Do Good BusStudents filled room 110 of Franklin Hall on Wednesday, Jan. 18 to hear Carli Cichocki, an ’06 PR Kent alumna and communication specialist at R Strategy Group in Cleveland, talk about developing and implementing a national media relations plan.

Last summer, Cichocki traveled across the country with the Do Good Bus, a traveling initiative that encourages people to volunteer in their communities. The Do Good Bus partnered with Grammy-nominated band Foster The People during their summer tour. Cichocki was responsible for creating and executing a media relations plan during the tour.

Cichocki shared valuable information about thinking strategically, connecting with audiences and networking with other professionals. Her presentation ended with a contest –the winner, PRKent Freshman Megan Corder, received a Foster The People CD!

Students walked away with some useful tips about media relations as they start their careers in PR.

Carli’s tips for media relations success:

  • Think strategically. Develop a plan and be prepared. Set goals and decide what you want your plan to accomplish and what you want your audiences to learn.
  • Do your research. Learn as much as you can about your audience and narrow it down to target only the most important. If your media relations plan targets everyone, you’re not really talking to anyone. Research reporters who have covered your subject in the past and pitch them personally.
  • Use your resources. Social media sites (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Tumblr) can help communicate your message.
  • Find an angle. Reporters are looking for a way to connect the story with their audience. Emphasize a unique angle to make your pitch stand out. It could be a trend, local connection or celebrity involvement.
  • Network and stay in touch. Get to know professionals and stay in touch with classmates. Foster long-term relationships with everyone you come in contact with –journalists, producers and others in the PR industry.

PRSSA Kent would like to thank Carli Cichocki for sharing her experiences with us. It was a great way to start the semester!

Our next general meeting is Wednesday, February 1 at 7:30 p.m. VP of Public Relations for the Cleveland Indians Bob DiBiasio will talk about sports public relations and his career in MLB. We hope to see everyone there!

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