Welcome to PRVisions Cincinnati Chapter Newsletter.

Tell us about promotions, success stories or failures in your work world and let us share them with fellow PRSA members. To read about your fellow members, please click here.  Please email Shasta Taber (srtaber@hotmail.com) with your news. 

-Laura Carr (2009 Cincinnati PRSA Chapter President)

Inside you'll find the most up to date PRSA news:

On the local front:    

Also find out about other news about our chapter and more on the National PRSA front (including an opportunity to become involved on the national level) and many other amazing opportunities for our members to help each other, non-profit organizations and many others. 

Editor's Note

Pictures, Comments ... All are Welcome!

By Shasta Taber

Dear Members:

As always, if you take any pictures from any of our upcoming events (whether from luncheons, Blacksmith Awards, APR classes, New Pros events, etc.) please send them to me with some basic information.  Thanks!  

If you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding the newsletter, please feel free to let me know by emailing me at srtaber@hotmail.com.  ALSO please let us know what you think of the format of the  Email Blasts announcing the Newsletter... or at least let us know if you receive them as HTML or plain-text?

Shasta Taber

Newsletter Editor

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President's Letter

Feedback About Your PRSA Cincinnati Chapter Experience Requested‏

By Laura Carr

Last year, PRSA conducted a survey to identify which products and services deliver the greatest members value. Among its findings, results indicated that members derive significant benefits from their local Chapter affiliations. Building on this research, PRSA is now conducting the first-ever all-Chapter survey to further explore what our members value most. As your Chapter president, I am eager for your thoughts and opinions.

Our Chapter is joining with PRSA National to conduct the new Chapter Survey. Your participation and input are critical as we work together to deliver value that exceeds your professional needs. The questionnaire is designed to collect your thoughts and opinions for analysis, consideration and implementation on a local and national level.

The survey should take only 10 minutes to complete. To begin, please click on the link below:

http://survey7.int-research.com/6745/survey.cgi?LINKID=1112649

The above link contains a unique identifier that allows you to pause. Clicking on the link again enables you to resume the survey exactly where you left off. Your responses will be anonymous. Summary findings will be shared with PRSA's membership.

If you have any questions about the survey, please contact Angie Montgomery of Ketchum Research at (646) 935-4208 or angie.montgomery@ketchum.com.

As a token of our appreciation, participants who complete the survey by April 7, 2009 will be entered into a drawing to win Amazon.com gift cards.

Thank you in advance for your time and participation, as well as your loyalty and service to the Cincinnati Chapter.

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Chapter Administrator's Note

JOIN THE EXPRESS LANE!

By Anne Campbell

“I realized it was the express lane, I just didn’t realize how express!”

That was a comment heard by one of the attendees at the November luncheon.  He had registered himself and two guests online and paid via the new system.  By doing so the three of them did not have to stand in line to be checked in.  All they had to do was pick up their nametags, drop their business card in the bowl for the door prize drawing and start their networking.  I’m sure if you asked them they would recommend the new registration system to you.

Another benefit to paying online is that all major credit cards are accepted.  If you wait to pay at the door we can only accept MasterCard and Visa.  At least three people tried to pay with their corporate American Express card at the November luncheon and instead had to use a personal MasterCard or Visa.  They commented that they will be sure to use the online system next time.

The system is still fairly new and we appreciate any feedback.  Some improvements have already been made based on your comments.  The process is fairly straightforward.  Go to the meetings page of our website, www.cincinnatiprsa.org and click on the link for the event you wish to register for.  You will be taken to a page to give your contact information as well as the names of any guests you would also like to register.  Once you click submit you will be taken to a shopping page to select a registration option (Member, Non-Member, etc.).  You will be given both “Buy Now” and “Add to Cart” options for the various registration rates.  If you are paying for just one reservation, simply click “Buy Now” next to the appropriate option and follow the payment procedures.  If you are paying for more than one reservation you will need to click the “Add to Cart” button for each rate (Member, Non-Member, Student) you need to use.  Once you are in your cart you can change the quantity for each rate.  For example, if you are paying for 3 members, just click on the “Add to Cart” button once next to the Member rate.  Once your shopping cart comes up you will need to change the quantity shown to 3 before checking out.  If you are paying for one member and one non-member you will need to click “Add to Cart” next to the Member rate.  Then click “Continue Shopping” from the shopping cart, which will return you to the page where you can click “Add to Cart” next to the Non-Member rate.  Be sure to double check your shopping cart and then check out.

Please forward any questions or comments to Anne Campbell, Chapter Administrator, acampbell@fuse.net.

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Chapter News

March PRSA Luncheon

Pictures Submitted by Lisa Desatnik

Group Membership Program

By Jonathan Kissell

PRSA group membership program offers incentives and benefits for large organizations to join with multiple representatives. The memberships are organization-owned and transferable among employees, if an employee changes departments or leaves the company. The program also provides the convenience of consolidated billing for all members. Finally, the group membership program maximizes savings for organizations by covering the costs of chapter dues or professional interest section fees during the first year.

To qualify, at least eight employees from an organization must join, and two may be current PRSA members. Please contact Malia Moore, PRSA membership development manager, for complete details about the program.

Malia.Moore@prsa.org

Cincinnati PRSA Joins the Social Media Scene

By Megan Licursi

There are numerous stories every day about the impact of Web 2.0.  As PR folks, we know firsthand how effective social media campaigns can be.  A startling factoid: Readers are three times more likely to act upon a recommendation seen in a blog as opposed to that same article appearing in traditional media.

I’m pleased to announce that the Cincinnati PRSA has joined Web 2.0 on Facebook and Twitter.  What is Twitter?  Well, that’s probably the subject of another newsletter article. Or a luncheon.  But, to quote one of our members, Kevin Dugan, @prblog, Twitter has the immediacy of instant messaging with the permanence of a blog.   Twitter is broken down into two groups: Followers and Followees. You choose people to follow based on your personal preferences:  relevant postings, industry colleagues, friends, they like the color blue, too, or any other reason, however obscure.  People choose to follow you for the same reason. 

The media are one of the early-adopters of Twitter. One local reporter, Gregory Korte at the Enquirer, @gregorykorte, regularly posts (aka “tweets”) requests for sources. CNN tweets their breaking news. To see the evergrowing list of media on Twitter, check out:  http://mediaontwitter.pbwiki.com/United+States+-+NATIONAL.  Here’s a list of Ohio reporters on Twitter:  http://mediaontwitter.pbwiki.com/United+States%3A+O+-+Z. 

Our Young Pros group took the lead, creating a twitter ID, @cinprsanewpros.  The rest of the chapter followed suite on Twitter. Come follow us at @CincinnatiPRSA. 

On the Facebook front, the Cincinnati PRSA chapter now has a group page:  http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=48730262862.  Join us here to see photos from past luncheons, discuss subjects such as luncheon speakers and brown bag topics. And, to talk trash about the Blacksmith’s!

PRSAY Helps Build Bridge

By Jonathan Kissell

In January, PRSA launched a new blog, PRSAY, to connect members with the PRSA leaders. We encourage you to take advantage of this excellent opportunity to engage in dialogue and offer perspective about integral aspects of your professional career. The first several posts came from PRSA Chair and CEO Michael Cherenson, APR, making him available to listen to your comments and suggestions.

PRSAY is one of the many valuable components of a PRSA membership. Please take a moment to check it out at prsay.prsa.org.

2009 Chapter Dues

Dear PRSA Cincinnati Chapter member:
 
We hope that your membership in PRSA continues to provide value to you, even in this challenging economic environment. Over the past few years, we've provided luncheon programs that feature industry leaders sharing best practices in media relations, online social networking, diversity, green PR efforts and more. We give members a chance to showcase their best work at our Blacksmiths Award competition. We've held networking events for chapter members to get together informally, and have a new professionals group to help those new to the industry. We offer APR preparation classes to help members get to the industry standard of excellence.
 
Of course, all these programs cost money. For the past 7 years, we've held the line on chapter dues increases while our costs continue to increase.  Unfortunately, this year we need to make a small increase in Cincinnati chapter dues to keep in line with chapter administrative costs. We continue to run a "lean" operation, with most of the chapter's work being done by volunteer board and committee members. So, we are raising Cincinnati chapter dues $5 for 2009, putting us in line with similarly-sized chapters in Columbus and Cleveland.
 
In addition to increased administrative costs, the cost of our monthly
luncheon programs also continues to increase. We endeavor to seek out venues that offer the best value for our luncheon programs and are pleased to announce that we are keeping luncheon costs the same for members in 2009. To further increase member value, we will be announcing an opportunity to purchase a block of luncheons at a discount. We will, however, be increasing the nonmember lunch rate to $35. This cost increase puts us in line with the nonmember lunch rates offered by similar marketing/advertising groups in the Greater Cincinnati area.
 
We appreciate your understanding and are proud of the wonderful group of professionals that choose to be a part of this chapter. We hope we continue to provide a strong value for your professional development dollar.
 
Regards,
 
Cincinnati PRSA Board and Leadership Team
PRSA Cincinnati Chapter
PO Box 43242
Cincinnati, OH 45243
www.cincinnatiprsa.org
513-792-0402

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Mark Your Calendar

Tuesday, April 14 - Monthly Luncheon / Light Lunch Session

Distilling the Twitter Hype

Love it or hate it, there’s no denying Twitter’s popularity. Even celebrities like Ellen DeGeneres, Martha Stewart and Ashton Kutcher are talking about Twitter – and using it.

What is Twitter? How can you use it to engage with key stakeholders?  What should you be “tweeting”? Who should you be following? Join Cincinnati’s own Kevin Dugan as he provides insight  at Cincinnati PRSA’s first light lunch session. Session moderator Jackie Reau will facilitate your questions and offer additional insight. Learn how you can effectively use Twitter to build awareness, engage key audiences and build your own social media presence.

SPONSORED BY:

Luncheons are typically held on the second Tuesday of each month but may vary depending on speaker and location availability.

Click here to check out further details on upcoming luncheons and other events on the Cincinnati Chapter’s website.  (http://www.cincinnatiprsa.org/meetings.htm)

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Accreditation Corner

Boost Your Career by Earning Your APR

By Debbie Copeland-Bloom, APR

Thinking about earning your APR? There’s never been a better time. On April 9th find out why by joining a free webinar, Accelerate Your Career in Public Relations.

Jenny Schade, communications strategist, discusses how to grow your career in tough times like these. Next, she leads a discussion among PR pros who share how their careers were enhanced by earning their certifications.

Don’t miss this free webinar:

Accelerate Your Career, Thursday, April 9, 3-4 p.m. EDT

Read more about accreditation on the PRSA National Web site, www.praccreditation.org .

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Diversity Section

March is Women's History Month

By Dawn Woods, APR

Susan B. Anthony

Why is it important for us to recognize Women’s history?  Isn’t discrimination and violence against women a thing of the past especially when we see women such as Hillary Clinton and Sarah Palin making impactful runs for the highest offices in our nation?  Also, why do we need to think about this when many of the practitioners in our field are women? And is drawing attention to these issues self-serving or of value to the corporations we serve?

When I hear comments like this, I only need to take a moment to look at the facts:

• Only since 1920 was the 19th Amendment to the Constitution passed giving women the right to vote and hold public office.
• In a poll conducted by Lifetime Television and the Center for Policy Alternatives, working women ranked equal pay as a top priority for Congress in 2001. Overall, 93% of African-American women, 91% of Latinas, 90% of Asian-American women, and 87% of white women said equal pay and benefits for women should be one of the top policy priorities in the United States.
• According to the U.S. Department of Justice, between 1998 and 2002, 84% of spouse abuse victims were females, and 86% of victims of dating partner abuse at were female.
• According to the National Violence Against Women Survey, women are more likely to be victims of sexual violence than men: 78% of the victims of rape and sexual assault are women and 22% are men

Suffice it to say, disparities are pervasive.  As practitioners, it is important that as we endeavor to promote the brands of our clients and employers that we also raise the quality of our communications by becoming more educated on the trends in our communities and the impact that our communications are having on the common good in particular for those who have been underserved.

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Media Day

Looking for Committee Members
By Sarah Pasquinucci, APR

If you are looking to get more involved in PRSA, the Media Day Committee is looking for members. Media Day is our biggest event of the year, and gives committee members an opportunity to be a part of an amazing event with well-known professionals. The event takes place in the fall and meetings will start next month. If you are interested, please contact Sarah Pasquinucci at Pasquinucci.sm@pg.com or 513-983-2324.

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New Professionals

New Professionals

By Darcy Little

“New Pro” Am Day

Hey, New Pros!  Would you like to give back to the college communities from which thou came?  Here’s your chance!

This year’s “New Pro” Am Day:

• College students from all over are being invited to shadow a Cincinnati New Pro on Thursday, April 23 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. 

  Following the shadowing experience, students and new pros are also invited to attend a Happy Hour for appetizers, drinks and networking. The location is scheduled for Margaritas in Tower Place Mall (28 West Fourth St.) downtown.

• If you would like to host a student, send an email to Allison Brinkman and Lauren Boettcher at proamday@gmail.com by Friday, April 3. Include your name, alma mater, workplace and any special requests you might have.
• You will be contacted the week of April 6 with exact details, including the name and contact information of the student you will be hosting.

Previous Event Recap

In March, we hosted a combined happy hour with the AMA YPs at BlackFinn and had an absolute BLAST!  About 25-30 people showed up, networked and enjoyed food and drinks (the quesadillas, especially, were pretty darn amazing).  Did you miss it?  Never fear!  Where there are young professionals, there are happy hours.  You bet your bottom dollar there will be more!

Young PR Pros and the “R” Word:
How Do We Deal?
By Darcy Little
Published in National PRSA’s New Pros’ Newsletter

Gen Y?  More like: “Gen Why Me?”

At least that’s how it’s been lately.

The “R” word has been an unwelcome guest to the marketing and PR industry.  Clients and companies are slicing budgets, and unfortunately, marketing communications is often one of the first departments to be reduced.  Then layoffs come knocking on the door.

According to Meridith Levinson in a November 2008 CIO.com piece entitled “Why Gen Y is Unprepared to Survive Recession,” experts agree that the recession “could come as a complete shock” to Gen Yers.  Until now, we were showered with optimism, as generational experts claim.  But now lay-offs permeate the news and for some of us, that optimism is slipping away. 

Our age and experience level – both uncontrollable factors – have us near the bottom of that staff totem pole.

But keep positive.  A number of ways exist to help you – the new pro – show your supervisors the value you bring to the table.  Though HR decisions are oftentimes out of our control, it’s possible to push against the layoff possibility as hard as you can.

Keep positive and trust the experts.  Even in March 2008, recession was on the minds of many.  Though 2009 is quite different from Q1 2008, sound advice remains sound advice.  Fortune senior writer, Anne Fisher, provided eight ways to “recession-proof your job” in an “Ask Annie” commentary.  Five of these steps are particularly relevant to new pros.  Here they are with a PR twist:

• “Be visible:” Make your presence known.  Show your enthusiasm for PR.
• “Talk up your contributions.”  Did your client compliment you personally?  Tell your boss!
• “Keep a broad perspective.”  Learn about other facets of your business, like media buying or operations.
• “Get Your Skills Up to Date.”  You have social media savvy.  Turn that savvy into strategy.
• “No whining allowed.”  Use your great PR attitude toward clients and the media internally too.

Fisher also advised professionals to “never stop networking,” “think of ways to generate revenues or cut costs” and “update your resume, return headhunters’ phone calls and start picturing where else you might like to work – just in case.”

Those last three words are important: just in case.  If downsizing occurs, and you are let go, keep in mind that it’s not your fault.  Remember: it probably wasn’t an easy decision for your company to lose you either.  Be positive – above all else, don’t lose hope.  This is a small glitch in the grand scheme of your career.

Here’s another chance for you to put your social media savvy to good use: join PR job groups on Facebook, update your Twitter that you’re looking for work and follow movers and shakers, research your connections’ connections on LinkedIn for headhunters, look for other industry-related social media outlets (i.e. agencyscoop.com), write blog entries about your strengths and status, etc.  (Make sure those Facebook profiles are rated G, too!)

Network.  Attend YP events and other professional events.  Let it be known that you’re looking and ask all your contacts to reach out to their contacts.  You’d be surprised how quickly word gets around when someone is out of a job.

Use PRSA to your advantage.  It was, after all, created for you.  Scan job banks on city chapters’ Web sites and, if you have access, upload your resume.  PRSA.org also hosts a Job Center so you can look for jobs in other areas, too.

But if your company downsizes and you’re still on the payroll, be prepared for morale to be a little low for a while.  But it will pick back up.  Again, stay positive and show your supervisors the professional you are.

Though being on the bottom of that professional totem pole seems dire, think of it this way: In many cases, being a young professional right now might be an advantage.  Your salary is probably not as large of a financial investment for your company as those of more senior professionals.  More or less, you are fresh from college with new ideas, new skills and were probably trained in the actual art of public relations more so than older pros.  In short, you have a lot going for you, and you should remember – and prove - that when times get tough.

Eventually our country will recover.  When it does, look back at what happened to you during the recession and how you handled it.  Think of it as a learning experience – just like everything else we’re encountering in our early careers.

Social Media

You can now follow Cincinnati’s PRSA New Pros on Twitter: @CinPRSANewPros!

Join our Facebook group, too (you must be in the Cincinnati FB network to have access): “PRSA New Professionals Cincinnati Chapter.”

Call for speakers

Would you be interested in sharing your experience with the PRSA New Pros?  We’d love to listen to your stories.  E-mail cincynewpros@yahoo.com if you’d like to be added to our speakers list!

Call for new members

If you’re a new or young professional, we’d be thrilled to have you at our events!  If you’d like to be added to the New Pros’ e-mail list, send a message to cincynewpros@yahoo.com.

2009 Cincinnati PRSA New Pros committee:

• Darcy Little, chair
• Lauren Boettcher
• Allison Brinkman
• Kristin Doige
• Ashley Van Sickle
• Brandy Williams

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Job Bank

Cincinnati’s PRSA’s Job Bank

By Maureen Richmond

Looking for some economic stimulus in your life? Hoping to bail out of your current position into something bigger and better? Seeking to end unemployment in your corner of the world? Take a moment to review the Cincinnati PRSA Job Bank, http://www.cincinnatiprsa.org/jobBank/index.php.

This valuable resource connects local employers with talented professionals working to make a difference in the region’s communications landscape. Career opportunities are updated regularly, and participation is free for members.

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Sponsorships

Is Cincinnati’s PRSA Chapter the right platform to spread your message?

Just ask yourself two simple questions.

By Ashley Walters

• Do you want your message in the hands of 250 of the cities best and brightest PR professionals, decision makers and leading influencers?

• Does reaching 165 diverse organizations sound appealing?

If you answered yes to either of those questions then you are at the right place. Below are the exciting sponsorship opportunities available for Cincinnati’s PRSA Chapter this year.

If you don’t find what you are looking for, don’t worry. Give us a call and we will help create a specialized sponsorship package that meets your individual needs.

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Corporate Sponsor - $1,500 (August 2009 – July 2010)

• One ticket to every monthly luncheon - $230 value
• Right of first refusal for presenting sponsor at the Blacksmiths 2010
• Logo displayed on Cincinnati’s PRSA Web site for 12 months
• Logo on every postcard and meeting reminder
• One Program Sponsorship of your choice - $500 value (see Program Sponsor for more details)
• Five entries into our Sponsor Drawing (see Sponsor Drawing for more details)

NOTE: The corporate sponsor is an exclusive offering that will only include one company, agency or non-profit. It is on a first come, first served basis.

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Program Sponsors - $500 (maximum of two sponsors per month)

• Two tickets to program - $46 value
• Two minutes to speak about service/company before luncheon
• Ability to have a trade show booth, provided by sponsor
• Logo on all meeting materials
• Logo on Web site during month of the meeting
• Ability to put materials on tables during the meeting
• Ability to give away a prize - collect business cards
• One entry into our Sponsor Drawing

NOTE: This year we will be accepting up to two program sponsors. These sponsors cannot be competing businesses. It is on a first come, first served basis.

Additional Opportunities

In addition to our luncheon sponsorships, we have other opportunities such as media day, happy hours, New Professionals events, brown bag lunches and Blacksmith Awards. Specialized sponsorship packages can be designed based on your specific needs.

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Sponsor Drawing

In December, we will hold a sponsor drawing. Each program sponsor gets one entry per sponsorship and the corporate sponsor gets five entries. The drawing winner will receive an ad on our home page for the entire year of 2010.

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Sponsorships can be secured up to 12 months in advance. You can secure a date, a subject (e.g., ethics luncheon) or a specific speaker once known. Because of the increased demand this year, we recommend you secure your spot as soon as possible.

For more information on any of the above please contact Ashley Walters at awalters@northlich.com 513-762-1783. We are excited to have you be a part of Cincinnati’s PRSA Chapter.

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Volunteer Bank

Connect2Success (C2S) Seeking Assistance

By Sherri Lung

Connect2Success (C2S) has a commitment to help school dropouts get back on the right track. C2S is a network of local organizations that focuses attention on the issues of school dropouts and engages the community to recapture the lost potential of youth in getting a high school diploma, GED, or vocational training and the skills/knowledge necessary to succeed in postsecondary education and a career. 

C2S is searching for a qualified volunteer to facilitate the creation of a marketing plan for the network. This work includes such activities as identifying target audiences, branding exercises, website direction, etc. The project can start immediately once the proper person is identified.

Please contact Khalilah Slater Harrington at harringtonkh@strivetogether.org or 513-929-1148 for more information.

Nonprofit for Elderly Needs Your Help!

Healthcare communications/marketing

By Nancy Lyons

PHC Foundation seeking PR help.  We want to get the word out to Cincinnati’s philanthropic community that there is an organization serving a seemingly forgotten generation right here at home. 

The PHC Foundation is a leader in providing home health care for low-income seniors in western Hamilton County.  PHC Foundation is the only independent (not affiliated with, nor supported by any national agency or charity), nonprofit home health care agency in western Hamilton County providing home health, personal care and homemaking services.

Certified Nurse’s Aides and Home Health Aides assist older adults with meal preparation, medication reminders, laundry, bathing, light housekeeping and companionship - under direct supervision of a Registered Nurse - in the privacy of their own homes.         

PHC Foundation’s clients are the poor, needy and elderly (at least 60 years of age) residents of western Hamilton County.  We serve an average of 65 seniors per year. 

Those who need our services are physically unable to perform everyday tasks without help.  Activities we take for granted every single day are simply unattainable for many older adults.

Any help with publicity, communications, writing, web, special events, etc. would be greatly appreciated!

We’re just trying to make a difference in our community and let people know that we’re out here.  Cincinnati’s elderly community will benefit by us reaching potential board members, volunteers and donors. For more information www.privatehcfoundation.org

Contact Information:

Nancy Lyons

Development Director

PHC Foundation

Nancy@privatehcfoundation.org

513-662-8999

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College View

University of Cincinnati PRSSA:

Miami University PRSSA:
http://www.orgs.muohio.edu/muprssa

Northern Kentucky University:

www.nkuprssa.org

Xavier University PRSSA:

Contact Taryn Kukucka, Member, 412-292-0699

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Visions Viewpoint

Hoping To Inspire Good Things Going Around With New Blog

By Lisa Desatnik

Do you know someone who has gone out of his or her way to make a difference in the lives of others? Lisa Desatnik, communication contractor and consultant, is looking to share positive stories of just plain goodness, stories that will serve to inspire more goodness. And thus, help keep good things going around. If you’ve got something to share for consideration, please contact Lisa at lisadesatnik@fuse.net or 513-984-5474. Her blog is located at www.goodthingsgoingaroundcincinnati.com

Pitch Guests & Topics to Business Focus

By Rodger Roeser, APR

Eisen Management Group president Rodger Roeser is returning to his roots and parlaying his success with current radio talk show That Marketing Show into its online television counterpart – Business Focus. The online show, which features many local and national business leaders, is slated to debut at www.eisenmanagementgroup.com in October. The show records at the Greater Cincinnati EMG location in downtown Newport, Kentucky in their new online television recording and editing studio. The show will also do remote shoots on location for certain high profile guests.

“Doing the news has always been in my blood, and I will always say that I am a news person first – always will be,” Roeser said. “Being a newspaper editor, and also working in broadcast for years helped shape how I approach public relations and marketing, and I believe that is a key reason why our clients and EMG have been so successful. This show is an extension of that success, and reflects things that I am truly passionate about – that is sharing expertise to make better business leaders and helping our business community to promote itself in this medium.” 

Roeser explained that the show will be a simple talk format with host and guest, and each segment will run approximately five minutes. Business leaders or their public relations representatives are encouraged to pitch show producers regarding guests and topics at businessfocus@eisenmanagementgroup.com.

This program continuing in 2009 … look for ID cards at a PRSA Luncheon

F.I.N.S. Program

(Flash ID –N- Save)

The F.I.N.S. program is designed to offer PRSA members an easy, short-step option toward purchasing tickets to the Newport Aquarium at a discount.

What is F.I.N.S.?  

F.I.N.S. is an acronym for “Flash ID -N- Save”.  When members come to the Newport Aquarium, have them show their organization’s ID badge at the ticket window.  The Newport Aquarium is able to provide preprinted cards with PRSA’s name on them to be distributed soon to members.  These cards will act as an ID badge.  The member and their guests will receive discounted ticket prices. (They must have their current, valid, organization ID to receive the discount.)  Showing their organization’s ID badge will provide a $2 discount for each adult and child ticket purchased and a $3 discount for every senior ticket purchased.  This discount will be taken off of the regular general admission price.

Some of the unique benefits of this program are:

• No out-of-pocket money needed prior to a visit.
• No worries about losing a paper ticket.
• Member discount applies every day of the year…. no expiration date.
• Discounts can be applied to every visit members make to the aquarium, as long as they show a current, valid, member ID badge at the ticket window.

The Newport Aquarium reserves the right to change the General Admission Price, and/or benefit(s) to the F.I.N.S. Program at any time during the Agreement. 

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Member/Agency/Company News

Northlich was honored with eleven awards at the 2008-2009 Advertising Club of Cincinnati ADDY Awards ceremony.

Request for News!
By Shasta Taber

If you, or you know someone, that is a member of the Cincinnati Chapter of PRSA that has received an award, been promoted or recently hired, or even their company/agency has received an award, or new client please share it with the rest of the chapter by submitting a short article to Shasta Taber, newsletter editor at srtaber@hotmail.com.  Articles submitted in a Microsoft Word document would be greatly appreciated.

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PRSA National News (from www.prsa.org)

“PRSA Diversity Today” Podcast Focuses Corporate Best Practices and Research in the GLBT Community

Show Features Experts in Gender and Diversity Issues

NEW YORK (March 17, 2009) — The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) offers public relations professionals insight into best practices in corporate America and important research in the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered (GLBT) community in its latest installment of “PRSA Diversity Today” podcast series. Produced in partnership with WebmasterRadio.FM, the podcast is a monthly series that reinforces the importance of diversity in today’s business and society.

Dr. Rochelle Larkin Ford, APR, hosted the following guests in the March 16 podcast:

• Chris Crespo is an inclusiveness consultant at Ernst & Young, where she leads the LGBTA inclusion efforts. She is actively involved in True Child, National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce, the Pittsburgh GLBT Corporate Roundtable and Out & Equal Workplace Advocates.
• Dr. Brenda J. Wrigley, APR, is chair of the Department of Public Relations at Syracuse University, where she teaches a variety of graduate and undergraduate courses at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications. Her primary research focus is gender and diversity in public relations.
• Travis Parman, APR, oversees national GLBT outreach at General Motors where he has executed programs such as the first gay day at an auto show and “Dating in the Fast Lane” — gay speed-dating in cars at pride events. Parman is an Accredited PRSA member and serves as the national professional adviser to the Public Relations Student Society of America.

Click here to listen to the March 16 podcast. The show alsois hosted on WebmasterRadio.FM on the PRSA Conference Channel. Subscribe to the show via an RSS feed or through iTunes, where you also can download the podcasts. At the iTunes Store, search for “PRSA,” and shows will be listed by date.

PRSA to Offer Free Education and Training Webinars to Members, Nonmembers

NEW YORK (March 11, 2009) — In light of current financial uncertainties affecting the U.S. economy, the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) is offering a series of educational and training webinars, free of cost. The free webinars, which will be available to PRSA members and nonmembers alike, will cover timely industry topics and are intended to aid the professional development of public relations practitioners who are facing financial hardships in the current economy.

“While the economic slump is affecting individuals in different ways and to varying degrees, PRSA wants to ensure that it does not cost them opportunities to broaden their professional skills,” says William Murray, PRSA president and COO. “We understand that professional development budgets are under tremendous pressure, so this is a great opportunity for industry professionals to sharpen their knowledge and skills, at a time when such opportunities may be beyond their reach.”

Two upcoming PRSA free webinars include:

Accelerate Your Career in Public Relations
Steps You Can Take Now to Prepare for Your Future
April 9, 3–4 p.m. EDT
Hear from Jenny Schade, communications strategist, and a panel of Accredited public relations practitioners about how to accelerate your public relations career when job opportunities are scarce. Click here to register for this webinar.

Proving and Improving PR’s Value and ROI
How So Many People Get It Wrong and How You Can Get It Right
May 5, 3–4 p.m. EDT
Join Mark Weiner, CEO of PRIME Research in North America, as he discusses the challenges facing the public relations profession in quantifying its value and return-on-investment (ROI). Learn how to uncover the value system within your own organization and develop public relations strategies and tactics which prove value and deliver ROI. Registration will be available in late April.

Also available is access to the playback of the March free webinar, “How Smart Measurement Can Help You Survive the Media Revolution.” This session surveys the largely uncharted terrain of today’s media landscape, the challenges it presents to public relations professionals and how a carefully conceived measurement program can help practitioners demonstrate their effectiveness in the new environment. Click here for the playback of this webcast.

PRSA is providing these webinars with the support of corporate partner, Thomson Reuters.

Additional free learning opportunities will be announced throughout the year. For more information on PRSA’s Professional Development offerings and a calendar of all upcoming events, click here.

PRSA's Jobcenter Launches New Job Mentoring Program Providing Expert Career Advice for Public Relations and Communications Professionals

Participants Receive Career Advice, Resume-Writing Tips and Interview Coaching From PRSA's Accredited Experts

NEW YORK (March 9, 2009) — Professionals using the Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA) Jobcenter will now find the site easier and more functional when searching for communications and public relations jobs. PRSA recently added “Job Mentor” and “Ask the Experts” (courtesy of College of Fellows) programs to the Career Resources portion of Jobcenter, making it a fully featured career resource site that offers more information and easy-to-use functionalities for job seekers and employers.

Jobcenter provides job seekers access to free advice from a job mentor who is a career expert in resume writing, interviewing techniques and building networks. Job seekers also can access the “Ask the Experts,” which allows them to pose questions regarding what to say and not say in interviews, how to respond to salary requirement queries, what to do if submitting resumes but not getting interviews, and much more.

“These two newly launched Jobcenter programs give job seekers the edge they need in today’s market,” said PRSA President and COO William Murray. “The PRSA Jobcenter provides career development tools and expert advice to aid job seekers in securing their first job, advancing in their field or transitioning into the public relations and communications industry.”

PRSA also continues to engage TopRank Online Marketing to provide search engine optimization and promotion services to extend the visibility of Jobcenter listings on Web sites, such as Google, Yahoo and Microsoft Live. TopRank works with some of the largest companies on the Internet.

PRSA Submits Comments to FTC on Use of Endorsements & Testimonials

To read the letter please click http://media.prsa.org/article_display.cfm?article_id=1238

Attention PRSA Members: Take Advantage of Preferred Insurance Rates
New Insurance Offerings for Members and Chapters Now Available

NEW YORK (Feb. 18, 2009) — The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) announces a new member benefit that allows you to get the insurance coverage you need for you, your family and your business at preferred rates. The new program includes health, dental and life insurance for members or their families, and general liability, directors and officers, and errors and omissions insurance for your business. The general liability insurance also is available to Chapters for special events.

“PRSA is pleased to extend the insurance benefits program, which members may find cost-effective for their families and businesses,” said William Murray, PRSA president & COO.  “We’ve made this available as a pass-through benefit for our members — so they’ll be getting the best deal the broker has available, with PRSA having no financial stake in the transaction.”

This new program replaces insurance programs previously available to PRSA members and Chapters. Members receive preferred rates through PRSA's insurance broker. Below is a sampling of products offered to members:

• Health Insurance — covers medical and hospital expenses for individuals and organizations. Plans vary by state.
• Dental — covers treatments and services, including orthodontics. Plans are available to corporations, individuals and their families.
• Business Office Insurance — covers against “all risks” to the contents of your office, extra expenses incurred if you are unable to use your office space, as well as General Liability/Special Event Liability. Limits available up to $5 million.
• Public Relations Professional Liability — protects your business from lawsuits against an error of omission. Limits available up to $5 million.
• Cyber/Internet Liability — protects your intellectual property if your laptop computer is lost or stolen.

For more information, log in to MemberNet and click on Member Benefits.

Search Thousands of Public Relations Jobs for Communications Professionals on PRSA’s Updated Jobcenter
Job Seekers Can Post Resumes Anonymously at No Cost; Pre-Screened Filters Helps Employers Narrow Down Candidates

NEW YORK (June 16, 2008) Using the Public Relations Society of America’s (PRSA) Jobcenter is now easier and more functional than ever when searching for communications and public relations jobs. PRSA recently launched the updated and redesigned Jobcenter, which is now a fully featured career resource site that offers more information and easy-to-use functionalities for job seekers and employers.

Posting a resume is FREE, and an anonymous resume posting option for job seekers is now available. Career resources also include a job alert system, career search management, access to Job Bulletin, a weekly e-newsletter, and a library offering more than 100 career-based articles. Posting a resume on Jobcenter provides members with career resources and access to a public relations and communications targeted community of more than 32,000 members, including more than 9,900 students, as well as a database of 45,000 public relations, corporate communications and other communication professionals from across the country.

“The PRSA Jobcenter now contains enhanced career development tools in a more user friendly platform,” said PRSA President and COO William Murray. “As the world’s largest and most targeted association for public relations professionals, it was only fitting for us to develop one of the most robust public relations and communications job centers in the industry. Our newly launched Jobcenter guides job seekers and employers with career-related articles, filtering capabilities, easy access for viewing resumes and job postings, career mentoring and increased coverage of listings for the functional areas of public relations, communications and marketing.”

Employers now have the benefit of pre-screen filters, bulk posting and a user-friendly candidate management system. Moreover, PRSA has developed a new heavily discounted pricing structure for members. A targeted public relations job board, designed for job seekers, saves time for employers when identifying prospects since candidates are asked their location preferences, job specializations and salary requests. 

In addition to enhancing the Jobcenter design and functionality, PRSA has engaged TopRank Online Marketing to provide search engine optimization and promotion services to extend the visibility of Jobcenter listings on Web sites, such as Google, Yahoo and Microsoft Live. TopRank works with some of the largest companies on the Web.

Make a Difference - PRSA is Seeking Volunteers!

(found in March 2007 PRVisions)

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National PRSA Calendar of Events (March & April)

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Past PRVisions Issues

February 2009

January 2009

December 2008

November 2008

October 2008

September 2008

August 2008

July 2008

June 2008

May 2008

April 2008

March 2008

February 2008

January 2008

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