My job, defined (sort of)

Incase you ever wanted to know what the 'official' definition of my job as a public relations professional is. Here ya go:

"Public relations is a strategic communication process that builds mutually beneficial relationships between organizations and their publics."

The PRSA released the new definition a few days ago.  While I don't think I could ever put into words what I do on a day to day basis, mostly because it is always changing, this helps.  I like to think of my self as a jack of all trades. I have to be good at my job job (defined above) while also becoming an expert in industries and topics I never thought I would ever touch - diesel engine emissions anyone? forestry equipment? deadbolt locks?

Let's just say I'm never bored. Cheers to all my fellow PR pros out there who know the feeling!

 

 

Seth's Blog: Writing naked

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Writing naked (nakeder than Orwell)

Here are Orwell's rules, edited:

1. Never use a metaphor, simile, or other figure of speech which you are used to seeing in print. You don't need cliches.

2. Never use a long word where a short one will do. Avoid long words.

3. If it is possible to cut a word out, always cut it out.

4. Never use the passive where you can use the active. Write in the now.

5. Never use a foreign phrase, a scientific word or a jargon word if you can think of an everyday English equivalent. When in doubt, say it clearly.

6. Break any of these rules sooner than say anything outright barbarous. Better to be interesting than to follow these rules.

The reason business writing is horrible is that people are afraid.

Afraid to say what they mean, because they might be criticized for it.

Afraid to be misunderstood, to be accused of saying what they didn't mean, because they might be criticized for it.

Orwell was on the right track. Just say it. Say it clearly. Say it now. Say it without fear of being criticized and say it without being boring.

If the goal is no feedback, then say nothing. Don't write the memo.

If the goal is to communicate, then say what you mean.

My best tip is this: buy a cheap digital recorder. Say what you want to say, as if the person you seek to persuade is standing there, listening. Then type that up. Simplify. Send.

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Posted by Seth Godin on June 27, 2011 | Permalink

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From cookie cutter to finger paint

Seth Godin offered some interesting insight on the changing nature of the economy and the nature of business in general. Cookie cutter is out and finger paint is in, but not without the ever present risk of getting a little messy!

"The old economy offered a guarantee--time plus education plus obedience = stability. The new one, not so much. The new one offers a chance for you to take a chance and make an impact."

"The nature of the last era was that repetition and management of results increased profits. The nature of this one is the opposite: if someone can tell you precisely what to do, it's too late. Art and novelty and innovation cannot be reliably and successfully industrialized."

I see this every day working in the social media space. Messaging becomes less controlled and more conversational and business leads come from building relationships and providing valuable content, not producing more and being the best bargain.