Twitter During a Crisis: Tips from Boston Marathon
This week marks one year since the horrendous marathon bombings that encapsulated Boston. The news of the blasts and the manhunt that followed were dominating Twitter as the news was uncovered. Within seconds of the first blast, information on social media spread like wildfire; which has proven that social media platforms like Twitter are a predominate venue for quickly spreading news information during a crisis. PR firms are equipped with crisis communication plans but, as we know, not all crises are the same. Here are some tips that we learned from the Boston Marathon Bombings for using Twitter during a crisis.
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1. All employees involved in the social media component of the crisis communication plan must be trained to handle the technology (social media apps on smartphones, tablets, etc.) and manage messages relevant to the audience and situation.
2. Interaction between the organization and audience might be limited during a crisis because of the immediacy in posting messages, however, having an employee monitor comments posted by the public to gauge concerns is important.
3. If your business has nothing to do with the crisis at hand, be quiet. Is anyone really paying attention, anyway?
4. Consider taking a few days off from your normal editorial calendar. You want to be empathetic and stop promoting your product during a crisis.
5. Be alert and up to date on current news.
The power of Twitter was evident a year ago with many tweeting real-time, up-to-date information on the Boston Marathon Bombings and is active this week for the anniversary of the event. With the hashtag #BostonStrong which has been mentioned more than 2.3 million times since the event, the crisis has been overcome but is not forgotten.
Twitter has proven to be a leader in real-time news generation with information being posted by professionals, organizations and individuals alike. It is important to remember that although technology has enabled us to act quickly on information sharing, we must still act with heart and compassion.
5 (and a half) Best Twitter Practices to Follow
With over 500 million users, Twitter is the social media platform for up-to-the-minute news and perspectives. It is an easy way to find the news you care about and hear different perspectives from people around the world.
Are you using Twitter to your full advantage? Check out this INFOGRAPHIC outlining some tips for making the most of your Twitter experience!
Top 10 #PRPro Tips Of The Week: Apr 16, 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!
The subject line of your email pitch should be less than eight words. Simplicity wins. #PRTips
— Aneela Rose PR (@AneelaRosePR) April 14, 2014
#PRTips: when mailing samples or anything from your brand, always insert a hand-written note. It adds a personal touch to your brand.
— Pretty Living Gal (@CharissaLauren) April 10, 2014
In a PR Crisis, There’s no room for ‘No Comment’! Find a better way of letting the media know you are unable to respond. #pr101 #prtips
— Stephanie Greenall (@SDGreenall) April 9, 2014
#PRtip: You should read more tweets than you send out! No one likes a spammy over-tweeter!
— Blair Kaplan (@BlairKaplanPR) April 14, 2014
“#PR is a mix of journalism, psychology, and lawyering – it’s an ever-changing and always interesting landscape.” – Ronn Torossian #PRTip
— Clare McWilliams (@ClareMcWilliams) April 14, 2014
#PRTip: Don’t underestimate the power of a thank you note.
— See.Spark.Go (@seesparkgo) April 11, 2014
#PRtip Don’t try and get followers just for the sake of it. In the words of @asda “Fans are for vanity, engagement is sanity”
— Byfield (@Byfield_PR) April 11, 2014
#PRTip – When sending out a pitch, be sure you are available for media inquires. Reporters appreciate a quick response back.
— DianaEnnen (@DianaEnnen) April 9, 2014
#PRTip (and #LifeTip): Start with the big things first. In the afternoon, you can tackle the small stuff.
— See.Spark.Go (@seesparkgo) April 8, 2014
Always Always Always…have a contract. No contract, No service #PRTips
— Dr. Sheria Rowe (@4MissRia) April 16, 2014
Internet Ads On The Rise: How Much A YouTube Homepage Takeover Costs
Remember the old days of black and white television, when your entire family would crowd in the living room to watch your daily shows on the floor model? We don’t either.
We are blessed to live in a fast paced world that spreads news at real time speed and is evolving by the second. In the past, it was essential for television advertisements to air frequently and remain fresh in your mind. Now, it seems that we are more likely to remember an ad that was shown before a YouTube video or on the right side of our Facebook feed.
Is internet advertising taking over and leaving television in the dust?
For the first time ever, the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB), internet advertising revenue report declared that advertising dollars spent on the internet exceeded television advertising. Internet advertising dollars were at a whopping 42.8 billion whereas television advertising made up for 40.1 billion in the U.S.
Randall Rothenberg, President and CEO, IAB says, “The news that interactive has outperformed broadcast television should come as no surprise, it speaks to the power that digital screens have in reaching and engaging audiences. In that same vein, the staggering growth of mobile is clearly a direct response to how smaller digital screens play an integral role in consumers’ lives throughout the day, as well as their critical importance to cross-screen experiences.”
Internet advertising prices are subject to vary, however, Digiday reports what some of the most prominent internet channels are charging:
YouTube homepage takeover = $400,000
To own the large display ad with video on the YouTube homepage, advertisers pay an estimate of $400,000. They usually include a package with other media such as in-stream video ads, display ads, or featured video listings.
technologytell.com
Facebook log-out screen ad = $100,000
businessinsider.com
Twitter promoted trending topic = $120,000
easypurl.info
BuzzFeed sponsored article = $20,000
socialfresh.com
The increase in internet advertising doesn’t come as a shock. The average person is equipped with a device that makes internet viewing easier than ever. We are certain that this trend is going to continue to evolve as the internet continues to grow. It’s time to say “Good-bye” to the tube and “Good day” to the internet.
29 Ways to Stay Creative (INFOGRAPHIC)
In a creative rut? Have no fear! This infographic from Creattica shows some awesome ways to keep your mind active. Shake off your creative slump and try some of these tips!
#FilmFriday: Embrace Disruption PR Transforms The Red Carpet
It’s that time of the week again! For this installation of Film Friday, we thought you’d like to see a sneak peek of EDPR managing a red carpet. Take a moment to enjoy this short video featuring many familiar Canadian faces!
Client News: Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada Raises Over $500,000 At 19th Annual Gala
Organization hosts record-breaking fundraising event at Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York
TORONTO, ON (April 8, 2014) – On the evening of April 5, 2014, over 700 Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada supporters gathered at Toronto’s Fairmont Royal York to attend the organization’s 19th Annual Gala, sponsored by Toys”R”Us and Babies”R”Us Canada. Hosted by comedian Carla Collins, over $500,000 was raised for the foundation through generous donations from sponsors, supporters and attendees.
This year, the London, Calling! theme brought the event to new heights with decor inclusive of Buckingham Palace gates, a recreated Covent Garden Market, London-style pubs and a swinging sixties room. Throughout the evening, guests were able to mingle with tribute artists emulating the Queen, Palace Guards, Austin Powers and the Spice Girls.
Celebrity guests included MTV Canada’s Aliya-Jasmine Sovani; Gala host, Carla Collins; Love It Or List It’s Hilary Farr; members of the Canadian rock band The Trews, Jack Syperek, Sean Dalton and John-Angus MacDonald; Toronto Argonauts players John Chiles and Jonathan Hood; 2014 JUNO nominated musician Melanie Durrant; television personality Paul Venoit; ET Canada’s Sangita Patel; supermodel Stacey McKenzie; actress Tara Spencer-Nairn, and many other notable Canadians.
“The Starlight Canada Gala continues to be one of our largest sources for fundraising throughout the year. We could not continue the important work we do for families across the nation without the generous support from all of our sponsors, supporters and attendees.” said Starlight Canada executive director, Brian Bringolf.
The money raised from the Gala will go towards funding Starlight’s in and out-of-hospital programming, which includes fun kits (essentials for unexpected hospital stays), hospital grants (funds for hospitals across the country to use on what kids need most), Fun Centres (portable stations equipped with a dvd player, Nintendo Wii, games and movies) and Day Brighteners (tickets to sports games, concerts and more).
For more information, photos or interview requests, please contact:
Cory Stewart | Embrace Disruption PR
p: 647.638.1586 | e: cory@embracedisruption.com
About Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada:
Starlight Children’s Foundation™ Canada is part of Starlight’s global network, serving kids and families through partnerships with more than 130 healthcare facilities. Over the past 30 years, Starlight has become a leading global charity that partners with experts to improve the life and health of kids and families around the world. Collaborating with innovators in pediatric healthcare, entertainment and technology, Starlight provides a unique blend of family-centered programs and services from hospital to home. Starlight partners with more than 1,750 healthcare facilities and pediatric hospitals in Australia, Canada, Israel, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States, serving millions of children every year.
Website: http://starlightcanada.org
Twitter: @StarlightCanada #StarlightMatters
Facebook: http://facebook.com/starlightcanada
About Toys“R”Us, Canada:
Toys“R”Us (Canada) Ltd., is part of Toys“R”Us, Inc., the world’s leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer. Toys“R”Us, Canada operates over 80 stores across the country. For store locations and convenient online shopping visit www.toysrus.ca or www.babiesrus.ca.
What Happens In An Internet Minute? (INFOGRAPHIC)
Minutes seem to fly by when you’re the internet. What does 60 seconds online mean to you?
Check out this interesting infographic brought to you by Intel!
DON’T MISS: Carla Collins- Live at the Flying Beaver Pubaret!
This Sunday, April 6, 2014 the Flying Beaver Pubaret welcomes Carla Collins to back to their stage.
Carla is an award-winning comedian, writer and actress. Dubbed “The Queen of Comedy” by Flare Magazine, Carla Collins is sure to keep you roaring in your seat. This is a show you won’t want to miss!
Carla’s performance starts at 7 p.m. at 488 Parliament St, Toronto.
Tickets are $20 in advance at The Pubaret™ or at Brown paper tickets. Alternatively, you may purchase tickets at the door for $25.
The Flying Beaver Pubaret offers dinner before, during, and after the show with priority seating.
An evening of laughs, eats and good times!
For dinner rezzos e-mail heather@pubaret.com or call 647.347.6567
Top 10 #PRPro Tips Of The Week: April 2, 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!
#PRTip When building your PR team, go with people that have a proven record in booking media. Anyone can pitch; not everyone can place.
— Publicity Dude (@PublicityDude) March 31, 2014
Communication is essential for good PR. Return your phone calls immediately. This establishes trust. #PRTips
— Pure PR (@PurePROKC) April 1, 2014
Accept you’ll make mistakes. Own them and then figure out what to do differently next time. #PRTips
— Aneela Rose PR (@AneelaRosePR) April 1, 2014
When reporters cover your event, DON’T tell them which questions to ask your subject. They know. Let them flow. #PRTip
— chanda temple (@chandatemple) March 31, 2014
#PRTip Don’t be afraid to show your true self in your communications. Remember people do business with people, not robots!
— Whitefoot PR (@WhitefootPR) March 31, 2014
Network and keep in touch with your contacts. Be interested in what they are doing!! #prtip #network
— Rachel Laitala (@rachmariepr) March 29, 2014
#PRTip: Be curious. Keep learning!
— See.Spark.Go (@seesparkgo) March 28, 2014
Replace laziness w/determination. Find the time you don’t have. #PRTips
— Cyndy Hoenig (@CyndyHoenig) March 26, 2014
#PRTip – To understand your business as a means of generating publicity, you have to take off your small business hat.
— Impact PR (@ImpactPR) April 1, 2014
#PRtip – Communicate through many different avenues to your audience. Including social media.
— Issuer Direct Corp (@IssuerDirect) March 31, 2014
