Did You Know?

I had lunch the other day with my fellow Boss Ladies and, as always, we have very stimulating and thought-provoking discussions. One item I brought up was a clip on You Tube that I found to be rather fascinating.

It's simply titled "Did You Know?" and you can view it by clicking the link. If you haven't seen it (or even if you have), it's definitely worth watching. It's a clip that shows how fast our world is changing from technology to cultural issues to the way we work or even think.

It seems to me that it can be a reminder to communications professionals, and others, of the need to innovate and reinvent our roles for the inevitability of change. It's definitely food for thought in our current and new emerging economy.

Budget Tight? Let an Expert Teach You to Train Your Health and Science Spokespersons

Our colleague Brian Ruberry, whom many of you know specializes exclusively in PR and media relations for the health and healthcare field, has developed a new program that reflects the financial pressures of the current times. He will show you how to conduct media training on a shoestring budget when you register for Allhealth’s Do-It-Yourself (D-I-Y) Medical Media Training.

Thursday, June 11, 9:00 a.m. (90 minutes)

Washington National Press Club
Registration: LIMITED TO 40 PEOPLE! $149 per registrant (includes sample training itineraries, template training kits and on-camera interviews). Go to http://www.allhealthpr.com/

During this 90-minute training ~ tailored for health, healthcare and science topics ~ you'll learn:

• Tools to help your spokespersons prepare for interviews
• Skills to teach your spokespersons how to speak with confidence
• Techniques to control the interview and the interviewer
• Tips to avoid medical jargon
• Essential “Dos and Don’ts” for effective interviews
• Tactics to ensure that key messages are used
• Strategies to handle confrontational interviews
• Pointers on dress and body posture

The training will be led by Brian Ruberry who has provided media training for the American Psychiatric Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, International Center for Alcohol Policies, National Council on Community Behavioral Healthcare, National Council on Aging and National Alliance on Mental Illness.

WWPR Panel on Crisis Communications and Social Media Delivered:

Good Explanations, Strong Examples and Case Studies, Great Steps for Preparing Your Organization

I think I've heard someone from Levick Strategic Communications on at least three Washington Women in Public Relations program panels in recent years. As a result I know unequivocally that if I, or my company PRofessional Solutions, LLC, is ever in a jam I WANT LEVICK!

Yesterday's program on using social media in crisis communications was another example of solid programming from WWPR with insightful and well-informed presenters. (Kudos to Kendra Kojcsich of Porter Novelli who has been organizing terrific professional development programs for WWPR for more than a year.)

Both Dallas Lawrence of Levick and Gayle Weiswasser from TMG Strategies emphasized that there is no better tool than online media to learn what is being said about you or your client and for seeing what is coming. And as Lawrence re-emphasized several time, it is the only space in which you can win the battle to preserve your reputation.

Moderator Kathryn Holmes-Johnson of Nixon Peabody set the tone with good questions to keep the program moving, contributing from her own experiences and encouraging audience questions at the end.

Examples of why organizations need to be monitoring the online conversations (they called it having an "active listening program") in which they might appear included the Domino's pizza video, backlash from moms toward a Motrin commercial and the good work done by the CDC about the salmonella scare's impact on peanut butter sales.

Most important message: always have crises plans in development and in place so you are prepared before the crisis. The plan needs to be reviewed every couple of weeks and tested with quarterly drills looking at worst case possible situations. In the first hour someone needs to determine if this is a true crisis and then if it is the plan is ready. A team should have been identified in the plan so there is no question who drafts the messages, who focuses on different audiences, who writes the blog post, the Twitter, etc. And Weiswasser reminded the group that employees are "brand ambassadors" who can be critical in the crisis.

2009 Thoth Awards Call for Entries due June 19th

WHAT ARE THE THOTH AWARDS?

Named for the Egyptian god of communication, the Thoth (pronounced “tot”) Awards recognize the most outstanding, strategic public relations programs and components developed and produced in the Greater Washington area. Achievements are recognized in 39 categories, including 14 program categories that celebrate the very best PR campaigns and 25 component categories that highlight top accomplishments in PR tactics.

The Public Relations Society of America’s National Capital Chapter (PRSA-NCC) sponsors the Thoth competition to recognize and reward outstanding achievement in public relations and to encourage continued excellence in the field. Finalists in each category will be notified by e-mail in August following judging of the Thoth entries by senior practitioners. From these finalists, the Thoth Award and the Award of Excellence winners will be announced at the Thoth Award’s program scheduled to take place in September 2009.

Did you enter PRSA’s National Silver Anvil or Bronze Anvil Awards program?If so, please note that the Thoth program and components category definitions and contest requirements closely follow the PRSA Silver and Bronze Anvil awards. By taking a little extra time to repurpose your Anvil entry for submission in the Thoth Awards competition, you’ll be maximizing your chance of winning an award and gaining recognition for your outstanding work.

ENTRY DEADLINE & FEES

The standard entry fee for the 2009 Thoth Awards competition is $95 for members of PRSA-NCC, $115 for non-members. Please note that the more you enter, the more you save on entry fees. Subsequent entries from the same individual or organization are $75 for members and $95 for non-members. All entries must be RECEIVED (not postmarked) no later than 5 p.m., Friday, June 19, 2009.

To save even more on entries, consider taking advantage of Thoth’s EARLY BIRD fees, which are $75 for members and $95 for non-members. Subsequent Early Bird entries from the same individual or organization are $55 for members and $75 for non-members. In order to qualify for reduced rates, All EARLY BIRD entries must be RECEIVED (not postmarked) by 5 p.m., Friday, June 5, 2009.

Send your entries to: Thoth Awards, PRSA-NCc10378 Democracy Lane, Suite A, Fairfax, VA 22030703-691.9212

Pay by credit card or check. Make payable to PRSA-NCC.American Express, Visa or MasterCard accepted.

For all the details, visit http://www.prsa-ncc.org/2009_thoth_call_for_entries/

News Generation hosts New Rules of Engagement Panel on June 18

The New Rules of Engagement: Tips, Tools and Techniques for Building Radio Relationships in the Era of New Media

Thursday, June 18 at noon
Maggiano's Little Italy Chevy Chase

5333 Wisconsin Avenue, NW

Washington, DC 20015

Metro: Red line to Friendship Heights

You are invited to a lively discussion on building relationships and using social networking tools when pitching news and talk radio with some of the area's leading radio producers, reporters and assignment editors.

You will learn:
What works on news & talk radio;
The best radio pitches given;
Integrating new media into the traditional medium of radio;
Techniques to use; and
Preferred social networking sites for radio pitching.

Panelists will include:
*Mitchell Miller, Assistant News Director/Assistant Program Director, WTOP Radio, on Twitter at twitter.com/wtop
*Jen Richer, Web/News Coordinator, NewsTalk 630 WMAL, on Twitter at twitter.com/JenRicher

Register now for $27.50. Expert panel and lunch is included. http://www.newsgeneration.com/dcinvite.htm

Please RSVP to Akilah Luke at clientservices@newsgeneration.com or call (301) 664-6448, by Wednesday, June 3, 2009. Space is limited.

*Cancellation policy: If cancelled before Monday, June 15, 2009 at noon, a $7.50 service fee will be deducted. The charge is non-refundable if cancelled after Monday, June 15, 2009.
No shows will be charged.

Landing the Job is STILL the Hot Topic

Capital Communicators Group (CCG)
June Lunch To Offer Advice, Answer Questions

Wednesday, June 17th
Noon - 1:30 p.m.

Jobs, Jobs, Jobs!!!

Between layoffs, dwindling freelance opportunities, and an onslaught of new grads, it seems that an increasing number of our communications colleagues are looking for work. This month I'm joined by one of the region's top career experts as we offer up our advice on the D.C. job scene and how you can improve your odds of being the one selected.

Speakers:

Susy Howard, Principal, The McCormick Group
In addition to an emphasis on not-for-profit executive positions, Susy is the leader of The McCormick Group’s communications and public relations group. She conducts searches for senior communications positions for a diverse range of Fortune 500 companies, associations, and public relations firms. Representative placements include: numerous president and chief executive officers for local and national not-for-profits and foundations, vice presidents of media/public relations for Fortune 500 companies in a variety of industries, and communication directors and specialists for many associations.

Kate Perrin, CEO, PRofessional Solutions, LLC

Kate has been matching public relations, marketing communications and writing professionals with temporary assignments and temp-to-perm positions at area corporations, associations, non-profit groups, PR firms and government agencies for 15 years.

RSVP required: CapitalCommunicator@gmail.com

Location: Bar Louie ~ 701 7th Street NW Washington

(closest Metro Stop: Gallery Place / Chinatown on Red Line)
Cost: $20-25 (final price will be sent with confirmation of reservation)

Media Relations 2009 Rundown

News Generation sponsored Bulldog Reporter's 2009 Media Relations Summit in New York, held on Monday & Tuesday, May 18 & 19, 2009.

As always, the conference was chock full of strategies and tools to bring back and put to use.The first day included a keynote from Dan Rather (pictured on the right) with a critical look at the future of the media as we know it. He was both humble and sharp, and provided a keen critique of both the challenges facing the media and media's responsibility in light of those challenges -- technical, editorial and funding. I expected his address to be more controversial than it was given the criticism of his role in buildup to the Iraq war, but I guess that was saved for the second day's keynote.

On Tuesday morning, Dan Abrams came out swinging and no one really seemed to know why. While there has been controversy about his new company and it's role in providing journalists to councel corporate executives, he seemed act as though PR people are the source of that criticism, when in actuality, it's more of his peers in the media that are leveling an ethics question his way. And it is a charge worth exploring. How can journalists provide counsel to companies who they may cover in the future? Does this limit what journalists will cover and is the self policing his journalists are practicing enough? In the age of media convergence, this is an issue that must be addressed, not just in relation to Dan Abrams company, but media wide.

So You Detect a Theme? -- WWPR Program Also to Deal with Social Media and Crisis Communications

Both IABC and Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) are offering programs this month on the same topic. (See below for IABC description.) Clearly, this is a subject whose time has come.

The WWPR program is a panel, rather than an individual speaker, and is free to members and only $15 for others. It's a "brown bag" though, so remember to bring your lunch!

Social Media and Crisis Communications Panel

Wednesday, May 27th Noon~2:00 p.m.

Venable LLP, 575 7th St. NW Washington

(closest Metro: Gallery Place/ Chinatown, Red Line)

Speakers:

Gayle Weiswasser, Vice President at TMG Strategies - specializes in developing new media outreach strategies on behalf of TMG's clients. This includes engaging bloggers, social communities and websites, as well as creating and managing other non-traditional digital media plans.

Dallas Lawrence, chair of Levick Strategic Communications - his expertise lies in integrating both offline and online efforts into coordinated outreach programs that "bulletproof" reputations online and ultimately help clients win in the court of public opinion. He blogs at: Bulletproof-The Blog on Crisis Communications - and can be found tweeting at http://www.twitter.com/dallaslawrence.

Moderator ~ Kathryn Holmes-Johnson, Senior Marketing Manager of Nixon Peabody - with experience in law firms, local government, non-profit organizations and corporate entities, her specialties include media and public relations, web development, and crisis management.

Register at https://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Register/IdentityConfirmation.aspx?e=6612cd14-42cc-451f-a711-c0aae9fe8301

Next IABC Program: Five Essential Steps of Crisis Communications

Making Use of Online Media as Listening Device and for Online Newsrooms

WHEN: Thursday, June 11 5:30 ~ 8:00 p.m.
WHERE: Hilton Arlington, 950 North Stafford Street, Arlington
Metro-Ballston (Orange line) and parking $8 in the garage.

Want to know how to use media in a crisis? Ask someone from the media.

David Henderson, a communications strategist, online consultant and Emmy award-winning former CBS News correspondent is the author of “The Media Savvy Leader: Visibility, Influence and Results in a Competitive World,” and “Making News: A Straight-Shooting Guide to Media Relations.” For IABC Metro Washington's June program he will discuss how to communicate through today’s changing media with clarity, transparency and authenticity.

Henderson's presentation, "Crisis Communications While You Wait: Five Essential Steps to Managing Messages, Image and Reputation in the Internet Era," will highlight:

■ How to get the buy-in and support of management.

■ How to evaluate what online social media tools should you be using.

■ How to use online media to monitor and as a listening device.

■ The powerful value of using blog technology for online newsrooms.

As senior vice president at Edelman Worldwide in Washington, Henderson led the corporate brand and reputation management group and advised major clients including CSX Transportation, BF Goodrich and Bombardier. He has represented BBC News, Learjet, ICB Kuwait and numerous other leading corporations and organizations and has consulted for public relations organizations on the changing mainstream and New Media online environments in the U.S. and Europe.

COSTS: $40 for members; $45 for guests accompanying members; $55 for nonmembers; $30 for students.

As always, if you've never attended IABC before note that you are accompanying IABC member Kate Perrin when you REGISTER to get the discount. I always encourage folks to get the best price while trying out a new professional society. See you there!

IABC’s Community Involvement

IABC Washington is reaching out to the community to support an area non-profit, Bread for the City. This fascinating communications pro bon work is in the area of social media. Bread for the City wants to get up to speed with the latest and greatest of networking tools; such as Twitter, blogging, web sank, and Internet presences. Bread for the City was honored to be selected as the IABC Washington Community Outreach project. During a conference call among IABC volunteers and Bread for the City it was shared that “This is an opportunity for Bread for the City to realize an entirely new way of communicating with neighbors, donors and other major stakeholders via the many social networking tools.” More discussion confirmed the sentiment of Bread for the City, “And we look forward to interaction that will support the cause during these difficult economic times.” IABC Washington Chapter communication volunteers are excited about making real change for such a worthy cause.

More pictures from the Matrix Awards

Kate Perrin and Michelle Singletary, nationally syndicated columnist for The Washington Post

Pictures from Matrix Awards

Kate & Eleanor Clift at the Matrix Awards on May 14, 2009

Congratulations to our own Kate Perrin!

Today, I had the distinct honor to see our good friend and colleague Kate Perrin accept a Matrix Award (http://www.awcdc.net/matrixawards_09.shtml) with all of the grace and style for which she was nominated and won the award.

She is in great company with Eleanor Clift, who was on hand as the emcee, and Michelle Singletary, nationally syndicated columnist for The Washington Post. And, PRofessional Solutions also sponsored a scholarship awarded to Amy Siebert, junior at Gallaudet University majoring in Communications Studies.

Kate's good friend and first client, Pat Kelly, did a tremendous introduction of Kate. During her acceptance speech, Kate mentioned her love of work as her drive, and the value of connections. She attends many networking events in the hopes of making connections, and is held in high regard with the entire D.C. PR community. She is an absolute class act, and our Boss Ladies could not be more proud! We were happy to be there to cheer her on at this most festive of occasions!

Congratulations Kate!

My Favorite Bargain Membership Gets Even Better

WWPR Takes a Page from Subscription Renewals -- Do it Early, Put Savings in the Bank!

Why hasn't someone thought of this before???

Capital Buzz readers know that I think Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) is the best bargain around in professional societies. When interviewing, I often urge applicants hoping to become PRofessional Solutions, LLC PR temps to join because it is still affordable for people paying their own dues and fees.

Now WWPR is urging Washington-area communicators to make a long-term investment in their careers by joining or renewing membership and offering a financial incentive to do it! From May 13 to June 13, 2009, WWPR is extending a discount to all potential and returning members. With two levels of saving, you’ll have extra dollars for your piggy bank!

10% off membership for one year ($76.50)

15% off membership for two years ($144.50)

And remember, WWPR is open to men as well as women.

So quick! Contact Frances Reimers, WWPR membership chair (freimers@asaecenter.org) and sign up right away. Then you can also attend the....

WWPR New and Returning Members Tea
(*PLEASE NOTE THE NEW DATE* )

What: A meeting for members of WWPR to welcome all new and returning members.

When: Thursday, June 4, 2009 from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. (changed from what appears in the WWPR newsletter so they could schedule an additional event)

Where: Teaism in Penn Quarter

More details to come, but I've put it on my calendar and since it's tea, I plan to wear a hat! Hope I won't be the only one......

Capital PRess Club to Host Newsmaker Forum

Leaders to Discuss Relevance of African-American, Civic Organizations in the Current Era

WHAT: The Capital Press Club of Washington, DC will host a symposium and discussion on "The Viability of Civil Rights Organizations in the Obama Era"

WHO:

Denise Rolark-Barnes, Publisher, Washington Informer Newspaper (Moderator)Sean L. Conner, President, D.C. Young Republicans

Hilary O. Shelton, Vice President, Advocacy & Director, NAACP Washington Bureau (photo at right)

Maudine R. Cooper, President & CEO, Greater Washington Urban League

WHEN: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. (reception/networking 6:30-7:00 p.m.)

WHERE: Sumner School (in the Great Hall)1201 17th St NW Washington

(202) 442-6060‎

COST: Members: $10Non-members: $25 (additional $25 for new member registration)

***Space is limited, so please RSVP to fmkinc@cs.com by Monday, May 18, 2009.***

Established in 1944, the Capital Press Club (CPC) is the oldest African-American communications association in the nation. It has a 64-year commitment to the success of African Americans in communications. Its diverse membership includes, but is not limited to, communications professionals in media, public relations, marketing, advertising, sales promotions, fund raising and development, photojournalism, photography, graphic design and event marketing, as well as others who support the vision and mission of the organization.

PRSA-NCC to Sponsor Tours of WJLA Studios and Politico Newsroom

Come join the PRSA-NCC Professional Development Committee on a tour through the WJLA-TV studios and Politico newsroom. ABC 7 meteorologist Brian van de Graaff will be the host of the tours, along with some of his colleagues. They will be happy to answer any questions you have about the current state of the media, how the newsroom functions, or any other topic you find relevant. This is a great opportunity to see the inside of the newsroom and better understand how it operates, which will in turn help us in our conversations with journalists and reporters.

Date: Wednesday, May 20

Location: WJLA Studios, 1100 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22209

Metro: Rosslyn (blue/orange lines)

Cost: $25 for PRSA Members/$40 Non-members
Note: There will be a $10 surcharge at the door.

Time: Time slots are below. Each time slot allows for 2 groups of 25

9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Register here. If you have questions, please call the chapter office at 703.691.9212

NOTE: Please plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your time slot.

More information on PRSA's National Capital Chapter and its upcoming events is available at www.prsa-ncc.org