Deirdre Breakenridge of PFS Marketwyse led an open and frank discussion on how public relations agencies can overcome a predator stigma. Focusing on public relations principles (both traditional PR and PR 2.0) that raise the profile of a professional and the agency to the rightful status of counselor and partner, Deirdre showed why agencies need to promote and sustain practices that support the needs of the 21st century organization such as being customer-focused and user-centric. read more »

In this session, Lauri-Ellen Smith, APR, of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office discussed the essentials of communicating with the National Incident Management System (NIMS) during times of disasters and emergencies. The NIMS for public information changes everything about how government and non-government organizations communicate with the public, via the media during times of disasters or emergencies (planned or unplanned events). read more »

Focusing on Audience, Messages, Messengers, Methods and Outcomes gives any organization, public entity or business the tools to capture interest and leverage action. Led by Jack Levine, the AMMMO strategy allows the proper balance of creativity and flexibility, and promotes conversations with the target audiences for maximum relationship development. read more »

The goal for today’s presentation, titled What is Public Relations and What Are the Career Options?, was to introduce students in public relations related programs to the broad and varied aspects of the PR profession and the diverse career opportunities available within the field of public relations and how, on a broader scale, PR serves a vital element of every business. The discussion was presented by the Community Service Committee of the FPRA Treasure Coast Chapter. Panelists included Kendall Clifford, Patricia Austin Novak, APR, Linette Trabulsy, Audra Shaneman, Sam Yates and Debra Banta, APR.

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Part of public relations is learning to work with what you’re given, and when the first student track speaker was suddenly unable to make it to Boca, the student group did just that. Recognizing the importance of networking not just with the more experienced professional peers but among themselves, Jen, Alexia, Amber, Dana, Denise, Armando, Michelle, Nicole, Laurie, Leyda, Kayla, Kelly, Denielle, Julia, Christina, Mackenzie, Shirlene, Ashleigh and Emily spent some time sharing PR experiences and advice with Karen Smittle, APR, CPRC while chowing down on lunch.
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This workshop, led by Sanda Jakubow, director of the Florida Atlantic University Career Development Center, provided information on preparing students for the current job market with tips on setting oneself apart over other applicants through resumes, cover letters, and interviews.

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We’re now at the halfway point of the conference and figured it was a good time to ask what you think about our conference coverage thus far. Tell us the good, the bad and the ugly. We’d prefer if you left your e-mail so we can respond to you, but if you feel the need to be anonymous, go ahead.

What has been your favorite portion of the conference coverage?

Do you like the fact that we’ve included commentary on the sessions or would you just prefer the facts from presentations?

Do you like the fun stuff and hallway interviews?

Suggestions?

Public relations professionals represent a multitude of stakeholders. No matter what area of public relations, we are the face of our organization or employer. What happens when you or your employer suddenly become the focus of the media or community? Suzanne Sparling, APR moderated a panel discussion where three prominent public relations practitioners addressed challenges they have faced within their industries. It’s all about demonstrating the value of public relations and the bottom-line return to their organization and employer.

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Melissa Fach, owner of SEO Aware, talked about Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and how you can use it effectively for your business in a session titled The Basics of SEO, Plus Some Affordable Ways to Market Your Business Online. The presentation shared how you can take advantage of free local search tools and some affordable ways to market your business online.

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