What Ripple Effect will Currents 2012 Have on PR?

Every year, a different city from one coast of the country to the other plays host to the annual Canadian Public Relations Society conference. This year, CPRS National will bring Canada’s premier public relations and communications event to Victoria, B.C. The Canadian Public Relations Society is proud to provide a professional and entertaining conference to communicators across Canada.

Currents 2012 will offer delegates an exceptional three-day experience from June 10-12, where they’ll fill their days with professional development workshops and keynote presentations and their nights with planned social activities. CBC Radio listeners might recognize one of the confirmed keynote speakers, Anna Maria Tremonti, host of CBC Radio’s The Current. Tremonti will address delegates on the second day of the conference.

CPRS takes the old adage “save the best for last” to heart as the National Awards of Excellence Gala and Dinner will recognize the best communications campaigns in Canada on the final night of the conference.

As an advocate for the public relations and communications industry, CPRS wants to advance the profession by helping delegates enhance their careers through the workshops offered during the conference. These will cover an array of topics that include ethics and crisis communications, internal communications, trends in communications, and social media.

Come see what CPRS is doing for its members. Among the many conference workshops, CPRS offers several Society-themed sessions that focus on informing CPRS members about professional accreditation (APR), career mentoring (with CPRS Fellows) and media measurement (MRP). The CPRS National Council on Education is also hosting the second annual CPRS Poster Session. Public relations educators, graduate students and industry practitioners will present innovative research in the field of PR.

The benefits of attending Currents 2012 don’t end when PD workshops or keynote presentations finish. Combine the best of work and play with Victoria amenities and attractions, which provide that extra getaway time to soak in the West Coast climate. Over the course of the conference, delegates will be given the unique opportunity to network with fellow communicators from a range of industries from across Canada. In a profession as connected as PR, this conference provides an opportunity to strengthen old relationships and develop new ones with practitioners throughout the industry.

The marketplace is changing as quickly as the tides. Is your public relations strategy ship-shape?

Check victoria2012.cprs.ca for more information on the conference or join the conversation on Twitter: @CPRS2012 and #CPRS2012

The Alberta Election is April 23 – Pencil it in!

Soon you will be standing at the ballot box, pencil in hand. Soon we will know who the next premier of Alberta will be. Or will our new premier be our old premier? Only time will tell.

Many public relations practitioners are following the race closely, knowing full well the role government plays in their everyday lives. Those watching closely know this race is different than those before it: more drama, more intrigue, more rhetoric.

I had a chance to catch up with noted political pundit and author, Dr. David Taras, who holds the Ralph Klein Chair in Media Studies at Mount Royal University. I asked Dr. Taras if he thought television debates were still important in a social media world. He believes that these televised debates are more important than ever, and that there should be more than one. “It is a chance to compare leaders when they are out of their media bubbles. The camera brings a level of intimacy and, for many of us, this is the first time we get to see the leaders for any length of time.” Indeed, the 10-second media sound bite leaves a lot to be desired when trying to determine the future leader of our province.

As communicators, we talk of messaging often. So how well are our potential leaders doing on that front? Dr. Taras says Alison Redford has done a “terrible” job. “She started out in the first week apologizing and in the second week she made a series of health care proposals that drew fire from the doctors; she would have been better off to brand herself as the ‘education premier’ and then start her messaging around building schools.” As for Danielle Smith, Dr. Taras says things started out pretty well but her campaign has lost some of its steam lately. “She started out with a good news story everyday; the critics couldn’t catch up with her – it was a brilliant strategy. Then she ran out of good news announcements and the controversial stuff came out – crazy statements by candidates, issues with climate change and talk of the Alberta firewall.”

So what happens next? Well that’s up to you, you’re the one with the pencil.

 By Jeremy Berry, APR
CPRS Calgary Board Secretary

 

Can You Keep A Secret?

What if it is hush-hush news about the most popular couple in the world and is so big, it has international implications? That was the challenge four local public relations professionals faced last year leading up to the University of Calgary Royal Visit featuring newlyweds “Will and Kate”.  This Thursday, join Colleen Killingsworth MCM, APR, ABC, FCPRS, Susan Mide Kiss, Lisa Rushka APR and Bonnie Elgie APR as they share a behind-the-scenes look at one of the biggest events in the university’s – and the city of Calgary’s – history!

While it was a media relations dream, there were also many challenges with logistics, protocol, approvals and more. Find out about all that goes into hosting a Royal Visit and what it meant to the University of Calgary in the moment, as well as the implications for today and in the future. This dynamic team will reveal the code name for the communications operation, the details behind what Will and Kate saw and how the Royal Visit is still impacting the university today.

Register today and join us for lunch this Thursday, March 15th. Networking starts at 11:15, lunch is served at 11:45 and the presentation begins at 12:05.

Breakfast with Redford

Communication skills are often the difference between success and failure in politics. An elected official’s ability to convey complex issues and nuanced solutions in clear, direct language is fundamental to their success, particularly during elections and leadership contests.  Currently, three such excellent communicators remain in contention for the leadership of the Progressive Conservative Association of Alberta, the winner of which will be the 14th Premier of Alberta.

Tomorrow CPRS Calgary is  lucky to have one of the three candidates, Alison Redford, the MLA for Calgary-Elbow, joining us for breakfast at the Fairmont Palliser. The good news is that there’s still limited space for available for CPRS members and public, if you would like to attend.

The full details are here and you can register right here.

Saint John pours on the hospitality

We all know that Atlantic Canada knows how to party. The opening reception at the Hatheway Pavilion at Lily Lake proved the point.

The weather on June 5 started out dreary and overcast, but by the afternoon it was warm and welcoming. By the time the pink double-decker buses showed up, everyone was eager to hang out with their fellow practitioners. Following a brief guided tour of the city highlights, we arrived at Lily Lake where a reception committee of caped and masked “super heroes” (along with a small man with a big voice and a top hat) ushered us into the building (see photo 1). Throughout the evening, the super heroes were not far away (see photo 2).

Other reminders of the conference theme included special martinis — like the green ”Mutation” — and other mysterious concoctions, plus an endless array of appetizers like fiddlehead chowder and super tasty scallops. All of this was made possible by CNW, the event’s sponsor.

Truly, the weather and lakeside location made for a beautiful evening, but it wasn’t just a schmooze fest. Our super heroes made sure guests parked their beers to participate in canoe races, rock climbing, geocaching and other activities. Lots of laughs, as you can imagine, but also plenty of time for relaxed conversation after a full day of conference content.  It was indeed a super start to a super conference.

Pat Hammond, APR

Photo 1

Top hat man greets folks at Lily Lake

 

Photo 2

Super heroes greet CPRS delegates at Lily Lake

 

Educators Roundtable, Saint John, NB

This morning at the CPRS National Conference in Saint John, NB I had the distinct pleasure of participating in what is dubbed the “National Educators Roundtable”. This year, for the first time, CPRS welcomed submissions (abstracts) from academics, practitioners and students; those accepted produced a poster and presented it at the session. The topics were fascinating, ranging from social media in PR education to executive perceptions of PR management competencies to immigrant women’s perceptions of health care in Canada. In the room were representatives from McGill University, Seneca College, Algonquin College, Mount Saint Vincent University, McMaster University, Camosun College, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Universite de Montreal, Universite Laval, Thornley Fallis and Mount Royal University. Representation from most of the country, well done!

I was fortunate to present at the “Roundtable”. My poster outlined some recent research I have done with colleagues Dr. Rick Cole and Dr. Larry Hembroff at Michigan State University looking at the declining writing skills of entry-level PR practitioners across North America. If you are interested in this topic I encourage you to read the inaugural edition of the Journal of Professional Communication, set for release in July. You can see the table of contents for the upcoming publication here. We are also posting the posters on our Slideshare site.

CPRS Calgary’s Colleen Killingsworth, MCM, APR, FCPRS also presented at the “Roundtable”. Her research, and subsequent poster, looks to understand the value and importance execs place on the PR function and identify which competencies and credentials are most important. Colleen surveyed 436 executives and executed multiple focus groups across the country to collect her data. Her presentation, like all the others, was interesting, thought provoking and a launching point for future research.

This looks to be the start of more conversations like this and I am already looking forward to what Victoria has in store… but I must remain in the present and continue to enjoy beautiful Saint John. Thanks to the organizers of the National Educators Roundtable, excellent work.

PS: For those of you at the conference, the posters are in the main hallway so have a look and let us know what you think.

Jeremy Berry, APR
Twitter: @prwithjb

You Don’t Build Your Business, Your Business Builds You

Beth Diamond, Managing Partner, NATIONAL Public Relations, captivated the crowd with her charm, her wit and her authentic tales of how she rose from an independent communications consultant to building a multi-million dollar a year business through National Public Relations in Calgary. Diamond was the keynote speaker on Friday, January 28, 2011 at the Ranchman’s Club for the CPRS/IABC Joint Event called “Building Your Communications Consulting Business.”

“What business has taught me,” says Diamond, “Is that you don’t build your business, your business builds you.”

Starting her practice in 1987, armed with her degree in Victorian Literature and the self-confidence of a young woman who could “punctuate better than anyone.” Diamond decided she had what it took to be a successful communications consultant.

While there was not a doubt in the crowd that Diamond had a lot more skill than simply a knowledge of the Bronte’s and how to use a semi-colon, Diamond had much to share that many of us could relate to.

“You can’t do it alone,” says Diamond.  “While I started as a sole proprietor, I quickly learned that I couldn’t do it all by myself.” Diamond’s belief in this is not purely financial. She says it’s also from an emotional point of view as you need someone to be part of the tears and the celebrations.  Diamond and Judi Gunter, APR now of Gunter + Associates, became partners under the Diamond Gunter Group. They continued to build their business together until they decided to part ways because they had differing opinions of where they wanted to take the business.

“We were best friends then, and remain best friends today because we knew when to part ways as business partners,” says Diamond.

Also on the subject of friendship and business, Diamond told the crowd that clients and friends are different animals.  “You should like your clients, but they are not your friends.  Keep a sense of perspective,” counsels Diamond.  “Would your client come home early from their trip to Mexico for you?”

On finances, Diamond stresses the importance of keeping your finances in order.  “In my early days as a consultant, I used to have a ‘if I was hit by a bus’ number,” says Diamond.  “That’s how much money I would be left with after I paid my staff and other business expenses.  Always know that number for your own business.” Diamond also advised the group of consultants in the room to write a business plan for their own business – every year — and to focus on service, not on money.  “If you focus on service, explains Diamond.  “You will deliver results and the money will come.”

Another topic which most of the crowd holds dear to their heart is the question of work/life balance. Many in the crowd had gone into business for themselves for that reason.  What did Diamond have to say about that? “Balance is a myth,” says Diamond.  “What’s important is, are you happy? Balance is about loving what you do. Your life is not a pie chart that can be carved into three or four equal parts.”

In conclusion, Diamond acknowledges that her road to success was not a typical path. Today, you need more training in communications to be successful.  And you need to stay current in the field.  And what she has learned will help her do what she does longer.

“Don’t get old!” says Diamond.  “Stay interested in your business.  We are really lucky.  As communications consultants we get to pick whatever 20 hours a day we want to work.”

Isn’t that the truth.  What is clear is that communications consultants are consultants because they want to be.  They are passionate about their work, their life and their business.  Beth Diamond is an inspiring role model.  And we are grateful that she chose our group to be one of the only three speeches she has given in her 30 year career to date.

Susan Elford, APR, is the Director, Independent  Practioners for CPRS Calgary. You can reach her via email at: director1@cprscalgary.com.

They Came in Droves: Building Your Communications Consulting Business

They came in droves – or so it seemed.  We didn’t know what to expect, never before having organized a conference geared specifically to independent communications consultants.  But with the event’s workshop being sold out almost two weeks before the event, and a waitlist with people clamouring to get in whatever way they could, we knew we had struck a chord.

“I felt like I was handing out winning lottery tickets,” said Susan Elford, CPRS conference organizer.  “We had a few people who couldn’t attend at the last minute so there I was, the night before the event, calling people on the waitlist who were overjoyed to get a spot.  One consultant who I notified at 8pm at night even travelled from Edmonton very early the next morning just to attend the event.”

Clearly, the event’s popularity was the combination of:

• a fabulous keynote speaker – Beth Diamond, Managing Partner, NATIONAL Public Relations,
• a sextet of facilitated workshops to choose from led by tremendously talented individuals, and
• the opportunity to network with their peers in a concise, well-priced and inviting atmosphere.

“It was also fabulous to partner with the local chapter of IABC on this event,” said Elford.  “It really augmented the volunteer resources required to organize the event and increased the cross-promotion of the event substantially.  I would definitely do it again.”

Consultants are already asking when the ‘next one’ will be.  To this, Elford says, “All that is required is consistent interest from our member volunteers.  So if you are interested in getting involved, be sure to drop me a line at director1@cprscalgary.com.”

“Why Should I Hire You?” – an event for PR students on January 26th

Public relations students, are you looking for a leg up on your peers in securing your next PR job?

Next Wednesday, January 26 is Why Should I Hire You?

What:

• 25 minute mock interviews with two senior PR practioners
• Helpful insights on your resume and cover letter
• Great tips on how to give a great job interview

When: Wednesday January 26th. Registration: 5:30 pm Event: 6pm – 8:30 pm.

Where: Kahanoff Conference Centre, 200, 1202 Centre St. SE

Light snacks and beverages will be provided.

$15 for CPRS members – $20 for non members

Space is limited, so register today with Meaghan, your CPRS Calgary student rep: macarrie@ucalgary.ca

Mara’s Message

The CPRS Calgary Independent Consultants Group (a.k.a. The Indys) have a message to share from Mara Osis of Amati Business Group about what small business owners can learn by reflecting on the meaning of Christmas.

Mara will be facilitating one of the discussion tables at the up-coming, jointly sponsored PD morning geared to the independent consultants in our midst.  You can register for this January 28 event, held from 8 a.m to noon at The Ranchmen’s Club, on the events page on the CPRS Calgary website.

Mara’s Message

There are so many ways to celebrate the holiday season: spiritually; socially; by giving and receiving; or by taking time for retreat and reflection. We can get merry, get connected, get overwhelmed or simply get away from the routines of the rest of the year.

‘Tis the season when gifts are top-of-mind. But we can get so “wrapped up” in gifts for others that we miss an opportunity to think of gifts we can give ourselves.

A popular carol about the twelve days of Christmas speaks of a true love’s gifts on each of the days that fall between Christmas and the beginning of Epiphany, the day on which the three wise men found and “revealed” the birth of Jesus to the world.

Instead of dealing with a partridge in a pear tree, we can have our own epiphanies - moments of clarity - by reflecting on gifts that are available to us any time we choose.

Here are three:

Hope

The Christmas story is about many things, but most certainly it is about hope. As business owners, we have seen our share of dark times lately, but to abandon hope is to lose our energy and drive, dismiss the extent of our resources and talents, forget our capacity to dream big.

Hopelessness also conceals the wisdom and strength that has seen us through life trials before. Serial entrepreneurs are a great example of those who never lose hope: time after time, they lift themselves up, dust off the damage, and start again.

“To travel hopefully is better than to arrive.”
(R.L. Stevenson)

Learning

We can learn from both good experiences and bad, but adversity and setbacks can be better opportunities for learning that “sticks”. To gain the most from a bad experience, we need to avoid blame and shame, and make sure to apply the lessons…so we only have to learn them once. We can reflect on what we learn about ourselves, as well as how to deal with the circumstances.

We also have to “infect” those around us with a learning mindset. Demonstrate tolerance for calculated risk-taking, and dig deep to find the lessons when things go sideways.

“It’s what you learn after you know it all that counts.”
(John Wooden)

Help

Our culture celebrates self-reliance and independence. That may be why accepting the gift of help is a struggle for many business owners. Yet the most successful entrepreneurs are often those who are open to help. They build strong work teams, but they also use industry mentors, expert advisors, coaches and other professionals to help them BE better and DO better.

Getting help may involve hearing what we don’t want to hear, but it does create accountability, and brings us face to face with the avoidance and denial that can keep a business stuck – or even cripple it.

“Asking for help is a sign of strength.”