California here we come…
It’s been a while since my last upload, but I promised some kids that I’d let them know what I was up to :)
So! The first week in California is done, we spent a solid week in the desert getting trained on all sorts of stuff, the coolest of which being wilderness first aid. There's something about the desert that is different than most places. It has a quietness about it; there are no cars, no people, and no hustle and bustle that you become used to in your day-to-day life.
We all landed at Ontario Airport on the 30th after a long day of travel and after some errands, we finally made our way to our training site.
The highlight of this week was definitely the sunrises, the stars, and the people. I finally got to familiarize myself with the team that I’ll be spending the next several months with and it is safe to say they’re great, I couldn’t have asked for better teammates.
Getting trained in wilderness first aid only increased my interest in that field. The methods of lifesaving that are required of you in a setting where not only the situation, location, and supplies are usually less than ideal were fascinating, safe to say I want to work my way up to my wilderness EMT certification now.
Also, we got to put fake blood and makeup on for different scenarios which was cool :)
After our initial training period ended our team leads were kind enough to book us an amazing Airbnb to enjoy one of our last nights in civilization, I was grill master and made fajitas, great success.
Finally, we departed and made our way to our front country campsite to begin our work skills training. I’m working on pulling the photos from there right now, so they should be uploaded in the next blog. It is so stunning though, rolling hills of green and gold with wineries stretching as far as you can see.
For my kiddos at SSC, I hope y’all are having a great week! Remember to work on those streamlines!! They better be absolutely perfect when I get back!! I’ll be sure to get plenty of pictures for you all!!!
Chicago Basin Camping Trip: Embracing Simplicity
Welcome back again,
It's another adventure with the Broyles family, and I owe them for getting me hooked on the great outdoors. My second real camping and hiking experience was with Michael and his family in Ouray back in September 2020. You can actually find some of the photos right here on the site. But let's get to the point. Any adventure with them is bound to be fantastic, and this trip was exactly that – fantastic in every sense.
The landscape was breathtaking, the wildlife friendly and beautiful, but what struck me most was how this journey allowed my mind to slow down like never before. The sheer remoteness made my brain go nearly silent, a blissful experience where I could wake up to solitude.
Our ride was a blast, packed into a minivan with all our gear. We left in the morning, stopping about an hour from the train station in the stunning New Mexican badlands. We got there just before dark, catching the tail end of a magnificent sunset. We even spotted a rainbow along the way.
The badlands were incredible. We cowboy camped under the stars, making me feel like a true cowboy. In the night, something let out a small wail, which confused and startled me. It was only the following morning that I found out the source of the noise, it was Michael’s dad (Chris) who had fallen off of his sleeping pad – thankfully, it wasn't a skinwalker.
Early the following morning, we loaded up our wagon and drove to our train, which we missed.
Luckily, we raced the train to a lumber yard, parked, and caught it when it passed by. What followed was a breathtaking train ride through the mountains above a beautiful river, leading us to our trailhead.
Crossing the bridge, our trek began. We hiked through lush, stunning landscapes, after about 6 miles we found a perfect spot to set up camp for the day, and hung our hammocks next to an ice-cold river in a valley filled with deer.
We stayed for a night and continued our quest the next morning. Two miles up the trail, we reached our final campsite, nestled at the base of a basin, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks and a stream for water and bathing.
We would spend some time relaxing and enjoying the area around the camp, taking in the views and enjoying the company of the goats, whom we became very familiar with.
I honestly have too many pictures I’d like to post from this trip, it was an absolutely stunning experience.
We’d make our way up to a frozen lake one of the following days to convene with the marmots, who were very interested in what we had going on, one even tried to eat my camera strap.
Being away from it all simplifies life, making you wonder, 'Why didn't I realize this before?' Some of my fondest memories from this trip are the moments when we stopped to appreciate our surroundings – and that happened frequently because the view was always spectacular.
Summiting a mountain can be a daunting task, but for our group, it was just another day in the park. We began our trek before sunrise, watching the colors of dawn paint the sky as we journeyed up Mt. Windom. It felt like a scene from 'Lord of the Rings' as we crossed rocks and snow, climbing higher and higher into the sky, crampons on and poles ready.
We continued through the snow to the top of the saddle, where we faced a challenging ridge with loose boulders and sheer rock faces.
Even bound up the rocks like they were nothing, clearly, he spent much time with the goats and was adopting their ways.
Seeing the world curve from the top is always a mesmerizing experience, and it makes you question whether going back to everyday life is even an option when there's so much to explore.
We made our way down, spent more time relaxing at the campsite, and discovered 'the chute' – a natural way to stay clean, with perfect rock placement, it was convenient enough to lay down and allow the water to wash over your head without worrying about flowing down the stream yourself.
We eventually embarked on the long journey down the mountain, with a week's worth of adventure behind us. Our descent was purposeful to catch our train.
The ride back was quiet, with thoughts of greasy cheeseburgers and ice cream. After hopping off the train, we found our trusty steed, made our way into town, and found our greasy cheeseburgers.
We would spend our 4th of July in Ouray, surrounded by the mountains. The food, the company, and the fireworks were all stunning.
We would eventually begin our long drive home, another incredible adventure etched into our memories.
Oh, and a word of caution – peak meals can do things to your intestinal tract that I dare not utter here.
Get out there, see things, climb them, it's pretty fun.
-Nathan
Adventures Abroad
Bonjour!
Leaving the United States for the first time, except for a brief visit to the Cayman Islands (which felt more like a trip to Florida, considering we flew Southwest), was an eye-opening experience. It became a profound lesson in culture, perception, and history - unlike anything I had ever encountered. It granted me a unique perspective on the age of things around us. To think that some of the buildings I entered were older than the country I call home was a mind-boggling revelation.
The journey to Europe was relatively smooth, except for the god-awful 12-hour layover – a true test of patience. Departing from Dallas usually involves my dad insisting on arriving at the airport six hours early – because why not?
My first transatlantic flight was great, and I found myself unreasonably excited each time a meal arrived, to the point where it became a mildly concerning obsession. I spent most of the flight engrossed in movies and editing videos.
Finally, we touched down at London Heathrow Airport, launching what felt like the layover of a lifetime. My dad and I indulged in airport sushi (still unsure how our stomachs handled it). But soon enough, we found ourselves in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Scotland felt like stepping into a Harry Potter-esque tale. We lodged on the King's Mile, next to Arthur's Seat. Our hike up lush green hillsides, reminiscent of the fields of Rohan in Lord Of The Rings, offered a breathtaking view of the city below.
Every street exuded a history that I had never witnessed before, with graveyards boasting headstones older than the United States. I knew this to be true academically, but standing before it made history come to life. Street vendors in Edinburgh were more vibrant and relaxed than any I had seen in Europe following. Walking along the King's Mile, exploring little shops, and trying local delicacies, felt like an adventure. Surprisingly, many people there greeted us with an enthusiastic 'Boomer Sooner!' when they learned we were from Oklahoma. The streets of Edinburgh felt alive, evoking a familiar sense, akin to scenes from a cherished show or book.
Our journey eventually led us to London. Before delving into the details, I should mention that I've never considered myself a big city person – crowds? Not really my thing. During our walks around Audrey and I would share airpods and listen to our “American Abroad” playlist, which really set the vibes, London was a city of immense beauty and a culture that felt both familiar and distant, like those cousins that you only see at weddings or reunions. The food offerings were exceptional, and it was clear that there was a noticeable difference in the cuisine compared to the FDA-regulated standards we have back home; it's almost comical, not in a good way though.
We embarked on a comprehensive city tour, exploring some of London's most iconic landmarks. Our itinerary included visits to the Monument to the Great Fire, Tower Bridge, London Bridge, the Tower of London, and Borough Market. Each of these sites could easily have its own dedicated entries due to their sheer grandeur, leaving me awestruck and inundated with new experiences
One of the highlights was our visit to St. Paul's Cathedral. It's one of the most exquisite architectural marvels I've ever had the privilege to lay my eyes on. Walking through its hallowed halls felt like stepping into an episode of the History Channel. And of course, Buckingham Palace was an impressive sight, although there isn't much more to elaborate on regarding it.
We departed London four days after our arrival, and headed towards an even more unfamiliar destination: France. Our destination was Paris, a city my mom had wanted to visit since her childhood. It did not disappoint. We explored all the iconic sights, indulged in exquisite cuisine, and immersed ourselves in the city's vibrant energy. One of my most cherished moments was watching the sunset from the top of the Arc De Triomphe on Father's Day; it was a truly unique experience.
But my personal favorite stop was yet to come. Annecy turned out to be a hidden gem that perfectly aligned with my preferences, and I had no idea until we hopped on a train and left Paris. By this point, I was thoroughly 'city-fried,' and Annecy felt like a fairy tale brought to life. Its peaceful cobbled streets and serene turquoise waters had a magical quality.
They slowed me down, compelling me to appreciate every moment. We spent our days exploring restaurants, savoring gelato, and sipping more wine than I'd ever had before. Annecy had electric bikes for rent, so my dad and I attempted to bike to a trailhead. However, just as we arrived, the sky opened up in a torrential downpour. We took advantage of the moment and sought refuge once again, in a sandwich shop. Also, my dad definitely signaled for a fork in a caveman-like manner at the cashier.
Despite our failed hiking attempt, we managed to embark on a 26-mile bike ride around Lake Annecy on our final day. It was perhaps one of the most breathtaking places I've ever witnessed. The Swiss Alps, with their lush green slopes and rugged gray peaks, provided a striking backdrop. The lake's water contrasted beautifully with the verdant mountains, creating a mesmerizing and unique landscape. My dad had devised a method to get all our bike rides for free by carefully timing our stops at pick-up stations. It was an interesting process, to say the least.
That evening, as we lay waiting to fall asleep before our departure, we heard a commotion just outside our window. I opened it and witnessed people dancing and singing in the street below. It felt like something straight out of a movie.
Then, it was time to head home. Being able to have this experience with my family is something I’ll never forget. The flight back was long, and my mom kept herself entertained by watching all the John Wick movies, which provided some amusing moments and helped pass the time.
Get out there, it is pretty neat.
-Nathan
Into the Wild - Exploring Wichita National Wildlife Refuge
The pursuit of happiness and the journey of self-discovery often take us to unexpected places. For me, that place has recently been the Wichita National Wildlife Refuge, I would call it a hidden paradise nestled in the heart of southwestern Oklahoma. This refuge has been the backdrop to my life's adventures, a canvas on which I've created my intentions to explore and see the world, helping me discover to an extent the true essence of both happiness and self.
Journey to Wichita
My story there begins with my dad, the person who first introduced me to the beauty that is the Wichita National Wildlife Refuge. Our little escapades were marked by the excitement of the journey itself, as we made our way to this pristine wilderness. With each passing mile, anticipation would fill the air of the car. The refuge, with its enchanting trails, tranquil lakes, and breathtaking vistas, held the promise of something magical, and it never failed to deliver, not once.
Our destination was a well-trodden trail that meandered past a pristine lake then eventually through a narrow canyon with rocks that would grow warm under the Oklahoma sun. This trail became a cornerstone of our family adventures, a place where I felt the closest to nature, and where every visit uncovered new mysteries. Whether it was the wildlife that crossed our path or the changing hues of the canyon walls, each moment held a sense of wonder. I’m very glad that my first experiences in the outdoors were given to me by my family in this particular place.
Adventures in Nature
As I grew older, so did my curiosity and desire for exploration, I began to wander from home, to see places far away from this little state. The refuge, I soon realized though, had more to offer than met the eye. It was not just about that one trail I had grown up exploring; it was a vast realm of untamed beauty, waiting to be explored. My journeys into the Wichitas took me beyond the familiar, revealing to me hidden treasures that I personally believe rival the majesty of some of our country’s most renowned national parks.
One such place is the Charons Garden backcountry area, a place of rugged landscapes, unspoiled wilderness, and captivating boulder formations. Here, I feel like an adventurer, free to explore and marvel at the wonders of the world. In these wild places, I began to truly appreciate the power of nature to nurture the spirit and ignite a sense of adventure within. Not to say that it wasn’t there to begin with, but something had changed.
Since then, Wichita National Wildlife Refuge has become something of a sanctuary to me, my second home. Countless weekends and early mornings have been dedicated to this beautiful place, where I've not only recharged my spirit but also introduced friends and family to the world of hiking and backpacking in a new way. Sharing the refuge's splendor with others has propelled my already curious spirit even further than I thought it could go.
Lessons Learned
Each visit I’ve taken to the Wichitas has uncovered new details, brought me witness to the beauty of life in its many varying forms, and reminded me of the intricate wonders of the natural world at my doorstep. These mountains have been my steadfast companions on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth at this point in my life. The serene landscapes and solitude offer a unique sense of peace that has allowed me to think in a way I don’t feel capable of when at home.
The Wichita National Wildlife Refuge has not only shaped me as a person but has also deepened my reverence for the environment since I was very young. It's a place where the heart finds solace, the mind finds wonder, and the spirit finds its truest essence, a little bit cringy, I know but the adventures I've embarked upon here have been a source of inspiration, a testament to the power of nature to heal, transform, and reveal a path to happiness.
I’ve found that there is something inherently special about being outside, it feels right, natural even. I will never get over the look on someone’s face as you show them somewhere beautiful for the first time in their life.
Tie up them boots
We got adventuring to do.
As we delve into this series of articles together, I'll explore the hidden corners, pristine trails, and untamed beauty of not only the Wichitas but also of life and the world. Each installment will uncover new facets of the pursuit of happiness and self-discovery, all against the breathtaking backdrop that is our beautiful planet. Join me on this journey as we embrace the boundless wonders of the world and discover the secrets to true happiness and self-fulfillment.
This is what a man in his natural element becomes.
Until the next,
-Nathan
For more information regarding the Wichita National Wildlife Refuge visit:
Wichita National Refuge Main Site
Evaluating Your PR Campaign
As a PR professional, you know that evaluating the success of a campaign is essential. It helps you understand what worked, what didn't, and how to improve your strategies for future campaigns. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of evaluating your PR campaigns, how to measure success, and identify areas for improvement.
Why is PR campaign evaluation important?
Evaluating your PR campaign is crucial because it helps you measure the impact of your efforts. It allows you to see if you achieved your goals and objectives, and if not, identify areas for improvement. Evaluation also provides insights into what strategies worked well, and what didn't, giving you a basis for making informed decisions about future campaigns.
Measuring success
Measuring the success of your PR campaign requires setting clear and measurable goals and objectives. These goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). Once you have set your goals, you need to establish metrics to measure them. Metrics may include media impressions, social media engagement, website traffic, lead generation, and sales. Use analytics tools to track metrics and compare them to your goals to see if you achieved them.
Identifying areas for improvement
Even if your PR campaign was successful, there is always room for improvement. Identifying areas for improvement will help you optimize your strategies and tactics for future campaigns. Consider the following questions when evaluating your campaign:
Did you reach your target audience?
Were your messages clear and effective?
Did you achieve your goals and objectives?
Did you get media coverage? If so, what was the tone?
Did your social media posts generate engagement?
Did you get feedback from your audience? If so, what did they say?
Use the answers to these questions to identify areas for improvement. For example, if you did not reach your target audience, consider changing your messaging or targeting tactics. If your social media posts did not generate engagement, consider using different platforms or posting at different times.
Multimedia elements
To illustrate the importance of PR campaign evaluation, you can use two multimedia elements: a graph and a quote. The graph can show the increase in website traffic or social media engagement, demonstrating the impact of the campaign. The quote can be from a satisfied client or customer, showing the positive impact of your efforts.
Conclusion
Evaluating your PR campaign is essential to measure success, identify areas for improvement, and make informed decisions for future campaigns. Use SMART goals and metrics to measure success, and identify areas for improvement by asking the right questions. With PR campaign evaluation, you can optimize your strategies and tactics, and achieve greater success in your future campaigns.
Implementing a PR Campaign: A Guide for Success
Public Relations (PR) campaigns are crucial for any organization's success, as they create awareness and build positive relationships with stakeholders. However, implementing a successful PR campaign requires careful planning and execution. In this blog post, we will discuss the essential steps to take during the implementation process, using insights from "Strategic planning for public relations" by Ronald D. Smith.
Set Campaign Goals and Objectives
Before launching a PR campaign, it is essential to define clear goals and objectives. Determine what you want to achieve through the campaign, whether it's increasing brand awareness, driving sales, or improving public perception. Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
Identify Your Target Audience
Knowing your target audience is crucial to the success of your PR campaign. Conduct market research to understand your audience's demographics, behaviors, and interests. This information will help you tailor your messaging and tactics to resonate with your audience.
Develop a Messaging Strategy
Once you've defined your goals and identified your audience, you need to develop a messaging strategy that aligns with your objectives. Your messaging should be clear, concise, and consistent across all channels. It should also be tailored to your audience's interests and needs.
Choose Your Channels and Tactics
Select the most appropriate channels and tactics to deliver your messaging to your audience. This could include media relations, social media, email marketing, events, and influencer partnerships. Consider the best ways to reach your audience and what tactics will be most effective in achieving your goals.
Plan Your Timeline and Budget
Develop a timeline for your PR campaign, including key milestones and deadlines. It's essential to have a realistic budget that covers all your costs, from creative development to media buying. Consider factors like staffing, production costs, and any third-party expenses.
Monitor and Evaluate Your Results
Monitoring and evaluating your PR campaign's success is vital to understanding what worked and what didn't. Use metrics like media coverage, website traffic, social media engagement, and sales to measure your campaign's effectiveness. Use this information to adjust your tactics for future campaigns.
In conclusion, implementing a PR campaign requires careful planning, execution, and evaluation. Following the steps outlined above will help you create a successful campaign that meets your objectives and resonates with your target audience. Remember to stay flexible and adapt your tactics as needed, and you'll be on your way to PR success.
Sources:
Smith, R.D. (2021). Strategic planning for public relations (6th Ed.). Routledge.
Effective Communication Tactics for Successful Public Relations
Public relations (PR) is all about communicating effectively with your target audience to promote your brand or organization. However, communication is not just about what you say, it's also about how you say it. In this blog post, we will discuss some effective communication tactics for successful PR.
Choose the Right Channels
Choosing the right channels is crucial for effective communication. Different audiences prefer different channels, and it's important to understand your target audience's preferences. For example, if you are targeting younger audiences, social media channels like Instagram, TikTok, or Snapchat may be more effective. On the other hand, if you are targeting older audiences, traditional media like TV, radio, or newspapers may be more appropriate.
Craft Compelling Messages
Crafting compelling messages is another key component of effective communication. Your messages should be clear, concise, and relevant to your target audience. It's also important to highlight the benefits of your brand or organization, rather than just its features. Use storytelling and visual elements like images, videos, or infographics to make your messages more engaging and memorable.
Listen and Respond
Listening and responding to your target audience is equally important as crafting compelling messages. Use social listening tools to monitor what people are saying about your brand or organization on social media. Respond to their comments or questions promptly and professionally. Address their concerns and provide solutions to their problems. This will help you build trust and credibility with your audience.
Build Relationships
Building relationships with your target audience is a long-term process. It's important to engage with them consistently and authentically. Be transparent and honest in your communication. Show that you care about their opinions and feedback. Provide them with valuable information or resources that they can use. Building relationships will help you create a loyal fan base that will support your brand or organization.
In conclusion, effective communication tactics are essential for successful PR. Choosing the right channels, crafting compelling messages, listening and responding, and building relationships are some of the key tactics that can help you achieve your PR goals. Remember to tailor your communication strategy to your target audience's preferences and needs. With these tactics in mind, you can create a strong and positive image for your brand or organization.
Sources:
Smith, R.D. (2021). Strategic planning for public relations (6th Ed.). Routledge.
https://www.prdaily.com/4-must-have-communication-tactics-for-your-public-relations-strategy/
REFLECTION
As someone who is interested in public relations (PR), I have come to understand that effective communication is crucial when promoting a brand or organization. It's not just about what you say, but how you say it. In my recent blog post, I shared some effective communication tactics that can help achieve successful PR.
One important tactic is choosing the right channels. I have learned that different audiences have different preferences for communication channels. For instance, younger audiences may prefer social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Snapchat, while older audiences may prefer traditional media like TV, radio, or newspapers.
Another tactic that I highlighted in my post is crafting compelling messages. I believe that messages should be clear, concise, and relevant to the target audience. To make them engaging and memorable, I suggest using storytelling and visual elements like images, videos, or infographics. It's also important to highlight the benefits of a brand or organization, rather than just its features.
In addition to crafting messages, listening and responding to the target audience is just as important. I recommend using social listening tools to monitor what people are saying about the brand or organization on social media. Promptly responding to their comments or questions in a professional manner, and addressing their concerns or providing solutions to their problems can help build trust and credibility.
Lastly, building relationships with the target audience is a long-term process that requires consistency and authenticity. I suggest being transparent and honest in communication, showing that I care about their opinions and feedback, and providing them with valuable information or resources that they can use. By building relationships, I can create a loyal fan base that will support the brand or organization.
Overall, I believe that effective communication tactics are essential for successful PR. By tailoring communication strategies to the target audience's preferences and needs, and utilizing tactics like choosing the right channels, crafting compelling messages, listening and responding, and building relationships, I can create a strong and positive image for any brand or organization.
Message Strategies in PR: Crafting Effective Communications
In today's fast-paced, hyper-connected world, crafting effective message strategies is critical to the success of any public relations (PR) campaign. Whether it is a crisis communication or a product launch, the ability to communicate key messages clearly and concisely to the target audience can mean the difference between success and failure. In this blog post, we will explore the key concepts and principles of message strategies in PR, drawing on the insights from the book "Strategic Planning for Public Relations" by Ronald D. Smith.
Understanding the Target Audience
One of the fundamental principles of message strategies in PR is understanding the target audience. Before crafting any message, it is essential to understand who the message is intended for, what they care about, and what motivates them. This requires conducting thorough research and analysis of the target audience's demographics, psychographics, and media habits. By understanding the audience's needs, desires, and pain points, PR professionals can tailor their messages to resonate with them and achieve the desired outcomes.
Developing Key Messages
Once the target audience is identified, the next step is to develop key messages that address their needs, desires, and pain points. Key messages are the core of any PR campaign, conveying the central theme, purpose, and value proposition of the campaign. Effective key messages are clear, concise, and memorable, and they resonate with the target audience. To develop effective key messages, PR professionals must consider the audience's language, emotions, and cultural context.
Crafting the Message Delivery
Once the key messages are developed, the next step is to craft the message delivery. Message delivery refers to the tactics and channels used to disseminate the key messages to the target audience. Effective message delivery requires an integrated approach that leverages multiple channels and tactics, such as social media, media relations, influencer outreach, events, and content marketing. The message delivery should be consistent with the campaign's objectives and tailored to the target audience's media habits and preferences.
Measuring the Effectiveness of Message Strategies
Finally, measuring the effectiveness of message strategies is crucial to refining and improving future campaigns. Effective measurement requires setting clear objectives, defining metrics, and monitoring and analyzing the results. By tracking the metrics, PR professionals can identify what works and what does not, and adjust the message strategies accordingly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, message strategies in PR are critical to the success of any campaign. By understanding the target audience, developing effective key messages, crafting the message delivery, and measuring the effectiveness, PR professionals can achieve their objectives and build lasting relationships with their target audience. As the media landscape continues to evolve, it is essential to stay abreast of the latest trends and best practices to ensure that message strategies remain effective and relevant.
Sources:
Smith, R.D. (2021). Strategic planning for public relations (6th Ed.). Routledge.
Grunig, J.E. (2019). Excellence theory in public relations: Past, present, and future. Public Relations Review, 45(2), 101-108.
Grunig, L.A., Grunig, J.E., & Dozier, D.M. (2002). Excellent public relations and effective organizations: A study of communication management in three countries. Routledge.
REFLECTION
As a PR professional, I understand the importance of crafting effective message strategies in today's fast-paced and hyper-connected world. The blog post does an excellent job of highlighting the key principles of message strategies in PR, which are fundamental to any successful campaign.
The first principle of understanding the target audience is critical, as it sets the foundation for the entire campaign. Without knowing the target audience's demographics, psychographics, and media habits, crafting effective messages would be nearly impossible. Developing key messages that resonate with the target audience is the next step, and it is vital to consider the audience's language, emotions, and cultural context to make them memorable and impactful.
Crafting the message delivery is another crucial aspect of message strategies, as it determines how the key messages will be disseminated to the target audience. It is essential to use an integrated approach that leverages multiple channels and tactics, such as social media, media relations, influencer outreach, events, and content marketing, to achieve the desired outcomes.
Finally, measuring the effectiveness of message strategies is essential to refine and improve future campaigns. By setting clear objectives, defining metrics, and monitoring and analyzing the results, PR professionals can identify what works and what does not and adjust the message strategies accordingly.
Overall, the blog post offers valuable insights into the key concepts and principles of message strategies in PR. As a PR professional, I will keep these principles in mind while crafting message strategies for my clients and ensure that the messages are tailored to resonate with the target audience and achieve the desired outcomes.
PR Action and Response Strategies: How to Handle a Crisis
If you've ever heard of a company being in hot water because of a scandal or a mishap, you've seen how important it is for businesses to have a plan in place for handling public relations (PR) crises. In this blog post, we'll discuss the basic concepts and strategies for managing PR crises that every college student should know.
First, it's important to understand what a PR crisis is. A PR crisis occurs when a company faces negative publicity that can damage its reputation or business. These crises can range from a social media post gone wrong to a product recall or a major lawsuit. Regardless of the cause, it's essential for companies to have a plan in place for handling these situations.
One of the most important strategies for managing a PR crisis is to respond quickly and effectively. The longer a company waits to respond, the more damage can be done to its reputation. Companies should have a crisis communication plan in place that outlines who will be responsible for responding, how they will respond, and what they will say. This plan should be regularly updated and rehearsed to ensure that everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.
Another important strategy is to be transparent and honest in your response. People appreciate honesty and transparency, and it can go a long way in rebuilding trust. This means being upfront about what happened, taking responsibility for any mistakes, and outlining what steps the company is taking to address the issue and prevent it from happening again.
In addition to responding quickly and transparently, companies should also be proactive in their PR efforts. This means being proactive in identifying potential issues before they become crises, and taking steps to mitigate the risk. For example, a company might conduct a risk assessment to identify potential risks and develop plans to address them.
Finally, it's important to remember that a PR crisis can also be an opportunity for a company to demonstrate its values and commitment to its customers. By taking responsibility, being transparent, and taking steps to address the issue, a company can show that it cares about its customers and is committed to doing the right thing.
In conclusion, every company should have a plan in place for managing PR crises. This plan should include strategies for responding quickly and effectively, being transparent and honest in your response, being proactive in identifying and mitigating potential risks, and using the crisis as an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to your customers. By following these strategies, companies can protect their reputation and rebuild trust with their stakeholders.
Sources:
Smith, R.D. (2021). Strategic planning for public relations (6th Ed.). Routledge.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2020/03/18/how-to-respond-to-a-pr-crisis/?sh=1efc774f786a
https://www.cision.com/us/2018/05/effective-crisis-management-strategies/
JWF: More than a team
A look into the world of James White Fitness. The happiest place on earth.
Upon entering James White Fitness for the first time one might expect a very serious group of people, after all, its a gym specializing in combat sports. However, that expectation could not be further from the truth.
JWF is place created and maintained by a passion and love not only for Jiu-Jitsu, MMA and Muay Thai, but also for those within the gym who make up its ranks.
This passion is evident everyday from the moment you step in, from the second you enter those doors you will be greeted by smiles and warm welcomes.
Owners James and Samantha White are living embodiments of this enthusiasm
No matter the day of the week, when you enter the gym you can safely expect to see the two of them excitedly preparing to teach class. Their passion is not only evident in their words, but also their actions.
Each day they bring the same positive and uplifting energy as the day before. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been at the gym for a week or a year, they will treat you as one of their own, as part of their family.
With this comes an atmosphere of unprecedented learning and understanding, James is sure to instruct each person on the ways in which they can improve their craft on the mat.
When teaching a technique all eyes are on the center of the mat, moving with an almost rhythmic precision James will demonstrate the moves for the day. With the conclusion of each demonstration a clap will be heard on the count of three. Then it’s time to begin.
Being a combat sport does not mean aggression is key in Jiu-Jitsu, in many ways, technique and patience will carry you far further. James emphasizes the correct execution of techniques above all else.
This dedication to technique and the team are only a couple of factors in what has created one of the most successful gyms in the state and beyond.
There’s something undeniable about the culture that James and Sam have created in their gym.
You can practically feel it in the air.
Following Jiu-Jitsu class James will then transition over to kickboxing/Muay Thai class. Rather than the slams and slaps of the mat, you’re treated to the rhythmic beating of pads by punches and kicks.
The art of striking is a matter of nearly invisible details and split second reactions, something James stresses heavily. Each and every movement has to be made with an intent.
Time to clean up.
Each and every day we end together and James will wheel out a bucket and two mops. Without even a word most days, members of the gym will make their way over and begin cleaning down the mats and gear. There is an incredible respect for the space.
Each day after class when everyone has left James will begin to shut down the lights and lock up the doors, finally concluding what has been a long, but good night. The best part is, we get to do it all again the next day.
JWF is located at 1309 24th Ave SW, Norman, OK, United States, Oklahoma
REFLECTION
As I reflect on my blog post about James White Fitness, I can’t help but think about the difficulty of capturing the gym’s spirit in words. When I first walked into JWF, I had certain expectations due to its specialization in combat sports. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The passion and love that James and Samantha White have for their gym and its members is undeniable. From the moment you step in, you’re greeted with smiles and warm welcomes. It’s clear that the Whites treat everyone as part of their family, regardless of how long they’ve been at the gym.
The dedication to technique and the team is only a couple of factors in what has created one of the most successful gyms in the state and beyond. James is an excellent instructor who emphasizes the importance of correct technique above all else. His teachings create an atmosphere of unprecedented learning and understanding.
Another thing that struck me about JWF was the respect for the space. Every day after class, members of the gym would come together to clean down the mats and gear without even being prompted. This respect for the space creates an atmosphere of mutual respect and support.
Despite JWF being a gym specializing in combat sports, it’s not all about aggression. James stresses the importance of patience, split-second reactions, and nearly invisible details when it comes to striking. This creates an atmosphere of mindfulness and intentionality.
All in all, JWF is an incredible gym that embodies the passion and love that James and Samantha White have for their craft and their members. It’s a place where you can come to learn and grow, both as an athlete and as a person. And the best part? You get to do it all again the next day.
Life as a student
A first brief look into the thoughts of me, a college student who is about to graduate and find his passion.
Enjoying his coffee; Dec. 6th 2022
Sometimes you just have to see the little things.
More often than not I find myself not being entirely aware of the positions I find myself in. One thing in particular that has been the subject of much thought for me lately has been realizing that even as I come to my final semester of college, my younger years are not yet over.
I find myself sitting and stressing over getting older. I don’t know what I want to do, but as I’ve grown I have also realized that hardly anybody else knows what they’re doing either. Most of us seem to allow the story of our lives to play out in front of us rather than take control of it ourselves. I don’t want to do that and I don’t believe others want to either.
In realizing these things I began to steer myself in the direction of what I want.
Waiting on the corner; Dec. 6th 2022
All this being said, this semester was kind of a hard reset for me, I’ve had to find what things genuinely bring me joy and fulfillment. I lost some good habits and gained some not so good ones coming through college, but I’m certain that I can do the things I believe necessary. This final semester is looking to be what I’ve always looked for.
So I jumped headfirst into what I feel my passions could become.
I love hearing stories, even more-so I love telling them to other people. I thought all this while I was sitting in my apartment, but one important thought finally made it’s way to my mind.
What better stories to tell than my own? Why not take those adventures I’ve always watched with such desire and make them my own?
That is my intention. So, reader, thank you for coming. I can’t wait for the adventures I’m going to bring you on one day.
REFLECTION
As I read back on my blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia for the mindset I had during that time. It's interesting to see how far I've come since then, yet at the same time, some of the struggles I faced are still very present in my life.
The idea of getting older and not having everything figured out is still something that weighs heavily on me. However, reading my own words reminds me that it's okay to not have everything together, and that we all have our own paths to take.
Reflecting on my final semester of college, I remember how much of a turning point it was for me. It was a time where I had to take a step back and reevaluate what truly made me happy and fulfilled.
I'm proud of myself for taking the leap into pursuing my passions, and even more so for realizing that my own experiences and adventures can make for some of the best stories to share with others.
As I continue on my journey, I hope to never lose sight of the little things in life and the importance of taking control of my own story. And who knows, maybe one day I'll have some new adventures to share with my readers.
