Have you ever wondered what the most effective time to send a tweet or Facebook post is? A strategic analysis of audience, content, and research can help pinpoint the optimum time for your next social media update.Audience comes first when scheduling a social media update. Are you targeting the tech-savvy soccer moms? How about workaholics or maybe college students? It is important to consider your audience’s schedule in order to maximize the impact of your message.
College students dread mornings, so scheduling a message around lunch or in the afternoon may be more effective. Saturday and Sunday mornings and afternoons may be a good time if you are targeting parents with active kids. This audience may be checking their social media on mobile devices during soccer games, swim meets, or hockey practices.
The content of your tweet will also help determine timing. If you are releasing a report that could affect the stock market, make sure you schedule the tweet immediately after the press release. However, if you are tweeting an event advertisement that will attract working families, think about scheduling the tweet for a Friday lunch hour or the evening commute.
Finally, the most strategically timed updates are based in research. This ADVERBLOG article has great statistics to help social media gurus time their updates. Important takeaways from the article include:
· Almost half of the U.S. population is based in the Eastern Time Zone
· The percentage of retweets per hour peaks at 6 p.m.
· Twitter click through rate by hour spikes around noon and again at 6 p.m.
· Facebook shares peak around noon
With this said, why is timing important to social media messaging? Simple: your message will fall flat if your targeted audience doesn’t see it or if they don’t have time to click a link. So before you schedule your next social media update, be sure to take into account your audience, content, and the facts to make sure your message makes an impression on the correct audience at the correct time.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Why your Pitching E-mails get Deleted
My first pitching experience was absolutely nerve racking complete with clammy hands and nervous voice. I know rejection is part of the industry and pitching in general, but I couldn't help but feel nervous about my precious pitch not getting a second look. A recent article in Business Insider shed some light on why a pitch gets deleted and the specific things to avoid when pitching.
Some of the top reasons e-mails never get opened can be related to the following issues; unknown sender, non-compelling subject line, recipient's name spelled wrong, and boring first sentence (you can see it in gmail without ever opening the email). The article further explains that even if your e-mail does get opened, there is a 50/50 chance of your e-mail actually being acknowledged. Either you wrote something untrue about the recipient in attempt to connect with them, your e-mail was too long, or your pitch is irrelevant to what the reporter covers.
With that in mind, its important before you pitch to do some research on the recipient. Research recipients articles or Twitter to find their tailored interests. Also using a site like Linkdin could help you make a personal connection with the recipient.
Another thing to avoid when pitching is buzz words, there is nothing more annoying to a reporter than a comparison between your topic and an already successful established event or product such as Foursquare. One of BEST things you can do however, is have an intriguing subject line. It catches the recipient right away while providing all the information that the e-mail contains. Its a hard task, but the success is worth the effort.
The article even provides an example pitch:
Some of the top reasons e-mails never get opened can be related to the following issues; unknown sender, non-compelling subject line, recipient's name spelled wrong, and boring first sentence (you can see it in gmail without ever opening the email). The article further explains that even if your e-mail does get opened, there is a 50/50 chance of your e-mail actually being acknowledged. Either you wrote something untrue about the recipient in attempt to connect with them, your e-mail was too long, or your pitch is irrelevant to what the reporter covers.
With that in mind, its important before you pitch to do some research on the recipient. Research recipients articles or Twitter to find their tailored interests. Also using a site like Linkdin could help you make a personal connection with the recipient.
Another thing to avoid when pitching is buzz words, there is nothing more annoying to a reporter than a comparison between your topic and an already successful established event or product such as Foursquare. One of BEST things you can do however, is have an intriguing subject line. It catches the recipient right away while providing all the information that the e-mail contains. Its a hard task, but the success is worth the effort.
The article even provides an example pitch:
Hi Alyson,
Wanted to let you know that a startup BI has written about in the past is seeking between [X] million and [Y] million in Series A funding. The company's founder has received inquiries from a number of VC firms and is now in California meeting with possible investors.
Wanted to let you know that a startup BI has written about in the past is seeking between [X] million and [Y] million in Series A funding. The company's founder has received inquiries from a number of VC firms and is now in California meeting with possible investors.
Thought this might be a decent piece of news for you. Let me know if you have any questions or want to speak with the founder. Here's a video of him recently on Fox. [X]
As an aside, my brother went to Syracuse. I sent him your website in case he wants to get a t-shirt for his girlfriend :)
Thanks,
As an aside, my brother went to Syracuse. I sent him your website in case he wants to get a t-shirt for his girlfriend :)
Thanks,
X
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
College Students Use Twitter to Boost their GPAs
As the majority of college students already know, social media sites are becoming more and more popular every year. A whopping 94% of first year college students use them almost every day. While the use of these sites could be thought of as a distraction, a recent study has shown that incorporating Twitter into the classroom has helped a group of 125 students outperform those that continued traditional learning practices. In addition to earning a higher GPA, these students were also found to be more engaged in the classroom.
There's no denying that social media's popularity is not going to decrease anytime soon, so teachers and students are starting to take advantage of sites like Twitter, to encourage participation in a classroom setting. The use of this social media outlet allows students to create discussions with their classmates not only during class, but outside as well. They are able to see what their peers are posting while using the site as a forum for questions.
A recent CNN article interviewed eighth grade teacher, Enrique Legaspi, on how he has incorporated the site into his middle school classroom. "For a lot of them, what it did is help find their voice. I have many students that do not participate in my classes or share what's on their mind, so Twitter became that vehicle." Similar to Legaspi's classroom, it is evident in a university setting that only a small group of individuals usually participate during class time, but with encouragement to use the technology they use constantly, education may evolve for the best.
Has social media helped you in the classroom? Read more statistics from the study here.
There's no denying that social media's popularity is not going to decrease anytime soon, so teachers and students are starting to take advantage of sites like Twitter, to encourage participation in a classroom setting. The use of this social media outlet allows students to create discussions with their classmates not only during class, but outside as well. They are able to see what their peers are posting while using the site as a forum for questions.
A recent CNN article interviewed eighth grade teacher, Enrique Legaspi, on how he has incorporated the site into his middle school classroom. "For a lot of them, what it did is help find their voice. I have many students that do not participate in my classes or share what's on their mind, so Twitter became that vehicle." Similar to Legaspi's classroom, it is evident in a university setting that only a small group of individuals usually participate during class time, but with encouragement to use the technology they use constantly, education may evolve for the best.
Has social media helped you in the classroom? Read more statistics from the study here.
Monday, June 27, 2011
How to Stake a Claim in the Boardroom
It is important to make yourself known when you are entering a new workplace, specifically in a positive light. You don't want to look like a rookie, but you also want to be respectful of your superiors. The boardroom is a great place to showcase your ideas while still promoting an open platform for constructive criticism from your colleagues. Below are a few pointers from "Communication Clinic: How to be a great participant in meetings" on effectively staking your claim in the boardroom:
- Prepare-Research. Find out all the information you can about the topic of the meeting as well as your role. If you have a large part in the presentation, make it a point to request a space in the agenda. That way, you will be guaranteed a portion of time where you can get your idea across with the undivided attention of all in attendance.
- Engage-While you should always be early to meetings, get to them earlier so you can get the best seat in the house: next to the facilitator. Getting there early will also allow you to network with your colleagues and give you a chance to relax before your presentation.
- Record-Take notes. It is always advisable to do so in the case that you have something to address during the meeting. Being informed will allow you to contribute in a calculated yet constructive manner.
- Assert-If you have something to say, don't be afraid to say it. However, instead of interrupting or jumping into conversations, it may be effective to make eye contact with the facilitator or even raise your hand. When you are speaking to the room, be sure to make eye contact and execute your delivery. That is, sit up straight, project, and be clear and concise.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
When Does Who Become More Important Than What?
Apparently, it’s the moment a United States president uses social media.
In 2008, for the first time ever, the battle for the presidential election was waged and won by President Barack Obama through social media. This is not news. It happened roughly 4 years ago and was the topic of much conversation at the time. So much so, that now it is considered standard practice.
This is why I took interest in an article published by The New York Times entitled, “Obama Starts Tweeting for Himself”. I had always assumed that during the 2008 election the majority of the social media posts, especially on Twitter, were composed by a group of communications staffers, but I was surprised that Obama did not write a single tweet himself.
Well, that’s all changing. As of Father’s Day, Obama will start composing his own tweets. Or at least the ones signed, –BO. Here is what the president had to say in his inaugural tweet:
"Being a father is sometimes my hardest but always my most rewarding job. Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there. –BO."
What does this mean for his upcoming campaign? Well, staffers are hoping it will help voters feel more connected to the president, and that messages sent directly from him will have a greater impact. Personally, I am hoping we will get to see a glimpse of the individual style that is Obama. But I haven’t decided if this matters to me as a voter.
As a communications student, I expect a team of communications professionals to meticulously write and rewrite every piece of information that we receive from the White House and the president. So I am not sure if this personal signature will mean that much. Personally, I kind of doubt it. But if the president can make people feel as if they have access to him, then it just might mean a whole heck of a lot.
What do you think about the situation? Will you feel more connected to the President if he types in his own tweets? Will this bring something new to the political table, giving the everyday voter access to the candidate?
To read the full article from The New York Times click here.
This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Jacob DeChant.
In 2008, for the first time ever, the battle for the presidential election was waged and won by President Barack Obama through social media. This is not news. It happened roughly 4 years ago and was the topic of much conversation at the time. So much so, that now it is considered standard practice.
This is why I took interest in an article published by The New York Times entitled, “Obama Starts Tweeting for Himself”. I had always assumed that during the 2008 election the majority of the social media posts, especially on Twitter, were composed by a group of communications staffers, but I was surprised that Obama did not write a single tweet himself.
Well, that’s all changing. As of Father’s Day, Obama will start composing his own tweets. Or at least the ones signed, –BO. Here is what the president had to say in his inaugural tweet:
"Being a father is sometimes my hardest but always my most rewarding job. Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there. –BO."
What does this mean for his upcoming campaign? Well, staffers are hoping it will help voters feel more connected to the president, and that messages sent directly from him will have a greater impact. Personally, I am hoping we will get to see a glimpse of the individual style that is Obama. But I haven’t decided if this matters to me as a voter.
As a communications student, I expect a team of communications professionals to meticulously write and rewrite every piece of information that we receive from the White House and the president. So I am not sure if this personal signature will mean that much. Personally, I kind of doubt it. But if the president can make people feel as if they have access to him, then it just might mean a whole heck of a lot.
What do you think about the situation? Will you feel more connected to the President if he types in his own tweets? Will this bring something new to the political table, giving the everyday voter access to the candidate?
To read the full article from The New York Times click here.
This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Jacob DeChant.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
What a Non-PR Internship Taught Me About PR
As aspiring PR professionals, internships are invaluable to gaining real world experience in the industry. An internship at a PR agency or in a PR department can help you gain experience in the various PR processes. Still, don't discount the value of a non-PR internship.
I've been interning for a month at Progressive Business Publications, which produces content online and in print to help business professionals do their job better. Not only have I gained a better understanding of business, but I've also gained some useful insights for the PR industry:
1. Know Your Audience: At Progressive Business Publications there are newsletters for business pros such as Human Resource Specialists and CFOs. Each newsletter contains information specifically targeted to a particular business profession. Even with the disappearance of many print publications, subscriptions for the newsletters have remained strong because PBP caters to its various audiences. Likewise in PR, if you know your target audiences' preferences and dislikes, you can formulate an effective message.
2. Keep It Simple: Everyday at my internship it's stressed how important it is to write clearly and concisely. With just four or eight pages to fill with content in the newsletters, the writer must get straight to the point. Similarly in PR, your message is more likely to resonate with your target audience if it is delivered in a clear and concise manner.
3. Sell It: PR pros must constantly "sell" their client's product, event, cause or even the client them self. At my internship, I regularly contact subscribers to gain information for stories. The experience has taught me quickly how to "sell" myself, so these business professionals will let me interview them as they go about their workday. These phone interviews have made me feel much more comfortable about pitching the media.
Have you gained any PR skills from non-PR jobs or internships?
This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Shari Dacosta.
I've been interning for a month at Progressive Business Publications, which produces content online and in print to help business professionals do their job better. Not only have I gained a better understanding of business, but I've also gained some useful insights for the PR industry:
1. Know Your Audience: At Progressive Business Publications there are newsletters for business pros such as Human Resource Specialists and CFOs. Each newsletter contains information specifically targeted to a particular business profession. Even with the disappearance of many print publications, subscriptions for the newsletters have remained strong because PBP caters to its various audiences. Likewise in PR, if you know your target audiences' preferences and dislikes, you can formulate an effective message.
2. Keep It Simple: Everyday at my internship it's stressed how important it is to write clearly and concisely. With just four or eight pages to fill with content in the newsletters, the writer must get straight to the point. Similarly in PR, your message is more likely to resonate with your target audience if it is delivered in a clear and concise manner.
3. Sell It: PR pros must constantly "sell" their client's product, event, cause or even the client them self. At my internship, I regularly contact subscribers to gain information for stories. The experience has taught me quickly how to "sell" myself, so these business professionals will let me interview them as they go about their workday. These phone interviews have made me feel much more comfortable about pitching the media.
Have you gained any PR skills from non-PR jobs or internships?
This guest blog was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Shari Dacosta.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Background Checks Just Got Tougher
The debate about the legality of a potential employee using your information from Facebook and Twitter to determine your employment status has finally ended. According to ABC News, The Federal Trade Commission has given permission to the Social Intelligence Corp. to sell reports including personal information from social networking sites to employers and the file will last for seven years.
So while you may not be guilty of the obvious crimes of posting too many belligerent pictures, talking openly about racism, homophobia or drug use, you should now also be wary about the company you keep on these sites. It is also legal for a potential employer to turn down your application for knowing someone with a criminal record while not violating any employment discrimination law.
"You can be deemed a bad apple by association," says Pam Dixon, executive director of the World Privacy Forum. "Are all your friends gay, rich, poor? Do they all live in California or New York or Kansas? What are your hobbies? Do they look expensive or entail high risk?" If so, Dixon warns, your chances of landing that dream job, depending on your would-be employer's predilections, may go poof. The employer's decision not to hire you may be ethically outrageous. But it's not illegal.
As scary as this may seem to most job seekers, Michael Fertick, Founder and CEO of Reputation.com, predicts that the background checks of tomorrow will only continue to advance with more sophisticated technology with tools such as facial recognition software, used to identify job candidates in photos surfing across the internet without the need to rely on the human analysts being used for Social Intelligence, the only company currently specializing in conducting Internet background checks that are compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
I have always been appalled by what some of my friends find comfortable posting online, whether its pictures, crude language or open hostility to others. I agree that Facebook and Twitter should be included in any job search because it is information that we willingly share online and it is our job and responsibility to be cautious of what information we choose to share. However, I disagree that a company should be able to determine your employment based on the friends of your social networks. My friends and their actions do not reflect upon my own and should not be a factor in the hiring process.
How do you feel about the newest form of background checks? Do you agree or disagree?
To read the full article, click here.
So while you may not be guilty of the obvious crimes of posting too many belligerent pictures, talking openly about racism, homophobia or drug use, you should now also be wary about the company you keep on these sites. It is also legal for a potential employer to turn down your application for knowing someone with a criminal record while not violating any employment discrimination law.
"You can be deemed a bad apple by association," says Pam Dixon, executive director of the World Privacy Forum. "Are all your friends gay, rich, poor? Do they all live in California or New York or Kansas? What are your hobbies? Do they look expensive or entail high risk?" If so, Dixon warns, your chances of landing that dream job, depending on your would-be employer's predilections, may go poof. The employer's decision not to hire you may be ethically outrageous. But it's not illegal.
As scary as this may seem to most job seekers, Michael Fertick, Founder and CEO of Reputation.com, predicts that the background checks of tomorrow will only continue to advance with more sophisticated technology with tools such as facial recognition software, used to identify job candidates in photos surfing across the internet without the need to rely on the human analysts being used for Social Intelligence, the only company currently specializing in conducting Internet background checks that are compliant with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.
I have always been appalled by what some of my friends find comfortable posting online, whether its pictures, crude language or open hostility to others. I agree that Facebook and Twitter should be included in any job search because it is information that we willingly share online and it is our job and responsibility to be cautious of what information we choose to share. However, I disagree that a company should be able to determine your employment based on the friends of your social networks. My friends and their actions do not reflect upon my own and should not be a factor in the hiring process.
How do you feel about the newest form of background checks? Do you agree or disagree?
To read the full article, click here.
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