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My Experience At 1853 Communications

1853 Communication is a student-run public relations firm that gives students the
opportunity to operate in an office-like environment. Providing real world experience this class
showed me the importance of everyone doing their part to achieve a goal. Before taking this
class I had no idea what public relations actually was and what it was used for. I believed that
PR is just to make something look good so that it will make people want to buy, listen, or watch
whatever that product is but this class has shown me that it is much more than that. Public
relations is informing the public and giving them important information about specific issues. It is
also used to connect companies or people to the public and give an insight of what or who they
are so that they can have the support of the public. This class truly felt like we were working in a
PR firm in the way that we worked together to get work done but also as we worked individually.
Being a student working for a student agency was an awesome experience because it opened
my eyes to a world of public relations and jobs that are available that I didn’t know existed
before. This PR firm allowed everyone to grow in their skill with creating fundraisers, making
newsletters, PR trips, important speakers, and writing fun articles. This student firm has
enlightened me on what it takes to be a part of a well run public relations firm and shape my
understanding of the field.

Research in PR

Research is one of the most important steps before communicating with the rest of the world, especially when it comes to maintaining Public Relations. With Public Relations, not knowing the proper information about the praise or complaints for or against the group you represent can lead to a terrible public image resulting in mistrust from the public. But when studying what to do two important factors must be looked into for the best outcome.

Knowledge of the audience

Knowing who the intended audience is for you is an important step to get the best response. If the audience is a certain group of people then you need to know who they are and what they support. If the people that you need to communicate about in PR are those supportive/were supportive of your group that you’re speaking on behalf of, then you need to see what got them to talk about your group. If it’s for a negative reason then a PR statement needs to be made on behalf of your group to try and make amends with them for whatever reason. However, If the group is neutral or was seemingly always against your group for whatever reason, it might be best to try to get them over your side. Researching what your group did wrong from the perspective of any group is a necessary step in remedying the situation in a negative light, listen or read any problem they may have. See how your group could change, note this could result in isolation from supporters because it’s something they might not like, so be cautious with the decision making.

Know the subject

Knowing the subject you’re addressing is a simple thing but it’s also something that some in Public relations miss on that results in later mocking and scrutiny from detractors. Researching what your group did whether right or wrong in the eyes of a group is a necessary step to continue success.

The subject can almost be anything, but some examples can be related to a product, allegations on company practice, inner company culture, an unofficial or official statement from an employee or any action an employee might have committed is necessary to see what went right or wrong. It might also be good to study law on an issue if whatever is used against your group is from a legal standpoint. It’s also good to keep in contact with those dealing with the situation, such as the higher ups as they will be looking towards you to communicate what they say. If possible and with permission, it’s also good to relay updates about the subject more and more to the audience to keep them informed on the ongoing situation. While relaying information, try to gauge public reaction to the information. Make sure to remain accurate with the information as that can come back to haunt you later, which can result in more Public Relations problems in the future.

Conclusion

Once these two factors have been researched, you can respond in any way you can. If people like what you’re doing then it’s best to continue with that path the best you can or change if necessary.

The Power of Influencer Marketing in Public Relations

In the world of public relations, making real connections with people is important. Since social media has now become a huge part of our everyday lives, influencers play a crucial role in shaping public perceptions. This kind of marketing is beneficial because it allows more people to be reached and engages them in a way that clicks with today’s consumers. Teaming up with influencers helps PR professionals tell stories that attracts specific audiences. It is important to understand why influencer marketing matters in PR for any business wanting to build a strong brand presence. Now lets dive in to the specific advantages of influencer marketing in public relations.

Authenticity and Credibility

Influencers tend to be authentic and relatable individuals to their followers. When they endorse a product, brand, or service, their audience is more likely to trust their recommendation and buy what they are selling. This contributes to increased credibility for the brand when viewed by the public.

Reach and Exposure

Influencers typically have larger followings across their social media platforms which means that they can reach a wider audience. By partnering with influencers, PR professionals are able to expand their reach to specific demographics and opens up opportunities for them to tap into communities that may be hard to reach through traditional PR channels.

Storytelling Through Content Creation

Creating compelling and attractive content is what influencers do best. By including influencers in PR campaigns, brands can utilize their storytelling skills to effectively communicate key messages to their audiences. This strategy can enhance the overall portrayal of a brand and make it more relatable.

Able to Adapt to Different Industries

Influencer marketing is very multifaceted and can be applied to a variety of industries. No matter what you are promoting, from fashion to technology, there are influencers with diverse expertise and interests. Because of that, this a flexible strategy for PR professionals across all different fields.

Measurable Results

A campaign is only beneficial to a business if its results are measurable. Influencer marketing campaigns can be tracked and measured. This provides PR professionals with insightful data on reach, engagement, and its impact on the business. Analyzing these metrics permits a data-driven approach to evaluating if a campaign is successful and determining if these strategies should be implemented in the future.

Building Long- Term Relationships

PR professionals can build long term relationships with influencers beyond specialized campaigns. This opens up the door to establishing brand loyalty and creating ongoing brand endorsements that can be beneficial for supported PR efforts.

The public relations field is always evolving and influencer marketing has become a crucial component in shaping brand narratives. The benefits we just explored, ranging from authenticity and reach to adaptability and measurable results, highlight the important role influencers play in increasing PR effectiveness. Understanding the relationship between influencer marketing and public relations is necessary for businesses who are looking to present themselves in an authentic and relatable way. Not only does influencer marketing allow businesses to convey messages but also leave a lasting impression on their intended audiences.

The Benefits of Joining PRSSA

The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA), is the leading organization for students in public relations or communications. Started in 1967, PRSSA has helped many students further their career by giving them access to scholarships, educational programs, and networking opportunities. This organization has also provided students with mentorship opportunities, connecting them with professionals that can help guide to them into a career in the communications fields. As a member of PSSRA, you will have access to countless opportunities to broaden your portfolio and career. The website provides you with links to see potential internship opportunities, upcoming events and PR competitions, and even applications to scholarships and leadership awards. As a member, you would also have access to their blogs, newsletters, publications, and case studies.

PRSSA has over 11,000 student members from universities across the country and even outside of the United states; they have advocate heavily for ethics and diversity in the field. These students all come together under one common interest; public relations and communications. With many career options, we start with a college education. PRSSA since their creation, has provided standards of what a degree in public relations looks like. As a member, you get access to fellow students and graduates, people who are studying the same things as you, and could be your future coworkers. You also get access to programs that can help you before you begin the job search, using their Certificate in Principles of Public Relations program, that can help your resume stand out when applying for jobs. This program can be done completely remote, and can help you stand out amongst other candidates.

The end of your academic career is not where the benefits stop; this membership will help you well into your career path. The Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), will continue to help you after you have finished your degree. The membership will give you access to lists of available jobs, and places to meet and talk to other people just starting out in the field of public relations. The membership costs 55 dollars for the year, and is definitely a worthy purpose for anyone who is pursuing a career in public relations.

Managing Mental Health on Campus During a Worldwide Disaster: Insights from the Israel-Hamas Conflict

In times of worldwide disasters, such as the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, the impact on mental health can be significant, especially for students who are already navigating the challenges of academic life. The stress, anxiety, and uncertainty surrounding such events can take a toll on their overall well-being and academic performance. Therefore, it becomes crucial for educational institutions to prioritize mental health support and provide strategies to help students manage their mental well-being effectively.

1. Acknowledge and Validate Feelings:

During a global crisis, it is essential to acknowledge and validate the range of emotions students may experience. Fear, anxiety, anger, and sadness are all valid responses to traumatic events. Professors and university staff should create a safe space for students to express their feelings, providing opportunities for open discussions and active listening. By acknowledging their emotions, students can feel supported and understood, which can help alleviate some of their distress.

2. Promote Open Communication:

Encourage open communication channels between students, teachers, and parents. Regular check-ins, virtual meetings, or even anonymous online platforms can provide a space for students to share their concerns, ask questions, or seek support. By fostering an environment of open communication, students can feel more connected, reducing feelings of isolation and promoting a sense of community.

3. Provide Accurate Information:

Misinformation can exacerbate anxiety and fear during a crisis. Universities should ensure that students have access to accurate and reliable information from credible sources. Professors can guide students in understanding the situation by providing appropriate explanations and addressing misconceptions. This approach helps students feel more informed, empowered, and better equipped to handle the challenges they face.

4. Establish Routine and Structure:

Maintaining a sense of routine and structure is crucial for managing mental health during a crisis. This means keeping to a consistent schedule, even in remote learning environments. Structured routines can provide a sense of stability and normalcy, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of control. Students going through this trauma are encouraged to maintain regular sleep patterns, engage in physical activity, and take breaks to relax and recharge.

5. Foster Peer Support:

Peer support can be the most valuable resource for students during challenging times. Schools can facilitate virtual peer support groups or buddy systems, allowing students to connect with their peers and share experiences. Encouraging empathy, kindness, and understanding among students can create a supportive network that helps alleviate stress and promotes a sense of belonging.

6. Offer Mental Health Resources:

Universities should ensure that students have access to mental health resources and support services. This can include counseling sessions, mental health hotlines, or online resources that provide coping strategies and self-help techniques. By offering these resources, universities demonstrate their commitment to student well-being and provide avenues for seeking professional help when needed.

7. Encourage Self-Care:

Promoting self-care practices is essential for managing mental health during a crisis. Encourage students to engage in activities that promote relaxation, such as mindfulness exercises, deep breathing techniques, or journaling. Encourage them to take breaks from news updates and social media to avoid becoming overwhelmed by the constant influx of information. Encouraging healthy habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep, can also contribute to overall well-being.

8. Implement Flexibility and Understanding:

During a worldwide disaster, it is crucial for universities to be flexible and understanding of the challenges students may face. Recognize that students may have difficulty focusing, experience increased stress levels, or struggle with meeting deadlines. Offering flexibility in assignments, adjusting expectations, and providing additional support can help alleviate some of the pressures students may feel, allowing them to prioritize their mental health without compromising their education.

9. Educate Professors and Staff:

Professors and staff play a vital role in supporting students’ mental health during a crisis. Universities should provide training and resources to educate teachers and staff on recognizing signs of distress, understanding trauma-informed care, and implementing strategies to support students effectively. By equipping educators with the necessary tools, schools can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for students.

Managing mental health on campus during a worldwide disaster, such as the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, requires a comprehensive approach that prioritizes students’ well-being. By acknowledging and validating their feelings, promoting open communication, providing accurate information, establishing routines, fostering peer support, offering mental health resources, encouraging self-care, implementing flexibility, and educating professers and staff, universities can create a supportive environment that helps students navigate the challenges they face. By prioritizing mental health, educational institutions can ensure that students receive the support they need to thrive academically and emotionally during times of crisis.

Looking for a Job or Internship? Here’s a list of Philadelphia PR Agencies That Are Hiring

The following is a list of PR companies in and around Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that are currently offering job or internship opportunities that may be of interest to people in the PR field.

Neff (neffknows.com)

Neff is a Philadelphia marketing agency that works with both small business and large corporations. Their services include branding, public relations, social media, websites, advertising, media strategy, photography, and videography. Their wide range of clients includes Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant, Crumbl, Eastern Airlines, and the Golf Association of Philadelphia.

Neff is currently hiring numerous positions, such as PR & Social Media Account Manager and Social Media Content Creator. They also have applications open for internship opportunities.

ShinePR (shinepr.com)

ShinePR is a boutique PR agency in Philadelphia with over 20 years of experience working with marketing agencies and major companies. Their services include branding, marketing, and public relations. They have also earned the Certified Women’s Business Enterprise designation from NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners), which recognizes that ShinePR is a woman owned business.

ShinePR is currently looking for people to join their team.

Buchanan Public Relations (buchananpr.com)

Buchanan Public Relations is a PR agency located in Bryn Mawr that specializes in PR, digital communication, and crisis communication. Their work includes content creation, media relations, graphic design, video, and social and digital for a variety of industries such as food and beverage, non-profit, and healthcare. Buchanan Public Relations is also a member of PRSA (Public Relations Society of America).

Buchanan Public Relations is looking for people to join the Buchanan PR Apprenticeship Program, which is designed for recent college graduates looking for experience in PR. They also offer summer PR internships.

Gregory FCA (gregoryfca.com)

Gregory FCA is a PR company located in Ardmore. They help to grow businesses, build awareness, and create credibility to increase the value of an enterprise. The company consists of an editorial team, a creative team, and social media professionals. They also offer media training to clients. Their large list of clients includes Lyft, Mitsubishi Electric, Summit Financial, and People’s United Bank.

They have a list of available job opportunities. If there’s not any currently available, you can also connect with them over email if you have experience in public relations, communications, journalism, or social media so they can offer you opportunities in the future that may be a good fit.

Vault Communications (vaultcommunications.com)

Vault Communications is a PR agency located in Plymouth Meeting. Their work includes PR and strategic communications, creative strategy, digital strategy, and crisis support for local, national, and global brands. Clients include Aqua, Campbell’s, Bayada Home Health Care, and Pool & Hot Tub Alliance. Vault Communications is also a 100% woman owned and led company certified by the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

They are hiring and have a jobs inbox where you can send a resume and cover note. They also offer paid internships in the summer, fall, and spring; applications can be sent in the internships inbox.

Interning for Little Sprouts at Snipes Farm

In my senior year at Arcadia University, I have made many strides toward what careers I want to explore post-graduation. In the past, I dreamt of being a veterinarian, a sports journalist, a NASA scientist, or a drummer in a band. At this moment in time, I am none of these things, nor am I on a direct path to becoming one of these things– and that’s okay. Interests change, dreams change, and aspirations change. Right now, my interests lie in photography, public relations, and communications in general.

I undertook an internship with the Little Sprouts Education Program at Snipes Farm in Morrisville, PA this semester and I have been nothing short of obsessed with it. I work under the supervision of Nicole Kissinger who is one of the educators. Little Sprouts is an outdoor education program for ages two to five that emphasizes the importance of child-led play. The program runs year-round and is outside in all seasons! This fall, class started on October 3, 2023, and is running until December. My role in the program is to take photographs, create content, and help Nicole and the other instructors with communication purposes. These responsibilities are helping me greatly in my professional development.

On the first day of class, I brought my brand-new Canon Rebel and introduced myself to the other instructors and some of the parents. It wasn’t until the second week of classes that I could take pictures of the students and activities since the photo release forms got turned in. I have been to class at least once a week since, and I love what I do there. I have learned so much about photography, my camera, and editing since I started. Learning by doing is definitely proving to be true!

On the other end of things, I have been making graphics and posting on social media for the Little Sprouts program, positively representing them to the public. I post frequently on the page. It is quite daunting knowing that what you post on a brand or organization’s social media will be seen and perceived by current and potential customers, and it is your job to make sure the brand comes across as professional and put-together. I enjoy doing this part because it gives me practice in writing for professional communication settings.

In the future, I hope to apply the skills I have learned in my internship to my career. I eventually want to manage small bands and/or musicians, so I think that this is a pretty decent and humble start to that. It’s not quite the same industry, but the skills I am learning will hopefully translate well!

The PR Crises of the Future

There’s a branch in public relations that often goes overlooked, that important emergency button used in the most dire of circumstances, that usually isn’t thought of until absolutely necessary. While companies tend to avoid the thought of crisis PR, public facing crises are an inevitable part of any company’s future. While crisis PR is often overlooked, it is a fast-paced, high-stakes field that takes years to understand and even more to master. As the landscape of business-customer interactions have changed over the past several decades, so too have the needs of crisis PR actors.

If we take a look at some of the crises facing modern businesses, it becomes apparent that crisis PR is no longer just an important back-pocket tool for when a crisis might arise, but an ever-evolving constant that should be utilized to mitigate risks as they develop. Although we are hardly through the first few years of the 2020’s, the landscape of business and technology has changed dramatically during the decade. The meteoric rise of social media apps like TikTok have made public-facing companies even more vulnerable to crises, as negative press can spread like wildfire more so than ever before. In addition to social media communication allowing for constant contact between potential consumers, technology is playing a new, unique role in shaping modern day crises.

Artificial intelligence has had a groundbreaking year. Breakthroughs in AI have brought the power of technology to a level previously only thought to be possible through science fiction, and that power has only recently been made available to the general public. With these extraordinary breakthroughs come changes throughout all parts of our society, and public relations is no different. Earlier this year the apparel brand, Levi’s, experienced backlash for its use of Ai-generated models to display new clothing on its website. The intention, as Levi’s stated, was to generate inclusivity by using AI-generated models of all backgrounds. The crisis began when customers began to ask if it was really inclusive to remove all diverse models from its website in favor of AI-generated mimicry.

In response, Levi’s has restated its position, claiming that AI models are not the sole solution to problems of inclusion, but has not changed its plans to use AI models for its website.

The lessons we can take away from Levi’s are less in its response to the backlash, and more in the greater picture this paints for PR professionals. In a world where information can be disseminated online at incomprehensible speeds, advances in technology and the use of AI should keep crisis PR professionals on high-alert. This is not the same as other potentially controversial decisions a company could make. As AI presents new ethical challenges to humanity, it does the same to businesses hoping to use it.

The use of AI in any company should be assessed by crisis PR professionals who are well-versed in both the company’s reputation and their clients’ potential views on artificial intelligence. The worlds of technology and crisis are changing, and public relations professionals are no exception to that.

Thankfully, there are ways to assess the public’s opinion of AI use. Where Levi’s went wrong was by appearing blind to the real reason behind DEI, and presumably using AI as a shortcut to real diversity. When consumers didn’t agree, Levi’s didn’t equivocate. Instead, companies should look at AI as a tool to promote professional goals within their offices, using AI for efficiency without overlooking the human aspects of their missions.

Ultimately, consumers are still human and while AI has exploded into the cultural zeitgeist, the populus is still wary of its use. PR professionals should keep this in mind when considering AI’s use and the ethical implications. Technology has changed PR and its cousin, crisis communications, immeasurably over the last several decades, but just as quickly as AI changes, so too must the professionals who use it.

My Experience as a PR Student-Member

Being a member of the student Public Relations agency is very interesting. My background with Media & Communication has been very media-centric, so to branch out into something different from what I am used to is a bit unnerving. However, the rest of the agency is made up of other students from the university, both who have been involved before and those who are new to the program, some of them are also Media & Communication students but the agency accepts any type of student here.

The agency is managed by Dr. Mullin, who helps guide students through what they should be doing, but leaves a lot of control to the students. We can choose how things are designed, who we do work for, and how we do that work. We also organize our own fundraisers to raise money that is reinvested into the agency, that money can be used to buy promotional merchandise, fund field trips, pay for fees, etc. The student agency is a great way to gain real experience with performing tasks related to PR while also being able to make mistakes along the way.

My experiences with Public Relations have been similar to Media, a lot of it is interacting with others and working together to accomplish a common goal. We always have something to do at the agency, which helps keep us productive. The work is manageable but is always changing based on the needs of our clients. We have a lot of creative freedom with how we do our work, as long as it meets the needs of the client. We also discuss our progress with the other students, so we can stay on the same page and remain productive and professional. Overall, media is still my main interest, but public relations are still interesting to have experience in.

How To Be A “Good” Collaborative Team Member

It is almost a universal experience having to work in a group or a collaborative environment throughout school. This continues in adulthood with careers that may rely on communication between coworkers or superiors. Additionally, I think everyone can remember a time when someone in their group may not have attributed as much or when they had a coworker they dreaded working with. No one wants to be that person. These are some tips I can provide to be a “good” team member whether that is professionally, socially, or collaboratively.

#1 Communication

As a PR Professional, many of us have background education in communication. Even if not, we have to communicate at some point throughout our days. Having a group member who is open about their work, whether it is that they are struggling to get it done or simply need ideas is much more appreciated than someone who doesn’t.

Lack of communication causes anxiety between members which can then lead to tension and unnecessary barriers to work. But communication can ease those anxieties and especially in a college environment when there are enough stressors, I can appreciate and understand when someone is having an issue.

#2 Reliability

This ties into my previous point a bit, but nothing is worse than a coworker or group member that is unreliable. Reliability stems from the ability to perform or appear in relation to responsibilities given. The urge to procrastinate may happen here and there, but simply warning other participants that you may be late turning something in or appearing for a study session eases anxiety.

#3 Organization

Life can get overwhelming, but establishing some sense of organization will not only make things easier in your personal life but also can be used in your professional life to keep you on track.

Some suggestions:

A weekly/daily planner. These are typically more detailed than monthly calendars and allow more planning for day to day life.
Google calendars. A good digital alternative to a physical planner.
Alarms!! As someone who often will forget something, another digital reminder apart from calendar dates are alarms that will ring when I need to do something.
Accountability partner. Similar to a gym partner, having a friend with similar classes or activities as you who can help remind you of due dates and upcoming events.

Hopefully these tips can be found useful in your journey of becoming a better team member in whatever aspect of your life that may be.

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