Publicity: Nailing an Media Interview, Part II (Crisis Management)Written by Ned Steele
We'd all like reporters to ask us about our career successes and personal triumphs—heck, we'd all like anyone to ask us about those. But reporters must look out for their clients, reading public. Think about it from your own perspective as an investor—when you read a story about a company, you want to know that reporter has asked difficult questions, not just relied on PR hype.So don't get offended when reporters ask tough or skeptical questions. It’s their job. Chances are an unhappy customer, unwilling prospect, or unfriendly rival has dished out worse to you! No matter how uncomfortable line of questioning, never, ever, mislead, attempt to conceal crucial facts, tell an untruth, or otherwise try to manipulate media. We all know that lying is wrong, but that's not only reason that I always oppose it. Aside from any moral considerations, misleading media always backfires in end. Sometimes, way sooner.
| | Unique Gift Items - 3 Creative IdeasWritten by Cindy Carrera
With promotional items there are standards: t-shirts, mugs, note cubes, calendars, magnets and keychains. Then, there is really creative. Sometimes with a specific campaign, you may want to go above and beyond and really start a buzz about your company. This is not to say that creativity always costs more money. In fact, a really cheap promotional item can go a long way if right message is attached. For example, first idea stems from a friend of mine who worked at a career school. She is ever so quirky and wanted to create a fun item for an upcoming career fair. Backscratchers Whose back doesn't itch? That's when Donna came up with idea to get backscratchers printed with this saying: "Itchin' for a new career?" and then school's name. Her boss through she was brilliant and approved item. The idea was fun and simple, and it worked. People circled around gymnasium carrying bags full of literature and actively scratching their backs. It helped that her booth also was giving away some bigger items that required people to fill out entry blanks, which kept people at table longer. The item caught on, that everyone wanted one, even those from competing schools and businesses. This idea can be applied to any type of industry: Mortgage/Real Estate- "Itchin' for a new home?" Car- "Itchin for a new car?" Lawn care- "Itchin' for greener grass?" The list is endless- just insert your product after itchin'! Chocolate Bars There are many candy companies that will print any message you'd like on a candy bar. Unlike other items, this is one that will not last long. However, item is still memorable. Try putting message, "The sweet smell of success…." on it and tie it in to what you are offering. They actually will get to taste is as well, which could also be a way to write your message. ("Are you tasting success?") Either way, this is something that everyone will enjoy and is sure to get a call of thanks. (Just make sure they aren't allergic!)
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