So you think you can flack? You probably can. Before you jump in–and if you want to do it well–you’ll need to keep these truths in mind:

1. The PR profession about more than just being a “people person”–it’s great that you love people. I love people. But that will only take you so far, as in, through your internship. After that, you’ll also need to be “a good writer” and “a good listener.” You’ll also need to demonstrate a strategic mind and an appetite for winning. A love of people is great, but it does not a PR superstar make. Read More…

When folks ask, “What do you do?” are you one who confidently communicates your various job roles and responsibilities–or one who simply states your title? While you’re thinking about that, let me share this:

If you are a recent grad/have little work experience, words like Administrative, Assistant and Associate are sure to attach themselves to your name and eat away at your psyche.

Seniority has value; there are many things that may only be fully understood by trial and stunningly horrific error. The trick is knowing how to balance “paying your dues” discipline with an “experience beyond your years” mindset. Read More…

Image by K!T via Flickr

Good grief. The mayor of a tiny Tennessee town outside of Memphis is throwing a tantrum about missing the end of the Charlie Brown Christmas Special. I love Charlie Brown as much as the next guy, but seriously? Does this really warrant publishing a Facebook rant about how the President of the United States is a Christ-hating, Charlie Brown-interrupting Muslim?

I’m embarrassed for three reasons:

A) this guy is an elected official, and

B) he is making important decisions on behalf of folks in my home state, and

C) dude clearly doesn’t understand there is no privacy on the Internet. Not that he was seeking privacy when he posted this insanity for 1,600 “friends” to see. Read More…

The good folks over at Green Buzz Agency gave me a chance to pen a guest post about the makings of an effective PR pro. The Green Buzz-ers are digital media strategists and fellow DC Flacks; thanks to the Internet, Tod and I have bonded over our passion for pixels (and basketball).

Here’s the original post as it appears on their blog; throw some feedback at me in the comments!

Three Signs You’ve Found an Excellent PR Firm or Consultant

Not all public relations practitioners (a.k.a. flacks) are created equal. I can say that because I am one. Day after day, I see folks out there giving my craft a bad name. Fortunately, there are many great PR pros who will ethically and strategically work to advance your goals. The good flacks serve as knowledgeable, curious and creative partners. Here are three signs you’ve found one: Read More…

Over the years, this website has been home to my rants and raves about PR, communications, social media, geek stuff and productivity.  I’m grateful; this virtual garden o’mine has played an important role in the creation and maintenance of my personal brand.

People complement FlackRabbit.com quite a bit. Thanks, folks! Don’t be fooled, I didn’t design it! I’m lucky to be married to a talented web dude who created my logo and website long, long ago.

Of course, I realize that not everyone is married to a web designer. Still, you can do a lot to shore up your personal brand even without the customized creative: Read More…

Nope. Not even if you delete something you said, mark your account private and/or keep only close friends on your roster.

To help us all remember that, please repeat after me this not-at-all-brilliant, but 100 percent accurate mantra:

Tweet with caution, Facebook with care – ten years from now, it will still be out there.

On second thought, print it out and tape it to your computer monitor.

XOXO –Flackrabbit

I’m fortunate to have been raised by a very close, thoughtful family; the “I love you’s” and “Great job’s” flowed from the lips of adults and teachers in my life like a river. Lord knows every little move I made and accomplishment I achieved was recorded, lauded and recounted at family meals. I realize this is not the case for a great deal of folks; I can honestly say I’ve never taken it for granted.

The same is true today: I have a INCREDIBLY kind and encouraging base of family, husband, friends, bosses (past, current and future) and mentors. Even clients and strangers.

The power of  kind gestures, complements and encouragement is truly amazing — and I experience these things from someone every. single. day. Do you? Read More…

As you may have heard, I’ve been offered – and have accepted – an incredible job opportunity in Washington DC.

I KNOW! (squeal!)

As odd as it may seem, most folks I’ve told about this adventure promptly ask, “Well, what about Dave? Is he going with you?” Um, yes. Dave is going with me. And so is the porge.

In anticipation of this and other queries, we’ve created a quick Frequently Asked Questions section for your reference: Read More…

Image by mafleen via Flickr

Reading this makes me sad, but David Cay Johnston’s play-by-play on the attitude and work approach of the Obama press shop-o-newbies (answering the phone, anyway) should be required reading for every aspiring public relations pro.

I’ve read Johnston’s words three times now and each time, something different makes me cry a little stands out. Here’s a quick sample:

Its 3 p.m. and the phone in the White House press secretary’s office is ringing. It rings and rings and rings. Eventually, a recorded voice asks callers to leave a message, followed by a second voice saying the voicemail box is full. Read More…

I’m no social media expert, let’s make that clear right now. The digital PR and social media landscape changes daily, so if anyone tells you they are the social media guru – run like the wind. Tip: these are the same folks who will tell you they can “make something go viral.”

The only thing I can say with absolute certainty about the ever-evolving social media landscape is that successful use of these communication tools isn’t hard unless you are lazy. The more I read up, the more I find social media best practices among those that are smart, active, succinct and sincere. Read More…