How’d You End Up Here? : The PR Quiz (Inspired by Cosmo)
One of the most exciting parts of working in PR is the opportunity to constantly meet new people. When striking up conversation, there’s often one topic that seems to perk everyone’s interest: “how’d you end up where you are today?” Everyone has a different approach for obtaining their “dream job”, so we thought it would be worthwhile to reach out to a few friends of EDPR in hopes that they would share their stories. Inspired by the quizzes found in Cosmo Magazine, we created a questionnaire to gain some insight.
Enjoy this week’s story from a recent PR school graduate who is climbing her way to the top of her field!
Secrets Of A Killer Blog Post [INFOGRAPHIC]
Blogging has become a standard component for the communication plan of many brands. Blogs provide an outlet in which companies can project their voice to the public and become thought leaders in their industry. Studies have found that companies who blog generate 67% more leads than ones that don’t. With blogging seen as an integral part of communications they have certainly increased in popularity, which is why it’s important that you stand out amongst competitors. The visual appeal of your blog is the first thing that’s assessed by viewers and one of the most important features to ensure blogging success.
Make sure your blog is looking its best! Check out this infographic from WhoIsHostingThis? for a brief breakdown on blogging aesthetics.
#FilmFriday: The Return of Nicole Richie
Nicole Richie rose to fame in 2003, while staring in the television show The Simple Life. Once notorious for her wild antics, this now mom/designer has experienced one of the most successful transformations in Hollywood. Over the past year, Richie has returned to the spotlight as star of AOL Originals’ YouTube series #CandidlyNicole, a show highlighting the life of the famous socialite. The success of the series has prompted VH1 to air a full-length second season. Richie is living proof that with hard work and dedication, you can overcome any reputation.
Check out the trailer for Candidly Nicole from VH1. All new episode airs 24/7/2014 at 10p.m. on VH1.
5 Myths About Public Relations
From the outside, PR work can seem like a pretty attractive alternative compared to some other occupations. After all, there’s parties, free food [and drink], celebrities, and hobnobbing with media, right? Well… kind of, but not really. Today we’re de-bunking some of the myths that seem to follow PR and PR pros as they try to explain to non-industry people exactly what their job entails.
Myth #1: PR=Party
Sure, PR pros tend to be out a lot. Whether running a client event, taking a media member to dinner, or attending a launch — the profession does demand a lot of social activity. Here’s the deal: although these occasions are positioned as fun nights out for most (and don’t get us wrong, they can be) — these are actually seen as networking opportunities and a chance to strengthen and build our growing base of connections. While we may be out, we’re certainly not out in the same capacity as a university freshman.
Myth #2: It’s All Glamorous
A common misconception is that the work we do is very glamorous. Sure, we get to work with some kick-ass celebrities, head into VIP sections, take clients to media engagements and the likes, but it’s important to note again, this is our work. It’s our job to make it ‘look’ glamorous. We’re the ones hustling behind the scenes to make sure a photographer gets the shot, clients stay on message, media and talent are attended to and that everything stays on track. And that’s just events. Additionally we’re known to churn through multiple press releases in a day, monitor media for both trends and clients, keep on top of an overflowing inbox.. we could go on, but you likely get the point by now.
Myth #3: PR Pros Manipulate The Media
This is likely the biggest myth of them all. Sure, our job is to help our clients get placed in media (amongst many other duties), but this is not to be seen as manipulation of media. The media can not be controlled — just ask Rob Ford. Rather, PR should be seen as an effective way to communicate your stories to media.
Myth #4: PR Can Make Anything Go ‘Viral’
If we had a nickel. Sure, PR pros can help you identify share-worthy stories that should be placed into the public eye, but there is no ‘secret formula’ to going viral. There are a number of determining factors in online content going viral including timing, relevancy, quality, story and pure luck. Like we said, we can help — but there are no guarantees in the world of ‘viral’ content.
Myth #5: Contacts Are Everything
Of course, knowing a variety of influential people is important to PR, but it’s not everything. What is everything, you ask? Having a good story. A story that is timely, relevant and will be of interest to the public. The reality is, if your story isn’t newsworthy and can’t be shaped to become so, you’ll have a hard time getting it placed in media. Plain and simple.
Do you have any PR myths that you’d like to share? Leave them in the comments below!
Top 10 #PRTips Of The Week: July 16th, 2014
Here are our Top 10 PR Pro Tips for this week, selected from Twitter. Remember to submit your own PR pro tip using the hashtag #PRTip or #PRTips. Your tweet could be featured here next week!
Get to know your #Facebook fans and engage with them. If you’re boring, they’ll stop engaging with you. http://t.co/o3zNRWx3ti #socialtips
— Springboard PR (@PRtips) July 14, 2014
A strong professional identity and presence will always help you stand out amongst fellow businesses. #PrettyLivingPR #PR101 #PRTips
— Pretty Living PR (@PrettyLivingPR) July 12, 2014
Exploit your strengths, step into and own your power. #PRTips
— Cyndy Hoenig (@CyndyHoenig) July 11, 2014
Double-check all facts before posting to avoid a communications blunder http://t.co/dK0LLan03U #PRTips pic.twitter.com/8BpXq8yYip
— Bristol PR (@Bristol_PR) July 11, 2014
Upcoming TV appearance? Have your key talking points boiled down to a few short sound bites. More #PRtips http://t.co/npF3KbTzEq #publicity
— Social Sage PR (@DonnaCravotta) July 11, 2014
Spend time reading the publications you are targeting with PR #prtips
— Mexia Communications (@MexiaComms) July 11, 2014
#PRTip When networking go beyond your industry. You want to build a broader awareness for your brand. Think outside the box!
— PiperRaePR (@PiperRaePR) July 14, 2014
#PRTip – if you’re pitching a blogger to cover your product, remember most of us have day jobs. Correspondence via email is preferred.
— Heather M (@MissusHeatherM) July 15, 2014
#PR101 #PRtip Pay attention to editorial calendars and how far out an outlet plans their content #longlead or #shortlead
— Ruby Media Group (@RubyMediaGroup) July 14, 2014
In a #PR crisis, make sure every decision is based on sound, socially responsible business principles. #PRtip
— PRSA Phoenix (@PRSAPhoenix) July 13, 2014
#TorontoTuesday: How To Eat Local In The City
Nothing quite compares to eating fresh, local produce. Not only is it tastier and promotes a healthier lifestyle but it’s economically and socially responsible. This weekend, one of our staff had the pleasure of doing a big grocery shop at a local farmers market. It was a fraction of the cost compared to her usual grocery runs, the food was delicious (we all tried the final product) and she found the process itself was immensely enjoyable. This really got the office chatting about the local food trend that seems to be popping up everywhere, particularly on social media.
Over the last few years, there has been a noticeable influx of the local food movement on social media. Prime examples being the 100K diet, eating-locally, and the “felfie” (Farmer Selfie). People have taken something that has existed for centuries (farm to table consumption) and modernized it with a relatively new concept (social media). We all know those friends on social media who spend hours snapping pictures of their fresh food finds, tweeting about trips to the market and sharing farm-to-table recipes on blogs. It is clear this trend has really taken off!
A great day across #ontario to head out to a #farmers‘ #market! Find one close to you using our map: http://t.co/fh1gkvINkf
— My Local Farmers (@mylocalfarmers) July 12, 2014
Feature #veggies at tomorrow’s #farmersmarket: #buylocal zucchini, $1.00/lb and #organic kale $2.00/bunch. #Ontariogrown #toronto
— Good Neighbours (@GNFMarket) July 15, 2014
Happening #intheorchard right now! #cherries14! #Fresh #Ontario #cherries being picked! #felfie #Niagara #ONTag pic.twitter.com/2TOwygXy5P
— Romagnoli Farms (@RomagnoliFarms) June 27, 2014
Depending on what day you do your shopping, here are a few suggestions of farmers markets around the city:
Smartphones Impact Around The World [INFOGRAPHIC]
Do you remember the days when flip-phones were the latest thing to hit the cell phone market? Or better yet, the days of car phones? We sure do.
The mobile device industry has certainly come a long way in the past 40 years, and we largely have companies like Apple Inc., Nokia and RIM to thank for that. Smartphones and similar technologies have not only changed the way individuals operate on a daily basis, but they have also greatly impacted the world’s economy. The mobile and smartphone industry (projected to be worth $341.4 billion by 2015) has been a catalyst for the social media boom while redefining the word “globalization.”
As it’s such an influential market, we wanted to share a infographic from Protect Your Bubble which outlines some of the impacts resulting from the influx of smartphones and mobile devices.
Film Friday: Nash Grier Gone In 6 Seconds
Social media has introduced the world to a new kind of fame. Online celebrities such as the cast of EpicMealTime, Cameron Dallas, and Brittany Furlan have captured the attention of millions of fans and some of the most renowned brands. While most social media stars try to avoid any kind of controversy, one young star recently found himself in trouble after a particular Vine video made its way back online.
(Source)
Nash Grier is a 16 year-old Vine superstar. The North Carolina native is the most followed person on Vine with 8.7 million loyal fans. This past week, Grier received backlash about a video that was posted (and promptly taken down) back in April. The video, which was reposted by YouTube sensation Tyler Oakley, features a clip from a commercial for the HIV oral-swab test, OraQuick, followed by a homophobic slur from Grier himself. Oakley tweeted “Call me and people like me, ‘fag’ all you want, but spreading false information about deadly diseases is next level.” Oakley continued, “Promoting a false stereotype that HIV only affects gays to his millions of teen fans is extremely dangerous.”
(Source)
The teen, who has previously been criticized for sexist remarks, has since apologized via Twitter, claiming he was “young, ignorant, stupid and in a bad place.” when he posted the video 3 months ago.
Our takeaway: you can spend forever building your reputation, but remember, it takes exactly 6 seconds to ruin it.
Top 10 #PRTips Of The Week: July 9th, 2014
Here are our Top 10 PR Pro Tips for this week, selected from Twitter. Remember to submit your own PR pro tip using the hashtag #PRTip or #PRTips. Your tweet could be featured here next week!
Blogging, #socialmedia and #SEO are the three best ways to drive traffic to a website. #contenttips http://t.co/eOfliLa0K9
— Springboard PR (@PRtips) July 8, 2014
prtips Prepare for a crisis: Create a written communication plan. Be prepared ahead of time. prtips
— Estefana Buckner (@bucknerqw1438) July 8, 2014
PR Tip of the Day: Regardless of the size of the crowd, don’t pass up on speaking engagement opportunities. #prtips pic.twitter.com/TT0wcl01Nl
— Hastings & Pleadwell (@handp) July 8, 2014
Does feeling overwhelmed stall your productivity? Put each project on a 3×5 card. Prioritize by due date, time to complete or mood! #PRtips
— ClarifyPR (@ClarifyPubRel) July 7, 2014
Startup #PRtips @ENTmagazine #2. Establish identity. Before you tell world who you are, make sure you know answer! pic.twitter.com/RDfS1UFXKk
— TishTash (@TishTashTalks) July 7, 2014
A strong professional identity and presence will always help you stand out amongst fellow businesses. #PrettyLivingPR #PR101 #PRTips
— Charissa Lauren (@CharissaLauren) July 5, 2014
Personal Branding: Work on it. It makes you more memorable. #PRTips #PRRockStar http://t.co/qni8mjag78
— Cyndy Hoenig (@CyndyHoenig) July 5, 2014
#PRtip #PR101 Looking to increase local coverage? Watch out for any national trends that may have a local angle and pitch accordingly
— Ruby Media Group (@RubyMediaGroup) July 8, 2014
#PRTip: Before you even begin to assemble a marketing plan, write down realistic goals and angles for your project.
— Susanne Pinedo (@PinedoPR) July 8, 2014
Treat your media contacts like you would your clients #prtip #legalmarketing
— Maria Shahid (@PropJourn) July 7, 2014
#TorontoTuesday : Our Fringe and Summerlicious Recommendations
This week’s #TorontoTuesday, we’re highlighting two exciting events taking place over the next month: The Toronto Fringe Theatre Festival and Summerlicious! Understandably, these events can be a bit overwhelming if you’re not sure where to start. Rest assured though, we’ve compiled a list of recommendations to give you some direction.
The Toronto Fringe Theatre Festival
Toronto Fringe festival runs from July 2nd until the 13th and is an annual theatre festival featuring both unknown and well-known artists putting on productions across the city. With tickets ranging from $8.50 to $12, it’s an affordable way to see some great performances, some of which have gone on to be remounted for larger audiences and win awards.
52 Pick-up
“52 pick-up” is a series of 52 short vignettes, which piece together the relationship of one particular couple. What makes this show interesting and therefore a must-see is that the show begins with a deck of cards being strewn across the stage. The actors must pick up cards from the floor and follow the description of the scene written on that particular card, making each show unique. Follow the vast array of emotions that accompany any relationship in this funny, amusing and heartbreaking tale of the reality of love and relationships.
Centre of the Universe
“The centre of the universe” is the story of a near-future Toronto that is under attack, resulting in the collapse of the CN Tower. The production focuses on four people who are in a bar and are subsequently cut off; no TV, radio or cellphone service. The characters contemplate life, death and why someone would attack the city. Sounds like a fun show to see, but maybe a topic we won’t think too much about!
Hugh and I
“Hugh and I” is a musical about Playboy Hugh Hefner growing into a worldwide legend as he creates his media empire. This production chronicles the life of a shy boy turned notorious bachelor through a series of loves and losses. While this topic has been explored and glorified time and time again, this production (which is filled with singing and dancing) is definitely one you shouldn’t miss.
Summerlicious
Summerlicious needs little introduction! It’s an annual event that offers diners exceptional meals (lunch and dinner) for great prices at more than 200 of the city’s top restaurants. Now is the time to try out a new hot spot or a classic location without breaking the bank, and here are just three great restaurants we are excited to check out. Running from July 04, 2014 until July 20, 2014.
Nota Bene
Nota Bene is a Toronto staple that has stood the test of time, with Chef David Lee creating menus that demonstrate a balance of classic dishes with a contemporary twists. Some menu items that stand out are the Sanagan’s Pulled Braised Goat with black beans, pico de gallo and goat cheese espuma (a foam) or how about sweet English pea & ricotta ravioli with poached hen’s egg, shaved truffles and kale chips. And for dessert? How about a Hot Sugared Doughnut served with Vanilla ice cream and wild blueberries – YUM.
180 Queen St. W : 416-977-6400
Lunch: $25, Dinner: $45
Chiado
Restaurateur Albino Silva’s Chiado, located at College and Ossington, provides an exceptional display of flawless hospitality in an elegant surrounding, but the real star of the show is the seafood. This year’s summerlicous menu offers an array of seafood and vegetarian options, including sardines, fresh cod, seabream and skate fish to name a few. If possible, this might be a place to make a few reservations for!
864 College St. : 416-538-1910
Lunch: $25, Dinner: $45
Bent
Why not check out this family run business by the one and only Chef Susur Lee along with his sons Kai and Levi who run the front of house, with the décor having been exceptionally designed by Lee’s wife Brenda Bent. Some dishes that stand out on the summerlicious menu include a fried jerk chicken with smoked chili lime glaze with Ontario tomato and Jicama salad as well as a spring vegetable orzo with ginger, pine nuts, wrapped in an egg crepe. For dessert, nothing beats a mango panna cotta!
777 Dundas St. W; 647-352-0092
Dinner: $35
