tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59256622539865755882024-03-13T08:28:15.239-07:00PR Education InsightsDr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-8141076983793710442012-03-13T06:33:00.010-07:002012-03-13T07:40:39.651-07:00Hmph. Lorax, Smorax: My Favorite PR Movies<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzt5q_y1KwSwEX8lCGN7VX95CDMth6_ivKlkPLlPGrK-96M86AoZLYtqxke-aS_S5MIUW8rxeiOCcgHuiY_1LNz3rCYwr8uLBjPLYVGMeVLq3XFWr43AUttAhC9iWTAxuWAthLITrfNI8/s1600/1927895.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 169px; FLOAT: left; HEIGHT: 183px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719383936975782130" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzt5q_y1KwSwEX8lCGN7VX95CDMth6_ivKlkPLlPGrK-96M86AoZLYtqxke-aS_S5MIUW8rxeiOCcgHuiY_1LNz3rCYwr8uLBjPLYVGMeVLq3XFWr43AUttAhC9iWTAxuWAthLITrfNI8/s200/1927895.jpg" /></a><br />I was excited to see <a href="http://www.theloraxmovie.com/index.php">The Lorax </a>last weekend. For some reason, at 2 years old, my oldest son took an odd liking to the book. It was very odd. He was more than excited to see a movie about his favorite book being released, and I was happy to sit with the family to view it.<br /><br />However, midway through the movie in one of the most important aspects of the plot, I was absolutely mortified. In the scene where the Once-ler is tauting his successes making Thneeds and snubbing his nose at the world, the <a href="http://www.pr-squared.com/index.php/2010/09/the-difference-between-flacks-spin-doctors">negativity</a> that runs deep in our culture about <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.prsa.org">PR</a> people reared its ugly head. Now, I want to quote here, but in the interest of being absolutely correct, I won't do it. I will paraphrase and state that I'm fairly sure the words to the song were...the PR people were lying and the lawyers were denying. What? What?!<br /><br />As a mother, I was thankful my sons, 4 and 2, have no clue what I did for a living or I teach for a living. I had images flash of them saying, "Mom, you lie?!" Or, "Mom, you teach people to lie?" Or, worse. One would say, "Mom, you are a liar." That's a declarative sentence. Oh, the horror.<br /><br />All of this had me thinking of my favorite PR-related movies. If you haven't seen them, please take a moment to watch. There are great lessons to learn - both good and bad. Here are my top three, and if you dare keep going, I offer a quick little tribute to my PR collegues - Dr. Suess style.<br /><br />#3 - Hancock (Image Repair)<br /><br /><iframe height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/P0uasqXJVGs" frameborder="0" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />#2 - Thank You For Smoking (Ethics)<br /><br /><iframe height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/iBELC_vxqhI" frameborder="0" width="560"></iframe><br /><br />#1 - Wag the Dog (Crisis Communication)<br /><br /><iframe height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/EnSauj2855M" frameborder="0" width="420"></iframe><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqt2JSaLslXgcmI-Ps5h2XiCd2Z4hDg5h1Gxc8rFsglhxB4AYvTsI7EjQTtubF-idNoGcsYwGlqhGyPSN2so4nR9vssiCoqaV-hZYl6igealJqNOFGkMn47lc4caHkYS3tXQppvEGWpAQ/s1600/Dr-seuss-1-sized.jpg"><img style="MARGIN: 0px 0px 10px 10px; WIDTH: 139px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5719387137603706866" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqt2JSaLslXgcmI-Ps5h2XiCd2Z4hDg5h1Gxc8rFsglhxB4AYvTsI7EjQTtubF-idNoGcsYwGlqhGyPSN2so4nR9vssiCoqaV-hZYl6igealJqNOFGkMn47lc4caHkYS3tXQppvEGWpAQ/s200/Dr-seuss-1-sized.jpg" /></a><br />So, as a tribute to Dr. Suess, I offer the following:<br /><br />I am PR. PR I am.<br />I do not lie. I do not cheat. I do not say what I don't see.<br />I strategize. I promote. I write.<br />Do you want coverage here or there?<br />Do you want coverage everywhere?<br />Tell me what you do. Tell me what is good.<br />I will get a reporter to cover it like he should.<br />We will work long. We will work hard.<br />We will get people to know who you are.<br />I am PR. PR I am.<br />I am good. I am right.<br />I can make relations with your stakeholders overnight.<br />They will be good, they will be real, they will keep you ever still.<br />So, do you want coverage here or there? I can get you coverage anywhere.<br />But, it will done good, and it will be done right.<br />Because I do not lie. I just enlight.<br /><br />Hmph.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-61711975082775673662012-02-17T07:11:00.001-08:002012-03-13T07:45:41.893-07:00Managing Your Student Resources<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujeJ44hjCt9MLYm6FI02gnjaX4ThXVduUtsqLYATzh2NNI1_Iet8QFk2f_wNCa5rnRNrR0fXt61IwkViYhlgyaLBFTwtPNq7rpZW5VF3gH5iI6RlqDsf-h2SaOIw-xJcvChmFxqZwZUs/s1600/college-student8.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiujeJ44hjCt9MLYm6FI02gnjaX4ThXVduUtsqLYATzh2NNI1_Iet8QFk2f_wNCa5rnRNrR0fXt61IwkViYhlgyaLBFTwtPNq7rpZW5VF3gH5iI6RlqDsf-h2SaOIw-xJcvChmFxqZwZUs/s200/college-student8.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5710136602104519682" /></a><br />I recognize being a student isn't easy. The demands for your time and talents can be overwhelming, especially for exemplary students. However, you have to remember you are in school for one reason, and it is to finish. You must manage your resources to ensure all efforts point you in the direction of graduation. <br /><br />While your pockets might not be lined with lots of money, your life is rich with student resources. Tap into the right ones to ensure your journey to graduation is fast, fun and beneficial. <br /><br />1) Instructors: Sometimes professors are viewed as distant, untouchable, unrelatable beings. We beam into the classroom, you soak up knowledge and we fade back into our offices. Don't buy into it. Many of us are open books. We love to share our experiences, hear about your challenges and work to ensure you are on the right path. Stop and talk to your professors. They have a wealth of knowledge from either their research or work experience. It all starts with a simple hello.<br /><br />2) Student Organizations: There's nothing like hanging around with people who talk your language, share your dreams and do what you do. Student organizations are grounding points for students to gather, learn and share. I encourage everyone in the communications field to know and learn the following student organizations: <a href="http://prssa.org/">Public Relations Student Society of America</a>, <a href="http://www.nabj.org/">National Association of Black Journalists</a>, <a href="http://www.aaf.org/default.asp?id=115">American Advertising Federation</a>, <a href="https://netforum.avectra.com/eWeb/DynamicPage.aspx?Site=AWC&WebCode=StudentChapterlistings">Association for Women in Communications </a>, <a href="http://www.natcom.org/ncasc/">National Communication Association Student Clubs</a>, <a href="http://www.nppa.org/">National Press Photographers Association</a>, <a href="http://www.rtnda.org/">Radio Television Digital News Association </a>, <a href="http://www.spj.org/">Society of Professional Journalists</a>, and the <a href="http://www.nahj.org/">National Association of Hispanic Journalists</a>. <br /><br />3) Alumni: I want you to view this two ways: 1) Alumni who have graduated and can help you with career advice and job tips, and 2) Class alumni who have been in the seats of the classes you are taking right now. Now, for the latter, this is not to ask them for assignments. This is to ask them to help you study, buy a book or put the course work you might be studying into perspective. They've been there already; they have valuable knowledge to share, too. <br /><br />4) Counselors: Sure. We all need academic counselors. However, sometimes we need more. Sometimes, things get overwhelming. In those moments, reach out to a counselor. At Howard University, we encourage students to get help from the <a href="http://www.howard.edu/services/counseling/">Howard University Counseling Center.</a> There's no reason to be ashamed about this one. Just do it. <br /><br />5) Sleep: I'll be the first to admit I slept little in college. Between my internships, part-time jobs, classes and social life, sleep seemed like a waste of time. Back in my day, <a href="http://www.drugs.com/cdi/nodoz.html">NoDoz</a> was the thing to help. Now, I can't even begin to tell you the options. Most involve caffeine. Try some <a href="http://www.divinecaroline.com/22175/86024-seventeen-caffeine-free-ways-stay-awake">healthy tricks</a>. Nonetheless, your body needs sleep. Force yourself to recharge your body and brain with a good night sleep or at least a nap. <br /><br />6) Time: Spend it wisely. We all need moments to laugh and unwind, but don't spend precious time on Facebook that could be spent writing your essay. Don't spend time hanging around on <a href="http://secondlife.com/whatis/?sourceid=1003-affiliate-textexperience-connect&siteID=.ZrjUFRRdVU-cO8SG2kJo_HyrsTGKAcJxg">SecondLife</a>, when you could be doing something productive in real life. Stay in the present, and work for the greater good of your future. <br /><br />7) Smartphones: Can we agree to use them constructively for school? As a college student, there are lots of applications you can use to help you. Best Universities had a list of <a href="http://www.bestuniversities.com/blog/2009/100-best-free-iphone-apps-for-college-students/">the top 100 free iPhone apps for college students</a>.<br /><br />8) Laughter: Laugh. I mean really, really laugh. Enjoy one of those painful, belly hurting, eye watering, laughs with your friends. Do it often, even if it's at your own expense. You'll look foundly back at this time in your life the more often you share a good time with a friend.<br /><br />Good luck, do well, and see you at graduation.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-35285627202033793822011-12-13T20:32:00.000-08:002011-12-14T09:34:38.147-08:0010 New Year's Resolutions for PR Students<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoNqCHmjGNr4ex9UTiepy0y7WxZRaK24PBLHdjbdJNryZ40nKSo1uDDNpH-WxFNxc_LQr7VgEc1_eIMhJHYnpsg4D2SDiHri4LtUijdVxSnNRJA1U_vIoF3YJUuPWoYxZtvRpytCVdu4/s1600/2012.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 233px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRoNqCHmjGNr4ex9UTiepy0y7WxZRaK24PBLHdjbdJNryZ40nKSo1uDDNpH-WxFNxc_LQr7VgEc1_eIMhJHYnpsg4D2SDiHri4LtUijdVxSnNRJA1U_vIoF3YJUuPWoYxZtvRpytCVdu4/s320/2012.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685864534559859698" /></a> 'Tis the season to commit to improving. So, here are a few suggestions for all the promising public relations students still in school.<br /><br />1. Read the Trades: The best way to learn what's happening in the public relations field is to read the top journals, blogs and trades. Try <a href="www.prweek.com">PRWeek</a>, <a href="http://www.prsa.org/Intelligence/Tactics/Issues/view/18/12">PR Tactics</a>, <a href="http://www.prsa.org/Intelligence/TheStrategist/Issues/view/17/3">PR Strategist</a>, <a href="http://www.odwyerpr.com/">O'Dwyer's</a>, <a href="http://www.journals.elsevier.com/public-relations-review/">Public Relations Review </a>, <a href="Journal of Public Relations Research">Journal of Public Relations Research</a> and <a href="http://www.prdaily.com/Main/Home.aspx">PR Daily</a>.<br /><br />2. Invest in Your Wardrobe: Sure those designer jeans are nice and so is that shirt. However, you can't wear them to work. You need to begin to build your professional wardrobe one piece at a time. Start now. <br /><br />3. Don't Burn Bridges: I've heard so many horror stories from students who forget that they must make as many connections as possible. Don't get anyone at your internships angry. You will need them for a reference, and stay on the good side of your teachers, counselors and deans. They often are the first to receive emails about jobs, internships and scholarships. You want them to think of you first when an opportunity arises. <br /><br />4) Intern: Find an internship related to your field or interests. Some of my students graduate with more than five internships. Believe me. If you want to compete, you need to intern as much as possible.<br /><br />5) Clean Up Your Online Image: You already know you need to do it. So, make 2012 the year when you commit to fixing that risky Facebook profile picture, you delete those not so professional tweets and you keep the blog about something other than your weekend exploits. Oh, and once you do it. Keep it clean.<br /><br />6) Google Yourself and Set Up an Alert: You should always know what is being said about you. Have you googled yourself lately? Do it, and see what the results are. Now, decide what you can do to fix the results or maintain them. Also, set up an alert to ensure you know when something else is uploaded.<br /><br />7) Create an Online Portfolio: Hopefully, you already have a great <a href="http://www.prssa.org/forum/article.aspx?issueid=170&id=634">traditional portfolio</a> filled with all of the right <a href="http://www.prssa.org/internships/resources.aspx?Id=8">elements</a>, right? Well, it is time to take advantage of technology and make an electronic one. There are so many options and reasons to do it. Start exploring the best options, and don't forget to try the free sites. Some have a money back guarantee. <br /><br />8) Improve Your Writing: Yes. It is obvious, but you need to do it. Take a creative writing course. Read more. Write more. Get someone to critic your writing, and don't get upset by any negative feedback. Instead, take the criticism in stride and use it to improve. <br /><br />9) Find a Mentor: If you don't have a mentor in the public relations field, find one. It is the best way for you to get career advice and guidance from an insider. Plus, consider getting a younger professional mentor and a seasoned one, too. You'd be surprised by the difference in views and opinions. You will get an understanding of how things work on the technician and management levels.<br /><br />10) Create a 5-year Plan: There's no better way to meet your goals than by following a road map. Figure out what you want to do, and how you can do it. Be flexible, but be focused. <br /><br />Good luck, and I hope you have a successful and prosperous 2012.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-22931497390141748632011-10-31T07:33:00.000-07:002011-10-31T08:20:51.449-07:00#Wisdoms - #Keep A Real Record of Your Work in Social Media<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5ZNAiaEoq7YZRE5JFGbI1c0NdwAYIokK7UUu3eQHf0QE6BTGMHofGwZj3-vWxRIUDw4poOTyXlsExW2Qd-6RNE1zetFfcih9Z6gEVTrvuurYXUg678CqrkFZHElWx7JGgZE4K94KsMU/s1600/social-media-tools.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 371px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5ZNAiaEoq7YZRE5JFGbI1c0NdwAYIokK7UUu3eQHf0QE6BTGMHofGwZj3-vWxRIUDw4poOTyXlsExW2Qd-6RNE1zetFfcih9Z6gEVTrvuurYXUg678CqrkFZHElWx7JGgZE4K94KsMU/s400/social-media-tools.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5669667728907828210" /></a><br />As many of us dabble in social media and others master the use not only personally, but strategically, I am always reminding my students how important it is to keep a record of your work. Now, this is a bit confusing. Once something - anything - is uploaded, you give up control and many argue it is there <a href="http://webprivacy.com/articles/a_teens_guide_to_staying_safe_and_being_smart_online">forever</a>. This is true, because "it can be copied over and over, manipulated, combined and mashed up into any creative form or digital format. It can be forwarded to others and take on a life of it's own and never really ever be removed." The abscence of rules and respect has earned social media the label of the <a href="http://www.google.com/search?q=social+media+wild+wild+west&hl=en&client=safari&rls=en&prmd=ivns&ei=BLiuTtGbAqHl0QHY4pCIDw&sa=N&oq=social+media+wild+wild+west&aq=f&aqi=&aql=1&gs_sm=e&gs_upl=301872l307158l0l307271l27l24l0l11l11l0l252l1847l2.7.3l12l0">Wild Wild West</a>. Just think of those celebrities who put up an embarrasing tweet only to remove it moments later, but it's too late. With millions of followers, bloggers and friends watching their every moves and taking screenshots, those seconds can hurt them for a lifetime. <br /><br />While I want my work to impact the social media landscape like purple mountains on the horizon, I will admit I work to simply try to create somewhat of a teeny, tiny, tiny ripple in social media. I blog. I <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/DrTiaCMTyree">tweet</a>. I spread messages about personal and work projects through <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/HBCU-Experience-The-Book/174644775895522?ref=ts">Facebook</a>. However, I am learning that you must keep a record, too, of what you say and do. For some of us, once our work is pushed out of our timelines or too hard to retrieve on Facebook pages, it is gone. Therefore, you have to pause to copy your online work offline. I did it recently for the #wisdoms I place on Twitter in 2011. I regret these are not all of them. Since I'm not a celebrity, there was no one waiting in the wings to record my every move. Nonetheless, I hope you enjoy them. <br /><br />My #record of my #wisdoms...<br /><br />It's not the type of bag you put your candy in, but the candy inside the bag. It's the same way with people. Happy Halloween. #wisdoms<br /><br />Are you hiding behind a mask? If so, take it off. Be bold, and show the world who you really are. #wisdoms<br /><br />2 steps forward but 1 step back is still 1 step forward. #wisdoms<br /><br />Nostalgic but prophetic words: "I yam what I yam." - Popeye. http://bit.ly/vZXUpF (Watch Popeye - Robin Williams- Sing the tune) #wisdoms<br /><br />If your client is a ladybug without spots, don't buy black paint. Figure it out. Promote her specialties/uniqueness. Make it work. #wisdoms<br /><br />I dare you to share an idea with someone. You'll surely make it better through hard work and a good collaboration. #wisdoms<br /><br />Be your own inspiration. When others are your muse, you are forced into their definition of success. Create your own, and go for it. #wisdoms<br /><br />Engagement in #PR isn't a one time thing. It should be the start of a relationship between you and your audience/reporter/blogger. #wisdoms<br /><br />Expect the unexpected. Then plan for it. #wisdoms<br /><br />There's noting better than tasting the fruits of your labor. Yum. #wisdoms<br /><br />Success is defined in many ways. Regardless of how you define it, u must set goals, create a plan + make it happen. #wisdoms<br /><br />Do you live by the 5Ps - proper preparation prevents poor performance? I try to do it. #wisdoms<br /><br />Ambition is not learned. It is a trait. I've seen it in some, and it never dies. They are the ones that succeed no matter what. #wisdoms<br /><br />Just keep trying. #wisdoms<br /><br />New school: Everyone gets participation ribbon/Old school: Leave w/ nothing. Feast on defeat. Return meaner/stronger/ready 2 win. #wisdoms<br /><br />Study their strengths and weaknesses, and when the time is right, get in there, play and win. #wisdoms.<br /><br />You gotta work to work it out. Start today. #wisdoms<br /><br />We share too much as a culture. I remember when privacy was understood and not selections on settings menu. Bring back old school. #wisdoms<br /><br />Just because you can doesn't mean you should. #wisdoms<br /><br />If you are unhappy, unfulfilled or uncommitted, you should look inside for a change, and not necessarily at changing your job. #wisdoms<br /><br />Before I begin, I want to share a sentiment from an email sent earlier to a student. Your 9to5 shouldn't define you. It is a part of you. #wisdoms<br /><br />Best thing about your 20s? You feel invinceable. Worst part of your 20s? You feel invicible. Be careful. Be smart. #wisdoms<br /><br /><br />*<a href="http://jonwchin.com/2009/05/20/youtube-social-media-best-practices/">Image Credit</a><br />** My wisdoms are information from the heart and those I heard or believed as I live my life. Perhaps, for some attribution might be needed, but I don't think so.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-82517274269917427332011-09-30T07:51:00.000-07:002011-09-30T09:27:28.845-07:00The Couple Who Cries Media Wolf<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxB5QMNQ4EG5K3QH-OR03F8Cf4K4BH8DwXb2eBfeo7492xdnQ31tnMZa8VR58VAvR8qcaloG4XAT-77Lr9KHaPKQhGs6tr_b1JSt2erIbfXkyLrf2eI1UxHXGjCYFt_5IWF9BhTNpCHNo/s1600/Tareq-and-Michaele-Salahi11.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 157px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxB5QMNQ4EG5K3QH-OR03F8Cf4K4BH8DwXb2eBfeo7492xdnQ31tnMZa8VR58VAvR8qcaloG4XAT-77Lr9KHaPKQhGs6tr_b1JSt2erIbfXkyLrf2eI1UxHXGjCYFt_5IWF9BhTNpCHNo/s200/Tareq-and-Michaele-Salahi11.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5658170785220454514" /></a><br />I purposely waited a while before writing this post. It's been knocking around in my head for a few weeks now. But, I needed to see how this was really going to end.<br /><br />When I first heard the husband of <a href="http://www.aoltv.com/2010/08/05/the-real-housewives-of-d-c-premiere-michaele-salahi-steals-t/">Real Housewives of D.C.</a> Michaele Salahi's tearful cries for help in finding his <a href="http://www.nbcwashington.com/entertainment/celebrity/Tareq-Salahi-Fears-Wife-Was-Kidnapped-129826483.html">"kidnapped"</a> wife, I was immediately worried. How could this happen I thought? Did someone make good on the <a href="http://www.tmz.com/2011/04/21/michaele-tareq-salahi-winery-cops-death-threats-video-real-housewives-of-dc-alleged-white-house-crashers/#.ToXYu679Ws0">death threats</a>? Worse, could this happen to me one day? Could I leave home for the hairdresser, and well, never come back? <br /><br />Then, I paused and thought for a minute. Is this another "publicity stunt" from the Salahis? Is Tareq, the husband, in on it? Or, this is a horrible crime in the making? I was reminded of the many stories of the two alleged <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/11/25/tareq-and-michaele-salahi_n_371336.html">"White House party crashers." </a>Their appearance at the State Dinner rocketed the “The Real Housewives of D.C” reality series into the forefront of many of our minds and television schedules, and it made them the newest pseudo reality star celebrities. The massive amounts of news coverage that followed was staggering, and as is the case in any crises, the blame game started and people fell like dominos, most notably<a href="http://www.forbes.com/2010/02/26/desiree-rogers-resignation-obama-forbes-woman-power-women-professional-mistakes.html"> Social Secretary Desiree Rogers</a>. Although a horrible situation and one that could have spelled disaster (i.e., uninvited guests close to our beloved President), it became a platform for the Salahis to make the rounds on most major news shows, including the daily morning shows. And, it was also fodder for the late night talk shows and birthed the <a href="http://www.nbc.com/saturday-night-live/">Saturday Night Live</a> skit below. <br /><br /><object width="512" height="288"><param name="movie" value="http://www.hulu.com/embed/vnasSso2Z1Uj1xix0sI-9Q"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.hulu.com/embed/vnasSso2Z1Uj1xix0sI-9Q" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="512" height="288" allowFullScreen="true"></embed></object><br /><br />But, was this different? Suddenly, I was reminded of Michaele Salahi's short stint in <a href="http://www.aoltv.com/2011/06/07/celebrity-rehab-season-5-cast/">Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew</a>. She allegeedly came to rehab, ah, without an addiction. Strange, right? Clearly, this should have been discussed with producers prior to signing the contract, or getting on the plane, or checking into the center, or, well, you get the point. Controversy brewed following this situation, too. Her <a href="http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2011/03/exclusive-michaele-salahis-mom-calls-celebrity-rehab-fiasco-another-white-house">mother</a> came to her defense and noted her appearance wasn't about an addiction, but her need to <a href="http://www.people.com/people/article/0,,20472155,00.html">cope</a> with the aftermath of the above mentioned fiasco. Hmmm.<br /><br />So, here I was listening to Tareq and wondering what to think. Was he crying wolf? I wasn't alone in this thought. Again, the media questioned whether it was a <a href="http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2011/09/michaele-salahi-kidnapping-hoax-questions-tareq-real-housewives">hoax</a>. It turns out Tareq was wrong. His wife wasn't <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/09/15/michaele-salahi-kidnapped-tareq-police_n_963765.html">kidnapped</a>. She is/was with her new alleged lover and had simply left her husband and possessions to do it. <br /><br />I teach my students about the need for PR professionals not to bombard news outlets with pseudo events. They must work to create meaningful news and only present newsworthy topics, people or events to the media. Why? Our lives are filled with media "noise." We consume information virtually every waking moment of the day from our radios, televisions, iPads, smart phones, billboards and other sources. As PR professionals, we must strive to release information worthy of consumption, because so much of our precious news time is fractured with salacious, tabloid-worthy news, instead of those things relevant to the health, wealth and safety of Americans.<br /><br />Hopefully, the next time Tareq or Michaele decide to contact the media they won't get past the gatekeepers, what few are actually left. Hopefully, there will be something more substantive on the media agenda that day. Hopefully. In the meantime, it should be a lessen to PR professionals not to have your organization crying wolf in every press release or media pitch. Be cautious about contacting a journalists or blogger for coverage. You don't want to be the Salahis of PR.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-83318095533383921162011-07-26T11:37:00.000-07:002011-07-26T13:25:28.599-07:00Summer Siesta? - Can't Social Media Never Sleeps<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdm1PDb12xyDVYq4Hy7rKy-mlgvfPfjqQfR-ybX62xXBjOr4YtGP2F3UlpY2SOyArWkBcAqB8d-uvtyWCpfFaMFCzn7hMUJ2nQWo99aol7RGBicG80dxLsQt0R5ckDQPl3g-hhqfzdLE/s1600/social-media-icons.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 198px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWdm1PDb12xyDVYq4Hy7rKy-mlgvfPfjqQfR-ybX62xXBjOr4YtGP2F3UlpY2SOyArWkBcAqB8d-uvtyWCpfFaMFCzn7hMUJ2nQWo99aol7RGBicG80dxLsQt0R5ckDQPl3g-hhqfzdLE/s200/social-media-icons.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5633736081467364066" /></a><br />As a college professor, I always dreamed of summers off. I pictured myself relaxing, watching television, hanging out with family, going to the beach and just enjoying the lazy days of summer. This, my friends, is not the life of a young, aspiring tenure-track professor. I work hard in the summer. I work full days on many research and work projects. I am especially busy because I've decided to engage the use of social media for many of my projects. <br /><br />I'm the co-editor of HBCU Experience - The Book with Howard University alum <a href="http://www.onediaspora.com/speaks.html">Christopher Cathcart</a>. We engage those interested in the project via our web site <a href="www.blackcollegebook.com">(www.blackcollegebook.com) </a>, Twitter using <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/hbcubook">@HBCUbook</a> and on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/HBCU-Experience-The-Book/174644775895522">HBCU Experience - The Book</a>. It's nearly a daily drum beat to grab attention, get followers and engage our potential supporters and writers. We've found many friends in the HBCU social media community who give us support and spread the word, including @HBCUDigest and @HBCU_Lifestyle. <br /><br />Oh, and I also taught a social media class in the spring, which really gave me a greater understanding of social media. It is also the reason I am presenting at the <a href="http://www.natcom.org/convention/">97th Annual National Communication Association</a> conference in November 2011. I'm sitting on a panel titled "Demystifying Voices: Running towards and not away from Social Media in the Classroom." It is also the reason I am helping to organize the first annual <a href="http://communications.howard.edu/smc.html">Social Media Technology Conference & Workshop</a> being sponsored by <a href="http://www.howard.edu">Howard University</a> and <a href="http://www.bowiestate.edu/">Bowie State University</a>. It is set for September 29-30, 2011 on the campus of Bowie State University. This will be an affordable, engaging and very practical introduction into the world of social media provided by practitioners, students and academics. You can follow our progress on Twitter<a href="http://twitter.com/#!/smtechconf2011"> @smtechconf2011</a> and on Facebook at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Social-Media-Technology-Conference-Workshop/208025679231214?sk=info">Social Media Technology Conference & Workshop</a>.<br /><br />With the social media conference, we've just started to set up the social media accounts. It's easy to set things up, but it's the engagement of the world that is the larger hurdle. I've learned to cross promote using the various outlets for myself, and I plan to do the same with the conference and book projects. For example, you can see my Twitter feed is on my blog, and it is also present on <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/pub/professor-tia-tyree/9/6b7/b18">my LinkedIn account</a>. I get it, but it's not easy to get the exposure you want overnight. There's lots of advice out there, and it's mind boggling to figure out which advice to take. Mashable once noted there was over <a href="http://mashable.com/2009/12/27/social-media-experts-twitter/">15,700 social media experts</a> on Twitter. Social media experts, a controversial label, offer contradictory advice, and it's hard to even know who is correct. <br /><br />What I have learned is that you need daily, engaging content. To me, this is the most important aspect of social media. You must provide daily content that people want to read, hear and see. If you don't do it, than you will be a faint whisper in the wind that people will soon forget. <br /><br />So, I'm back to my busy summer schedule. I'll be writing, researching, tweeting, posting and updating until the first day of class and beyond. Godspeed to us all.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-82431251509134006002011-06-04T20:01:00.000-07:002011-06-06T11:39:00.614-07:0018 Serious Things to Do If You Graduate College Without a JobYou spent four, maybe five, years in college, and when you graduated, you didn't have a job. This is not what you expected, right? You stayed up late, studied hard, followed directions, sacrificed and took out loans - lots of loans. Where is the pay off? Don't worry. It's coming soon.<br /><br />Graduating without a job is tough. It's happens to a lot of people. Heck, it even happened to me. The worst thing to do is worry. The best thing to do is make getting a job your new job, and perhaps, follow my advice below:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">1) Look Over Your Resume.</span> I've had several students tell me no one is responding to their resumes, and after one glance, I can see several reasons. Whether you have grammatical or stylistic errors, a lack of details, poor design or another challenge, have a professional you trust offer you some constructive criticism. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">2) Redo Your Cover Letter.</span> The generic cover letter won't do anymore. Spend some time getting the proper name of the contact who will read your letter. Be sure to tailor it to the job, and please don't simply rehash your resume. Tell the reader something about you that's not obviously understood from your attached resume.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">3) Reach Back to Old Contacts.</span> You went to several networking events and had guest speakers in your classes, right? When was the last time you sent an email to catch up? Do it. You never know what you might learn or what job tips await you.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">4) Go to New Networking Events.</span> As a new graduate, it's time to get yourself out there and network as a real professional and not a student. Dress well, bring copies of your resume and be ready to impress everyone in the room from the people at the registration table to the hosts. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">5) Connect with Your Mentor.</span> If you have a mentor, this person is committed to seeing you succeed. Ask your mentor out for a cup of coffee and discuss ways to get a job, stay busy and distinguish yourself from the crowd.<br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">6) Read the Trades.</span> When you get an interview, you need to be able to speak the language of your industry. You need to know what's happening and be able to have an intelligent conversation about it. The best way to gain knowledge is by reading your industry's trade magazine. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">7) Use Social Media and the Internet.</span> What's the point in having a LinkedIn account if you don't use it to connect with employers and other job seekers? Why follow friends on Twitter when you can follow companies and experts who can give you some good information? Use social media to your advantage. Also, spend time looking directly on the "job" or "careers" sections of company websites, instead of relying on searches or other job websites. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">8) Ask for an Informational Interview.</span> If you like a company, don't hesitate to ask for an information interview. It's a good way to get in the door and make yourself known to the very people who can place you in a job. It also shows you are committed and want to work. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">9) Contact other Recent Graduates.</span> Most entry level jobs are ripe for professionals with one to two years experience. Your former classmates are in those jobs, and some of them may be ready to move to the next job. Contact them to see if they are planning a move or know of others who are doing it. You might learn about a job even before it's listed.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">10) Reach Out to Recruiters and Headhunters.</span> These professionals have the unique job of being employed to find people like you. Get to know them and make sure they have everything they need to get you in the running for an open job. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">11) Email Your Career Counselors and Professors.</span> Other than your parents, no one wants to see you employed more than your professors and career counselors. We've helped nurture you, and we want to see you land your first job. We also have lots of contacts and people who reach out to us about jobs. Be sure you are on our radar and our email lists.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">12) Reconnect with Your Internship Coordinators.</span> If you did well at an internship, chances are your boss remembers you. It's also a chance your former boss has a job opening. Send an email to reconnect. You might just have perfect timing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">13) Develop a Portfolio.</span> What makes PR students from Howard University special is each has a portfolio with their best work, which they should show at job interviews. Develop one and be sure it has a cross section of your work. This will set you apart from everyone else who just comes in with their resumes. You will be able to show them what you can do, instead of simply telling them about it.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">14) Volunteer. </span> Don't let there be a big empty time frame on your resume. Get out there and put your skills to good use at a local nonprofit, community organization or even church that might be in desperate need of some help. You'll keep your skills sharp and add some more experience to your resume. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">15) Intern.</span> If you thought your interning days were over, well change your mind. You can get paid internships as college graduates, and many companies use this time as a probationary period to check out how you perform. If you are offered one, take it. It could be the precursor to your new job.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">16) Hyperlink.</span> We are in the digital age. Be sure to make your resume dynamic. If you worked on a new website, insert a hyperlink. If you developed a new video, insert a hyperlink to it on YouTube. If you developed a new brochure, insert a link on Google Docs. Make it easier for the people reviewing your resume to be impressed by you and your work.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">17) Clean Up Your Online Persona.</span> Someone is probably going to find you online before they even call you in for an interview. What will they find? Be sure what you present online passes my M.O.B. test. Negative content can cost you an interview now or even your job later. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">18) Be Flexible.</span> Many people will disagree with my last statement, but do not wait for your dream job. If it's your dream job, it's probably the same one thousands, if not millions, of others are waiting to get. So many have their hearts set on the media, entertainment or fashion industries. They are closed networks and tough to easily crack. It's possible, but tough. Set your sights on something more attainable, and work tirelessly to connect with those who can get you in the door of your dream company. <br /><br />Good luck.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-44143776723698776752011-04-18T09:36:00.000-07:002011-04-18T11:09:10.008-07:00M.O.B. Mentality for Social Media Ethics<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkIP5e2Sp6NvVoCLvUgzbMcfqPqo0uR0v_JrFPru3pxJfdckENozB9o-0bNAJ9OOVeDM2P2S6Ue_XUabaAKlagoPp5Y3GcsfpcmOolYfp4_wHBNrCPnBa94ugCOyQK_IWT0lJoLVRyoHc/s1600/SocialMediaCensor.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 191px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkIP5e2Sp6NvVoCLvUgzbMcfqPqo0uR0v_JrFPru3pxJfdckENozB9o-0bNAJ9OOVeDM2P2S6Ue_XUabaAKlagoPp5Y3GcsfpcmOolYfp4_wHBNrCPnBa94ugCOyQK_IWT0lJoLVRyoHc/s200/SocialMediaCensor.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596980822217456466" /></a><br />As my social media class comes to an end, I am astonished by how much both my students and I have learned over the semester. From the mechanics of how to use some of the social media tools to developing strategies, we have covered it all. We were, and hopefully will remain, a part of the "stream" on a daily basis.<br /><br />However, part of what has irritated me over the semester is the ethical issues that come up often in the "Wild Wild West" that is the social media landscape. From the inappropriate <a href="http://www.emergencymgmt.com/emergency-blogs/disaster-zone/Twitter-japan-and-the-wild-west-of-social-media-031411.html">tweets</a> related to Japan's tragedy to physicians fishing around Facebook to query patients, ethical issues abound in social media. With this said, I'd like to offer my <span style="font-weight:bold;">M.O.B.</span> rules for social media. They can be applied to a cross section of social media platforms, including social networks, microblogging and blogging sites and more.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">M</span> - What would your mother say if she saw, read or heard this? There is nothing more disheartning than to hurt your mother's feelings. Have you ever been told, "I'm not angry. I'm just disappointed?" That one hurts to the core. So, think before you hit the enter button, and ask yourself if this post would upset your mother, grandmother, godmother or great grandmother.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">O</span> - If you are a bit older, perhaps you have little ones, children or <span style="font-weight:bold;">offspring</span>. The principles remain the same for this category. What would your children think if they saw, heard or read this post? Would they want to know their mommy did or does this? Worse. Would you want their classmates to know? Be mindful that even if you are comfortable with the content that it does have ramifications for your children. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">B</span> - There has always been a question about how much your personal life reflects upon your professional life. Are you really off at 5 p.m., or do you remain an extension of your company 24 hours a day? In the oversharing world that is social media, can you say or show too much? Before you hit the send button, ask yourself if your boss would be embarrassed by what you share online, or would customers think differently of you, your work or the company? Further, ask if you are sharing your thoughts or if you are really talking too much about what happens in the office, with coworkers or on projects? Today, many companies require employees to sign <a href="http://humancapitalleague.com/Home/13059">confidentiality or social media agreements</a>. It's a real possibility what you do online can be a problem at work.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-24887888094835097942011-03-13T18:28:00.000-07:002011-03-14T10:21:18.732-07:00My Top 10 PR Writing TipsThis semester I'm teaching two special courses: event planning and social media. I usually teach at least one public relations writing class. I miss it. So, I've decided to share my top 10 public relations writing tips. Perhaps, my blog readers will enjoy and learn from them. They go from generic writing tips to specialized PR tips. <br /><br />1)<em> Remember the rules your elementary school teacher taught you.</em> - If most of us just remembered basics grammar rules, we'd be great writers. Don't be afraid to dust off your English 101 grammar book.<br /><br />2)<em> Be concise.</em> - The more concise you write the easier it is for your audience to understand your message. Reread each sentence to see if you can cut words or replace a few words with one that means the same thing. <br /><br />3)<em> Read and write as much as you can.</em> - Start to view writing as a sport. If you want to excel, than you need to engulf yourself in everything involving writing. The more you read the more you'll learn tricks and tips from other writers, and the more you write the better your skills will become. Practice makes perfect. <br /><br />4)<em> Edit. Edit. Edit, again.</em> - Always proofread your work for spelling and grammar errors. In addition, check and double check your facts. Don't stop until you are sure you have everything right. If you are "too close" to your work, ask someone else to read it for you. <br /><br />5)<em> Don't be embarrassed to fix a mistake.</em> - Everyone makes mistakes. I don't know a single entry level PR person who hasn't made the dreaded "pubic relations" error. Don't worry. Simply fix the problem, regardless of how much time, energy or money it might take to do it.<br /><br />6)<em> Learn to take constructive criticism.</em> - If you don't have thick skin, get some. You should be willing to learn from those who know more than you. Just remember to take the advice and use it on your next project.<br /><br />7)<em> Take your writing seriously.</em> - When you write, it should be done with care and precision. A lack of concern or a desire to quickly finish will cause you to make simple mistakes. <br /><br />8)<em> Know the tool. Know the rules. Know the medium.</em> - Each public relations tactic is used for a specific reason, and each one has specific rules, including the appropriate writing style and content. For example, you don't include the same information in a OP-Ed piece that you'd include in a brochure. Further, you must know the best medium - U.S. mail, email, mass media - to deliver your tool. <br /><br />9)<em> Have a purpose. Stick to it.</em> - You should have a specific goal or objective for each tool. Don't stray from your key message or strategic plan.<br /><br />10)<em> Know your public and write to them.</em> - Be sure to include the information your audience will want to know. Anticipate questions, and answer them. Use proper language, proper calls to action and tone.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-52830469182293389262011-02-14T07:44:00.001-08:002011-02-14T09:38:10.986-08:00It's All Your Fault Flu Shot; You Need a New Image<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9NVFHtX_5vur-6ajIejg_EY-Y-iJxqnMxiJ3b93-qJtpW22_Ncrwu6oenSe_pF3NrlGqrKmNaQ9bVodpxRwxoXqyseDBCwcoEO-JTO9cHw5cseHpM0C8kBxCuoIYFWNn6wc1l_rPw8L8/s1600/111608flushot12_t607.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 147px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9NVFHtX_5vur-6ajIejg_EY-Y-iJxqnMxiJ3b93-qJtpW22_Ncrwu6oenSe_pF3NrlGqrKmNaQ9bVodpxRwxoXqyseDBCwcoEO-JTO9cHw5cseHpM0C8kBxCuoIYFWNn6wc1l_rPw8L8/s200/111608flushot12_t607.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573586609571110866" /></a><br />Today, my goal is to sit up unassisted. I'm goal oriented, so I've decided to sit up until I finish this blog. Here I go.<br /><br />I'm a fairly healthy person. I'm not in the gym, check out my abs, <a href="http://www.jillianmichaels.com/">Jilian Michaels</a> healthy. I'm just a thirty-something-year-old-with-no-health-problems healthy. I'm usually fine with it. But, my how this week has changed my life forever. Forever. After not being able to move for about 12 hours on Saturday - pain, chills, fever, coughing, other awful weird unidentifiable stuff - I summoned my mother for help. She helped me with all the necessary things and took me to<a href="http://www.patientfirst.com/"> Patient First</a>. I dare not begin to explain all of the wonderful things that happen there, but when you are sick on Saturday night and you don't quite fit the ER profile, it's the place to go. <br /><br />When we get there, there was a kiosk before you entered the lobby. The words quieried if you had any of a number symptoms. I read the list. I mentally check off each one. Grab a mask. Use the hand sanitizer. Feel like an <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0114069/">Outbreak</a> extra, but I press on. Everything about check in, waiting and getting to the back is painless. I appreciate it. When I get to the back, I sit on the bed, and I stare at the curtain until someone arrives. It takes about 30 seconds before I am horizontal. No good. I commit to just answering questions politely with a smile from that vantage point. Thirty more seconds and I commit to just answering questions. Thirty more seconds and I'm wondering if I can blink my way through my diagnosis. A very, wonderful nurse comes in quickly followed by Dr. Fox. A few questions. Deep breaths, and she proclaims I have the flu. She concludes, "Did you get a flu shot?" No. Absolutely not.<br /><br />I never, ever get a flu shot. The flu shot needs some serious PR assistance. There are some things it has working for it. Many of our trusted "influencers" believe and push it - doctors and government officials. <a href="http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&client=safari&rls=en&q=research+flu+shot&aq=f&aqi=g-v1&aql=&oq=">Research</a> galore. There's a new television ad campaign designed to combat the myths surrounding it. I saw it. It was entertaining. I wanted to embed it for you. It's nowhere on the Internet. That's a problem in this digital age. Besides, we all no funny doesn't make a behavior change. There was also the Washington Redskins cheerleader flu shot "hoax." See below.<br /><br /><br /><iframe title="YouTube video player" width="480" height="390" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/QOmNuIYFD7g?rel=0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br /><br /><br />Is that it? No. First, everyone says get a flu shot. What kind? Everything has a kind or type or brand? Am I to believe there's just one type? For example, name anything simple, and you'll find there's types. Water. Tap, sparkling, carbonated, spring. See? Eggs. Brown or White. Farm or Organic. Small, medium, large or extra large. See? I need to know what kind. I don't need one in little blue box with a white bow or one with a bedazzled syringe. I'd just like to know there is some identifiable quality. Second, you can get them everywhere - and not in a good way. I don't want to buy pantyhose, gum and head past the 90% off Christmas stuff to get a medical procedure in the back of a random <a href="http://www.walgreens.com/">Walgreens</a> or <a href="http://www.cvs.com/CVSApp/user/home/home.jsp">CVS</a>. I like those stores, but not for a medical procedure. What about when they offer it at the supermarket. Yes, I need juice, eggs, and a needle with medicine in it. Ah, no. What about the random places that pop up? You drive by the mall, and there it is. Sale at the Gap, and flu shots in the food court. Yuck. I ain't buying it. Literally. <br /><br />Back to Saturday night. The nurse who was amazing, funny, professional and helped me so much. She agreed to stay late, when my second bag of IV fluids needed to be administered and the clinic was closing. She also created some amazing contraption with my coat and a portable heater that made me feel so toasty and warm. Pure genius. When it was over, Dr. Fox noted this would get me "over the hump." Strange choice of words, but I guess she was right. As I walked slowly toward the front, my husband trailed behind asking more questions about prescriptions and next steps. (Yes, he showed up somewhere through the haze of my treatment.) The lights were dim, but I saw people in the lobby. Little people. Boy, I was hoping it was a mirage. It wasn't. My sons in all their nighttime glory were waiting patiently in the lobby with my mom. Vance,3, in his Batman slippers and Sesame Street pajamas, and Joshua, 18 months, in snow boots and bright yellow SpongeBob Squarepants pajamas. "Mom," I said. "There in their pajamas" In her infinite motherly wisdom, she said, "That's what men do." Sigh. Vance asks if I'm okay. I muster a smile and nod. But, I am distracted. Joshua is behind him and partying like it's <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pnuijDieOvY">1999</a>. "What is he doing, and what is he eating?" I asked. Cookies from the nice receptionist. She clearly made a friend and a happy customer.<br /><br />So, I will get a flu shot ever year. Despite it's bad PR problem. My behavior change is based on two things. First, I can't be this sick ever again. I vow to not let the "convenient" locations distract me from the goal or not getting sick, and I will get a flu shot from the doctor's office, maybe even at Patient First. Second, I never, ever want to see my sons in their pajamas in a public place again. Two hard lessons to learn.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-19676592318640370332011-01-12T08:26:00.001-08:002011-01-12T09:14:49.818-08:00Collaborations Help Best Educate PR StudentsThere's an old African proverb that I'm sure you've heard hundreds of times: It takes a village to raise a child. The idea is that you aren't an island, and the maturation process is best done by a community of people who care and have a vested interest in you. Well, I teach a class at <a href="http://www.howard.edu/">Howard University </a>that follows this same principle, and it does so with much success. <br /><br /><a href="http://communications.howard.edu/departments/journalism/CapComm.htm">CapComm Lab </a>is our capstone course. Students in the course are usually graduating seniors who are about to show the world exactly what they've learned during their time at Howard University. With "real clients" and "real deadlines," students are put to the challenge each day and must help serve their clients by establishing a strategic plan and working to meet specific objectives. The results and the successes are phenomenal. We can boast a long list of satisfied clients, including the <a href="http://www.epa.gov/">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency</a>, <a href="http://www.naacp.org/content/main/">National Association for the Advancement of Colored People</a>, <a href="http://www.splc.org/">Student Press Law Center</a>, <a href="http://www.amtrak.com/servlet/ContentServer?pagename=Amtrak/HomePage">Amtrack</a> and <a href="http://www.childrensnational.org/">Children's National Medical Center</a>.<br /><br />The most important aspect of the class is the "team teach" component. We work with some of the world's top advertising and strategic communication firms to help teach our students the proper ways to serve a client. Past firms include <a href="http://www.apcoworldwide.com/">APCO Worldwide</a>, <a href="http://www.ketchum.com/">Ketchum</a>, <a href="http://www.gmmb.com/">GMMB</a> and <a href="http://www.burson-marsteller.com/default.aspx">Burson-Marsteller</a>. Last semester, we had the privledge of having <a href="">Weber-Shandwick</a>/<a href="">Powell Tate</a>. Not only did highly qualified and influential members of the staff come to the university to teach almost every week, some traveled from as far away as California just to deliver an hour lecture. Now, that's a commitment to help the best truly become the best. <br /><br />While collaborating with a firm is not unusual for us, Weber-Shandwick/Powell Tate created the opportunity for us to serve one of their trusted clients, <a href="https://www.bankofamerica.com/">Bank of America</a>. Students created mock strategic plans and tactics to help the bank improve its image. This added teaching exercise was a bonus experience that pushed students to not just work to satisfy their assigned clients, but work to help foster better communication between a major financial institution and its customers.<br /><br />I am proud to say Bank of America was also delighted with the students' work, and you can see a bit of the background of the project below.<br /><br /><iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/18106303" width="400" height="225" frameborder="0"></iframe><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/18106303">Weber Shandwick - Howard University</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/webershandwick">weber shandwick</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p><br /><br />Ultimately, developing bright young minds can't be left in the hands of one person. It should be done in a collaborative atmosphere where seasoned professionals work strategically to share lessons learned and best practices. I want to personally thank Weber-Shandwick/Powell Tate and Bank of America for helping us do it and do it well.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-62262220883955262132010-10-21T06:53:00.000-07:002010-10-21T08:05:23.623-07:00Your Phone Creates and Maintains Your Image<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQsBFv2XXODQA-SxQZTaFWl3ISXLdiFWopROS-ya34vW6Kkv9eeSpaA1xoqNURywvOnnJOcQaPT9X2F2RlpM9OYwMq9iOQUplTMsNqvYbcIOvmWjmhNxPVW1pqhhTnmSxNqYjVzWXZSrw/s1600/brett-favre.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQsBFv2XXODQA-SxQZTaFWl3ISXLdiFWopROS-ya34vW6Kkv9eeSpaA1xoqNURywvOnnJOcQaPT9X2F2RlpM9OYwMq9iOQUplTMsNqvYbcIOvmWjmhNxPVW1pqhhTnmSxNqYjVzWXZSrw/s200/brett-favre.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530503664296664082" /></a><br />Today, our phones are just as much a part of our image as the clothes we wear or the cars we drive. I just received the new HTC Evo as a gift, and you'd be surprised by the gasps and stares I get when I pull it out in public places. You'd think it were made of gold. It's pretty awesome, at least the features I've discovered. However, there's so much more to our phones than we clearly understand.<br /><br />There are numerous <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/tech/products/2009-10-04-iphone-apps-addiction_N.htm">articles</a> and <a href="http://nymag.com/daily/intel/2010/03/iphone_addiction_is_for_real_s.html">studies</a> out there that report many students and other young adults are addicted to their smart phones. There was an article on <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2010/TECH/mobile/10/21/smartphones.as.computers/index.html?hpt=C2">CNN.com</a> today that reports we no longer prefer our computers or televisions, instead we just use our smartphones. We take them everywhere we go. We <a href="http://blog.dialaphone.co.uk/2010/03/15/75-of-iphone-addicts-sleep-with-their-phones/">sleep</a> with them next to our beds. We've allowed them to replace our watches, cameras, camcorders, address books, calendars, computers, televisions and more. If they have become so important to us, than it begs the question: Why do we act so stupidly with our smartphones?<br /><br />If our phones create our image, what we do with them does, too. I should only have to utter two names - <a href="http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/professional/brett-favre-not-hiding-from-scandal-photo">Brett Favre</a> and <a href="http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504083_162-20017898-504083.html">Eddie Long</a> - to name the latest celebrities at the heart of scandals involving their phones. Both allegedly used their phones to send pictures to their victims. Still other celebrities have received backlash for racy photographs of themselves (Miley Cyrus and Vanessa Hudgens) being uncovered, and raunchy and sexual text messages were a part of the Tiger Woods and Kwame Kilpatrick scandals.<br /><br /><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xgfI2gcVU_8?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xgfI2gcVU_8?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />We should take a hint from the celebrities. It could happen to us, too. We must learn that what we do with our smartphones isn't temporary. We must use them with care. We must use them with respect. Once we hit the send button, we loose the power to take it back. <br /><br />I teach my students about controlled and uncontrolled media in my classes. Smartphones should be seen as uncontrolled mediums. Sure, we have autonomy over the creation of content, but once we tweet, post, upload or send the content, it's gone. The receivers can save it, and they can send it to others. Those receivers can send it to others, and the cycle may never end. Public images can be destroyed with just a touch of a button.<br /><br />It may take years for Brett and Eddie to undo what was done at the hands of their smartphones. Don't make the same mistake. Repairing your image isn't easy. It could take months or years to do it. Be smart. Use the advice I was given when I first starting working in public affairs for the Washington, D.C. government and apply it to your smartphone. I was told, "Don't email anything you wouldn't want to appear on the front page of The Washington Post." It was a scary, but good, warning. You should live by it, too.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-16375251368255598572010-09-13T08:00:00.000-07:002010-09-14T20:19:51.497-07:00Kanye West: Apology Accepted and Rewarded?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx28qgWVeIlsu-BLfcXBeZwB2_Af1-7w1tq44Nj37g7dPvdHKorNx8L3XLLs3FBU59YMQ3SBoQCsIifnr4OHwq0psaG3p16Y9wnbyTTc3l8zLn-C_3fHTpekGcOjV8Y0qu4Gt3wMH5WWw/s1600/Kanye.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 144px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx28qgWVeIlsu-BLfcXBeZwB2_Af1-7w1tq44Nj37g7dPvdHKorNx8L3XLLs3FBU59YMQ3SBoQCsIifnr4OHwq0psaG3p16Y9wnbyTTc3l8zLn-C_3fHTpekGcOjV8Y0qu4Gt3wMH5WWw/s320/Kanye.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5516420765982376866" /></a><br />I just wanted to make a quick post about the power of apologies and our American culture. <br /><br />As I teach my students, it's always important to acknowledge wrongdoing. If your client or organization has done something wrong, it's important to say, well, "I'm sorry." There is actually much research on Apologia. In fact, my research partner, Dr. Dionne Clemons, and I are finishing a study now looking at politicians and their political apologies. <br /><br />There are many, many types of apologies, and some are more effective than others. Plus, in today's society, those in the entertainment field in need of a mea culpa don't just take to the television airwaves for the traditional press conference or release a statement to the media. Now, we see web site apologies (J<a href="http://jackiechan.com/scrapbook/1061068--Statement-of-Apology-from-Jackie-Chan?page=16">ackie Chen</a>), video apologies (Chris Brown) and well, even apologetic Tweets. <br /><br /><object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/oy4wrJ4-q1Q?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/oy4wrJ4-q1Q?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />This brings me to Kanye. Last year, after snatching the microphone away from the young Taylor Swift during her acceptance speech at the Video Music Awards, Kanye was in a firestorm of controversy. Everyone from politicians to the president had something to say about Kanye, and he had something to say, too. He apologized. Americans love apologies. Some people who you'd never think could come back into the entertainment limelight (i.e., Chris Brown now has his first #1 record) can do so if they utter those two little words.<br /><br />I thought it was strange Kanye West began to <a href="http://twitter.com/KanyeWest">Tweet new apologies</a> to Taylor a few weeks ago. "Why did he do it," thought the entertainment reporters. Well, last night made it all crystal clear. He was back at the VMA show, and he went from just a viewer in the seats to the final performer, which is a very coveted spot. And, if you ask me, he was still apologizing on stage. He could have performed his "Power" single, but instead, he performed a song about the things douch bags and other rude people do. I think we were supposed to feel sorry for him being, well, who he is. Details below.<br /><br /><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/IfoiOiJlUKg?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/IfoiOiJlUKg?fs=1&hl=en_US&rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />Ultimately, I think we must learn to navigate proper behavior in our culture. We all know what is proper. It's usually what makes sense, and what your mother and kindergarten teacher taught you to do or not do. But, well, in our culture, we put entertainers on a pedestal, and it's clear that a simple apology can not only bring you back to the game, but with a little patience and persistence, you might eventually be the MVP again.<br /><br />(Photo: 2010 MTV Video Music Awards website)Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-37744162511459135412010-08-26T08:29:00.000-07:002010-08-26T11:12:24.177-07:00Making Students Have a Personal Plan<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoec6P29Du7unq5DYZPeCZbhZGXc8_Ypifz5ya8qfeNWKovuacHD1wxpdyVLLMbDZiHb6d8ZFliAPUXAcGGi689SmbskbUEQ6voNudJtXN2m8Q3lTZfELkbTAwSTiw8pYWz1IY0sMXyFw/s1600/graduation_jubilation.png"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 263px; height: 228px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoec6P29Du7unq5DYZPeCZbhZGXc8_Ypifz5ya8qfeNWKovuacHD1wxpdyVLLMbDZiHb6d8ZFliAPUXAcGGi689SmbskbUEQ6voNudJtXN2m8Q3lTZfELkbTAwSTiw8pYWz1IY0sMXyFw/s320/graduation_jubilation.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5509782854037659666" /></a><br />This is my first week back to work. Feels good to sit in my office again. Fits like a nice old pair of jeans. Perfect.<br /><br />As I settle into my classes, I'm consistently teaching my students the importance of not just being good PR technicians, but strategic thinkers. From the moment I introduce myself to students in Introduction to Public Relations, they are taught to construct what I call <a href="http://www.sjsu.edu/people/dennis.wilcox/">Dennis Wilcox's </a>"eight-point" plan. The components of the plan are situation, objectives, audience, strategies, tactics, calendar, budget and evaluation. This process allows students to really understand how and why they create specific tactics and exactly what each will do to help meet organization goals.<br /><br />What I realize after speaking to so many students at the end of each year is they don't bother to see how creating a personal plan could benefit them. It makes perfect sense. They could create a one-year plan, four-year plan or simply a "how am I going to get a job" plan. For the latter example, the exercise of researching the industry landscape, city where they want to live and companies currently hiring is great. Possible objectives are meeting at least six recruiters over the next two months and asking for <a href="http://mediacareers.about.com/od/gettingthejob/a/Informational.htm">informational interviews </a>or forming a relationship with one industry expert willing to become a mentor and facilitate an easy transition into the workforce. Even the budget aspect of the plan is very important. I have students who want to work in Hollywood. However, none know or realize they must pay their way to Los Angeles for interviews, or they haven't budgeted the costs of shipping their cars or renting apartments. <br /><br />Students spend so much of their lives living semester to semester. They have short term goals of finishing this paper or that assignment and long-term goals of getting a 3.5 gpa for the semester. However, little to no students think in terms of full academic years. Do they really stop to think what they want to get out of the entire college experience, and more importantly, strategically think about and plot the ways to achieve it?<br /><br />I plan to challenge my students to make a personal plan this year. One that takes them toward their personal objectives of being successful entry level PR professionals. We can talk media mogul, PR trailblazer and/or popular public intellect later. Today, I think they should focus on what they can do now to get their first jobs when they graduate in May 2011.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-59337152348000690812010-07-16T10:11:00.000-07:002010-07-22T05:49:20.582-07:00LeBron James Free Agency Announcement: The UItimate PR Case StudyFor the first time in over two decades, I went to a Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus this year. I really understood why chaotic situations are likened to three ring circuses. There's so much to see, experience and take in that it's rather overwhelming. I felt this way recently with the free agency announcement of LeBron James. In this case, the fans, media and sports analysts were dealing with what is now being called the "spectacle" of his behavior. I'm sure it will be used as a great PR case study for years to come.<br /><br />So many elements of what we teach PR students are present in this situation. However, I think we have to start first with why the announcement was rare. <A href="http://bleacherreport.com/articles/417743-the-decision-a-bad-decision-for-lebron-james">Gregory James </A>explains the conventional way a decision is made. Usually, the player calls his former team to announce the decision and offers a thank you to the team owner and then a press release is issued announcing the decision. In this case, "The Decision" was much more than a press release. It was a full-blown television show with hours of build up from ESPN sports analysts, blog posts and traditional media. If someone were to figure out the <A href="http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Advertising_Value_Equivalency">AQV</A> related to LeBron's announcement, I would dare say it would be in the tens of millions. <br /><br />"The Decision" is where most of the controversy hovers. Yet, you should know it wasn't LeBron's idea to make the announcement this way. It was that of respected sportscaster <A href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/07/09/AR2010070905705.html?hpid=topnews">Jim Gray</A>, who now is under criticism along with LeBron for the special. The question is was it too much? Everyone has an opinion, and I do mean everyone. The <A href="http://learning.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/07/08/what-do-you-think-of-the-lebron-james-spectacle/">New York Times </A>even asked teenagers what they thought of it, and let me tell you, these are some opinionated youth. Some even throw around the idea that it was a "publicity stunt." The special resulted in what can now only be politely described as a stain on LeBron's image, which was put there by disgruntled fans and <A href="http://www.nba.com/cavaliers/">Cleveland Cavaliers </A>owner, Dan Gilbert. <br /><br />Unhappy fans took to the streets throwing jerseys in trashcans and creating large and small <A href="http://www.sportsbybrooks.com/tag/cleveland_cavalier">"Lebronfires."</A> Dan wrote an <A href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/07/08/dan-gilbert-letter-lebron_n_640318.html">open letter </A>to his fans. It was not a polite letter, and he even calls LeBron names. It was not a good PR move. I wonder if his PR staff tried to stop him? Did they think he would gain the respect of his fans? Was it purely personal? Was it business? Is his PR team working on a crisis comm plan now to address the angry fans who might be ready to sue him if he doesn't make good on his guarantee of a championship? <br /><br />Isn't this one of the many things we teach students not to do? You never over promise your stakeholders, you never respond when you are angry and you never act without thinking of the consequences or long term effects. For Dan, the immediate consequence was a $100,000 fine from NBA Commissioner David Stern. My guess is there will be much more his PR team and he will deal with in the future.<br /><br />The criticism didn't end with "The Decision." The next day there was a live event for <A href="http://www.nba.com/heat/tickets/heat_landing.html">Miami Heat</A> fans. It was elaborate to say the least. One newscaster called it a WWE-like scene. For students and PR professionals, you have to wonder about the timeline. One look at the videos associated with the event, and you can see all of the pieces needed to put on the event. With the new slogan (Yes. We. Did.), promotions, event logistics, videos, talent booking and even alerting the adoring fans in attendance, it's hard to believe it all happened in a day. Savvy PR folks must know they either knew in advance or took a huge gamble in the planing of the event. If I were to guess if they knew in advance of the morning of "The Decision," than I'd say "Yes. They. Did." <br /><br />For me, PR professionals, late night television hosts, sports analysts, <a href="http://www.collegehumor.com/video:1938393">jokesters</a> and others, LeBron's announcement will leave us talking for a long, long time. Was it a brilliant idea that took King James' public image to the next level, or was it just bad behavior from a "narcissistic" and "egotistical" overpaid athlete? You decide.Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5925662253986575588.post-28608024295999210702010-07-05T20:58:00.000-07:002010-07-06T09:26:32.535-07:00Students Making Their Way in Competitive Hollywood PR Internships<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbaoqHPMAqAbnHPNrp5wk66oHmi7MPr1BhyYye2mAIc4kmQ1oDTnY-wLXmwkQv2QPMeijgqOeybw4rn0kDNoKLlZ-j1slAd4UtIJdNQxvyxt4Sm1Pdhm9DYHtwtrQK0i-a-WU8rtgR8I/s1600/DSCN0798.JPG"></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3D9NX2VhtbxZKNn9OpFRDy4eIm2Ulb7keXdUmkysjT-tavNutYu3AO5FiqxBnGxc6PNXyeh235hs3vUfX6d55TOTyjYTidDsHB7gA8UChabNdQYyRpCLgcj7UvSyeBP1G46-GDeLUs4/s1600/los+angeles+020.JPG" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC3D9NX2VhtbxZKNn9OpFRDy4eIm2Ulb7keXdUmkysjT-tavNutYu3AO5FiqxBnGxc6PNXyeh235hs3vUfX6d55TOTyjYTidDsHB7gA8UChabNdQYyRpCLgcj7UvSyeBP1G46-GDeLUs4/s200/los+angeles+020.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490654071927251282" /></a><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Last week was great. I received three emails from students who are enjoying their summer. They weren't relaxing by the pool or hanging out with friends. Instead, they were working long hours at their internships in the entertainment industry in Hollywood, California.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">For the last two years, I've spent my spring break in Los Angeles, California helping small groups of students do the impossible - catch the</span></span><span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span></span></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> attention of recruiters who are responsible for hiring college students in highly competitive internships. My efforts have been successful. I can now boast students have a 50-50 chance of receiving an internship. Sounds like a gamble, but really, it's quite impressive considering the complexities of internships in Hollywood. Some of the more popular companies with internships, such as </span></span><a href="http://www.mtvnetworkscareers.com/internships/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">MTV</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> and </span></span><a href="http://www.nbcunicareers.com/internships/coasts.shtml"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Universal Studios</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, have thousands of applicants and are often unpaid. Still others with great opportunities pay students, such as the </span></span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=147978564020"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Warner Bros. STARS Leadership Development Program</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> and </span></span><a href="http://www.emmysfoundation.org/internship-programs"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Academy of Television Arts and Sciences Foundation</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, but are very competitive, have extension application processes and only except elite students. So, if it's so competitive, the question is how did my students get there?</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">I think there are five very important things to consider. </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">First</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, there's a lot of groundwork done to prepare for the trip. It usually takes me about four months to get everything together from travel logistics to booking companies. There are a lot of cold calls, email pitches and just good old fashion hustling to make things happen. </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Second</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, I must find those special people who understand what I want to do and are willing to open their doors to a few dedicated students with dreams of "making it" in Hollywood. Below is a video from Doug Ellin, Creator and Executive Producer of HBO's Entourage, discussing what it means to "make it." </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" color: rgb(102, 102, 102); line-height: 13px; "><b style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; background-image: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-attachment: initial; -webkit-background-clip: initial; -webkit-background-origin: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(68, 68, 68); background-position: initial initial; font-size:11px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; white-space: pre-wrap; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:monospace, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fZYlkZlWFTY&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fZYlkZlWFTY&hl=en_US&fs=1?rel=0" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> </span></span></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre-wrap; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Despite what some might think, I've found a few of them, a ratio of about 10 solicitations to every one positive response. Representatives from </span></span><a href="http://disney.go.com/index"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Disney</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, </span></span><a href="http://www.warnerbros.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Warner Bros.</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> and</span></span><a href="http://www.cashmereagency.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> Cashmere Agency</span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"> are just a few who welcomed us in the past. </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Third</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, tapping into alumni is key. I've met some very enthusiastic Howard alumni in entertainment and public relations companies who want nothing more than to see other Howardites making their way in Hollywood, including Nikita Adams, Christopher Cathcart, Deirdre Dix and Tiffany Smith-Anoa'i. </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Four</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, you must take students who have "it." You know "it" is hard to define, but you know "it" when you see it. If I had to define it, I'd say "it" means those who are dedicated, passionate, responsible and have a stellar resume that rivals any of their competition. Those are the ones who find success, but it's not the only thing they need. </span></span><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Finally</span></span></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">, you have to take students who have supportive parents willing to make the investment to send them to Los Angeles for their internships.</span></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Having diverse students in Hollywood internships is important, and I'm planning another blog to really explain why. For now, it's important to say that we can only change things from the inside. We need access, and it doesn't come easy. Someone must open the door, and we must be ready, willing and able to go through it. My students are doing it and finding much success networking and finding others who are, too. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:Georgia, serif;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbaoqHPMAqAbnHPNrp5wk66oHmi7MPr1BhyYye2mAIc4kmQ1oDTnY-wLXmwkQv2QPMeijgqOeybw4rn0kDNoKLlZ-j1slAd4UtIJdNQxvyxt4Sm1Pdhm9DYHtwtrQK0i-a-WU8rtgR8I/s1600/DSCN0798.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqbaoqHPMAqAbnHPNrp5wk66oHmi7MPr1BhyYye2mAIc4kmQ1oDTnY-wLXmwkQv2QPMeijgqOeybw4rn0kDNoKLlZ-j1slAd4UtIJdNQxvyxt4Sm1Pdhm9DYHtwtrQK0i-a-WU8rtgR8I/s320/DSCN0798.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5490815868070559138" style="float: right; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">They are also following my other advice, which is "work hard and play hard." They found time to hang out at the beach, and I'm happy they did. For now, I'll wait for the next email asking for advice, telling a new tale of the famous person they met or just one saying thank you. I'll be happy to get any one.</span></span></span></span></div><!--StartFragment--> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> <!--EndFragment--> </div>Dr. Tia C M Tyreehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18048779677476695795noreply@blogger.com1