The First Monday of 2014

Hello, PR dolls! HAPPY 2014!!! New Year's Eve is probably my favorite holiday in the year- its a time for celebration, reflection and, my personal favorite, re-invention. Duh. #PRProblems

One special tradition about New Year's Eve is setting resolutions. People set goals for themselves about all types of things such as health/lifestyle changes, love/relationships, and career dreams to name a few. These resolutions sound beautiful when said on December 31st (or tweeted/posted as a Facebook status to declare them to the world...) but I find that they usually fall to the wayside around January 15th. Not saying this happens for everyone, but it does happen to the majority of us, myself included!

This year, I've been thinking of how I can make my own resolutions really stick. For this mission, I have two steps:

1) Treat yourself as your own PR client. 
Any PR professional knows to mind their personal brand (thank you, Aliza Licht!) What you do, how you act- all of that contributes to your brand. I think its just as important to treat yourself as a new client each year. What do you do with new clients? The first meeting- the consultation.
At my initial meetings with a prospective client, I sit down with them and discuss their brand, and their goals. The goals are important because they should not be just a simple one-liner or reciting of the organization's mission statement. You should identify short-term goals as well as long term goals. This allows you to not only see the bigger picture, but the entire canvas all-together.
Now, back to New Year's. While setting your resolutions, I believe one should have their short-term goals and their long-term goals. Think about what you are saying- will that goal help you in the long-run? Why is it important for you and your brand? Should you achieve this goal (and you will!) what is the next step? I think this internal planning will not only help you set realistic and productive goals, but will also help you remember why you set the resolution in the first place when times get tough.

2) Set a theme. 
This one will either be a love-it or hate-it idea. After I've set all of my goals and resolutions, I like to set a theme for the new year. The theme incorporates all of the ideas and goals I've set for myself- its just a easier way to sum them up. It is basically the way I market the goals to myself when I need that boost. 


For this year, my theme is "The Hustle." This doesn't really have anything to do with the movie American Hustle or the disco song from the 70s, I promise. 2014 is going to be one of the most important years of my life. I'm graduating from college, probably moving somewhere completely new and really starting my life as a PR girl. I've basically dreamt of this year since I was a kid. This is when it all begins!
Of course, all of these dreams are lovely but they won't happen without hard work, complete dedication and passion. This is what I'm referring to when I say "The Hustle"- its the work, the fire, the progress.

Your theme doesn't have to make sense to anyone but yourself. If it fires you up, you've got your theme.

I would love to hear all about your resolution, goals and themes. Tweet them to me at @LBDPR!

2014, let's hustle.

xxx

The First Impression

Hi PR Dolls! I hope you all are having a fabulous week!

Today's post is about the importance of first impressions, and some personal advice about how you can make an impact with a simple introduction.
First impressions really are important- they are what stick in some peoples' minds for the remainder of your relationship with them. I say some people because not everyone is the same, but odds are the way you present yourself initially is how you will be viewed from that point on. No pressure....

But actually, no pressure! In the field of PR where you are constantly meeting people and networking, you really need to find your groove with making a first impression- you'll be making a lot of them. Here are a few tips I've learned through making my own first introductions:

1) Make eye contact, and mind your posture.
 You would think this is a no-brainer, but you would be surprised how difficult it is! When you're speaking with someone (for the first time, or anytime) make sure you are giving them the attention they deserve by making eye contact. It shows them that you are actually listening, and makes them feel respected and that they are actually communicating with you instead of simply talking at you.  Plus, if you're talking to someone who is looking away/staring at something on your face it is actually muy awkward. I actually had a problem with this! I was listening, but something would catch my eye or I would just look away without thinking about it. I didn't realize how bad it looked until it happened to me, and let me tell you, it's not cute.
Also, pay attention to your posture. Don't slouch or tap your foot- anything that can distract from the words coming out of your mouth! You do not want to seem uncomfortable or fidgety- it will make you look nervous and unprofessional. Nobody wants to talk to someone like that, let alone possibly work with them.
Body language can help or hurt you- if you are too relaxed, you might come off as unprofessional or awkward. However if you are standing up straight, maintaining eye contact and engaged you will instantly look more confident on the outside even if you are terrified on the inside. So have your freakout, but don't let 'em see you sweat. General rule of life.

2) Actually be engaged in the conversation. For real. 
Eye contact is great, but not when your eyes are glazed over and your mind is clearly on the nearby bar/eye candy. Someone is taking the time to talk to you- treat their time with respect! Listen to what they are saying and hold a conversation. If you can't engage or contribute, make an excuse and get out of the conversation. It's better to not be there than to be a cold fish.

3) Your handshake brings all the boys to the yard. 
A handshake is another body language/confidence tool. A strong, assertive handshake shows people that you are bold and ready to take on the world. It sounds trivial, but it is true. On the other hand (haha) a weak handshake might show insecurity and discomfort. In PR, you not only have to have thick skin but you have to be able to compose yourself as a strong, confident contact.

4) Do your homework.
If you know that you'll be meeting someone important (an editor, journalist, celebrity, etc.- especially someone who you might work with) be sure to know a little bit about them! Research their work, their passions, little things- you might have something to connect with them about! Especially with social media today, you can get to know little things about people through their tweets, for example. Knowing something about them establishes a bond between you, and also makes you memorable! Kudos if you can name their favorite anything, or can make them laugh. :)

5) If at first you don't succeed....
It's important to know that not every introduction will be perfect or will lead to your intended goals, whatever they may be. Don't beat yourself over it! Just try to connect with them, and if it doesn't work out its okay- stay polite and move on. Also, don't vent to people about it at the event/any public forum. Odds are you're talking to their assistant, and not only did you not connect, but you burned that bridge. To. The. Ground.

*BONUS* If you are drunk, go home.
This is tricky because alcohol is usually provided at events, but a good PR girl knows when to stop. It is unacceptable to be drunk at an event you are working, but if you accidentally have to much, go home. Recovering from a bad first impression is one thing, but evaluating it later is only helpful if you remember it. Again, not cute.

I feel that first impressions in PR can be intimidating, but are extremely important. In this field, it is all about your social network and who you know. Hopefully these tips will help you with your first interactions and help you build your social network!

I would love to know your first impression tips- comment below or tweet me at @AyshaLBDPR!

xxx

Drill It

Hello, hello, hello! I hope everyone has been having a great week/start of the semester/start of the best season ever...FALL! I am obsessed with Fall- the changing leaves, the fresh cold air, the return of all things pumpkin, and of course the start of a brand new school year. I don't know about you all, but I love the start of school, especially when all of the clubs and sports start up again. Seeing everyone recollect, recruit, and rehearse really gets me pumped for what is to come. While walking past the football team's practice the other day, and then hearing about their rigorous training schedule, I thought about the concept of practice. If you really want to perfect your craft, you have to put in the time and effort and work on it constantly. So, how does one practice PR?

First thing's first: learn the basics. If you don't know how to write a press release, learn as soon as possible! There are so many great resources online like blogs, tutorials, and articles galore. Practice communicating with people and learn the basics about how to pitch a story without being a walking, talking commercial. Look at different cases today (celebrities, breaking news stories) and analyze them and what tactics were used. Look at events hosted by PR agencies. Also, research these agencies and learn about the different types of PR in today's world. After you feel educated enough to use all of these wonderful skills you've acquired, get working!

I love doing fake drills. For me, this is basically taking either a favorite product and writing a press release for it. I'll write the press release, let it sit for a few hours, and then revisit it. I'll ask someone to read it and see if it engages them, or at least watch their facial expression and see how they react to it. This is what I do on my weekends, ladies and gentlemen: write press releases. Don't judge me. Practice makes perfect!

PR is obviously more than just press releases. I'll often try to verbally pitch the product to someone who I could envision being in the target market. To improve on that, I want to start calling people who aren't physically present- I am still working on my phone skills! I also think about possible events and promotional events I could do with certain products. I'll look up locations, decorations, little details that put that extra flair on an ordinary event and draft them. This, to me, feels like rehearsing what I would do if I ever have to whip up a quickie event- at least I would know where to start.
Another fun drill could be taking a product or idea you do not really like or endorse. PR involves broad, open minds that can absorb the world around them to make a plan. Sometimes it can be interesting to see another perspective and stretch your brain- find the positives and spin the story in your plan's favor.

These drills really help me practice even while I'm still in school. Take it seriously, be consistent, and find your PR style! (Spoiler alert:that's the next post-stay tuned!)
I hope everyone has a great week!

xxx

The Perfect Interview

Hello, all! I hope everyone has been well! Today's post is about INTERVIEWING! YAY!
Interviews are vital to getting any sort of job these days. Whether it be retail or PR, the interview is what will be what the employer truly remembers. They get to meet you, see how you interact, and just feel out your vibe. I think even if you do not have the most experience in the world on your résumé, you can redeem yourself through a slam-dunk interview. So behold, the 10 Commandments of Interviewing! WOO! Okay, as you can tell, interviewing gets me super excited. I'll simmer down, I promise.  :)

The 10 Commandments of Interviewing:

1) Thou Shalt Dress to Impress

This one is obvious. First impressions are key, and the first impression they will have of you is what you look like! You do not have to wear a ball gown, but wear something clean, simple, and in basic colors. You do not want to distract from your work or wear anything too loud, so stick to a simple color palette and styles, and add accessories to personalize the look, like jewelry or cuff links. Also, SHOWER PLEASE. Look groomed, brush your hair, shave....hygiene. Also ladies, keep the makeup simple. Do not cake it on, but cover what needs to be covered. Keep the eyes simple and bring out your natural beauty. I'm thinking neutral eyes with a flush of color on the cheeks and berry lipstain. Simple, yet effective.

4) Thou Shalt Be Early

Being on time, even on the dot, is no bueno for an interview. You should aim to be early just in case something goes awry, like getting lost in the building. Try to be a half an hour early. It sounds extreme, but being late is a horrible way to start an interview, and basically sets you up for failure. And, it is disrespectful to whoever you are interviewing for because it shows you have no regard for their time. If you are chronically late, work on it but don't you dare be late to the interview! 

3) Thou Shalt Calm Down
I have made this mistake before- walking into an interviewing and being so excited that it freaks the interviewer out. Calm down. Luckily, this has never cost me a job, but it can be a little awkward...
That being said, there is nothing wrong with showing your happiness. I doubt it will turn anyone off but just be mindful of how you look and what you are reflecting. You can be excited for the interview because that it adorable and will put the interviewer at ease, but do not give the impression you just had a jumbo coffee and a 5 Hour Energy. If you did have those things, hide it!

4) Thou Shalt Use Your Body
Not in a creepy way! What I mean is using body language to show your confidence. When you first meet your interviewer, or anyone else, shake their hand. Be firm, but not aggressive. Walk with your head up and with poise. Smile! And also, do not fidget. Don't play with your hair or squirm or look uncomfortable. Keep your composure, no matter what.

5) Thou Shalt Be Prepared
This is not just about preparing a speech about something on your résumé. You should take time before the interview to do some prep work on the company. What do they stand for? What have they accomplished? Read their mission statement. So, when they ask you why you are a good fit for their company, you can use their own words to explain. It will show that you did your homework, and that you are serious about the position. 

6) Thou Shall Not Fear the Interviewer
They are people too! Do not get so riled up and nervous that it affects your performance on the interview. What helps me is (no, not imagining them in their underwear...whoever made that tactic up is just bizarre) just thinking we are two people, just having a conversation about our goals for the future. Just talking. You do not have to build up this big bad interview scenario in your head like most people do. It's just two people talking. Have fun with it! Laugh with them, genuinely listen and converse with them. Worst case scenario- you don't get the job, but you had a great conversation with this interviewer. That in itself can make you memorable and might even set you up for another opportunity. So treat them, and whoever you meet (even the receptionist who walks you to the office) with warmth and calmness. Brighten their day just by being yourself. Which brings us to...

7) To Thine Own Self Be True
Be yourself! Now, in a setting like an interview, it will be tempting for you to add some details here and there to spin your experiences in your favor. It's all to promote yourself. I believe this is okay. Don't make up crazy details, but fluffing up your stories and making them pretty are not the worst thing you could do. However, downright lying is not good. Don't make up complete lies and think you will get ahead because these stories will probably come back to bite you. Try lying and saying you organized the biggest blood drive in your hometown- law of the universe says your boss will ask you to use one of those contacts for something. Whoops. And your employers aren't dumb. They have practice interviewing people and have been in their field for quite some time- they will know a lie when they see one. Just don't do it!

Also, stay true to your personality. Do not claim to be a leader when you are much better at following and executing plans. It will help you both find a better fit for you in the job. Plus, if you claim you are something and turn out not to be that, you'll only be one thing: a disappointment. 

8) Thou Shall Not be a Douche
You can be proud of your accomplishments. Fine. But do not get cocky or arrogant, even beyond your interview! I have heard of people going into interviews and trying to act too cool for school. It might be a defense mechanism for nerves, or it could be someone who genuinely thinks the company needs them. Whatever the reason, acting cocky will turn everyone off and will not help your case, no matter what you have accomplished. Keep it cool, bro.

9) Thou Shalt Thank Them for their Time
No matter what happens next, they took the time out to see you and meet with you for this interview. Give them the same courtesy and respect back by genuinely thanking them for their time. The interviewer, anyone else you met, and even the receptionist again! Also, follow up with the thank you- write them a handwritten letter thanking them yet again. They might prefer being contacted via email, but a handwritten letter shows so much more initiative and shows your respect. Do this letter in a timely manner- no more than 48 hours after the interview. 
*Another idea! A very wise person once told me that she never went into an interview without baked goods. GENIUS. Bake the cookies, cupcakes, muffins, and cakes- everyone loves them! This may seem weird, but it is actually a great way to put yourself and your interviewer at ease. Plus, the people you feed will love you already. It will make you memorable and will make everyone's day. Do it.

10) Thou Shalt be Confident in Thyself
The ultimate, most important tip I can give you is to be confident. You landed the interview, which is an accomplishment in itself. Believe in your product, what you're promoting, yourself. If this one doesn't work out, another one will! Never lose that spark, drive, and passion that makes you who you are. 


I hope these tips will help you land the job of your dreams!

THAT'S THE SPIRIT!

xxx

Grammar Hammer

Hello, all! Today's (slightly delayed) post is about the importance of grammar and why spellcheck and punctuation are actually important!
So in today's tech-savvy digital world, it might be easier for some to type in what we call "texting words." U all kno wut I'm tlkin about. I mean, everyone does it, and I'm sure sometimes it really is easier to type 3 letters instead of 4. That last letter would just require 2 much time and effort. See what I did there?
This sort of thing generally should stay in texted conversations but lately I've been noticing the trend on Twitter, Facebook, and even email! Unless you run a page that truly is underground and not important at all, this is a huge no-no. As long as your name is on whatever page, however irrelevant and unimportant it is, it is a representation of you. You create your own branding and your own image through your actions, your personality, and these days, your social media!
It's definitely not the worst thing in the world to abbreviate and use words that are only used online. For example, LOL is seen everywhere. Those types of words aren't a problem. But when you actually need to take a minute and translate what is typed because there are so many abbreviations, then you might have a little work to do. Quick test? Read it aloud exactly how it is spelled. If it makes sense, you're probably fine. If you feel your face trying to contort to translate, take the extra minute and add the last few letters.
You never know who is looking at your pages or who is reading your emails. You want to make sure you are displaying a presentable, professional side at all times just in case an opportunity comes your way! PROFESSIONALISM 4EVER!

 xxx

Be everywhere!

Hello, all! I've been M.I.A for the past week or so working on internship opportunities at school, as well as preparing to do PR for my first client in the Fall! :) I'm SO excited for this new opportunity, and can't wait to share the experience on the blog, which is at 150 pageviews!!! Half of those is me....BUT thanks to whoever else is reading out there! :P

I've been working on a branding/marketing type post for a while now, but since there are so many different aspects to both, I am breaking it down to smaller, more direct posts! Hooray! So, the first aspect is who to target in your PR/marketing/branding plan. Who is your audience? Who do you want to target?
You can target more than one group at a time, but my advice would be to save as much time and money as you can by using one or two tactics at a time that affect more than one audience. You don't want to focus one publicity move or advertisement on simply one group of people- people might generalize and only associate you with that audience! Be mindful of what you are doing/selling/advertising and try to expand it as much as you can. It will be best for your image and it will not seem as exclusive to other people outside of the one targeted group.
I also find that these days, it's not even enough to be "everywhere." These days, you really have to infiltrate. You have to find out who you are targeting and really become a part of that target audience. You have to know what they have, what they think, and what they want in the future in order to be successful. You really have to become a part of their culture and everyday life to leave a resonating impact on them. Because anything less than resonating is just lackluster.

Exciting stuff coming up! Networking, more branding/marketing, and a new BFF! PLUS my next post is a celebrity example!

xxx

"Who Do I Want to Be Today?"

Not typically a question you would ask yourself in the morning, huh? Well, maybe you should. I have heard so many people tell me all of the things they wish they were, how they hoped one day they would be more confident, and so on. The answer to those prayers are simple- re-invent yourself.
This is not a new concept. A classic example is Marilyn Monroe. She was born Norma Jean Baker, and she was a brunette. A brunette named Norma? That's about as sexy as a mailbox. Far cry from what we know of Marilyn today. When she came to Hollywood, she knew what she wanted to be: a sex icon. Of course she had a team of people to style her and direct her and help her transform, but I love using her as an example because she really did create an image for herself. And the best part about her re-invention in particular? It is timeless.

Brunette Norma...

Hello, Marilyn!

Re-invention doesn't have to simply happen for Hollywood or to be a sex icon. I mean, if that's what you want, go for it! But, if you want to change something about yourself, change it! The only thing that is ever in your way is your own fears and insecurities. One of my favorite quotes is from, dare I say it, Paris Hilton. I found it in one of her books (I was a lost 12-year old girl, don't judge!) and it said, "If you believe you're the most important person in the room, you'll be the most important person in the room." I LOVE that . Sort of the "fake it till you make it" attitude, but instead of faking, being supremely confident. I think that the key to any change is confidence and determination. I think that the world is in a constant state of change, and one must adapt to the changes however they want to make sure they have a happy and successful life. If that comes from going from wallflower to social butterfly, so be it! Name one thing standing in your way.
Exactly. There's nothing.
I really hope this all doesn't sound to crazy. I'm not trying to say that abandoning everything about yourself to be something you're not will make you happy. But I think everyone grows, and everyone has things they want to change about themselves. So why not now? See the person you want to be and become that person! No matter how different it feels, if you believe it and have that image of yourself, surely other people will as well.
Today my apartment is a wreck, so I think I'll be Rosie the Riveter. :D


xxx

BFF of the Day: Social Media

Social Media can be an amazing thing. Some see it as a waste of time (Facebook, I'm looking at you!) but it can actually be a great way to get your name out there. Nowadays there are so many types of sites to join, so there really is something for everyone. However, there are some general tips I would advise for any type of social media. And now, without further ado, here are...
Aysha's Online Do's and Dont's!

DO:
-"Like"/Follow/Pin companies you like and places you would like to work at. Staying up to date on their updates will come in handy whenever that interview rolls around.
-^^^Same goes for influential people/public figures. There is never any harm in knowing what they are doing, and if you're trying to follow in their footsteps, knowing what to expect.
-Know what is going on. Make sure to check in with news sites and know what is going on in the world. After all, if you plan on making a difference in it, you gotta know what's going on. ;)
-Post insightful thoughts. Some people search for keywords and topics. You never know who will stumble across your pages.
-Keep pictures decent. No nudity, drugs, even alcohol. Your page represents you. You don't want a stranger to see your page and think you are unprofessional.

DON'T:
-Spam celebrities/influential people/companies! Don't post every single day or harass them unless you have something substantial to say.
-Post how much you love drinking/partying/drugs/etc. Duh.
-Basically, don't do anything that will put you in a negative light. Or damage your reputation. Your name is on these pages and even if it is the Internet, mistakes can haunt you. Don't tarnish your reputation!

Social media is great for staying in the loop and can really help get your name out there. You never know who is looking at these sights for fresh ideas- it's actually more common than you think. Of course, social media is also a fabulous networking tool and you can find people who share common interests. I believe that too much of a good thing is never enough, so I'm linked through Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Pinterst, and of course, Blogger. :) I would also like to say that BLOGS are so underrated these days and are such a great way to meet people! I've only posted three entries but I'm already getting a lot of good feedback! And also it is a great thing to refer to when you're interviewing for a field in journalism/PR/jobs that involve writing. Employers like to see that you've been working on something and it helps them get to know you a little more.

Hopefully these Do's and Don'ts helped to remind you that in the end, your sites are your name, and display you to the cyber world. Represent yourself with your image in mind!

*** I found this awesome article on PR Daily News' Twitter. Great read! Read it Here!
xxx

Ring ring!

Your phone can play a lot of roles in your life. It can be your best friend, your worst nightmare, or even your co-worker. There's a reason why when you look up pictures of business people or celebrities and their phones are always visible- it can be a lifeline. In this day and age where job listings are online and the easiest way to contact someone is through email, phones are a vital part of any career.
I am the first to tell you- I am AWFUL with my phone! I turn it on silent and somehow constantly forget to turn it back on loud. As a result, I've missed numerous calls, texts, voicemails, emails- you name it. Yesterday was an all-time low- I missed 10 calls. 10 CALLS! They were calls from friends, so I knew they would forgive me since I am known for my silent phone issues, but I know that the rest of the world will not be as forgiving. In the professional world, I'll only get one call. If I don't pick up, someone else will and they will get whatever job/opportunity. You snooze, you lose!
So, as of today, my phone will never go on silent again! If I'm in class, the phone will be off. There are so many opportunities out there, and should one come my way, I would hate to lose it based on such a trivial issue like my phone's volume.
This is the start of the silent phone rebellion! Hear my Marimba ringtone LOUD AND CLEAR!


xxx