The Capital Buzz: Survival Tools for DC Communicators

From PR Manager to PR Leader on Monday, February 6, 2012

2011-12-29T18:08:00.003Z

Attend this comprehensive workshop and you will be transformed from a good PR manager into a great PR leader. The half-workshop will offer management and budgeting skills to PR professionals in all employment settings who aspire to become inspiring and capable leaders of people and successful programs. It will teach you how to motivate and manage the people on your team, how to influence the decision makers whose decisions affect you, and how to be smart when it comes to finances and allocating resources.
This workshop is ideal for new or first-time PR managers who want to take their career to the next level. You will learn:
• The differences between managers and leaders and the skills you need to lead• How to lead by example and develop the skills that inspire and motivate people and teams• How to manage expectations, juggle projects and achieve that elusive work/life balance• How to manage “up” so your boss will recognize your leadership skills• How to handle difficult colleagues, irate clients, and other emotionally charged people• How to effortlessly manage both sides of the client-agency relationship • How to effectively develop budgets in order to reach or exceed’ objectives and also meet your own financial requirements
Workshop Leader: Jeff Ghannam, President, Crystal Communications and Marketing, LLC; Falls Church, VA, and 2010 president of the PRSA-National Capital Chapter.

Monday, February 6, 1:00-4:30 at the DC Bar Association, 1101 K Street, NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20005
Cost: $75 PRSA, WWPR and BPRS members, $110 non-members, $35 students & retirees Register here

Presented by the PRSA-NCC professional deveopment committee
Host Sponsor: Susan Davis International

Questions? Call the chapter office at 703.691.8733

Radio Trends from 2011, and Looking Ahead to 2012

2011-12-20T15:14:00.005Z

At News Generation, we see several important trends happening in the industry right now that can impact the work that we do. The first is the prevalence of what we call "general assignment reporters." Many stations no longer have budgets to employ reporters dedicated to a single issue or beat, such as the environment or healthcare. Increasingly reporters are expected to cover several beats. Pitching and message delivery to these general assignment reporters must therefore be developed with this in mind. So avoiding jargon or industry specific terminology is important from pitch to placement of a story.
There is also a major trend toward stations using social media and blogs to further their audience reach and engagement. It's now standard practice for stations to place content on their websites, Twitter, or Facebook profiles to drive listenership throughout the day. Stations often run a portion of an interview on air, and then place the entire interview on their website as well. In addition, social media plays a key role in engagement. It's used to help gather local stories, garner story feedback and inform a part two of a given story, build radio personalities and even conduct promotions.
We also see dramatic growth in the number of Spanish-language radio stations. In 2011 alone, from the spring to the fall Arbitron measurement periods, there was a whopping 21.3 percent increase in the number of stations. This trend is more than a demographic shift. The growth in this radio market provides an opportunity to reach this burgeoning population in their own language with messages tailored to them.

Crisis Communication Lessons from International Finance on Tuesday, January 10, 2012

2011-12-14T15:43:00.004Z

On Message and On the Money: Crisis Communication Lessons from International Finance

Presented by the PRSA-NCC Professional Development Committee
Date: Tuesday, January 10, 2012 from 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Location: Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20004

Cost: $35 PRSA, WWPR and BPRS members; $55/non-members; $10/students/retirees, $10 additional the door. Register here

When entities like the World Bank and International Monetary Fund were established to foster global monetary cooperation after World War II, no one could have anticipated a world of 24/7 e-news, iPad magazines and Twitter. These new mediums – in addition to an increasingly interconnected global economy, the pull of emerging markets and Euro zone upheaval – make international financial communication a crucial strategic challenge. This PRSA-NCC Professional Development Workshop will provide concrete examples of how financial institutions manage unfolding policy messages, often mitigating potential crises while communicating with a global, multi-cultural audience in dozens of languages. Whether you’re connected to international business, picking up crisis communications tips or just interested in the intricacies of tweeting in Arabic, this lively panel will provide a real-world examination of the financial messages that are shaping our global economic recovery.

Panelists include:

• Bill Murray, Chief of Media Relations at the International Monetary Fund

• Greg Ip, U.S. Economics Editor for The Economist

• Silvia Kofler, Minister-Counselor, Head of Press & Public Diplomacy/Spokesperson for European Union Delegation to the United States

• Representative from the World Bank (invited)

Potential discussion questions include:

• How do institutions like the World Bank and the IMF adjust messages for cultural relevance while still maintaining consistency?

• How do global financial institutions manage relationships with the financial press, given the need for both timely dissemination and political discretion? How can communicators mitigate the adverse reactions that inevitably accompany any highly charged financial decision on the global stage?

• What is the role of social media and web content in shaping world views of these institutions? How are programs like World Bank’s #thinkEQUAL campaign crossing barriers such as language and basic Internet access?

Workshops on social media, working with experts in early 2012

2011-12-12T11:15:00.000Z

I've got two workshops coming up in early 2012 that are relevant for communicators, and both are in Washington, DC:

Your 5 best social media resolutions in 2012 is a lunch-and-learn session designed to catch you up on emerging trends in social media, along with tips to help you get more consistent, frequent and effective in your social posts. Just $30, this session takes place on January 10 and includes lunch.
Be an Expert on Working with Experts is a full-day workshop on February 1, and it focuses on helping communications, fundraising, government affairs and related professionals better understand the policy wonks, subject-matter experts, scientists and engineers they work with--with tactics and materials you can use again and again to do a better job of gaining experts' cooperation when you ask them to communicate with non-expert audiences, from reporters and public audiences to legislators and donors. If you register by January 11, the session is just $300; thereafter, registration is $350.

Both sessions will take place in downtown DC near the Metro Center stop on the Red Line. Email me at info[at]dontgetcaught[dot]biz with any questions you may have. Bring your team, and share this with your colleagues!

-- Denise Graveline

Learn How to Put More Power and Precision in Your PR/PA Writing

2011-11-29T20:16:00.006Z

Put More Power and Precision in Your PR/PA Writing and Gain New Ideas on How to Write Better for Traditional and Social Media

Thursday, December 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Hager Sharp, 1030 15th Street, NW, Suite 600E

Washington, DC 20005

Become a “New” Writer: In this acclaimed workshop, offered twice yearly by PRSA-NCC since 2008, you are empowered to achieve greater professional success with your PR/PA writing.

You'll learn: • New concepts for writing better. • New ideas for writing news the media will use. • New models for writing emails, pitches, news releases. • New approaches for writing on blogs. • New techniques for writing on social media sites. • New thinking for writing to achieve PR/PA success. As a “new” writer, you achieve more tangible, strategic PR/PA results with your writing, and your organization obtains a greater return on their investment in your success and in their success.

Now Presenting: Workshop Instructor: Don Bates Writing/Media Relations Instructor, New York University; Founding Director, Master’s Degree Program in Strategic Public Relations, George Washington University.

Program Pieces: Thursday, December 8, 2011
8 a.m. - 9 a.m.—Registration, networking, continental breakfast. 9 a.m. - Noon —Presentation, discussion, writing review. Noon - 1 p.m.—Catered lunch. 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.—Presentation, discussion, writing review. 3 p.m. - 5 p.m.—Submissions’ review and Q&A. 5 p.m. - 6 p.m.—Post-workshop Q&A (optional, not required).

Workshop Cost:$150—PRSA, WWPR and BPRS members$220—Non-members$75—Students and retirees Register here

Presented by PRSA-NCC Professional Development Committee
Host Sponsor: HagerSharp

PRSA-NCC Holiday Party is on Monday, December 19

2011-11-14T14:21:00.004Z

Monday, December 19, 2011

Carmine’s Restaurant
425 7th Street, NW
Washington, DC
5:30-8pm

Kick off your holidays with friends and colleagues at this PRSA-NCC end-of-year event.

Join us at the legendary family style Italian restaurant located conveniently in Washington, D.C’s Penn Quarter. Metro: Gallery Place/Red Line and Archives/Navy Memorial/Yellow and Green Lines

PRSA-NCC will announce the recipients of the chapter’s Diamond and Silver Awards.

Includes hors d'oeuvres and a holiday beverage.

Event Fee: $40 PRSA, WWPR and BPRS members; $55 guests

Register here

We will also accept donations on behalf of KidSave, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating change so forgotten orphanage and foster kids grow up in families and connected to caring adults.

The Changing Landscape of Social Media – What Communicators Need to Know

2011-10-21T14:52:00.008Z

The Changing Landscape of Social Media – What Communicators Need to Know
Hear the latest from three key players: Facebook, Twitter and Living Social

Presented by the PRSA-NCC Professional Development Committee

Gone are the days when communicators could rely solely on traditional media to get their clients’ or organization’s message in the news and in front of key stakeholders. Social media is now a key component of outreach because it has become an integral part of personal and professional communications. People use social media to keep up with friends and family, sharing ideas and news, pitching products and even fostering political and regime change in countries. And as technologies change, so does social media … or is it the other way around now?
What are the latest social media trends communicators need to be aware of? What is the future of social media? Are privacy concerns causing a backlash against social media as more and more people decide to unplug? Find out the answers to these questions and many others in this informative and engaging panel discussion.

We’ll Cover:

• What social media may look like a year from now.
• How will social media companies safeguard the public regarding privacy issues?
• Tips on using social media more successfully to connect with audiences.
• Will social media become more the go-to-place for news and advertising?

Panelists Include:

• Andrew Noyes, Manager, Public Policy Communications, Facebook
• Peter Greenberger, Director, Washington Sales, Twitter
• Ricky Choi , Social Media Strategist, LivingSocial
• Moderated by Mike Schaffer, Director of Social Media, iostudio

Date: Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Time: 8:00 - 10:00 a.m., 8:00 - 8:30 a.m.: Registration/Networking/Continental Breakfast, 8:30 - 10:00 a.m.: Program

Location: Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20004
Metro Stop: Metro: Archives-Navy Memorial

Cost: $35/members; $55/non-members; $10/students/retirees; $10 additional the door.

Register here

Event Sponsor:

Lunch with NPR News Anchor Jack Speer on Wednesday, October 26

2011-10-02T11:13:00.004Z

With Some Tips on How to Pitch NPR and Reflections on His Career and the State of News Today

Presented by the PRSA-NCC Professional Development Committee

Date: Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Time: 11:45 a.m. - 2 p.m.
11:45 a.m. Registration/Networking
Noon-12:30 p.m. lunch
12:30-2 p.m. Speaker followed up with Q&A

Location: Carmines Restaurant, 425 7th Street, NW (Penn Quarter), Washington, DC

Metro stops: Gallery Place, Archives, Judiciary Square

Cost: $40 PRSA, WWPR, BPRS members; $50/non-members; $40/students/retirees; $10 additional the door.

National Public Radio’s Jack Speer will talk about the news gathering operation of one of the country’s most important and influential broadcast news entities and he’ll give us a insider’s view of a day in the life of a news anchor.

He’ll talk about his career as a news reporter and assignment editor at local radio stations to his stint as a business reporter for WTOP/Washington Business Journal and then to NPR as business reporter and finally as NPR’s 5 p.m. news anchor. He’ll talk about the challenges he’s faced as a journalist and anchor -- perhaps because of new technology or deciding which stories get covered. He’ll also share tips on how best to interact with NPR journalists and the assignment desk.

About NPR:
In a time of media fragmentation and sound-bites, NPR has succeeded by focusing on its core: in-depth, quality news and has evolved from a secondary to an essential news source, with dozens of bureaus around the world and the nation. Drawing on more than 300 news staff (reporters, correspondents, newscasters, editors, producers hosts and bloggers) in the US and abroad-from Washington D.C. and New York to Shanghai and Baghdad, NPR has the capacity to stay on top of breaking news, follow the most critical stories of the day and track complex issues over the long-term.

NPR produces news, talk, music and entertainment programs, including the premier newsmagazines Morning Edition and All Things Considered, ranked #3 and #4 in the overall nationwide radio ratings. We also distribute programs produced by member stations and independent producers under the NPR brand. We look for high quality programs that add unique value to our member stations' service. NPR-distributed programs are presented alongside NPR's own programs on our digital platforms, including NPR.org, podcasts, and NPR Mobile.

NPR offer 26 programs, and a widely carried newscast service.

http://www.prsa-ncc.org/option,com_events/task,view_detail/agid,433/year,2011/month,10/day,26/Itemid,0/

DC: Business Wire Brings You LatinoWire on Wednesday, September 28

2011-09-19T17:04:00.003Z

Wednesday, September 28: Hispanic Media Event at the National Press Club in DC
From: Wednesday, September 28, 2011 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. EDT
Register For Event Add to Calendar
Registration Details: Registration is free to all attendees. Please RSVP by Sept. 23 to danny.selnick@businesswire.com.
Location: National Press Club - First Amendment Lounge
529 14th St. NWWashington, DC, 20004
United StatesSee map: Google Maps
Speaker(s): Rossana Rosado, Publisher and CEO of El Diario/La Prensa
Hilda Garcia, VP of Multiplatform News and Information for impreMedia
Lori Montenegro, Washington correspondent, Telemundo Noticias
José Manuel Sanz Mingote, General Director, Agencia EFE
Moderator: Danny Selnick, Vice President for Public Policy Services, Business Wire
Description: According to the latest census figures, there are more than 50 million Hispanics in the U.S. Reaching this rapidly growing community with your organization’s message is of critical importance today. Hispanics still depend on traditional and print media for their news, but many rely on the internet and mobile devices as well. What is the best way to reach this audience?

This Business Wire event will not only give you the chance to meet some of the nation’s most important and influential news leaders, but you’ll also learn about their news gathering operations in terms of what’s being covered and when – and how to best interact with their reporters.
Speakers will discuss the impact new technologies have had on their news operations. Do they suffer many of the same challenges other domestic consumer media have faced in recent times (advertising revenues down, shrinking operational budgets, newsroom cutbacks) or has the Internet/new technologies helped in some way giving greater visibility to their reporting news and for their organizations?

Thoth Awards Less Than Two Weeks Away

2011-09-09T14:38:00.002Z

Don't Miss Out on the Best Night of the Year in PR:
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Thoth Awards Reception and Gala
Drinks, Appetizers, and Networking: 6:00 p.m.
Awards Ceremony and After Party: 7:30 to 9:00 p.m.

Celebrate your profession. Congratulate your colleagues.
Enjoy the magical evening that awaits you.

Special Guests: Keynote Speaker: Scott Montgomery, Editor, Roll Call, and Bill Novelli, Kidsave Board Member & Guest Presenter

Privacy on the Internet: What Communicators Need to Know

2011-09-08T19:56:00.002Z

Presented by the PRSA-NCC Professional Development Committee

Location: Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20004

Date: Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2011 from 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.

Cost: $35/members; $55/non-members; $10/students/retirees; $10 additional the door.

Register here

Facebook, Google, Apple—all have grabbed headlines for questionable data-gathering and sharing practices. Some of those same issues are spilling over into the corporate and association/nonprofit world, too, with organizations of all sizes collecting sensitive information about the public and their customers through websites, online campaigns, Facebook pages, blogs and smartphone apps.

This PRSA-NCC Professional Development Workshop will provide some clear (and not-so-clear) rules of the road for ethics and privacy on the Internet as they relate to professional communicators and journalists, including:

• How far can communicators go in using new technologies when interacting with clients and the public?
• Is there a point at which collecting and reporting “feedback” from the public to clients crosses the line? What’s done with that information?
• What special privacy issues arise with the use of social media? What should companies be doing to protect the public?
• How far can journalists go in using new technologies to cover or create news?

Panelists include:

• Brigitte Johnson, PRSA-NCC president and director of communications and executive editor at American Forest Foundation
• Randy Barrett, communications director, Center for Public Integrity
• Justin Brookman, director, Consumer Privacy Project, Center for Democracy & Technology
• Christian Olsen, vice president for the Digital and Social Media team at Levick Strategic Communications

Moderated by Danny Selnick, vice president, The Public Policy Wire, div. of Business Wire

Speak clearly: 5 ways to write for the ear, not the eye

2011-08-26T20:13:00.002Z

Good article from Ragan about the art of speaking clearly, and the differences between writing well and speaking well: http://www.ragan.com/Main/Articles/43533.aspx

Ethics and Privacy on the Internet – What Communicators Need to Know on Tuesday, September 13

2011-08-18T01:06:00.004Z

Presented by the PRSA-NCC Professional Development Committee

Date: Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2011
Time: 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
8:00 - 8:30 a.m.: Registration/Networking/Continental Breakfast
8:30 - 10:00 a.m.: Program

Location: Navy Memorial, 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington DC, 20004
Cost: $35/members; $55/non-members; $10/students/retirees; $10 additional the door.

Register at prsa-ncc.org

PRSA has a code of ethics, but do professionals understand how it covers new technologies, the Internet and social media – which now permeate so much of our social, political, personal and professional lives?

Facebook, Google, Apple—all have grabbed headlines for questionable data-gathering and sharing practices. Some of those same issues are spilling over into the corporate and association/nonprofit world, too, with organizations of all sizes collecting sensitive information about the public and their customers through websites, online campaigns, Facebook pages, blogs and smartphone apps.

This PRSA-NCC Professional Development Workshop will provide some clear (and not-so-clear) rules of the road for ethics and privacy on the Internet as they relate to professional communicators and journalists, including:

• How far can communicators go in using new technologies when interacting with clients and the public?
• Is there a point at which collecting and reporting “feedback” from the public to clients crosses the line? What’s done with that information?
• What special privacy issues arise with the use of social media? What should companies be doing to protect the public?
• How far can journalists go in using new technologies to cover or create news?

Panelists include:

• Brigitte Johnson, PRSA-NCC president and director of communications and executive editor at American Forest Foundation
• Randy Barrett, communications director, Center for Public Integrity
• Justin Brookman, director, Consumer Privacy Project, Center for Democracy & Technology
• Christian Olsen, vice president for the Digital and Social Media team at Levick Strategic Communications

Moderated by Danny Selnick, vice president, The Public Policy Wire, div. of Business Wire

AWC-DC COMBINES ANNUAL TEA AND MATRIX AWARDS

2011-08-11T14:52:00.004Z

This yearthe Association for Women in Communications DC chapter (AWC-DC) is combining the most gracious networking event in town -- their Annual Tea at TheWillard -- with one of the most under-attended -- the Matrix Awards.

Whetherthe August 25th hybrid results in success for both remains to be seen, but itcertainly promises to be the most charming way to bestow a communications professionalaward we've seen in DC. This year's honoree is Donna Vincent Roa.

AWC-DC has been shaking up its traditional calendar and trying a number of creative collaborations to build a stronger program offering. Its multi-part Burson Breakfast series the second Wednesday of each month using the Burson-Marstellar digital strategy team has had a great turnout and welcomes members of most area communications groups at the member price. (Next up: Digital Issues and Crisis Communications on September 14).

In the past the Annual Tea has attracted an eclectic mix of communicators from PR to photography and so offers attendees a chance to make potentially useful connections with providers of specialized communications services.

ANNUAL TEA

DATE: Thursday, August 25, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

LOCATION: The Willard Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania (Metro: Metro Center)

COST: AWC members, students and retirees $50; non-members $60

RSVP: Register ~ space is limited

For more information, email awcdcevents@gmail.com.

Put More Power and Precision in Your PR/PA Writing

2011-08-01T20:35:00.002Z

Learn tricks of the trade for generating more coverage by doing what reporters, editors, program producers, and industry experts advise. Learn secrets for “striking it rich” with your target audiences, including mainstream reporters, editors, and program producers. Learn how to gain greater attention in blogs and popular social media sites such as Facebook, twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. Empower yourself for greater rewards and more strategic success.

Presentation by

Don Bates, Founding Director,
Master’s Degree Program in Strategic Public Relations,
The George Washington University Graduate School of Political Management
and University Public Relations/Public Affairs Writing Instructor

Tuesday, August 16th
• 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

• 8:00 a.m.-9:00 a.m. Registration/networking/continental breakfast
• Lunch Noon-1:00
• Classroom 305 (3rd Floor)

The Media and Public Affairs Building
The George Washington University
Graduate School of Political Management
805 21st Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20052
• Metro Information: Foggy Bottom/GWU (orange/blue lines)

• Cost: $150/PRSA, WWPR and BPRS members; $220/non-members; $75/students/retirees

Register here

Thoth Gala Registration is Now Open

2011-07-28T14:26:00.002Z

Are you ready to get recognized for the Star You Are? Thoth Gala registration is now opened! The gala will be on Thursday, September 22 at 6:00 and will be held at the Press Club. Register at www.prsa-ncc.org/thoth_awards

PRSA-NCC's August Event: Putting it All Together – Top Tech Trends PR Professionals Need to Consider

2011-07-27T18:02:00.006Z

Putting it All Together – Top Tech Trends PR Professionals Need to Consider

Presented by the NCC Professional Development Committee on Tuesday August 9, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m., Host Sponsor: Balance Interactive

Location: Microsoft Innovation and Policy Center, 901 K Street NW, 11th floor, Washington, DC Metro: (Yellow/Green Line: Mt. Vernon Convention Center OR Red/Orange/Blue Lines: Metro Center)

Cost: $35/PRSA and WWPR members; $55/non-members; $10/students/retirees

Note: Space for this event is limited, and we expect to sell out. So please register early.

Public Relations is in a new age, it requires adapting and a fresh approach to traditional public relations strategy. Technology is having a huge impact on public relations. A public relations strategy through the use of social and technology tools can lead to client development, new areas of expertise, and increased business opportunity. These tools and technologies are powerful- you just need to know how to use them. In this seminar, learn how to reach and engage audiences in innovative ways by integrating social technology into a strategic vision that works for your business.

How Media is using tablets and gadgets

What’s next in Mobile apps

Best practices of social technology

The how-to’s on incorporating digital strategy

Welcome to Microsoft: Tonya Klause, Director of Public Relations, Microsoft Public Sector, @tonayaklause

Panelists include:

Peter Corbett, CEO, iStrategy Labs, @Corbett3000

Dr. Mark D. Drapeau, Director of Innovative Engagement, Microsoft Office of Civic Innovation, @cheeky_geeky

Tara Dunion, Sr. Director, Communications, Consumer Electronics Association @TaraDunion

Amy Webb, CEO, Webbmedia Grou,p @webbmedia

Moderator: Lauren Schultz, Strategic Partnerships Coordinator, ACTE, @lauren_schultz

Putting those last minute touches on your Thoth Submission?

2011-07-12T18:09:00.004Z

The deadline for Thoth is Thursday, July 14 at 5:00 p.m. It is not too late to showcase your wonderful work from 2010. All of the details are at: http://www.prsa-ncc.org/thoth_awards/ Appy today! The gala to present the most prestigious awards in the PR industry will be held at the Press Club on Thursday, September 22.

2011 WWPR Emerging Leaders Awards Finalists Announced

2011-07-05T16:22:00.002Z

2011 WWPR Emerging Leaders Awards Finalists

Veronica Brown, Gibraltar Associates
Jennifer Mastin Giglio, Ogilvy Washington
Katie Lilley, Hillenby
Amanda Miller Littlejohn, Mopwater PR
Judy Lubin, Public Square Communications
Tara Silver, SilverStrategy

The final three winners will be announced the evening of July 26 at the ELA cocktail reception. Please join us!

About the Emerging Leaders Awards

The WWPR Emerging Leaders Awards is an accolade for young women active within the communications field who are making a significant impact on the industry. The award celebrates their achievements and highlights their tremendous potential. More details about the event.

Accreditation Readiness Review on July 23

2011-06-24T16:02:00.003Z

Ready to challenge yourself by getting your APR? Accreditation Readiness Review is set for Saturday, July 23. For more details, visit:

http://www.prsa-ncc.org/option,com_events/task,view_detail/agid,421/year,2011/month,07/day,23/Itemid,0/

Thoth Early Bird Deadline Extended Until July 5

2011-06-16T20:16:00.003Z

The Thoth Early Bird Deadline has been extended for more than two weeks! Here are the fees and details:

EARLY BIRD FEES: Received by Tuesday, July 5, 2011• PRSA-NCC Members: $120 for first entry, $100 for subsequent entries• Non-NCC Members: $160 for all entries

For all of the details, visit http://www.prsa-ncc.org/thoth_awards/

When a Crisis Strikes, presented on Wednesday, July 20, 2011

2011-06-14T20:21:00.003Z

When a Crisis Strikes: Scenario-Based Training to Avoid Communication Regrets Before, During and After a High Stakes Event

Presented by the NCC Professional Development Committee

July 20, 2011
8:00 a.m. - Noon
(Registration/networking/continental breakfast 8:00-8:30 a.m.)

National Education Association
1201 16th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20036-3290
Metro: Farragut North (red line)/McPherson Square or Farragut West (orange/blue lines)

Cost: $75 PRSA and WWPR members; $95 Non-members; $25 Students/retirees

Register here

In this half-day workshop, participants will develop the unique knowledge and skills required for communicating in a high stakes environment. Through high-energy scenarios and fast-paced interactive team exercises, attendees will gain invaluable experience in crisis communications planning and implementation.

In one team exercise, participants will be involved in developing and delivering simulated real-time communications to the public and media during the first few hours and days of a nuclear detonation in a high-density urban area.

Through this and other workshop activities, attendees will gain experience using communications principles and practices that they will be able to apply to the full spectrum of risks and crises they may encounter as part of their job – no matter the type of organization for which you work.

In the workshop, participants will:
• Learn and apply message best practices for effective communications before, during and after a high stakes crisis
• Apply message strategies and tools learned through mini-exercises and team problem-solving
• Gain experience and insights into assessing special threats, vulnerabilities and consequences of a crisis situation and the implications for high stakes communications to multiple and diverse audiences
• Learn how to maximize proven methods and techniques for delivering messages rapidly, accurately and with the intended effect.

A team of four crisis communication experts will:
• Lead attendees in a high-stakes scenario-based exercise and discussion
• Present advanced crisis communications best practices, and
• Facilitate small group mini-exercises, role-playing and other crisis communication activities

Presenters:
• Tim Tinker
Director of Booz Allen Hamilton’s Center for Risk and Crisis Communication and a Senior Associate on Booz Allen’s Strategy and Organization team

• John Rendon, Jr.
President & CEO of The Rendon Group, Inc.

• Jessica Wieder
Public Affairs Specialist, EPA Office of Radiation and Indoor Air

• Bob Davis
Communications Director, DHS Office of Health Affairs

Moderator: Mike Rothenberg, APR

If you have questions, please call the chapter office at 703.691.8733.

Get Recognized for the Star You Are!

2011-06-13T16:12:00.004Z

The early bird Thoth Awards deadline is this Friday, June 17. Don't delay, send in your application today. All of the details including call for entries and FAQs can be found at: http://www.prsa-ncc.org/thoth_awards/

The regular deadline is Friday, July 8, so if you need more time, that deadline is more than three weeks away.

The Thoth Awards gala will be held on Thursday, September 22 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. at the National Press Club.

Perfect pitching: Winning over journalists and bloggers in the new media landscape

2011-06-10T18:41:00.001Z

Media pitching coach Michael Smart’s most popular seminar offers hundreds of intensely practical tips that will immediately boost your media and blog coverage. The four-hour seminar will give specific strategies and tactics for getting the attention of top-tier media. People Michael has trained have scored coverage on the front page of The New York Times, in the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and on CNN and NBC’s Today.
Smart is coming to PRSA on June 28 for a half-day workshop. For more information and to register, visit: http://www.prsa-ncc.org/option,com_events/task,view_detail/agid,416/year,2011/month,06/day,28/Itemid,0/

Recap of Media Relations in the Digital Age on June 8, 2011

2011-06-09T13:43:00.000Z

From PRSA-NCC's blog: In today’s Digital Age, almost every public relations professional wants to see their client or organization’s story placed with journalists at prestigious and influential media outlets, as well as in prominent new online media outlets. The PRSA-NCC Professional Development seminar on June 8, 2011 held at the Navy Memorial provided a diverse group of journalist speakers that addressed many of the issues involved in media relations within their various reporting beats and media outlets. About 80 participants were on hand to listen to speakers from Al Jazeera, The Huffington Post, Bloomberg News and the National Journal, who related methods of accessing information for their news cycles, and how to pitch information for their news articles, broadcasts, or blogs.

Considering that most journalists have entered the Digital Age, the speakers related examples of some tried-and-true methods of getting information for their news reporting, such as talking to top officials as well as direct quotes and access to pre-interview press releases, but depending on the news topic and media outlet, they may or may not include the use of social media. Tony Capaccio, Pentagon Correspondent of Bloomberg News mentioned that although readers/followers might read Twitter for events coming up, it is usually only top officials who can provide information that he is seeking for his reporting for the specific information needed in Bloomberg’s Pentagon news. “I’ve only used social media twice to talk to defense officials, such as the Admiral in charge of NATO, and only because he was a reader of Facebook,” said Capaccio.

For those who are more tech-savvy, Maggie Fox, Managing Editor of Technology and Health Care, said that many PR professionals need to refocus how they appeal to journalists, because “most journalists have to wade through 600 email messages per day. It takes up all my time.” She stressed “knowing who you’re pitching and why, so that the journalists and you don’t waste your time,” Fox said. “Only pitch if you can offer something no one else is doing, and be quick, topical and concise. Don’t be one of the PR types who bug people all the time.”

The bottom line, according to Jeffrey Ballou, Deputy News Editor of Al Jazeera, is that “journalists are tired from all of the world’s major upheavals, and if you don’t watch the media you pitch, you are not aware what is being covered day-to-day, so your pitch will be irrelevant.” And delivering the actual newsmakers to the journalists is something all speaker panelists agreed on. “You must be able to offer a speaker that has current experience in the news topics covered, such as diplomacy in foreign relations in the case of Afghanistan.”

Social media plays a big role too for many media outlets now, such as Al Jazeera and The Huffington Post, who say most of their reporting is done on social media, i.e. blogs, Twitter or Facebook, which were also the main outlets cited by panelists. Jennifer Bendrey, Washington Correspondent for The Huffington Post, said “We think about the audience and their niches, and we do welcome pitches, but know who you’re talking to before you call, and it helps to offer a couple of knowledgeable sentences for the journalist to get a flavor of the story you are pitching.”

Take Me Out to the Ballgame!

2011-06-08T16:53:00.005Z

Enjoy an Evening of Networking and Baseball!PRSA-NCC Membership Mixer and New Member Welcome

Washington Nationals vs. Seattle Mariners at Nationals Park on Wednesday, June 22, 2011

6:00 p.m. – networking starts

7:05 pm – baseball game starts

Red Loft Bar, Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol St., SE, Washington, DC 20003

$12 PRSA and WWPR Members$18 Non-Members -- Register here

PRSA-NCC members and guests are invited to mingle with their fellow PR professionals and friends while taking in a little evening baseball. Attendees should pre-register by June 20th to be able to pick up their tickets with a photo ID at Will Call and meet at the Red Loft Bar (Section 244) overlooking center field.

Networking will take place at the Red Loft Bar area before and during the game and group seating in the stands will also be reserved for when you want to sit down and focus on the game. This event is a great opportunity for the newest members of our National Capital Chapter to get to know fellow chapter members – so all you new members make sure to register as a fun way to jumpstart your involvement in the chapter! Registration costs cover entrance to stadium and seating (food and drink available for individual purchase) and the event is open to everyone so feel free to bring your friends and family!

Directions: http://washington.nationals.mlb.com/was/ballpark/directions.jsp

Presented by the PRSA-NCC Membership Committee.For questions on the event or chapter membership, contact Membership Chair Ufuoma Otu at uotu@macstrategies.com

IABC Senior Communicators Discuss Financial Communications

2011-06-07T19:35:00.000Z

PRofessional Solutions, LLC is proud to underwrite the Senior Communicators Council (SCC) breakfast series of the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) DC Metro chapter.

Here, Karen Vahouny, a founding partner of Qorvis Communications LLC and one of the panelists discussing “The Delicate Matter of Financial Communications” is joined by Angelo Ioffreda, Senior Director, Employee Communications at NII Holdings, Inc. and President of IABC/DC Metro and fellow panelist Michael Toner, Senior Account Executive at Business Wire at the June 7, 2011 program.

The SCC meets quarterly for presentations and conversations that allow attendees to gain in-depth knowledge of specialized topics and build connections with other senior communicators.

DUELING PROGRAMS -- TWO GOOD CHOICES FOR SOCIAL MEDIA PROGRAMS

2011-06-03T22:23:00.000Z

The Association for Women in Communications – DC Chapter Presents

BURSON BREAKFAST SERIES #3: Will You Be My Friend? (And other Facebook insights)

June 8 from 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.

Burson Marstellar located at 1110 Vermont Avenue N.W., 12th floor

$25 for AWC members and co-sponsor members (Washington Women in Public Relations); $35 for non-members

Register at http://www.awcdc.net/program_april11.shtml

Yes, this is the same day and time as the PRSA-NCC program on Media Relations in the Digital Age (see our item further below) but that means you have to pick which is most useful to you. Like PRSA, it will open with 30 minutes for networking and breakfast, followed by a 90 minute, hands-on workshop

This is the third in the AWC-DC/Burson monthly breakfast series. There will be additional programs July 13, August 10 and September 14.

Capital Communicators Group June Lunch: USING SOCIAL MEDIA TO PROMOTE YOUR CONFERENCE

2011-06-03T21:37:00.000Z

Learning to use Social Media as a targeted tool to accomplish specific goals is just the kind of thing you want from a lunch time professional meeting, and this month's Capital Communicators Group should do offer just that.

WHEN: Thursday, June 16th, Noon to 1:30 p.m.
WHERE: RFD Restaurant, 810 7th St., NW (Metro: Gallery Place/Chinatown)
COST: $22 ~ cash only; exact change preferred.
RSVP required: CapitalCommunicator@gmail.com**
This lunch is open to the first 40 who RSVP. After that, names will be placed on a waiting list.

Social media is changing everything in marketing conferences and events. Organizers now can communicate with potential registrants and receive valuable feedback on the conference as it develops, encourage word-of-mouth marketing and -- perhaps most importantly -- they can turn a group of attendees into a community before they've even picked up their name badges. Social media makes it possible to begin making those connections between audience members before the conference has even started, giving those potential attendees another pressing reason to register right away.

Speaker Tara Dunion, Director of Event Communications at the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is in charge of promoting the International CES, the world's largest consumer technology tradeshow, to attract the world's top media to attend and cover this global event. She will share how CEA builds momentum for its meetings and how it uses social media to promote and enhance its events onsite. Attend and learn:

how to use social media as a customer service and registration tool
how to use social media to promote your event and build a supportive community
how to use TweetDeck to schedule Tweets and share tweeting among several staff people
how to plan a successful TweetUp

WWPR Kicks Off Summer Social Season

2011-05-31T22:09:00.000Z

NETWORKING PATIO EVENT

WHEN: Tuesday, June 7, 6:00 ~ 8:00 p.m.
WHERE: Local 16, 1602 U Street, NW DC (on Metro, U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo on Green and Yellow lines)
COST: FREE to WWPR and PRSA-NCC members; $15 for non-members includes one free drink ticket per person and complimentary appetizers.

* * * WWPR is collecting travel-size toiletries for its pro bono client, Thrive DC. If you have items from trips please bring them to the networking event to contribute. * * *

Do YOU Know a Talented Young Woman Who is an Emerging Leader in PR?

2011-05-31T21:53:00.000Z

Last year, Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR) instituted the Emerging Leaders Awards to honor outstanding young women, ages 21-35, in the Washington, DC, metro area during an awards ceremony and cocktail reception. The first honorees (pictured left to right) were:

Lauren Musiol, Senior Account Executive, GYMR

Carrie Fox, President and Founder, C. Fox Communications, and
Stefanie Pidgeon, Communication Planner, Office of the Chief of Public Affairs, U.S. Army

The award recognizes young women active within the communications field who have made a significant impact on the industry and highlights their potential to contribute their leadership to the industry in the future.

To nominate a young leader in the DC-area, download the 2011 ELA Application and email the completed form to ela@wwpr.org. Honorees will be recognized at a cocktail reception and awards ceremony in late-July.

Nominee Qualifications

Candidates must be female professionals between the ages of 21-35 as of June 3, 2011
Candidates must work in one of the following disciplines: Media Relations, Crisis Communications, Event Planning, Social Media, Website Communications, Strategic Communications, Community Relations, Internal Communications, Speechwriting, Public Affairs, Marketing Communications, Government Communications, Investor Relations Communications, Consumer/Lifestyle Communications, Branding, and Writing/Editing

Media Relations in the Digital Age on Wednesday, June 8

2011-05-31T13:32:00.006Z

Media Relations in the Digital Agepresented by the NCC Professional Development Committee on Wednesday, June 8, 2011 from 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.

U.S. Navy Memorial & Heritage Center
701 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20004
Metro: Yellow/green lines, Navy Memorial/Archives
For Directions and Parking, go to www.navymemorial.org
Cost: $35 PRSA, WWPR and BPRS /members; $55 non-members; $10 students/retirees
Register Here

Want to be part of the “big story?”Want to place stories in prestigious, influential and growing media outlets?Need to get a client on television, or in prominent new online outlets?Want to find out how journalists are using Facebook and Twitter…or why they ignore them completely?
In this exciting workshop, you'll walk away with invaluable new insight to enhance your career development:• How to leverage today’s top news to get your client, or your boss, interviewed• How to concisely articulate your story idea• What it takes to get your calls returned and become a trusted source• How to pitch a story in a 24/7, online news cycle• Make great new contacts

Speakers:

Jeffrey Ballou, Deputy News Editor - Al Jazeera

Jennifer Bendery, Washington Correspondent - The Huffington Post

Tony Capaccio, Pentagon Correspondent - Bloomberg News

Lois Dyer, Futures Editor- CBS News

Maggie Fox, Managing Editor of Technology and Healthcare - National Journal

Moderator:Aaron Cohen – Vice President of Media and Digital Communications, MSLGroup

If you have questions, please call the chapter office at 703.691.8733.

Interested in Gaining More Visibility for Your Outstanding Work in PR?

2011-05-26T14:06:00.005Z

If so, consider entering the 2011 Thoth Awards program hosted by PRSA-NCC. Get details and entry forms at www.prsa-ncc.org/thoth_awards.

Early bird deadline is June 17. Final deadline is July 8.

Winning a Thoth Award is a great way to set your self, your firm and your clients apart in the industry. Start working on those entries today!

A gala to present the winners will be held on Thursday, September 22 at 6:00 p.m. at the National Press Club.

Thoughts from Inspiring & Frank Talk by Vivian Schiller

2011-05-25T19:54:00.001Z

Today I had the privilege of seeing Vivian Schiller speak frankly at an event presented by Bethesda Magazine and the Roundhouse Theater about her career and recent controversy which lead to her separation from NPR.
Steve Hull, editor of Bethesda Magazine, lead the discussion and after asking her about recent events, got into the future of media. She made sure to say her crystal ball was not more or less fine tuned than anyone else, but I thought had some interesting insights on radio. Which, of course, made my ears perk up. Mr. Hull first asked her about newspapers and magazines, and she was bullish on both.
For radio, she mentioned she thought internet radio was going to be big in the next few years. I had always thought of internet radio as content streamed by anyone and a form of non-traditional, non-terrestrial radio. But, she was referring to mobile apps and online versions, like TuneIn, where you can get traditional stations anywhere via computer, smartphone or car. So, if I listened to WAMU in Washington and am traveling to Los Angeles on business, I can still listen to WAMU and be up to date on my local news. Schiller reminded us that this presents a challenge to all local stations to provide the best local and relevant content at all times.
The challenge I see as a PR professional is how is all of this non-traditional listening going to be tracked and verified.

Posted by Susan Apgood

PR Agencies are No. 1 Resource for Journalists

2011-05-21T01:26:00.000Z

Since 2008, the Oriella PR Network, , an alliance of 15 communications agencies in 20 countries, has published an annual study exploring the impact of digital media on news-gathering worldwide. The latest study found that the No. 1 resource that journalists in this study are using for sourcing is PR agencies, at a whopping 62 percent.

Oriella PR Network polled nearly 500 journalists. Despite concerns by many PR professionals that the only way to reach reporters is through social media, the survey revealed that 47 percent of the reporters are using Twitter (up from 33 percent a year ago) and even fewer -- 35 percent -- are using Facebook as a source (up from 25 percent a year ago). In fact, only 4 percent said they use Twitter, Facebook, or blogs as their first source in researching a story.

Most surprising of all? Almost 22 percent of respondents said their initial resource in researching a story is a press release.

Financial Communications Focus of June 7 IABC Senior Communicators Breakfast

2011-05-21T01:11:00.000Z

The Delicate Matter of Financial Communications

Business communications take on even more importance when financial matters are involved. Whether you lead a communications team for a public company, spearhead internal or external messages surrounding your organization’s merger or acquisition, work with your non-profit’s donors, or handle media inquiries from the financial press, you know the importance of effective communications practices to accomplish your goals.

PRofessional Solutions, LLC is proud to be the exclusive 2011 sponsor the the IABC/DC Metro Senior Communicators Council breakfast series and invites you to join other communicators for the panel's insights and a light breakfast.

Panelists:

Karen Vahouny, ABC, a founding partner at Qorvis Communications, who specializes in investor relations and corporate communications. Karen currently is serving a three-year term on the board of directors for the National Endowment of Financial Education and is a long-time member of the Capital Area Chapter board of directors for the National Investor Relations Institute.

Michael Toner, a senior account executive at Business Wire, a Berkshire Hathaway Company, where he works with publicly traded companies and investor relations agencies. Michael currently sits on the board of directors for the Richmond, Va. Chapter of the National Investor Relations Institute.

WHEN: Tuesday, June 7th, 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
WHERE: Qorvis Communications, 1201 Connecticut Ave. NW (Enter on Rhode Island Ave. NW) Closest Metro Stop: Farragut North on the Red Line; Farragut West on the Blue/Orange Line
COST: IABC Senior Communicators (15 yrs or more experience) -complimentary
Non-IABC members & IABC non-SCC members - $30

Strategy, Measurement Keys to Winning PR Awards, Per Thoth Panel

2011-05-18T05:13:00.001Z

Re-cap of PRSA-NCC Professional Development event "How to Create an Award-Winning Thoth Application and Showcase Your Success" from Wednesday, May 11th at http://tuninginradio.blogspot.com/2011/05/strategy-measurement-keys-to-winning-pr.html

In photo: Susan Matthews Apgood, president of News Generation, Inc.; Trent Flood, Communications Manager of Enterprise Business Services, Lockheed Martin; John Forrest Ales, director of global brand public relations for Hilton Hotels & Resorts; Marie Manning, Vice President Public Affairs, Ogilvy Public Relations Worldwide; and Tori Fort, Vice President, Zeno Group.

Miss Cinco de Mayo? IABC Reprises the Celebration

2011-05-12T18:28:00.000Z

Network with IABC/DC Metro at Ceiba, a contemporary Latin American restaurant featuring a menu inspired by the Yucatan, Brazil, Peru, and Cuba, at their monthly networking Happy Hour.

Appetizer specials 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.; drink specials 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. You’ll be responsible for paying your check by the end of the event.

When Wednesday, May 25; 5:30 - 7:30 pm

Where Ceiba, 701 14th Street NW DC (Metro: RED, ORANGE, and BLUE lines Metro Center)

Cost FREE for IABC/DC Metro members; $15 for non-members

Attire Business casual

For more information, contact Nina Dry.

To RSVP Click right here .

Know How To Use Your Tools; Only 1% of Reporters Want to be Contacted Via Twitter

2011-05-12T18:08:00.000Z

According to the third annual Survey of the Media in the Wire World, while 69 percent of journalists use Twitter as a reporting tool, 53 percent of reporters prefer receiving emails from PR pros, and 34 percent said they prefer being contacted via phone!

The Capital Buzz would love to hear from you what your most successful approaches are and if you use Twitter to pitch to your press contacts.

PRSA-NCC SHARES HOW TO WIN A THOTH -- AND BENEFITS OF TRYING

2011-05-11T21:09:00.000Z

Moderator Susan Apgood (left) and panel.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to put together a winning entry for the PRSA's Thoth Awards -- or if it is worth all the time and effort? Today's panel not only made it clear that it takes a lot of careful planning, demonstration of results, attention to detail, visuals and time, they also all provided reasons to do it.

In addition to demonstrating excellence to future clients or employers, several of the panelists emphasized the exercise as a way to become better at crafting a successful plan or program, learning from the best practices of past winners and demonstrating to your own organization the value of the communications program.

PRSA NCC: How to Win and Influence: Creating an Award Winning Thoth Application

2011-05-06T17:47:00.001Z

Join PRSA-NCC on Wednesday, May 11, 2011 for "How to Create an Award-Winning Thoth Application and Showcase Your Success." To register, visit http://bit.ly/dR0fZI.
Rates reduced to $25 for members and $35 for non-members