Blog
Communications is a critical, capacity-building function for nonprofits. And not just for fundraising, but for the entire organization. Or at least it should be. In this interview with Jarrett Ransom of The Nonprofit Show, I share this little nugget about communications as capacity-building. It was a surprise to Jarrett, but this belief has always driven…
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When communications pros talk about messaging, I think they really mean “talking points.” They are not the same. 👏 Talking points are tactical and created for very specific purposes, like a media interview. They serve a purpose, but they can also stifle big-picture thinking. And if you never break free of them, you’ll miss the…
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If you’re like me, you love a great story of triumph. We find them in books, movies, and even songs. We want the underdog in these stories to win, and we celebrate when they finally do. There’s usually a situation or someone who guides them or facilitates their journey- and we’re especially moved if they…
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Last year around this time, I shared a few favorite quotes that inspire and motivate me. I’ve got another to add to the list: “Listening is a radical act of social justice.” I heard this quote in the context of nonprofit work, but I think it’s applicable to the work we do as communicators in any organization.…
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I knew I had something special when I launched Corporate Messaging for Communicators a few years ago. I wanted to advocate for communicators to embrace strategic communications as the de facto way they work and I wanted to provide a powerful tool for them to do that. As I developed the program, I interviewed PR and marketing…
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As communications professionals, we’re constantly working to serve our companies, our clients, and for many of us – our families, communities, and others around us. Your dedication to others is beautiful – but remember to make time for yourself! Just as I advocate for PR professionals to embrace communications planning, I also strongly encourage you…
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This year, my daughter Sophia is on the hunt to find the higher ed institution she will call home in less than two years. She has carefully curated our college visits and developed meticulous itineraries that ensure we not only maximize the campus tours but also spend time enjoying the city we’re visiting. I am…
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I always say I love it when a company’s employees are “singin’ out of the same hymnal.” It evokes strong imagery from my church choir days, but also reminds me of a role we often play as communications professionals: that of the choir director! When folks are attuned (see what I did there? 😃) to company…
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I don’t just believe in being a mentor and coach. I think it’s important that I have them, too! When I felt called (yep – it’s that deep) to show other communications pros how to lead strategic corporate messaging sessions, I knew I had a great framework that would help them build confidence and do…
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I’ve always been impressed with my son’s uncanny ability to connect with people of any age. Whether he’s ensuring a lone little kid has a playmate or schooling older adults on smartphone or computer skills, Patrick always finds a way to engage and build trust. I suspect it’s not only because he has an infinite…
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