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That Solo Life: Co-hosted by Karen Swim, founder of Words for Hire, LLC and owner of Solo PR Pro and Michelle Kane, founder of VoiceMatters, LLC, we keep it real and talk about the topics that affect solo business owners in PR and Marketing and beyond. Learn more about Solo PR Pro: www.SoloPRPro.com
Episodes
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Summary:
Words have power, and as PR pros and marketers, we know just how to wield them. But what happens when wordplay goes awry? Join Michelle Kane and Karen Swim in this enlightening and entertaining episode as they break down the dos and don'ts of clever messaging. Discover how the right wordplay can resonate with your audience, when it’s best avoided, and how intention matters more than you might think.
Key Takeaways:
- Wordplay as a Connection Tool: Learn how effective wordplay can draw in and unify your audience by balancing the familiar with a fresh twist.
- Intent Is Everything: Messaging should always prioritize kindness and respect, avoiding divisiveness or harm.
- The Fine Line Between Clever and Confusing: Not all wordplay lands well—find out how to avoid messaging that alienates or baffles your audience.
In This Episode
In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane chat about the use of wordplay in communication and marketing. They cover examples of effective wordplay, such as the Nike and Apple ads, as well as instances of problematic wordplay, like renaming the Gulf of Mexico or a steak cut. The discussion highlights include:
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Wordplay can be an effective communication tool when used strategically to engage the audience and build familiarity.
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However, wordplay should not be used as a "weapon" to divide audiences or make a political statement.
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Communicators should be mindful of the intent and potential impacts of their word choices, and aim to communicate in a spirit of kindness and unity.
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It's important for communicators to maintain credibility and avoid actions that could undermine trust.
Resources/Links Mentioned:
- ‘Freedom never tasted so good’: How Walter Jones helped rename french fries over the Iraq War - The Washington Post
Why Wordplay Works in Communications - Wylie Communications
- Why Wordplay Works: The Science of Puns in Business Communication - Copy That Communications
Enjoyed the episode?
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Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
That Solo Life, Episode 289: The New Challenges in Managing Brand Reputation
Summary
This episode of "That Solo Life" podcast explores the challenges PR professionals manage when brands are faced with crises, particularly serious situations like allegations of child abuse. The hosts, Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the importance of building trust with audiences, maintaining authenticity and integrity, and providing nuanced responses rather than knee-jerk reactions. They emphasize the need for civility, context, and an understanding that not every mistake or misstep warrants an extreme public backlash. The hosts also acknowledge the difficulty of navigating these issues as PR professionals who are also impacted by the toxicity and chaos in the broader society.
In This Episode
Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the modern complexities of reputation management and proactive crisis management in Episode 289 of That Solo Life. The internet has created a tinderbox that can quickly ignite a spark of discord into a firestorm of crisis.
Today’s discussion kicks off with a real-life example of a local business facing severe allegations of child abuse linked to previous ownership. Michelle and Karen explore the challenges that new ownership faces as they attempt to distance themselves from the past while managing public perception. They emphasize the importance of effective messaging and the need for PR professionals to guide brands through these turbulent waters.
Karen highlights the broader context of how society has shifted towards a more polarized viewpoint, where nuance and reasoned thinking seem to be in short supply. The hosts discuss the tendency for public opinion to swing dramatically, often overlooking the complexities of individual situations. They stress the importance of context in evaluating a brand's response to crises, noting that not every misstep warrants immediate condemnation.
As the conversation unfolds, Karen and Michelle reflect on the pressures brands face in the digital age, where the loudest voices often drown out the majority who may hold more moderate views. They point out that while brands must be authentic and true to their values, they also need to build trust with their audiences over time. This trust becomes crucial when navigating crises, as it can help mitigate backlash and foster understanding.
The episode also touches on the rapid spread of misinformation and the consequences it can have on brand reputation. The hosts share a recent example involving a soda company that faced backlash over a marketing campaign, illustrating how quickly narratives can spiral out of control without proper context.
In closing, Karen and Michelle encourage PR professionals to remain steadfast in their values and to continue making ethical decisions, even amidst chaos. They express hope for a return to civility and nuance in public discourse, emphasizing that by doing the right thing, we can collectively contribute to a more informed and understanding society.
Listeners are invited to share their thoughts and experiences, and the hosts encourage feedback on topics they would like to see covered in future episodes. As always, they thank their audience for tuning in and remind them to check out the resources available at SoloPRPro.com.
Resources:
- What I Learned from The Chaos Machine - Fran Stephenson, APR
- If You Run From AI, It Will Find You — Here's Why Traditional Reputation Strategies No Longer Work - Entrepreneur
Episode Timestamps
00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Welcome to the podcast for PR pros and marketers who work for themselves.
00:00:30 - Celebrating Love and Black History Month Discussion on the significance of February as a month of love and Black History Month.
00:01:00 - Navigating PR Nightmares Exploring how brands can handle serious allegations and public relations crises.
00:02:30 - The Weight of Brand Reputation Understanding how public opinion can impact brands, especially in severe situations.
00:04:00 - The Challenge of Nuanced Thinking Discussing the loss of reason and nuance in public discourse and its effects on brands.
00:06:00 - The Extremes of Public Opinion How the loudest voices often overshadow the majority who are more moderate.
00:08:00 - The Importance of Context Emphasizing the need for context in evaluating situations and brand responses.
00:10:00 - Building Trust Through Authenticity The significance of making deposits of trust with audiences over time.
00:11:30 - The Role of Ethics in Crisis Management How ethical behavior and integrity can help brands navigate crises effectively.
00:13:00 - The Impact of Misinformation Examining how misinformation spreads quickly and affects brand perception.
00:15:00 - The Human Element in PR Acknowledging the challenges PR professionals face in a chaotic environment.
00:17:00 - The Call for Civility and Nuance A hopeful message about the potential for change in public discourse.
00:18:00 - Conclusion and Call to Action Encouragement to share the podcast and engage with the community.
Enjoyed the episode?
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Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
That Solo Life Episode 288: Combatting Ghosting In The Professional World
Summary
In Episode 288 Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss strategies for dealing with being "ghosted" by potential clients or employers. The key points of the episode are:
- Avoid situations where no response is expected, like applying to job postings or responding to RFPs without any prior interaction. Try to force human interaction instead.
- When meeting with a prospect, ask questions to prequalify them and ensure they are serious about hiring an agency or employee. Look for red flags like not having a defined budget or timeline.
- If a prospect does ghost you, don't take it personally. It likely has nothing to do with you. Maintain a positive attitude and follow up periodically in case their situation changes.
- When submitting a proposal, offer to have a follow-up meeting to discuss it and address any concerns. This helps ensure you get a response.
- Overall, the advice is to be selective about the opportunities you pursue, maintain professionalism, and not internalize the ghosting as a reflection on yourself or your capabilities.
In This Episode
In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane discuss the frustrating phenomenon of ghosting in the professional world by clients, prospects and other business contacts. The conversation kicks off acknowledging the emotional toll that ghosting can take, drawing parallels to its origins in dating culture. Michelle and Karen share their personal experiences and frustrations with being ghosted by prospects and potential collaborators, emphasizing the importance of human connection in professional relationships.
The hosts discuss the normalization of ghosting, especially in job applications and proposals, where candidates often receive no feedback at all. Karen highlights the need for follow-ups as a proactive strategy to combat ghosting, encouraging listeners to reach out and touch base with prospects. Michelle and Karen also explore the significance of ensuring human interaction in the proposal process, advising against situations where responses are unlikely.
Throughout the episode, the hosts provide practical tactics for minimizing ghosting, such as pre-qualifying prospects and asking critical questions during initial meetings. They stress the importance of understanding a company's current agency situation and budget before investing time in proposals. Both hosts agree that if a prospect is not ready or serious, it’s perfectly acceptable to walk away from the opportunity.
As we navigate the complexities of ghosting, it’s also important to touch on the emotional aspect of not taking it personally. Listeners are encouraged to maintain their self-worth and not internalize the actions of others. The conversation culminates in a call for better communication practices in the workplace, advocating for a culture of respect and transparency.
Listeners will walk away with actionable insights on how to handle ghosting, the importance of follow-ups, and the value of maintaining a positive mindset in the face of professional challenges. We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with us, and as always, we appreciate your support in spreading the word about That Solo Life.
Episode Timestamps
00:00:00 - Introduction to Ghosting in Professional Relationships Discussion on the prevalence of ghosting in both personal and professional contexts.
00:02:40 - The Emotional Impact of Ghosting Exploration of how ghosting affects mental well-being and the importance of respectful communication.
00:03:50 - The Shift in Job Application Responses Reflection on the decline of communication in job applications and the normalization of ghosting.
00:05:30 - The Importance of Human Interaction Advice on ensuring human contact in professional interactions to minimize ghosting.
00:08:00 - Pre-Qualifying Prospects Strategies for assessing the seriousness of potential clients or employers before investing time.
00:10:30 - Handling Proposals and Follow-Ups Tips on following up after meetings and proposals to encourage responses.
00:12:50 - Understanding Budget Discussions Discussion on the significance of budget clarity in client relationships and proposals.
00:15:30 - Maintaining Contact After Ghosting Suggestions for staying in touch with prospects who may not be ready to engage.
00:18:00 - Not Taking Ghosting Personally Advice on how to detach personal feelings from professional ghosting experiences.
00:20:30 - The Importance of Communication Emphasis on the need for clear communication in professional settings to avoid ghosting.
00:22:00 - Company Culture and Ghosting Discussion on how a company's culture reflects in their communication practices.
00:24:00 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement Encouragement to maintain professionalism and understanding in the face of ghosting.
Resources:
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPRPro, @KarenSwim) on social media so that we can thank you personally!
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
In This Episode
In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by solo PR practitioners. The key points in this episode include:
- Solo PR professionals can sometimes struggle with imposter syndrome and lack of confidence when comparing themselves to larger PR agencies.
- However, solo practitioners offer unique value, such as more personalized attention for clients and the ability to assemble specialized teams as needed.
- The PR industry should do more to embrace and empower solo and independent practitioners, rather than marginalizing them.
- There is a need for greater unity and collaboration across the broader communications industry to elevate the work of all PR professionals, regardless of their business model.
The conversation kicks off with a personal touch, as Karen shares her experience recovering from the flu, while Michelle expresses her gratitude for good health. The hosts acknowledge the unpredictable nature of the times we live in, setting the stage for a discussion about the unique struggles that solo practitioners encounter, particularly the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome.
The episode centers around an insightful article from PR Calvary that raises the question of whether PR freelancers have a confidence problem. Karen highlights the lack of a "center of gravity" for solo PR pros, contrasting the established reputation of large agencies with the often-overlooked contributions of independent practitioners. This comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, but the hosts emphasize that solo PR professionals bring valuable skills and perspectives to the table.
Michelle and Karen encourage listeners to embrace their strengths as solo practitioners. They discuss how clients often receive the attention of a team when working with larger agencies, while solo pros can offer personalized service and a tailored approach. The conversation shifts to the importance of owning perceived weaknesses, with Karen referencing Chip Griffin's advice to "stand tall in weakness." The hosts assert that being small is not a disadvantage; rather, it can be a unique asset that clients value.
As the discussion unfolds, Karen and Michelle advocate for greater collaboration between large agencies and solo practitioners. They envision a future where the industry embraces various working models and recognizes the contributions of independent professionals. The hosts express a desire for industry associations to unite in promoting the value of all communicators, regardless of their work structure.
The episode concludes with a powerful reminder for listeners to respect themselves and their work. Michelle encapsulates the message by encouraging everyone to "stand tall" and recognize their unique contributions to the field. The hosts invite listeners to share the episode and spread the positive energy, reinforcing the idea that working independently is a legitimate and respected career path.
Join us for this empowering conversation that aims to bolster the confidence of solo PR and marketing professionals, reminding us all that we are capable and deserving of success in our chosen paths.
Episode Timestamps
00:00:00 - Introduction and Personal Updates Michelle and Karen introduce themselves and share personal updates, including their thoughts on current events.
00:01:10 - Imposter Syndrome in Solo PR Discussion on imposter syndrome and the challenges solo PR professionals face in maintaining confidence.
00:02:29 - The Confidence Problem for PR Freelancers Exploration of an article discussing the lack of a central identity for solo PR pros compared to large agencies.
00:03:44 - Strengths of Solo PR Pros Karen emphasizes the unique strengths solo PR professionals bring to the table, including personalized attention and flexibility.
00:05:07 - Owning Your Strengths The importance of recognizing and owning perceived weaknesses as strengths in the solo PR landscape.
00:06:11 - Collaboration Between Agencies and Solos Discussion on the potential for collaboration and mutual benefit between large agencies and solo PR pros.
00:08:07 - The Need for Inclusivity in the Industry Michelle expresses the desire for greater inclusivity in industry events and recognition for all types of communicators.
00:10:21 - Frustrations with Industry Programming Karen shares frustrations about industry programming that often overlooks the needs of solo PR professionals.
00:11:45 - The Growing Trend of Independent Work Discussion on the increasing number of professionals working independently and the mainstream acceptance of this career path.
00:12:49 - Conclusion and Call to Action Encouragement for solo PR pros to stand tall in their unique strengths and to advocate for their place in the industry.
Resources:
- Do PR Freelancers Have A Confidence Problem — And Why?
- Small Agency Growth Alliance Newsletter (Sign up here)
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPRPro, @KarenSwim) on social media so that we can thank you personally!
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
In This Episode
In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane dive into the evolving landscape of public relations and marketing for solo professionals. With the job market in flux, is starting a Solo PR Pro business realistic in 2025? Karen and Michelle tackle that question as they discuss the opportunities and challenges of making the leap to a Solo PR Pro career.
The co-hosts discuss the various factors that might lead someone to make the leap into self-employment. They emphasize that while the media landscape has changed significantly, the core skills of communication and storytelling remain invaluable. They encourage listeners to think strategically about their unique skill sets and how they can serve clients effectively.
Michelle and Karen discuss the importance of having a solid plan before making the transition. They caution against jumping into entrepreneurship out of frustration and stress the need for thorough research on potential markets, industries, and client needs. The hosts highlight the value of maintaining steady employment while preparing to start a business, as it provides a financial cushion and the opportunity to learn and network without the pressure of immediate income.
Throughout the episode, the hosts share practical tips on how to cultivate business relationships that can yield valuable insights and potential leads. The hosts remind listeners that consulting opportunities can arise from job postings and that networking is key to planting seeds for future business.
As the discussion progresses, Karen and Michelle touch on the necessity of adapting to new technologies, such as AI, while still honing traditional skills like writing. The hosts emphasize that being a successful solo professional requires not just expertise in PR but also the ability to run a business effectively.
Michelle and Karen also reflect on the natural evolution of their own businesses, encouraging listeners to embrace change and remain flexible in their career paths. They remind us that starting a business is a journey filled with learning experiences, and it's essential to give ourselves grace as we navigate the ups and downs.
In closing, listeners are invited to share the podcast with others who might benefit from our insights. With nearly 300 episodes under our belt, we are committed to providing valuable content for PR pros and marketers working independently. Join us as we continue to explore the world of solo entrepreneurship and empower each other to thrive in our careers. Thank you for tuning in to That Solo Life!
Episode Timeline
00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life
00:00:12 - The Journey of Solo PR Pros
00:01:10 - Navigating the Changing Media Landscape
00:02:00 - Opportunities for Solos in Today 's Market
00:03:36 - Finding Your Niche: Fishing Where the Fish Are
00:04:56 - The Importance of Planning Before Taking the Leap
00:06:12 - Researching Your Market and Skills
00:07:21 - Networking and Building Relationships
00:08:24 - The Value of Continuous Learning and Adaptation 0
0:09:42 - Embracing the Unknown in Your Solo Journey
00:11:53 - Evolving Your Business Over Time
00:14:16 - Trusting Your Instincts and Making the Leap
00:15:06 - Closing Remarks and Call to Action
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally!
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
That Solo Life Episode 285: How to Find Joy and Make an Impact in PR
In This Episode
In this episode of "That Solo Life," co-hosts Karen Swim, APR and Michelle Kane dive into the chaotic start of the new year, reflecting on the challenges faced by solo and small agency PR professionals in 2025. The year has kicked off with an overwhelming amount of information and events happening both in the United States and global. As chaos reigns, it is important for public relations to stay grounded.
Michelle and Karen explore the necessity of maintaining engagement in our work while also prioritizing our well-being. They highlight the significance of focusing on quality over quantity in our communications, especially in light of the evolving media landscape. The conversation touches on the importance of authenticity and truth in storytelling, particularly as misinformation continues to be a pressing issue in the public relations industry.
The hosts encourage listeners to step back from the emotional turmoil that can arise from constant engagement with social media and the news cycle. They advocate for finding joy in our work and innovating our approaches to communication. By fostering genuine connections within our communities—both for our clients and among ourselves—we can create a supportive network that helps us navigate these turbulent times.
Karen and Michelle also discuss the pitfalls of relying too heavily on social media platforms, reminding listeners that these platforms are not owned by us and can change at any moment. They stress the importance of building our brands on land we own, such as through email marketing and direct engagement with our audiences, rather than getting lost in the noise of social media.
As the episode wraps up, the hosts express their solidarity with fellow PR professionals, acknowledging the emotional toll the industry can take. They invite listeners to share their experiences and connect with the community, reinforcing the idea that we are all in this together. This episode serves as a reminder to prioritize our mental health, focus on meaningful connections, and continue to adapt in the ever-changing landscape of public relations.
Episode Timeline
00:00:00 - Introduction
The hosts introduce themselves and discuss the cold weather.
00:01:00 - Navigating Chaos
A reflection on the chaotic start to the year and the challenges faced by communications professionals.
00:02:30 - Staying True to Community
The importance of remaining connected to one's community amidst the chaos and misinformation.
00:04:00 - Finding Joy in Work
Advice on stepping back from emotional reactions and focusing on impactful work.
00:05:30 - The Reality of Misinformation
Discussion on the prevalence of misinformation and the need for authenticity in storytelling.
00:07:00 - The Role of Social Media
Exploring the dual nature of social media as both a tool for connection and a potential silo.
00:08:30 - Building True Community
Encouraging clients to engage directly with their audiences rather than relying solely on social media.
00:10:00 - Understanding Audience Segments
The importance of recognizing that not everyone will resonate with a brand or message.
00:11:30 - The Risks of Platform Dependency
A reminder that social media platforms are not owned by users and the risks of building a brand on them.
00:13:00 - Exploring Alternative Platforms
Highlighting the value of engaging on platforms like Reddit for genuine interactions.
00:14:00 - Staying Focused on Purpose
The need for PR professionals to filter out noise and maintain focus on their mission.
00:15:00 - Conclusion and Community Support
Wrapping up the discussion and encouraging listeners to connect and share their experiences.
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally!
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
That Solo Life, Episode 284: How PR Pros Can Use an Audit to Unlock Social Media Success
In This Episode
Today’s podcast discussion focuses on the importance of conducting social media audits and targeting specific audience personas when developing marketing and communications strategies. Key takeaways from this episode include:
- Conducting a social media audit can provide valuable insights to help organizations improve their social media presence and effectiveness, even if the audit process seems daunting at first.
- It is critical to deeply understand your target audience personas and tailor content and messaging accordingly, rather than trying to appeal to a broad, general audience.
- Focusing on the social media channels that are working best for your organization, rather than trying to be on every platform, can lead to more impactful results.
- This year presents a unique opportunity for companies and brands to build stronger, more engaged communities through social media by taking risks, experimenting, and being willing to learn from failures.
In this episode of That Solo Life, we are thrilled to welcome Nicole Castro, the principal of Nicole Lauren Consulting, to discuss the importance of social media audits and the power of targeted messaging in public relations and marketing. Public Relations professionals often face the challenge of effectively communicating our clients' stories and connecting them with the right audiences. Nicole brings her expertise to the table, sharing insights from a recent social media audit she conducted for a nonprofit client.
The conversation kicks off by acknowledging the common stigma associated with the term "audit." Nicole emphasizes that while audits can seem daunting, they are essential for understanding what works and what doesn’t in a client’s social media strategy. She recounts how her client, after years of posting on social media, realized they needed to assess their efforts to ensure they were reaching their target audiences effectively.
Nicole highlights three key takeaways from her audit experience.
- The importance of conducting a target audience exercise. This exercise allowed Nicole’s client to identify the diverse demographics they serve. By understanding their audience on a micro level, the organization could tailor their messaging to resonate with specific groups rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach.
- The capacity of your team. Nicole points out the common fear of missing out (FOMO) that leads organizations to spread themselves too thin across multiple social media platforms. She encourages clients to focus on the channels that yield the best results for them, rather than feeling pressure to be everywhere at once.
- Targeted messaging. Nicole emphasizes the significance of being targeted in messaging. She explains that specificity in communication not only helps in reaching the intended audience but also attracts others outside that persona. This targeted approach fosters clarity and effectiveness in messaging.
As we delve deeper into the discussion, Nicole introduces the concept of "The Year of the Niche." She believes that brands and organizations will find success by honing in on their audience personas and building content that speaks directly to them. In a time when social media is evolving, she stresses the need for brands to engage in two-way conversations with their audiences, moving beyond mere promotional messaging.
Throughout the episode, we explore the idea of failure as a natural part of the growth process. Nicole encourages brands to take risks and try new things, reminding us that failure is not fatal but rather a stepping stone to success. We discuss the importance of measuring success through meaningful metrics that go beyond surface-level engagement.
As we wrap up the episode, we reflect on the exciting opportunities that lie ahead for brands willing to connect authentically with their audiences. Nicole leaves us with a call to action: to build a strong communications foundation and embrace the potential for growth through experimentation.
Join us for this enlightening conversation that will inspire you to rethink your approach to social media and client engagement. Don't forget to connect with Nicole on LinkedIn to continue the discussion! Thank you for listening to That Solo Life.
About Nicole Castro
Nicole Castro is the principal of Nicole Lauren Consulting. She has spent the last 10 years cultivating results-driven public relations and marketing experiences for nonprofit and for-profit clients. The agency’s main goal is to help others tell their stories and connect clients with an audience that would truly benefit from their offering and mission.
Specialty areas of focus include brand development, social media management, competitive benchmarking, multi-platform editorial and content solutions.
You can connect with Nicole via her website or LinkedIn.
Episode Timeline
00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life Podcast
00:01:15 - Welcoming Nicole Castro
00:02:01 - The Importance of Social Media Audits
00:04:36 - Insights from a Recent Social Media Audit
00:06:09 - Key Takeaways from the Audit
00:10:05 - Understanding Target Audiences
00:12:08 - The FOMO of Social Media Presence
00:14:02 - The Year of the Niche
00:18:49 - Building Community Through Social Media
00:20:41 - The Value of Taking Risks
00:24:53 - Embracing Failure as Part of Growth
00:29:30 - Conclusion and Connecting with Nicole
Key takeaways from the einclude:
- Conducting a social media audit can provide valuable insights to help organizations improve their social media presence and effectiveness, even if the audit process seems daunting at first.
- It is critical to deeply understand your target audience personas and tailor content and messaging accordingly, rather than trying to appeal to a broad, general audience.
- Focusing on the social media channels that are working best for your organization, rather than trying to be on every platform, can lead to more impactful results.
- This year presents a unique opportunity for companies and brands to build stronger, more engaged communities through social media by taking risks, experimenting, and being willing to learn from failures.
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally!
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
That Solo Life, Episode 283: Quality Over Quantity Will Drive PR In 2025
In This Episode
In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane dive into the critical topic of gaining access to the C-suite and the importance of building meaningful relationships within organizations. Communication professionals understand that their effectiveness hinges on the quality of information and insights they can gather from various levels of an organization, particularly from executive leadership.
The conversation kicks off by acknowledging the challenges communicators face in accessing the C-suite, often due to internal politics or organizational structures that can block our paths. The hosts emphasize the necessity of having a seat at the table, as it not only enriches engagements but also leads to better compensation. However, Karen and Michelle recognize that this access is not always straightforward, and discuss creative strategies to navigate these barriers.
One approach suggested is initiating dialogue with your primary contacts, such as the CMO, by asking pointed questions about their goals and recent developments within the organization. This step-ladder approach allows you to gradually build rapport and gain insights that can inform your strategies. Michelle and Karen also stress the importance of aligning your efforts with the broader business objectives and speaking the language of our marketing counterparts to foster collaboration.
Throughout the episode, the hosts highlight the shift in focus from quantity to quality in PR work. Listeners are encouraged to ask quality questions and engage in deeper conversations that matter to the business, rather than simply relying on traditional metrics.
As the episode wraps up, Karen and Michelle reflect on the importance of building trust—not only with your external audiences but also internally with clients. They emphasize that meaningful relationships are at the core of successful communication strategies, and challenge our listeners to prioritize this in their work moving forward.
Join us as we explore these themes and share insights that can help you navigate the complexities of working with clients and organizations in the ever-evolving landscape of PR and marketing. Don't forget to check out Solo PR Pro for community support and resources tailored for solo practitioners. Thank you for tuning in, and we look forward to connecting with you in our next episode!
Episode Timeline
00:00:00 - Introduction to That Solo Life
00:00:12 - Accessing the C-Suite
00:01:05 - The Importance of Influence
00:02:03 - Navigating Internal Politics
00:03:13 - Starting the Dialogue
00:04:06 - Aligning Goals with Clients
00:05:04 - Understanding Reporting Metrics
00:06:57 - The Separation of Marketing and PR
00:08:11 - Quality Over Quantity in Results
00:09:38 - Shifting Focus in the Post-Pandemic Era
00:10:47 - Building Meaningful Connections
00:12:30 - The Importance of Thoughtful Engagement
00:14:49 - Forging Trusting Relationships
00:15:25 - Conclusion and Community Invitation
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally!
Monday Jan 06, 2025
Monday Jan 06, 2025
That Solo Life, Episode 291: Trends, Trust And Technology - What's Ahead In 2025
In This Episode
Join us for Part Two of our PR Trends discussion In this episode of That Solo Life. Co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane continue their discussion on the trends they believe will shape the public relations and communications landscape in 2025. We dive into analytics, trust, technology and the predicted trends that are still struggling to catch on.
We kick off the discussion by emphasizing the need for PR professionals to harness data analytics more effectively. Drawing from our recent conversation with Lisa Gerber, we explore how metrics can guide us in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with the right audiences. We highlight the shift from merely reporting performance to using data to inform our storytelling strategies, ensuring that our content not only reaches but engages our target demographics.
Next, we address the critical issue of trust-building. In a world where skepticism is rampant, we stress the importance of transparency and authenticity in brand communications. We discuss how PR can play a pivotal role in fostering trust through proactive crisis management and consistent messaging that aligns with a brand's mission and values.
As we transition into a discussion about technology, we reflect on the anticipated rise of augmented reality (AR) and immersive experiences. While we initially expected these innovations to be more prevalent by now, we acknowledge the human element—our innate desire for genuine interaction—that has tempered their adoption. We explore the barriers to embracing these technologies and the need for accessibility to drive widespread acceptance.
Throughout the episode, we encourage our listeners to think critically about the trends shaping our industry and to remain adaptable as we navigate the complexities of the modern communications landscape. We invite you to share your thoughts and insights, and as always, we appreciate your support in spreading the word about That Solo Life. Join us as we look forward to an exciting year ahead in PR and marketing!
Episode Timeline
00:00:00 - Introduction to Predictions for 2025
00:00:31 - Data-Driven Storytelling in PR
00:02:27 - Engagement Metrics and Quality Over Quantity
00:05:15 - The Importance of Trust-Building
00:09:17 - Transparency and Authenticity in Branding
00:10:00 - The Slow Adoption of AR and Immersive Experiences
00:12:12 - Human Behavior and Technology Adoption
00:15:51 - Conclusion and Call to Action
Resources:
- The Power of Storytelling in an AI World
- PRSA: Looking Ahead: 4 PR Challenges to Tackle in 2025 — and How to Prepare Now
Enjoyed the episode?
Please leave a review here - even a sentence helps. Share and tag us (@SoloPR, @SoloPRPro) on social media so that we can thank you personally! Your support helps us keep bringing you insightful content every week. Thank you for tuning in!
Monday Dec 30, 2024
Monday Dec 30, 2024
That Solo Life, Episode 281: What Lies Ahead For PR Pros In 2025
In This Episode
In this episode of That Solo Life, co-hosts Karen Swim and Michelle Kane pause to reflect on what trends will shape the landscape for PR professionals in 2025.
The hosts kick off the discussion by addressing the importance of cross-cultural sensitivity, especially in light of recent setbacks in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Despite the political climate and the dismantling of formal programs, they emphasize that the need for effective communication with diverse audiences remains critical. As communicators, we must advocate for inclusive brand guidelines and storytelling that resonates with all segments of our audience.
The conversation then shifts to the significance of enhanced internal communications. Karen and Michelle highlight how transparent communication fosters trust within organizations, especially in a hybrid work environment. Drawing from personal experiences, they stress the value of keeping employees engaged and informed, as this is essential for maintaining a cohesive and motivated workforce.
The hosts then explore the evolving role of influencer partnerships in 2025. Influencers are here to stay, and Michelle and Karen discuss how they can bring creativity and authenticity to brand messaging. Michelle shares insights from a recent panel featuring local influencers, who expressed their commitment to ethical practices and delivering quality work for their clients. This creativity is something we hope to see more of in the coming year, as it can help break the monotony of corporate jargon and reinvigorate our communications.
The episode wraps us with hope for a more optimistic and joyful 2025. The hosts acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead, including issues of trust and misinformation, but believe that these challenges will ultimately highlight the value of skilled PR professionals. Our goal as PR professionals is to help brands navigate these turbulent times and connect with their audiences in meaningful ways.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we look forward to continuing the conversation in our next episode!
Episode Timeline
00:00:00 - Introduction to Trends for 2025
00:00:18 - The Importance of Cross-Cultural Sensitivity
00:02:50 - The Need for Enhanced Internal Communications
00:05:00 - The Role of Trust in Organizations
00:07:30 - Influencer Partnerships and Creativity
00:10:15 - Looking Ahead with Optimism
00:11:28 - Conclusion and Call for Listener Engagement
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