Let’s Be Clear is Bluestone’s blog devoted to topics related to media training, presentation and speech coaching, better investor and analyst calls and virtual presentations.
I've attended a number of public relations conferences at which a media panel has been assembled to share insights about how organizations can get more press. On every occasion, across the board, the reporters' answers are the same.
"Video."
More video. Better video. Different video. Video.
And that's not just the answer given by the TV stations and digital outlets. That's that answer given by The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Reuters and countless trade journalists.
Read MoreYears ago when I was the lead spokesperson for Boston Edison, the company went through a brutal six-month stretch during which it was pounded in the press for an unusually high number of power outages and accidents---and THEN suffered an ugly labor strike.
So when I heard that, in the wake of a series of Florida hurricanes, our crews were heading south to help restore power, we made a serious round of media calls. I wanted to be sure every local TV station and newspaper got the word that, in this case, we were the good guys, stepping up to help those in need.
Read MoreIn this age of digital technology, the rules of business etiquette seem to be relaxing. But lately I’ve seen some especially bad behavior involving public speaking and tech. A few months ago, I was at an entrepreneurs forum, listening to a panelist describe his business idea, when I was distracted by a man nearby, visibly scrolling through his cell phone. I know, you’re thinking, “Annoying. But not egregious.” Well, what if I told you he was the MODERATOR?
Read MoreA while back I was at a friend’s baby shower, chatting with the other guests, when it became clear someone should say something to mark the occasion. This was a long awaited pregnancy and these women wanted an emotional outlet, a chance to shed a happy tear and at long last applaud our expectant friend.
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