 To the PR newbie, one of the most difficult aspects of public relations is pitching. An elevator pitch gives a complete rundown of who you are as a person and why someone should be interested in you. You must explain all this while being memorable in the process. Scary right? Here are a few ways to make it a little less scary.
Written by Sydney Velez
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 Fall is arguably the trendiest season. Whether through the warm colors adorning every outfit or the variety of cozy sweaters to cuddle up in, brands know how to bring fall fashion to the forefront of a consumer’s mind. Even though designers are the true talent behind these trends, the fashion industry relies on PR professionals to showcase their designs to the public. What better way to promote a clothing line than through visually simulating graphics? To identify what makes some brands more successful than others, here is a look at four brands who are using Instagram to their advantage this fall: The first retail brand that has been on its social media “A” game is Old Navy. Its Instagram (IG) account has racked up nearly 900 thousand followers. Old Navy’s high volume of followers stems from its consistent posting. The brand posts daily, sometimes even multiple times. Along with its consistency, Old Navy keeps its captions short and sweet. It understands that IG is for viewing pictures and that users will give most of their attention to an image rather than a description. Because its fall collection is both trendy and inexpensive, Old Navy easily promotes its clothes through IG. Coming up close behind Old Navy is Gap Inc., which has reached a little over one million followers. Just in time for fall, Gap Inc. has launched a campaign using the hashtag #DoYou. This campaign takes a deeper look at the models and the clothes they are posing in. Instead of keeping the models’ names out of the pictures, Gap Inc. includes their IG handles and offers a quote on how they “Do Gap.” This gives the models a chance to say why they dress the way they do and what makes their fall style unique to them. Not only does this give Gap a unique way to advertise its clothes, but it has also most likely brought more traffic to its page. The next fashion brand on the list is Forever 21. Besides the fact that it has perfectly priced clothes for a broke college student, Forever 21 is “falling” into more IG followers by the second. With a whopping number of 11.6 million followers, this brand is definitely doing something right. Besides posting on IG daily and keeping its captions simple, Forever 21 also uploads a variety of photos. Its photos not only consist of models wearing the brand’s clothes, but also fun graphics, exclusive deals and much more. The company’s collection of different photos reflects its fashion designs, which all have their own unique style. Forever 21 is loved for its variety of clothing and reflecting this aspect through its IG account seems to be a bullet proof plan for the brand. Similar to Forever 21, H&M offers millennials a place to shop that is affordable yet stylish and of course, their IG does not fall short of those same expectations. H&M offers its 17 million IG followers a way to view what it has in stores without having to actually leave their homes. Although the brand does not excessively post, it gives users a look at common fall hues and other popular trends. H&M’s IG gives both its followers and all IG users a more personal look into its line by adding short videos of behind the scenes footage. Even better, the brand currently has celebrities wearing its clothes for its new fashion line campaign. Through this campaign, called #KENZOxHM, celebrities pose for a photo or two and then H&M records them talking about why they love fashion or how they model. Since it has one of the top followings among fashion brands, there is no doubt that H&M’s celebrity tactic is working. To wrap it all up, Old Navy, Gap Inc., Forever 21 and H&M all have noteworthy IG accounts. If you hope to have a career in social media or aspire to have skills in this area, keep in mind the different tactics that these fashion brands have utilized. By posting once or twice a day, keeping the captions simple, or executing a campaign, your brand can have the opportunity to reach millions of followers like these impressive fashion accounts. By: Heather Tidwell Transferring to a new college or into a new major can be an exciting and scary moment in your life. There are many new experiences and opportunities to come your way. The process of transferring schools or your major within your school may leave you feeling lost. Coming into the School of Communication as a public relations major can be intimidating. As a transfer student myself, I had many questions. I came to Illinois State University not knowing much about my major or even the campus. I’m living proof that you shouldn’t get discouraged! There are many ways to feel at home in public relations at ISU.
Public relations specialists are the business of people. Talking to professors and classmates is a great way to learn about your major and feel more comfortable. Take advantage of asking more questions your first year into the major. The people in the PR major at ISU are friendly and willing to help. From this discussion you will be able to create relationships which will lead to friendships along with networking opportunities. Another thing that I cannot stress enough is to become involved with the PR industry. I regret waiting until my last year at ISU to get involved. There are many Registered Student Organizations for communication students to get involved with like minded individuals. The Public Relations Student Society of America is a great choice for PR majors to increase their knowledge, acquire skills, and build relationships. There are many influential speakers and workshops hosted on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. in Schroeder Hall room 138. Through these meetings, I have learned more about PR. I also have had the chance to take tours of workplaces that I could work for after graduation. The key factor for me was to think positively and become motivated. I believe taking action and applying yourself is important to bettering yourself. My words of wisdom would be: Do not make the excuse that you do not know what to do because you are new to the major or school. Take time to research, ask questions and most importantly get involved. Motivation is what made me realize that I love PR and that I had to pursue it as a career. This led me to join PRSSA. I finally feel that I am where I should be. PRSSA is my second family. As a transfer student from another college or major the best thing to do is become involved. All of my confusion and doubts about PR were erased when I put myself out there and joined PRSSA. Do not wait to get involved! We’re a PR family and always here to help you find your passion. Written by Kelsey Koziel On the surface, the Illinois State University Homecoming Week seems pretty standard. A red and black decorated campus with streamers and balloons, tailgating and of course—the football game. However, if you’re willing to dig a little deeper you can discover the real magic behind this year’s homecoming theme: A Normal Tradition. Starting out in 1857, the school was known as Illinois State Normal University. The word ‘normal’ meant that ISU started off as a school solely dedicated to teaching education. It wasn’t until the 1960s that ISU got its abbreviated name and began offering other majors. Prior to homecoming week, I never knew the process ISU went through to become the not so normal school it is today. Since the school’s formative years, ISU traditions have become a staple in our homecoming events. Fast-forwarding to this week, students have an abundance of activities to look forward to. It’s a privilege to be a part of ISU history in the making! To start off the week, on Monday, ISU is hosting the Homecoming Kickoff cookout starting at 6 p.m. on the quad. The cookout will be a prime opportunity for some delicious barbecue, games, and a chance to meet ISU President Dietz. The marching band and cheerleaders will host an energizing rally and the homecoming court will be announced. Then on Tuesday, expect some wild activity as the Redbird Rumble will take place at Hancock Stadium. Teams will show off their athletic skills by competing in outrageous fitness competitions. The best part? Faculty participates too. You might see your serious professor out there sprinting around and having a blast like a little kid! Wednesday’s activity is one I’m most looking forward to which is the Homecoming Carnival! Gamma Phi Circus will perform a daring show featuring all kinds of tricks and acrobatic routines that I only wish I could do. Other activities include henna tattoos, a magician, and more free food (which means everyone’s definitely having a cheat week!). Friday will mark the close of homecoming week before the big game. There will be a Homecoming Finale event including a DJ, sign decorating, and MORE free food (so I’m obviously going). Just as you think the week can’t get any more exhilarating, the actual game day will finally arrive! Saturday will kick off with the Town and Gown 5K at 8 a.m. The starting line will be near the Student Fitness Center. Hundreds are anticipated to run, sporting anything from running gear to bright red and black tutus. The Homecoming Parade will start at 10 a.m. on College and University. Even college-aged kids can appreciate all the school-spirited floats put together by fellow students. And I mean, the free candy doesn’t hurt either. Right after the parade, everyone’s favorite tailgating event begins outside of Turner Hall. Look out for the School of Communication’s spot for some delicious smoked turkey legs and music from our very own WZND. Finally, the event that started it all: The Homecoming Game! ISU is playing against Youngstown State this year at 2 p.m. and it is expected to be a thrilling game. Everyone from little siblings to returning alumni will be there to watch the Redbirds battle the Penguins. With the transition from September to October comes the building excitement for homecoming week. It’s hard to deny that buzzing energy building up to the game. Whether it’s your first or last school year, homecoming will always cultivate that magical school-spirit feeling that comes from the traditions passed down year after year. Written by Elizabeth Lynch   The Illinois State University Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America 2016- 2017 executive board was selected and announced at last night’s Chapter meeting. The 2015-16 ISU PRSSA executive board members passed down their crowns, with three current executive board members obtaining new positions for the upcoming academic year.
The 2016- 2017 ISU PRSSA Executive Board includes: President: Audie Lauf Vice President: Tyler Krivich Secretary: Katie Rio Treasurer: Chloe Kasper Digital Media Director: Manny Carrera PRi Director: Andrea Casali National Liaison: Deja Whitt As the semester comes to a close and finals week vastly approaches, the 2016-17 executive board members will lead the final Chapter meeting of the year on Tuesday, April 26 and will also present the end of the school year video. Raise your hand if you have heard the phrase “damn, Daniel” at least 100 times in the past month. It seems like a new viral meme or video paves its way every month, thanks to two Riverside Polytechnic High School Students in California, we have our next catchphrase. It all started with Joshua Holz taking a series of Snapchat videos following his friend Daniel Lara around school. The video has now gained millions of YouTube views and brands have quickly picked up on the trend.
In a couple of snaps featured in the video, Holz makes the now famous remark, “damn, Daniel, back at it again with the white Vans.” This remark was undeniable for Vans to utilize on Twitter. They were a little late to respond to the video, but the company eventually tweeted out a poll between back at it again and with the white Vans. Thanks to the video, Vans are regaining popularity with a skyrocket demand for white Vans on EBay. The company also surprised Lara with a lifetime supply of the shoes during Holz and Lara’s segment on the Ellen DeGeneres Show. Other brands that took advantage of the popular meme and hashtag on social media include Clorox, Axe, and an overwhelming amount of attention from Denny’s Twitter handle. Even celebrities have taken advantage of the popular video, including Weezer. Both teens were asked to appear in the artist’s “California Kids” music video. This will help the popularity of the music video because the viral video is still a current fad and has gained some die-hard fans. From a public relations perspective viral videos like “Damn, Daniel” are the holy grail of unpaid media. Millions of consumers view these kinds of videos, and become exposed to a brand in a way that does not feel like advertising. The key is for brands to hop in the conversation right away, while such videos are at their highest peak of popularity. Vans missed the mark capitalizing on this opportunity to promote themselves by responding a little too late and with lack-luster creativity. There will come a time when the “Damn, Daniel” remarks and parodies end, but for now we must embrace it until the next viral video makes way. Blog written by Kelly Larson My time as the vice president of the Illinois State University Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America has been short, but has been one of the most rewarding experiences I have had in my college career. I gained a level of confidence in my leadership abilities that never knew I could possess. I networked with some amazing professionals in the public relations industry and expanded my knowledge beyond the classroom. Here are five reasons why you should consider applying for next year’s executive board.
1. Networking As an executive board member, it is required that you attend every agency tour, PRSA dinner, and national and regional conferences. This may sound time consuming, but is one hundred percent worth the time because these events have the capacity to lead to job opportunities and much more. 2. The friendships made within the executive board The executive board must lead as a team and we spend a lot of time together. This is one of the best perks of being on the executive board because the friendships made can help in your professional career. 3. Fantastic resume builder A common trend that I have noticed in applying for jobs in the public relations, communications, and even the marketing field has been the ability to lead. The executive board gives you the opportunity to put your leadership skills to the test. 4. The experience of leading a star chapter The ISU PRSSA Chapter has received six PRSSA Star Chapter awards since 2009. Being on the executive board opens up the opportunity to continue that success. 5. Increase in confidence Throughout my time as a public relations major there have been times where I question whether it was the right choice for me. Being on the executive board has helped me find confidence in my communication skills and ability to be successful in the field. Blog by Kelly Larson What comes to mind when you think of March? A high school student is thinking “only a few months left of school until summer.” Adults are thinking “I have only seventeen days to schedule a babysitter so I can drink for Saint Patrick’s day.” College kids have one thing and one thing only on their mind: spring break. March is the unofficial month of spring break, which, at least to, thousands of college students across the nation, means it is a 30-day stretch of time dedicated to partying, preferably in exotic locations around the world. So whether you choose to lay on a beach or stay home, what better time to brush up on your writing skills then a week off of school? Here are five commonly used apostrophe mistakes and how to avoid them!
1. Plurals A common error happens when you write the plural form of a noun in which an apostrophe precedes the plural s. So when you are shooting your friends a text saying that you are waiting for your taxis, don’t use the apostrophe! 2. Pronouns Pronouns are followed by an apostrophe and s only as contractions. For example, when you are tweeting about how your ex is staying at the same resort that you are, use an apostrophe (he’s). However, when you run into a total catch, possessive pronouns (such as theirs and yours) never include an apostrophe. 3. Separate/shared possession When two or more people or other entities are described as separately owning something, each name should be in possessive form: "Joe's and Ashley's drinks are the same color." However, when they share possession, include an apostrophe and an s after the latter name only: "Joe and Ashley's drinks are waiting for them." 4. Plural form of an abbreviation No apostrophe is required with plurals of abbreviations. Write, for example, "This bar doesn’t even have any IPAs" (not IPA's). 5. Plural form of a numeral In the rare case of indicating more than one instance of a numeral, do not use an apostrophe: "My room number is three 7s then a four” (not 7's). Hopefully everyone enjoyed this guide while relaxing and working on your tan. Now here's to the second half of the spring semester! Written by Ellen Devereux  With Valentine’s Day newly in the rear view and the season of love in full swing, lets take a look at how some tips for first date success can also be tips for success in the world of public relations.
Dress to impress First impressions are oftentimes not the deal maker, but can definitely be the deal breaker. Just as you would for a first date, be sure to properly dress for the occasion. So, that your client is aware that you mean business. Now, that level of “mean business” is subject to change. If the meeting is on their turf in a conference room, then it is a safe bet to dress business professional. However, if you have the opportunity to dictate the terms of the meeting and perhaps choose a corner bistro on a Saturday afternoon, a setting like this it is safe to err on the side of a laid-back business casual. Think Friday in the office. Dressing in this manner conveys to the client that you are approachable, but still business oriented. Be efficient when it comes to communicating through technology Picture this, you meet your Tinderella out for the first time and she has no idea what Facebook and Twitter are, let alone who Tom from Myspace is. There should be zero chance of a second date after that, right? (I hope your nodding in agreement after that. Unless you are one of those “I don’t judge people” people, sitting up in your ivory tower, loving everyone’s uniqueness. I digress). The same standard will apply when you set sail for your first post graduation job in the public relations industry. Your potential employer is going to assume you are well versed in the tools of the trade. Not only does this include your standard social media sites, but also tools such as Adobe InDesign, AP Style, newsgathering sources like Skim and NYT Morning Briefing. Not being well versed in the tools of the trade is a surefire way to not get a “second date.” In this small world, somehow, everybody knows everybody Social media has blessed and cursed us with interconnectivity. Nowadays, it seems everyone knows everyone or is at least one or two connections away from knowing him or her. It is vital that you understand this and take it into consideration when moving from job to job, speaking to prospective clients about past clients, and during the interview process. The reason being is because you never know the extent of one’s network. So, when talking about past experiences, be respectful and avoid any negative comments. The “waiting game” is a lose, lose Lastly, the pièce de résistance. Many of you will have the opportunity to boast your public relations knowledge right out of the post-graduate gates with an internship. Do not play the “waiting game” when you get this opportunity. Instead, dive into the company and try to get as involved as you can. Show that you can be helpful, efficient, and innovative. As much as we would like it, the Ogilvy’s, Edelman’s, and Weber Shandwick’s of the world will not hire just because you are a nice person. So, get out there and showcase those public relations talents and skills to the best of your abilities because if you don’t, someone else will. Written by Tyler Fiesel  Public relations student Sydney Holland is a great example of what students should aspire to be in college. When Holland isn’t busy in the classroom, interning, or working at the ISU Student Fitness Center, she is dedicated to improving her public relations skill set with the Illinois State University Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America. Holland is an active member in Progressive Image, the Chapter’s student-run firm, and will be representing ISU PRSSA as the National Delegate next month at the PRSSA 2016 National Assembly in Dallas, Texas, which is why she is this week’s featured member!
Tell us about yourself. I am a junior public relations major from Mundelein, Ill. When I first began studying at ISU I was confused about what I wanted to do. I decided to enroll in the introduction to public relations course on a whim and discovered that public relations was the right major for me. I like to keep busy with ISU PRSSA, working at the Student Fitness Center, and interning at Uptown Partners. Why did you join ISU PRSSA? After declaring my major as public relations, I wanted to do everything I could to learn more about the field and get to know other public relations students. I wanted to take advantage of all the great opportunities ISU PRSSA has to offer like agency tours and workshops to develop myself professionally. It is also a lot of fun and gives me a chance to apply what I learn in class in more realistic situations. Besides ISU PRSSA, what other organizations are you involved in? I try to be involved with the Association of Women in Communication, ISU Mediation Club, and I work at the ISU Fitness Center as a Fitness Floor Monitor. Describe your dream job. I would like to work in agency public relations or doing public relations for a natural health company. What is something a lot of people don't know about you? I have a passion for nutrition and food. I love learning about organic nutrition, clean eating, and homeopathy. I love trying new foods and making healthier alternatives out of my favorite meals. If I were not a public relations major, I would definitely try to pursue natural health. What is your favorite ISU memory so far? Homecoming every year is always a good time, being with my friends always makes it memorable. Who inspires you? My parents inspire me; they both have an admirable work ethic but always put what is important first. I think today it can be hard to find a balance between work and family, and they do a really good job of keeping that balance. I aspire to be like that when I am older and I know I can always rely on them for help with anything. Questions composed by Kimi Sanden  Tell us a little bit about yourself
I am a double major in public relations and English studies at Illinois State University. I am an honors student, a leader in the community, and also work with University College as an academic peer advisor. Why did you decide to major in public relations? I decided to study public relations because I love the idea of serving as a liaison between an organization and its publics. I enjoy working in a collaborative team setting. How did you become interested in PRSSA? I knew that ISU PRSSA was the best way for me to gain experience with all of the different aspects of public relations. With PRSSA, I have the opportunity to learn event planning, writing professionally, and work with real clients. If you could work any job, what would it be? If I could have any job, I would work with Vogue International as a public relations professional or stylist for photo shoots. Do you have any hobbies outside of ISU PRSSA? As for hobbies, I love to read. I almost always have a book in my hands. I am a political activist in the community on the weekends, bringing social justice to the foreground of peoples' minds. Who do you look up to the most? The person I look up to the most would be Audrey Hepburn. Hepburn did many amazing things with her life (including her work with UNICEF and other humanitarian projects) with confidence. I aspire to be a powerful, humble woman like her. Where do you see yourself after you graduate? After graduation, I see myself working at large agency doing public relations or internal communications in a corporate setting. What are your responsibilities in ISU PRSSA? Within ISU PRSSA, I am the development committee manager. I oversee a committee of around 30 people that help plan fun, creative, and lucrative events for Chapter. What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind at ISU? I want to leave behind a legacy at ISU that shows if someone works harder than all the rest, puts in the extra time, and chooses to pursue only the things they loves, they can accomplish all of their goals. No matter what road blocks fall in their way, they can do it. Questions composed by Hope Fairchild  Sydney Holland, Illinois State's national delegate is excited to have the opportunity to represent the Chapter at PRSSA 2016 National Assembly in March. While at PRSSANA, Holland will participate in voting on the 2016-2017 PRSSA National Committee. Holland is prepared to network with PRSSA professionals and other public relations enthusiasts. As a junior, Holland feels her past courses and internships have allowed her to feel confident for the upcoming event.
Not many people know what they want to do heading into college, but Kim Hocker sure did. She knew she wanted to study communications and low and behold public relations caught her eye. This sophomore public relations major is sure to succeed in the field of communication as she also loves to write and get involved as much as she can.
Tell us about yourself. I am a sophomore from Tinley Park, IL and a public relations major with a minor in psychology. I knew I wanted to study communications when I came to Illinois State University, but as I explored classes, I realized that public relations would be the best fit for me because I really enjoy writing. I like to work hard and sometimes take on more than I can handle, but I am always up for the challenge. Why did you choose to join the ISU Chapter of the Public Relations Student Society of America? As a student studying public relations, I thought that ISU PRSSA would be a great fit for me because I get to explore and learn more about the public relations industry, hear from speakers who have real world experience, and meet people who share the same interests as me. What is your dream job? My dream job is to someday work for the Make a Wish Foundation. I have a close tie with this organization and I would love to work for it one day. I think what they do is something truly amazing and I would love the opportunity to work with a great nonprofit like it one day. Why did you decide to come to ISU? I went to a small private high school and I knew that I wanted to attend a large university. I wanted to stay somewhat close to home, but still far enough away. After visiting a few other schools, I knew Bloomington-Normal was the perfect choice for me. Who inspires you? In general, all my professors inspire me. Learning how they were once in my shoes, sitting in classes but they spent long nights at the library, and they got internships that led to very successful jobs. More specifically my brother really inspires me. He got his dream job right out of college. He has such a hard work ethic and it pays off. What is something most people do not know about you? I just downloaded a new application where I keep track of all the countries and states that I have traveled to, and I learned that I have been to four percent of the world and 42 percent of the United States. What is your favorite memory of ISU so far? This past Friday at the Basketball game, I was picked to roll in the huge hamster ball at half time. I always wanted to do that so I thought that was pretty cool! Questions composed by Ellen Devereux |
AboutPRecisely PR is the blog of the Illinois State University Chapter of the PRSSA. We write about Chapter events, the public relations industry, member profiles, and more. Archives
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