compass serves as our value system when defining our program activities. It points a brand in a physical and experiential direction to genuinely and effectively connect with customers, peers, and influencers, where they interact and seek guidance online.

It was designed to guide us from the center outward. However, it can also impact how a business learns and adapts by reversing the process and listening to customers and influencers through each channel from the outside in."

McKinsey Study: Companies embracing a Social Media Strategy are finding a positive ROI

2011-01-10T15:03:00.002-06:00

Not terribly surprising, but telling nonetheless. One very interesting stat mentioned in the McKinsey article is that “…nearly two-thirds of respondents at companies using Web 2.0 say they will increase future investments in these technologies, compared with just over half in 2009.

Opportunities abound to become an expert in your field

2011-01-04T13:44:00.000-06:00

Here are two great learning opportunities to kick off the new year!

Explore & Engage

Brian Solis and Jason Falls will be in Wichita for SocialIRL’s “Explore and Engage” event on Jan. 19. There is special package pricing for attending this event and the SocialIRL event with Sarah Evans here in Springfield in early February. If you are interested in the trek to Wichita, please e-mail Melinda Arnold. We’re trying to coordinate a group to share expenses. http://www.socialirl.com/explore-and-engage/

AAF of the Ozarks presents “It’s All Downtown: A Marketing Success Story,” with Rusty Worley, Executive Director of Urban Districts Alliance

When: Wednesday, January 12, 11:30a-1p
Where: University Plaza, 333 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway
Cost: $15 members & first-time guests; $20 repeat guests; $10 students
RSVP: rsvp@aafozarks.org by noon Jan. 10

Thirty years ago, Springfield’s historic business districts were all but abandoned in favor of shopping malls and suburban development. Now, Center City is once again the vibrant hub of retail, entertainment, dining, arts and urban living. Much of this amazing turnaround is due to the work of Urban Districts Alliance and its successful marketing efforts, including the popular “It’s All Downtown” campaign. UDA Executive Director Rusty Worley will show how cooperative branding, advertising and promotions are creating economic vitality in the heart of our community.

This month’s program will also feature brief presentations by nominees for AAF of the Ozarks’ 2010 Jane Meyer Award for best nonprofit advertising/PSA campaign. Nominees include Care to Learn, Springfield Workshop, and Therapeutic Riding of the Ozarks. The audience will have the opportunity to vote for this year’s award winner. Join us in recognizing the contributions of area nonprofits, as well as the creative professionals and media organizations who help to ensure that their messages reach the community.

Start the new year right with AAF, and see how the ad industry promotes positive change. Reserve your space now, and pass the word about this valuable program!

It's not going away - so find your voice!

2010-12-15T10:37:00.000-06:00

You may be tired of hearing about social media, the value of Twitter, the need to be social, etc. There is a reason to put effort into this arena, though: it's not going away. Even if it is not the BEST way to reach your target audience, it is a valuable avenue for reaching at least part of a segment.

As we've talked about before, it's all about who you follow and maintaining a consistent voice. You don't need to share the minute details of your day - especially if your audience is primarily clients. Know your audience and share something valuable.

Read this article about sharing valuable information - and how to make yourself re-tweetable.

Social Media Is Not A Miracle Worker

2010-12-01T14:23:00.001-06:00

At long last, social media has shown its Achilles’ Heel as a communications tool. It happened over the Thanksgiving holiday. A grassroots movement used social media to get people riled up about increasingly intrusive security screening at U.S. airports. Of course, mainstream media jumped into the ring with coverage. The idea was to get folks to refuse a scanning machine and demand a time-consuming pat-down. That would gum up the screening process. The end result – long lines, long waits and headaches galore for TSA. Thus a social media-generated grassroots protest.

Alas, the protest was a flop. Nothing happened. Judging by the news coverage I saw, few if any people demanded the pat-down and security lines moved efficiently.

So what’s the Achilles’ Heel? Quite simply, even powerful social media such as Facebook and Twitter cannot generate action where there is no passion. Flying over the long Thanksgiving weekend can be frustrating and tiring under the best of circumstances. All people want is to get to gradma’s house as quickly and easily as possible, followed by a repeat performance when it’s time to fly home. Who in their right mind would want to make the experience more difficult? Who would want to slow everything down to the point that they might miss a connecting flight and arrive at grandma’s just in time to leave?

No PR tool can get people to do something they don’t want to do. For PR to work, the recipient of the message must have a passion or a reasonable level of interest. The recipient may even want to know what’s in it for them. Clearly, there was nothing in it for the flying public last weekend. Thanksgiving proved that, regardless of its potential, social media is just another tool, not some newfangled wonder that can perform miracles.

Get everyone talking!

2010-11-23T16:00:00.000-06:00

When you can't be there - whether it's an event or the conference - there is a growing expectation of still being able to participate remotely. Here is a good discussion on hashtags, engaging participants in conversation and possible missed opportunities.

Making a Twitter habit

2010-11-15T09:24:00.000-06:00

In case you're still getting used to a regular Tweeting habit, all you need to remember is to follow the right people. People who are engaged in the same type of industry, who have relevant information to share. Read and retweet. Engage those in conversation. And find your own bits and pieces to share as well. You have a wealth of knowledge - now share.

Twitter may not be the best for communicating with your audience - it's true. But it can be helpful to you as a professional in staying atop industry trends and information.

Read "Four Reasons Why Everyone's Content is King on Twitter."

Worth a Look!

2010-11-10T13:39:00.000-06:00

Check out our Chapter's Delicious account to see all of the latest bookmarks on great articles!

Think before you jump on a bandwagon!

2010-11-04T13:47:00.000-05:00

QR Codes are one of the newest tools in the toolbox for many marketers or public relations professionals. As with any new technology or social media, an organization would be best served to approach these with curiosity, flexibility and strategy. Make these things work for you, and not the other way around.

Read "The Marketing Scan-gasm."

Don't forget to check out our newly restyled website at swmoprsa.org!

Sports fans utilize social media to stay updated on World Series

2010-10-27T09:00:00.000-05:00

Social networking has changed the way people communicate - we all know that. But did you ever think how it has changed the way we watch sports? I know I didn't. But this article focuses on how people will stay up with the upcoming World Series - and it even discusses the types of "voices" people use on Facebook vs. Twitter. It's not the same audience.

I'm not posting this article because of the World Series angle. I'm posting about it because if sports fans are following these conversations (and they are), you or your organization could gain something from these media. Think about it, and make a strategy about the types on information you want to disperse, who you want to talk to, etc.

Read the article here

How serious do you look?

2010-10-22T16:39:00.000-05:00

For your reading pleasure, I recommend this Journalistics blog post entitled "Is social media the cause of the casual office?" I think it brings up great points about how social networking has changed the job of customer service and public relations - to a more friendly and casual style. Can you adequately represent your company in jeans and flip flops? Do you think you have to be in a suit to be taken seriously? Or is there a happy medium?

Think about it.

What NOT to do on Facebook

2010-10-21T10:49:00.000-05:00

So you finally were able to start a fan page for your business on Facebook? Well, don't let it go stagnant. The only reason anyone will visit your fan page regularly is new, dynamic content.
Check out this article about "The 9 Worst Ways to Use Facebook for Business."

And don't forget - we're bookmarking lots of articles on our chapter's Delicious account.

Social: IRL Coming to Springfield

2010-10-13T09:09:00.000-05:00

After a great presentation by Ben Smith (@benasmith) at the recent professional development conference, he decdied to bring one of his Social: IRL events to Springfield - now, do yourself a favor and don't miss it!

Social Media Marketing Boot Camp with Sarah Evans (@prsarahevans)
7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Thursday December 9, 2010
Veridian Event Center, 309 South Avenue

Limited tickets will be available.

You'll spend a full six hours of session time with Sarah, taking an in-depth look at the role of social media in marketing your business or organization.

You won't just learn effective social media marketing techniques, but will look at how social media works in conjunction with traditional marketing and public relations and why that's important. This includes practical ways of engaging customers and prospects, case studies, help with creating a social media based marketing plan, hints and tips, ways to make your brand stand out online, effective engagement, latest trends, tools and resources, and plenty of opportunities for discussion and Q & A. This will be a very hands-on event designed to give you lots of practical experience and learning, and for you to leave with new ideas and tools you can implement in a very real way.

With attendance being limited there will also be some great opportunities for quality networking and building valuable relationships.

Discounts are available for multiple registrations. Special discounted rates are also provided for members of the PRSA or Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce, for non-profit organizations, and for students. Standard registration is $225. PRSA members, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce members, and non-profit organizations receive a discounted rate of $195. Discounts available for multiple attendees. Special registration $125 only for full-time students.

Registration includes breakfast pastries on arrival and a day long refreshment station with coffee, tea, water and sodas. Lunch is not included. The Veridian is located in the heart of historic downtown Springfield with great lunch options within a very easy walking distance. We encourage you to use your lunch break to explore the downtown area and connect with other attendees.

A post event meetup will take place in the evening after the event. This will be open for anyone to attend. Watch for details!

Click here for more information about the event or to register. http://www.socialirl.com/events/.

Need a graphic? Make it yourself!

2010-10-12T11:17:00.000-05:00

We're always looking for ways to add visual or audio interest to our daily tasks, and infographics are becoming increasingly popular. You don't have to be a graphic artist to produce them, though. Check out this article with great tips on spicing things up!

Think you know your audience? Watch for new trends!

2010-10-11T09:38:00.000-05:00

Knowing your audience is HUGE in public relations and marketing....and using a consistent tone across channels helps to increase transparency and clarity of messages while communicating with your audience. It is important to note that demographic trends are changing, and this Ad Age article discusses one major lifestyle trend. Click here to read the full article.

They are a growing -- and graying -- force.

Never-married single people ages 25 to 34 now outnumber the married crowd by 46% to 45%, a stark reversal from just a decade ago, when couples held a 20-point edge in the age group, according to an analysis of new Census data by the Population Reference Bureau. In essence, selling to singles no longer means just targeting teens and those in their early 20s.

Remember: our chapter has a Delicious account to share and bookmark articles!

Like 'Em Or Not, Citizen 'Journalists' Are Part of the Mix

2010-10-08T11:16:00.003-05:00

Leonard Pitts at the Miami Herald is certainly correct that citizen “journalists” are not really journalists. He rants about it in this article: http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/10/06/1859362/citizen-journalists-spreading.html.

Whether it’s a neighborhood blogger who attends city council meetings or someone with a smart phone who snaps a photo or shoots a video of breaking news and then posts it on the Internet with commentary, that person knows nothing about journalism. They’re clueless. Having said that (and congratulating Mr. Pitts for his article), the fact remains that citizen journalists are now part of the mix. They are part of the journalism world and part of what PR practitioners must take into consideration. It will be interesting to see where all this leads. There is no doubt that citizen journalism will morph into something else. Who knows what that will be! But it is fascinating that the digital revolution now allows a vast number of people to report on what is happening in the world. Will they get it right?

Define your audience

2010-10-07T11:14:00.000-05:00

Market segmentation or defining target markets has always been important in reaching our audiences. Facebook now has made it easier to do so, too! Read this piece from Ad Age to learn more.

Meeting - with a twist!

2010-10-06T09:05:00.001-05:00

Have you ever felt like the youngest in your organization acted like they knew everything? Have you ever wondered what journalism/PR college students were learning in the classroom? Have you ever wished you could get a leg up and learn the newest industry trends?

This is your chance...

At the monthly October meeting, we'll be hearing from students from Drury and Missouri State - and the tables will truly be turned. You won't want to miss this!

Press Releases 101

2010-10-06T08:39:00.000-05:00

Some of the most basic skills are the easiest to lose if you're not paying attention to WHY you do things the way you do them. This Journalistics blog reminds us of the inverted pyramid style - something every journalism teacher likely taught each of us at one point in time or another.

Read the article here

Remember: our chapter has a Delicious account to share and bookmark great articles!

BIG thanks!

2010-10-05T08:10:00.001-05:00

Wow! What a great professional development conference last week, "Buzz for Your Business." We had a wonderful turnout of members, students and other guests to listen to our fantastic lineup of speakers. Thanks to the committee for their hard work in attaining sponsorships, scheduling speakers and attending to various details! All your hard work really paid off.

Accountability? Ethics? Who knows?

2010-09-21T09:55:00.000-05:00

I stumbled across this article on Mashable this morning, which addresses online ethics in teenagers. While it's a short piece, it definitely made me think: how has technology changed the work we do? How does it change with different generations? And how do we maintain credibility as we lose some of the control of the information?

Check it out

Remember: our chapter now has a Delicious account in order to share articles, too!

Message from the President

2010-09-15T12:33:00.000-05:00

Look who’s sitting next to you Sept. 30 at our exciting Professional Development Conference. It just might be a student of public relations from one of our area colleges. Which just might be an opportunity for you to switch places.

Not literally, of course, but by moving into learning mode, you may discover what these top students are thinking and doing as they prepare to leap into our career field. Then you might want to borrow some of these ideas back at your own office.

Students majoring in public relations bring a certain energy to the table, no doubt. And it’s not just because they’re out there on rim, trying out the newest trends and applications. Students, particularly those involved with campus chapters of PRSA, can teach us much about what next steps we should be taking with our own strategic public relations plans.

In planning our always-stellar Professional Development Conference, we made sure to provide a breakout session for students only with Josh Stoffregen, a social media pioneer now working in New York City for Prudential Financial but who only a few years ago was sitting in PR classes at Missouri State University.

Also at the conference, you’ll meet Jaclyn Cantrell, 2010 recipient of our chapter’s Dr. Joe McAdoo Memorial Scholarship. Jaclyn is a junior at Drury University.

In Washington, DC next month, the national conference of the student organization PRSSA will be meeting concurrently with PRSA’s international conference. There’s a session bringing professionals and students together and you can be sure the brightest new ideas will be shared. I’ll let you know what I learned from these stellar students.

On Oct. 26, our monthly meeting will feature students from area colleges presenting projects and portfolios developed in their public relations courses. The tables will be turned as the professionals learn from the students.

Finally, consider how a strong relationship with our student chapters can also be a way to find interns, recruit entry-level employees and cultivate future leaders for our chapter.

Maybe this is the fabled fountain of youth: When we tap sources like these, we bring to life new creativity and talents to share with the world.

Go ahead - register for the Buzz of Springfield!

2010-09-15T09:57:00.000-05:00

$85 – PRSA, Chamber, Ad Club and AWC Members
$99 – Non-member
$40 – Student

Register online or send a check payable to Southwest Missouri PRSA, PO Box 4807, Springfield, MO 65808. Registration deadline is Thursday, Sept. 23, 2010.

CANCELLATIONS must be emailed to: lcox@servproofspringfield.com no later than 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 27, or subject to $40 cancellation fee.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Paula Ringer, Plank Productions, paula@plankproductions.com or 417-865-7981

2010-09-11T09:30:00.001-05:00

Some People Still Don’t Get It

My sister Judy, who is in her 60s, is tech savvy and computer savvy. She loves Facebook, so she’s doing the social media thing, too. But she doesn’t get it. She doesn’t understand the game-changing times that are shaping our world today. More specifically, she doesn’t understand that there is a communications revolution going on.

Judy and I chatted on the phone yesterday. Suddenly, she started ranting about Rev. Terry Jones and his church in Florida. Here’s her point: this puny church wouldn’t have stirred up the world over its plans to burn the Quran if the media had ignored the good reverend. I’ve been defending the news media for decades and I went on the attack. I explained that sometimes actions have consequences and it’s news when they do. My point: it was legitimate news because people could die if the church followed through on its plans. But my sister kept making the same point – it was all the media’s fault – and I realized she was stuck in the 20^th century. I had to explain that mainstream media doesn’t necessarily matter in big controversies anymore. All Rev. Jones had to do to send his message to the world was type one short sentence on Facebook or Twitter and post it. That’s all it would take. The news media would just be along for the ride, not creating the stir but reporting on it

My sister still didn’t get it and she’s an active participant in the digital age. I wonder how many smart, educated people don’t know what’s going on and don’t truly understand that our lives have fundamentally changed forever.

Membership benefits

2010-09-10T16:18:00.000-05:00

Email prsa_swmo@live.com if you'd like a pdf version of this to share!

What about when the world tires of Facebook?

2010-09-08T14:03:00.000-05:00

While no one is claiming that it has happened yet, there is a distinct possibility that the public will tire of Facebook. Growth slowed over the summer, and this article notes that "Some are concerned about privacy, certainly. Younger users, meanwhile, are probably irked that there parents are using the site too." What can we learn from Facebook? Where do we go from here? This article explains how an organization should build in the principles of Facebook to their own website.

Don't forget: our chapter has a Delcious account where we can share and bookmark great articles!

Remember, you are one press release among many

2010-09-08T09:15:00.001-05:00

Although there are a million different ways to distribute information about your organization, you probably still write press releases in a traditional format as well. Here's one journalist's views about receiving them and an example of one that caught her eye. Read article

Don't forget: our chapter has a Delicious account to share and bookmark great articles.

Influential tweeters

2010-09-07T14:46:00.003-05:00

Want to know who to follow on Twitter to keep up with the latest news? Here's a list! I've found that if I follow too many of the same type of organization, I end up with a lot of redundancy, so pick and choose....but this is a great place to start if you're starting out on Twitter.

Don't forget: our chapter has a Delicious account to share and bookmark great articles!

Think before you send

2010-09-07T09:05:00.000-05:00

Here's a little piece to get you thinking about your media distribution list and strategy for distributing your news, and it will also refresh you on "pitching" stories.

The primary takeaway from the article is this: think before you send....easy enough, right?

Don't forget: our chapter now has a Delicious account to share and bookmark great articles!