Journalists! Say something

To those journalist who are prompt about responding to pitches, thank you! For those of you who aren’t, here is a plead to at least say yes, no or maybe so. I take time to craft and personalize pitches to send to journalists I know cover specific topics, it’s always nice to see a response come through.

Today, I followed up with a reporter on a pitch I had sent her Monday, she quickly replied with, “I’ll respond to you when I have a chance. Thanks for your patience!” Less than three hours later, she responded saying, “Sorry about the rushed response from earlier this morning. It’s very hectic right now. Yes, please do send some additional information on client XXX. I am interested in publishing a column or working on a Q&A session together.” Patience is a virtue and manners are appreciated.

I know we’re all busy, but it takes a half a second to respond to an e-mail. And less than two minutes if you are interested. I understand e-mails get lost every now and then, but do yourself a favor and keep your inbox clean! We (PR people) want to be respectful of your time and busy schedules, but we have a job to do too.

So whether it is yes, no, maybe so or gimme’ more- something is better than nothing! And, if my pitch was awful, please tell me that too; constructive criticism and practice are the only ways to improve.

The Power (and Potential) of a Pitch

Today, I had the privilege of attending the Hoosier PRSA Meet the Media luncheon. Our guests of honor included Indianapolis Star editors Jenny Green, Steve Berta and reporter Cathy Kightlinger. As a media relations professional, it is imperative to jump at the chance to meet members of the media, especially local contacts in your area. Our Q&A session provided me with valuable insight on how the Indianapolis Star, like many newspapers, views and works with public relations professionals. Here are just a few of the takeaways:

• Journalists are engaging in Twitter and other social media sites to monitor trends. Be sure you are providing new and pertinent material, not just contributing noise to what is already out there.
• Be patient. When you send a pitch, don’t follow-up 5 minutes later with a phone call. Give them a day or two.
• Journalists are not there to publicize your clients, they capture moments and report on news. Make sure what you are offering is newsworthy and pay attention to the 7 C’s (completeness, conciseness, consideration, concreteness, clarity, courtesy, and correctness)
• Give as many details as possible, it makes their job much easier!
• If you are offering up an exclusive, provide information in enough time and stay true to your word. Offer up interviews and keep them updated!

After the Q&A, I had the chance to ask Cathy what makes the perfect pitch. Her response, “provide all the details in an e-mail with names spelled correctly. My inbox gets blasted w/ e-mails daily so follow-up phone calls the next day are encouraged.” She also stresses the importance of doing your research and personalizing your pitch based on what they write or have previously written.  It might sound easy, but it takes practice and diligence.

In PR, especially media relations, it is important to pitch (and yes, I’m aware some say this word is dead) journalists who will benefit from your information. How are you tailoring your pitch to meet the needs of the journalist, the publication, and it’s readers? Being respectful of journalist’s time and interests is fundamental for building mutually beneficial relationships. Position yourself as a reliable, easy to work with and thoughtful communicator. You’d be pleasantly surprised at the results.

**Check out the HoosierPRSA blog for more info. Also, huge thanks to Ed Kanis, journalism teacher at Butler University, for teaching me the fundamentals of PR Techniques.

Meet one ‘Wise’ guy

I have wined and dined at many restaurants in my lifetime, and I can assure you there aren’t too many whose entrees and ambiance stick in my mind. However, during my third TasteCasting adventure I had the privilege of meeting one bar owner who’s got it right. Ladies and gentleman, I introduce you to Scott Wise, president and CEO of Scotty’s Brewhouse.

By positioning himself as Brewhouse’s ‘go-to man,’ Scott has been able to connect with his customers in a way most only imagine. A true believer in word of mouth and “top of mind” marketing, Scott stands behind each and every aspect of his restaurant. He takes suggestions to heart and accepts responsibility for any mistake- as a customer himself, he values what each individial thinks and feels as they walk through the door.

Social media is one tool that has allowed Scott the chance to quickly respond to feedback while being active in the dining process. Sites such as Twitter, Facebook and YouTube have given Scott another platform to share salent information with his customers while participating in two-way communication.

Scott Wise

“I think the power of social media is so expansive that even the ‘experts’ don’t know how far-reaching this can go. The more you work with it, like anything, the more adept you become in using it,” said Scott Wise. “Having a background in marketing and PR definitely helps me, so I grasp a few intricacies that the average restaurateur probably wouldn’t see as it pertains to marketing to our consumers.”

Scott has swiftly adapted to new technology and used it to his advantage- interacting with customers on a daily basis, no matter where he or they are located. I constantly see @Brewhouse popping up on my Tweetdeck or in my inbox. Scott wears many hats but it’s evident his true passion comes from engaging with the customers in new and innovative ways.

As you might have noticed, the engaged, customer-focused approach of Scott Wise (and everyone else at Scotty’s Brewhouse, for that matter) is what caught my attention.  When you combine that with good food and great beer options (because let’s face it, it’s a brewhouse), it’s pretty hard to walk out without saying “let’s do this again soon”. I leave you with this message from one ‘Wise’ guy: “Most importantly, I love what I do and enjoy the interaction.  Social media has been a way for me to keep my brand alive while letting my personality shining through.”

Agency Life

Oh the agency life…

I haven’t been in the PR field for long, but my work at an agency has given me a concrete understanding of what to expect in my PR endeavors. Agency life is exceptionally eventful; never a dull moment here in the office. However, I have come to learn there are particular skills you must possess/acquire in order to succeed at an agency. Obviously, I don’t know many since I just graduated, but here are a few I have discovered over the past 10 months.

In order to help young PR professionals like myself, please share your advice/suggestions for what it takes to thrive in an agency setting.

Multi-task: You may be working on 4-5 accounts at a time; each one requiring just as much attention as the others. Being able to effectively allocate enough time to each account is essential to meeting clients’ needs and exceeding expectations. The ability to jump from working on one client to another certainly comes in handy when opportunities arise! But always pick up right where you left off- this isn’t the time for unfinished business.

Delegate: Know exactly what it is you CAN do and exactly what it is others can do for you. Utilize your interns and work with other account executives to bounce off ideas, proof-read, calculate ROI, and find new opportunities. Agency life is a team sport- it takes a posse!

Think on your feet: The flair to provide quick and meticulous responses at the drop of a hat comes from a true understanding of your client’s business. Do your research, stay up with current trends and know what you are talking about. Most people don’t have time for bullshit, so cut to the chase and get to point- fast!

Organization (especially when pitching): Plain and simple, keep the inbox clean! The more organized you are, the fewer mistakes you make. Create e-mail folders for each of your clients that specifies what actions need to be taken (i.e. follow up, Google alerts, new pitches, internal information, etc.). I personally still enjoy writing things down, so pick up the pen and paper and record things the old fashion way too! Same goes when using your planner, have an electronic and tangible copy of everything.

Work with a sense of Urgency: Deadlines don’t wait for you so don’t let an opportunity pass you by. PR is not an 8-5 job, make yourself available and respond quickly to opportunities. Wouldn’t you want a reporter to do the same?

Commitment: Give it your all! All relationships, no matter what, evolve from a committed and trusting foundation. An exceptional PR professional knows the importance of strong dedication to his/her company, clients and the industry. Don’t you want to be exceptional?

Thoughts, comments and suggestions are always welcome! Tweet this

Looking for a PR internship this Fall?

Are you a creative thinker and problem solver? Do you have a passion for crafting strategic communications and learning how to influence public opinion? Are you currently pursuing a degree in communications or journalism and  have a desire to gain experience in a real-life work setting?

If yes then do I have the job for you!

Dittoe Public Relations is looking for an extraordinary fall PR intern to add to our team of talented and motivated PR Professionals. The internship primarily deals with consumer PR and media relations services.

We are seeking the most talented, driven and dedicated students from the surrounding universities. Please see the job description below or on our blog:

Fall 2009 Public Relations Internship Opportunity

WHO: College juniors and seniors

WHAT: Public relations internship at Dittoe Public Relations

WHEN: Fall 2009

WHERE: 2815 E. 62^nd St., Suite 300

WHY: To advance PR skills in real-world situations and gain experience in an agency setting

About DittoePR

Dittoe Public Relations was founded in 1999 on the premise that clients deserve better – a higher level of service and greater results. A premier public relations agency with high-tech roots, Dittoe PR has grown to include an impressive roster of clients in many industries, including consumer electronics, gaming, digital imaging, education, lifestyle and consulting. Relentless in the pursuit of excellence for our clients, we pride ourselves on exceeding expectations every day – that means custom PR strategies, innovative ideas and flawless execution.

Internship Description

• Assist Account Executives to generate media coverage for clients
• Write persuasive and personalized pitches based on editorial calendars and consistent, in-depth research
• Holiday gift guide pitching
• Compile monthly updates for clients
• Author bylines, case studies and press releases
• Research and become familiar with media that would cover particular clients/products and create a press list
• Use Photoshop to create PDFs of media coverage

Internship Qualifications

• Applicants must be working towards a degree in journalism, public relations or communications
• Strong grammar and writing skills
• Detail-oriented
• General knowledge of Windows and Photoshop
• Work proficiently and effectively to meet deadlines
• Be ready and willing to handle anything that is thrown at you – there is never a dull moment
• Must be able to effectively communicate with staff and clients in an extremely timely manner
• Have a genuine interest in journalism and public relations as well as the desire to learn above all else

Send resume no later than August 14^th to:

Adrienne Bailey, Account Executive

Dittoe Public Relations

2815 E. 62^nd St.

Indianapolis, IN 46220

adrienne@dittoepr.com

** Please Share on Twitter

Life Lessons

After reading My Sister’s Keeper during a vacation to Hilton Head Island last summer, I couldn’t resist going to see the movie. While the film was great, it certainly didn’t do the book justice. Regardless, the plot makes you take a step back and truly decide what’s significant in life. Here are some life lessons that I strive to live by- some are definitely easier than others. Give em’ a try…

• Life is too short, so take nothing for granted and appreciate what you do have instead of wanting what you don’t. We often forget that life is about the journey, not the destination. Stop and smell the roses more often than not.
• Instead of being so quick to judge, accept and embrace people’s differences. This will truly make the word a more peaceful place.
• Listen more than you talk.
• In life, it’s not about what you have but who you have. We often tend to hurt the people closest to us, but family and true friends are the ones who help get us through tough times and rejoice with the good times.
• “Laugher is the song of the soul”- so share it!
• Practice what you preach.
• Honesty IS the best policy and the true foundation for any relationship. If you lie, someone might not find out today or tomorrow but they always find out. “He who permits himself to tell a lie once, finds it much easier to do it a second and third time, till at length it becomes habitual.” Thomas Jefferson
• The greatest gift you can offer is love. “We come to love not by finding a perfect person, but by learning to see an imperfect person perfectly.” If you are lucky enough to find true love, hold on to it, it’s a beautiful thing!
• Passion helps you conquer all things! “Above all, be true to yourself, and if you cannot put your heart in it, take yourself out of it.”
• Attitude is a little thing that makes a BIG difference.
• True success and integrity is taking responsibility for your actions and owning up to your failures.
• Be yourself, who else is better qualified? (I remember that one from my mama)
• Treat people the way you want to be treated. For a statement so self explanatory- we often forgot to put ourselves in each others shoes.

Remember, we are all in this together, put others before yourself and do something for the good of man-kind. Be true to yourself and never let a good thing pass you by! Thanks for listening and feel free to share.

Indy Favorites

After living in Indianapolis for almost 23 years now, exploring the food and culture of the city has always been a favorite past time of mine. Anything unique and locally owned has a special place in my heart (and wallet)! Here is a list of some of my favorite Indy favorites. Feel free to chime in and share your own!

811 E Westfield Blvd

Bazbeaux Pizza (Broad Ripple Village) By far the best pizza Indianapolis has to offer. The BR location is perfect with outdoor seating both on the roof & the patio. Other than its delectable pizzas, Bazbeaux offers a wide variety of Italian cuisine. Definitely start off your meal with a carafe of house red vino & the award winning garlic bread. For dinner, I recommend the Bazbeaux Special with pesto sauce and andoullie sausage or the BBQ pizza. And don’t forget to order the side salad- so worth it!

543 Indiana Avenue

Zing Two words: love it! The modern décor, trendy atmosphere and upbeat jams all contribute to this outstanding and unique dining experience. The concept of ordering ‘small plates’ allows you to try more dishes at a cheaper price. With over 75 choices on the menu, you can’t go wrong. My favorites include: pan seared pork tenderloin wrapped with capocollo w/ mustard ale sauce over grilled vegetable salad with mint pesto & pine nut gremalata AND zing zing shrimp buttermilk battered with garlic chili dipping sauce AND warmed goat cheese served with tomato sauce. Check out the website for the brunch menu and a ton of awesome drink specials. And best of all, both of the owners are Butler University graduates.

6327 Guilford Ave

Artifacts (Broad Ripple Village): Located next to the Corner Wine Bar (another local hot-spot), Artifacts is a unique gift shop with high quality, inventive products. If you are looking to step out of the box and give an artistic/inspired gift, Artifacts is the place to go. I love the wide selection of jewelry, ceramics and knickknacks. Of all the gifts I have given and received from Artifacts, I couldn’t be happier. The hippie/nature loving feel keeps me coming back time and time again.

The Lawn at White River

White River State Park: To be perfectly honest, words cannot describe the tranquility that comes with stepping foot on the grounds of White River State Park. With so much to do in one place, you could spend a whole weekend exploring this one area. Besides the canal, trails and grassy pastures, you will also find the White River State Gardens, Eiteljorg Museum, IMAX Theater, Indianapolis Zoo, and Victory Field. Not to mention, Indy Jazz Fest, Taste of Freedom and an awesome summer concert line-up on the Lawn.

Chicago Dog

King David Dogs (Downtown and Airport) I have to admit, I have only been here once but that was all it took. I was fortunate enough to participate in Indy’s first Taste Casting event at KDD. Developed from a recipe over 70 years ago, these signature ¼ lb. all beef hot dogs are served grilled or steamed to perfection. Depending on your taste buds, there is a dog for everyone, and if you not- you can build your own. I recommend the Chicago Dog, tater tots and onion rings. So whether you live in the area or just here for a visit, this is a perfect, in-expensive treat everyone can enjoy!

Other local favorites include: Brugge (order the Triple de Ripple and Moules Frites), St. Elmo’s shrimp cocktail, Broad Ripple BrewPub, Connors, Indianapolis Museum of Art and Yats!

I am always looking for new places to go and new foods to eat, what are your Indy favorites?

Artsy-Fartsy

Growing up, children are under the impression that talent is pure skill. And while there is some truth to that, I have also learned that true talent comes with passion. A passion to grow, to learn, and to challenge yourself. For me, finding my “true” talent wasn’t as easy as it is for most. I had so many interests including: sports, school, art,  and adventure. Eventually I realized, with some skill and enough passion- anything was possible. So, here is a collection of my work in graphic design, photography and drawing; stemmed from my curiosity in nature, texture, patterns and color. It’s all very simple. Check back for an upcoming post on my Advertisement designs.

Snowman Sketch

Peace Sign

Lamp Sketch

Website Design

Website Design

Website Design

Dewy Morning

Vista Shot at Holcomb Gardens

Foreground shot at Subway

Push-Pins

Total Tan

Ripple Effect

Wicked Book Cover

Wicked Book Cover

T-shirt Design

Kelly as my model

Ultimate Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip

Check out this great article from Jolene Ketzenberger, Indy Star food and wine columnist. Dip, scoop and smile your way through portable, potluck favorites features excellent recipes for summertime entertaining.

I was on Twitter and just happened to see her tweet: “What’s your best pitch-in dish (potluck, carry-in, covered dish), the one that always disappears on the buffet table? Any great recipes?” Naturally, I replied with my favorite, spicy buffalo chicken dip. Next thing I know, Jolene is having art director, Jenny French, call me to set up the photo shoot.

I was first introduced to this dip from my boyfriend, Evan Strange. His family had been making it for years and after I finally realized just how wonderful it was- I began making it too! We added our own personal touch with the onions and bleu cheese crumbles. Below is the recipe and the pictures from the front page of the Indy Star Extra section of the June 24th issue. For this and other great pitch-in recipes be sure to pick up a copy of today’s Indy Star!

Ultimate Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip

1 cup of ranch dressing
3/4 cup chopped red onion
2 8-ounce packages of cream cheese
2 10-ounce cans of chicken
3/4 cup of Frank’s hot sauce
2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
1 container of bleu cheese crumbles
Tortilla chips or crackers for dipping

Directions: Sautee onions in butter until slight color change, and remove from heat. In a skillet, warm chicken. Add hot sauce, cream cheese and ranch dressing. Blend. Add half of the shredded cheese and sautéed onions. Mix until consistent throughout. Pour into baking dish. Sprinkle rest of cheddar cheese on top. Top with generous amount of blue cheese crumbles. Bake in oven at 350° for 20 to 30 minutes. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers. Goes best with a nice cold beer! *Adapted from a recipe by Mary England and Susie Cromer Clements.

Picture from the front page of the Indy Star Extra section

Ultimate Spicy Buffalo Chicken Dip- picture by Rob Goebel

Help me, help you

-Intern and Employer Relationships

Now more than ever, internships are increasingly important for landing that first job. It is crucial that interns seek out relevant employment opportunities to help them achieve career goals. Getting started at an internship can be quite an adjustment, especially if you have never had one before. As a previous intern, I am going to offer my advice for starting your internship off on the right foot. Followed 10 tips on how employers can effectively work with and utilize their (PR) interns based on their skills and qualifications.

Before beginning your internship, it is important to have an idea of what you want to get out of it. What work are you looking to do and what value can you add to the company? When you begin your internship it is important to have an elevator pitch. We often hear about using these at networking events but I feel this is essential when meeting new people at the company. Not that you have to sell yourself once you have been hired, but so people can gauge your interests and career goals. Take a look at this excellent article from Examiner.com on getting your elevator pitch ready, there is even a contest to enter! Going out of your way to introduce yourself to everyone shows your eagerness to learn from every single talented individual and your sincere interest in getting to know each and every person. Remember, first impressions are crucial!

Once you have been introduced, sit down with your supervisor and develop a communications plan between the two of you. What are the expectations? Decide the best means of communicating, how you will receive your weekly projects, the general format for all work and what types of updates you want to receive from one another. Weekly project lists with specified deadlines are a great way to stay focused and organized; in PR we cannot afford to miss any deadlines. Keep your supervisor and co-workers up to date on the status of your work at all time, especially if projects roll over from one week to the next. After that, work together and come up with a list of personal goals you have for the internship. It is imperative to go back and check these ever so often to make sure you are on track. Dive in, and don’t be scared. You cannot exceed if you never try!

Finally, here are some simple suggestions to make sure employers are effectively utilizing their interns:

1. Know your new intern- everyone should receive a copy of their resume so familiarize yourself past experiences and background information.
2. Based on your personal job description, find what areas you need the most help with and make a note of it- this is where your intern comes in.
3. Plan to individually meet with the intern and discuss your daily responsibilities and what role they have in assisting you.
4. Leave your apprehensiveness at the door- if you never give the intern a chance then how will they ever learn.
5. Begin with research projects and be sure they understand the importance of thorough research, no cutting corners here!
6. Let them sit in on phone calls or meetings, especially with clients. This will help them understand the importance of relationships and how you interact with your clients.
7. Expose them to writing, anything and everything helps. I have learned you can never do too much writing particularly since we have the opportunity to write in so many different styles. Have them take a stab at a pitch, byline or case study. There is no harm in letting them develop rough drafts.
8. If there any changes, comments or suggestions on work they have submitted, meet with them and explain why something is the way it is- don’t just change it and send it back to them.
9. Help them improve on their weaknesses- give them something forcing them to step out of their comfort zone!
10. Believe in your intern, you would actually be surprised what they can teach you!

What other advice do you have? Please feel free to share!