On January 21 around 8:30 p.m., reports began surfacing that Penn State football coach Joe Paterno had passed away. It started when Penn State’s online news organization, Onward State, posted to its

Twitter account, “Our sources can now [...]]]>

Source: Poynter.com

The news was quickly picked up locally and nationally by other outlets, including CBS Sports, which tweeted the story and published an obituary of Paterno without attribution.

Around 9 p.m. that same night, a Paterno family spokesman made clear that the rumors around Paterno’s death were “absolutely not true.” Onward State and CBS Sports both made official retractions immediately following the family’s announcement Saturday night, but Onward State took it one step further.

At just 21 years old, Onward State Managing Editor Devon Edwards possessed the maturity to understand that a simple retraction was not enough. He published a personal apology letter on the publication’s website and Facebook page that is both well-written and genuine. The letter works because it is heartfelt, and he did not make excuses or place blame.

We can all learn something from Edwards. Thanks to social media tools like Twitter, every day brings headlines about crises, most of which immediately go viral. As professional communicators, we need to be as transparent as Devon Edwards in all of our communications–especially our apologies–in order to be effective.

This weekend people around the world will gather to celebrate one of the biggest events of the year, New Year’s Eve. To wrap up our InSites for the Future series, Vanguard’s event manager Scott LaLonde looks at the future of event planning.

2012 Will Set A New Standard for Green/Sustainable Events

Source: Convention Industry Council

Associations, government [...]]]>

This weekend people around the world will gather to celebrate one of the biggest events of the year, New Year’s Eve. To wrap up our InSites for the Future series, Vanguard’s event manager Scott LaLonde looks at the future of event planning.

2012 Will Set A New Standard for Green/Sustainable Events

Source: Convention Industry Council

Associations, government organizations and nonprofits that pride themselves on hosting “green” events may have an eye-opening 2012. The event industry’s first-ever guidelines for environmentally sustainable events are in the final stages of creation and will be rolled out in the new year. The guidelines, created through a partnership of the Convention Industry Council, ASTM Standards (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials), Green Meeting Industry Council and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will set new standards and criteria measuring the environmental impact of event components, including venue, food and beverage, transportation, audio/visual production and accommodations. Given the potential for media and communicators to scrutinize the legitimacy of  “green” events, those who want to promote sustainable events in 2012 and beyond will need to evaluate their plans using these new standards.

– By Scott LaLonde

Conducting efficient online searches is a skill that many people underestimate. Veronica Anderson takes a look at the future of online searching and what professionals need to know to ensure successful research online.

Strategic Online Experts 

Source: Tyler Tate

It’s not enough to be capable of conducting an online search. In 2012 PR professionals need to [...]]]>

Conducting efficient online searches is a skill that many people underestimate. Veronica Anderson takes a look at the future of online searching and what professionals need to know to ensure successful research online.

Strategic Online Experts 

Source: Tyler Tate

It’s not enough to be capable of conducting an online search. In 2012 PR professionals need to know how to effectively navigate the Internet.  Online filter bubbles that stem from personalized search results can significantly limit the information the we have access to, and, either positively or negatively, they impact what information can be acquired in an online search. While helpful in some instances, online filter bubbles can limit opportunities for learning and can create false impressions that perpetuate current viewpoints. As 2012 begins, we will all become more aware of the Internet’s search limitations, and our efforts to break through will only succeed if we take extra steps to acquire additional information on ideas and subjects beyond those immediately available through a quick Google search.

– By Veronica Anderson

Today we look at the public relations workplace and the culture changes that could be ahead in 2012. We start off with a look from Mary Pat King at how CEOs and executives should maximize the involvement of PR professionals on staff. Rachael Siefert discusses a mentoring role reversal, and Vanguard’s vice president of [...]]]>

Today we look at the public relations workplace and the culture changes that could be ahead in 2012. We start off with a look from Mary Pat King at how CEOs and executives should maximize the involvement of PR professionals on staff. Rachael Siefert discusses a mentoring role reversal, and Vanguard’s vice president of operations, Tracy Ferrell, looks at how HR will begin to use social media in the hiring process.

More CEOs Depend on PR Executives as Chief Strategists for Organizational Management and Growth

As the theorists in the public relations industry work to gain consensus about the new definition of public relations, 2012 will see more professionals positioning themselves in the C-suite by demonstrating through regular reporting of evaluation metrics that PR communications strategies and tactics have a measurable impact on perception, as well as behaviors, purchasing decisions and brand commitment. Like our colleagues in marketing, the investment in public relations strategies — especially social media and grassroots engagement — will have tangible benefits.  For nonprofits, this translates into more voices promoting the educational messages of the organization, more participants benefiting from the organization’s mission, more advocates for the cause and ultimately more donor dollars.

– Mary Pat King

The Student Becomes the Teacher

Source: Masternewmedia.org

New professionals often seek out mentors who can guide them through their first few years in the workplace. In the coming years, those same entry level professionals may become mentors themselves. Recent graduates have an edge when it comes to new technology and social media because they have been using these tools in their personal lives for years. In 2012 and beyond, new professionals will be looked to more than ever for their social media and new technology expertise, and it won’t be uncommon to find them training a room full of executives on the benefits and use of Twitter, Pinterest or the latest must-have tool.

– Rachael Siefert

Increasing HR Use of Social Media Tools

In 2011, HR professionals were slow to adopt social media tools because of privacy concerns. In 2012, these professionals will more willingly adopt them as part of the job candidate search. Increased demand for social media skills, combined with the need for improved candidate response time and reduction in search costs will necessitate this evolution. HR departments will also begin to incorporate social media tools on intranets to improve internal innovation, mentoring and training.

– Tracy Ferrell

Visuals can be more important to effective communication than the words we use. Vanguard’s Integrated Media Services group leader Crystal Borde predicts digital media will become more visual in 2012, while editorial director LeAnne DeFrancesco argues for the power of images when communicating your message.

A More Visually Appealing New Year

In 2011, websites, media outlets [...]]]>

Visuals can be more important to effective communication than the words we use. Vanguard’s Integrated Media Services group leader Crystal Borde predicts digital media will become more visual in 2012, while editorial director LeAnne DeFrancesco argues for the power of images when communicating your message.

A More Visually Appealing New Year

In 2011, websites, media outlets and social networks became more visual. In 2012, everything online will need to be visual. Accessing content through personal, dynamic technology, such as smart phones, tablets, electronic readers, etc., is increasing user appetites for visuals. Time constraints and a growing global audience will force websites to use more photographs and infographics to tell stories and communicate information. Image-dominant social networking sites, such as Pinterest, will become the new norm and grow in popularity. As Facebook is already learning from its new timeline format, mainstream website and social networks will need to catch up by applying more visually appealing style to content. Communicators can get ahead by thinking more visually and consider graphic design options when transmitting information to our audiences.

– By Crystal Borde

Be Stingy: Let Images Do (Most of) the Work

Last Friday, I was waiting at a coffee shop for my weekly ritual caramel macchiato when I noticed that of the six people in line ahead of me, every one of them was looking down at a smart phone. Every one. There were holiday images on the windows, gift displays throughout the space and holiday music on the PA, but all of it was lost on these people who were engaged elsewhere.

It made me wonder how communicators — writers in particular — can interrupt a person’s tunnel vision long enough to take in the messages around them. And then, that lesson from Advertising 101 hit me: Don’t TELL me. SHOW me.

Source: http://psd.tutsplus.com/articles/web/40-brilliantly-photoshopped-print-ads/

In 2012, people will use even less time to consume content in an advertising campaign or website. But if they can get the message via a powerful visual — along with a few words, of course — the chances are greater that they’ll stick around to learn more, or even take action. (I’m ready to personalize M&Ms as gifts for the next 12 months.) Although in marketing efforts PR professionals can sometimes be pressed to over-communicate, we shouldn’t be afraid to let design do (most of) the talking. Expansive vocabularies can be used elsewhere.

– By LeAnne DeFrancesco

In the weeks following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, our nation came together to mourn, to bargain, and to heal. Though we struggled through the stages of grief together, the experience impacted each of us differently. Many of Vanguard’s current employees were here with us on that day, and others were still [...]]]>

In the weeks following the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, our nation came together to mourn, to bargain, and to heal. Though we struggled through the stages of grief together, the experience impacted each of us differently. Many of Vanguard’s current employees were here with us on that day, and others were still in school or in other parts of the world. This week, we’ve decided to devote our InSites posts to our team’s personal stories of resilience and hope.

Crystal Borde — Remembering 9/11: The Healing Power of Uplifting Storytelling

Brenda Foster — My September 11 Resolution

Jane Tobler — Washington, D.C.—This Is My Town

Brandi Horton — Living With Change

LeAnne DeFrancesco — DC: The District of Community

LOS ANGELES — Ten years ago, I was living in Los Angeles when I watched the World Trade Center attacked live on television. Hour after hour, I was glued to television news, desperate for any positive updates about rescues or reunions. In the early days, those stories were hard to find as retelling of the [...]]]>

LOS ANGELES — Ten years ago, I was living in Los Angeles when I watched the World Trade Center attacked live on television. Hour after hour, I was glued to television news, desperate for any positive updates about rescues or reunions. In the early days, those stories were hard to find as retelling of the attacks and reports about nation’s security became the top priorities.

While many sad stories have lingered in my memory, I’ve tried to focus on the uplifting news stories about acts of heroism, compassion and sacrifice as the 10th anniversary approaches.

During their coverage of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, NBC News aired a special with Tom Brokaw about the role that a tiny town in Nova Scotia played in the days following the attacks. It is one of the most moving news reports I have ever watched and symbolizes the power of great inspiring storytelling. Since its airing, I’ve shared it with so many others who have also been touched by its retelling of generosity and resilience of the human spirit. If you watch any 9/11 special this year, don’t miss watching the video below.

We live in a world where “if it bleeds, it leads.” However, are those the stories that help us become better people? Are those the stories that inspire us to create social change to prevent future terrorism attacks from occurring? I doubt it. I’m hoping that in the last 10 years we’ve learned the importance of telling (and sharing) better stories, so in the end, we can evolve into better people too.

WASHINGTON — When I think of my own experience on Sept. 11, 2001, I’m reminded of the key scene in Dr. Seuss’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” The Grinch has spent the night packing up trees, destroying roast beast dinners and stealing children’s toys–all in the name of ruining the holiday for the Whos in [...]]]>

WASHINGTON — When I think of my own experience on Sept. 11, 2001, I’m reminded of the key scene in Dr. Seuss’ “How The Grinch Stole Christmas.” The Grinch has spent the night packing up trees, destroying roast beast dinners and stealing children’s toys–all in the name of ruining the holiday for the Whos in Whoville. When the sun rises, the Grinch expects to see broken, desperate families who can no longer celebrate Christmas. Instead, the Whos meet at the town square as always, jubilantly singing to mark the holiday.

I was in Washington, D.C. at Vanguard’s office that morning, having just dropped my three-year-old daughter across the street for day care. Once we realized that the Pentagon had been attacked, I rushed back outside to grab her, as all of the other parents streamed out of nearby buildings to pluck their children from harm’s way.

I had a minivan at the time–large enough to carry quite a few people back to Virginia. We headed out through Arlington, stunned at the smoke pouring from the Pentagon roof. We were careful to stay tuned to radio updates, while still trying to protect my preschooler from terrifying news. Those of you who were in D.C. that day know that every rumor was reported — a bomb blew up by the State Department, a plane was headed to the White House. Amidst all of these reports there was an announcement that a plane full of passengers had crashed in Pennsylvania near Pittsburgh, not far from my hometown.

For some reason, I think that particular news broke me. It made some sense that New York and Washington were vulnerable, but I couldn’t believe that everyone I cared about was at risk. My local family — husband, parents, sister, daughter — converged on my home that night to hug each other and numbly follow the developments on the news. I went to bed knowing that I would never again go back to work–certainly not in Washington, D.C.

At 5 a.m., I woke up with new determination–as though someone had injected me with adrenaline. There was no way I was broken. I was stronger than ever, and I was going to the office to prove to myself and my young daughter that no one but me will decide how and where I will live my life. As I entered the office–child in tow–I expected to be there alone. Then, as though on cue, my colleagues began entering the building. I could hear the music in my mind:

Welcome, welcome! Fah who rahmus!
Welcome, welcome! Dah who dahmus!
Christmas Day is in our grasp!
So long as we have hands to clasp!

We spent the day consoling each other, sharing our hopes and fears. My little one stayed right beside me, taking naps on her favorite blanket.

In addition to the intern and an office guest who rode home with me on Sept. 11, two other colleagues joined me and my daughter for the long ride home. I’m proud to say that we’re all still here together, with even stronger resolve toward social change. And though my daughter is now an eighth grader, she still finds comfort in taking the occasional nap by my desk.

Capitol Building by Dave Newman (newmanchu), on Flickr

On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001 I got up with the sun and went walking across my beloved Capitol Hill with two of my dear friends as we did most mornings. We would solve the problems of the world during our walks — or at [...]]]>

Capitol Building by Dave Newman (newmanchu), on Flickr

On the morning of Sept. 11, 2001 I got up with the sun and went walking across my beloved Capitol Hill with two of my dear friends as we did most mornings. We would solve the problems of the world during our walks — or at least the problems of the week. My friends are hearty walkers from out West — rain and snow would not deter them from walking — and neither did the events that occurred later that morning.

On September 12, a bright blue beautiful sky welcomed us and we walked and we talked. Of course we were upset, but we were together and we would continue with our ‘normal’ routine as much as we could. And so we walked the next day and the next.

In a few months I had plans to get married at my church, which is located one block from the U.S. Capitol. People asked if I would push back the wedding or change the location — no one knew when or even if planes would be allowed to fly again to D.C. and most of our family and friends had planned to fly out for the event.

I love Washington, D.C. and a bunch of yahoo terrorists weren’t going to take it from me.  This is my town and I would not cower, not move to a “safer” place and not change my life. A few guests were nervous about coming and crossed out their earlier affirmative RSVP cards from “I can’t wait,” and instead checked, “I’ll be with you in spirit.” I understood.

We got married as planned — and 10 great years and two fabulous sons later, I do not regret my decision to wed — or to go walking and talking with dear friends in the best city I know on one of the saddest days of my life.

This is my town.

WESTFIELD, Mass. — On Sept. 11, 2001, I woke up and got ready for class as usual. I was a junior at Westfield State College with the future ahead of me, challenging the status quo and making big plans for how I was going to change the world.

My roommate and I arrived on campus [...]]]>

WESTFIELD, Mass. — On Sept. 11, 2001, I woke up and got ready for class as usual. I was a junior at Westfield State College with the future ahead of me, challenging the status quo and making big plans for how I was going to change the world.

My roommate and I arrived on campus after the first plane struck the towers and watched in shock as the second plane struck. We immediately returned to our dorm rooms and apartments: classes were canceled for the day. Rumors spread across campus. “Boston was next.” “Call your families, make sure everyone is safe.” “Did you hear, the planes departed from Logan.” Despite the rumors — some which proved true in the end — I wasn’t sure how the events of those terror attacks would change my life. We lived in Massachusetts, and while we lost many in the planes that crashed, our small state seemed safe. I didn’t know how the resulting wars would become a part of my generation’s story.

My parents’ generation had Vietnam. We have the war on terror.

Over the past ten years, I have bid farewell and been lucky to welcome home many soldiers. I have waited patiently for news while my brother-in-law served his third deployment to the Middle East. I have celebrated when two of my cousins returned from war unscathed from two separate deployments. I have missed the many friends who have proudly served our country in the name of freedom. And I have watched while the traumatic effects of this war have chipped away at the mental health of our soldiers.

Now, as I settle into a career in cause communications , I realize I am lucky to be right where I’d hoped to be before hate took a shot at our country. With rose-colored glasses I had dreamed of making a difference, but today I work on the very projects and the very clients that are making our world a better place. The war on terror may be part of the fabric of my generation’s story, but I hope every day to be a part of the solution through my work. I raise awareness about the need for mental health services for our soldiers, for ourselves, and for our families. I educate about social inclusion, and encourage acceptance. I celebrate the things that make this world a better place with the hope that doing so will inspire others to become a part of a movement for good.