PR Stories @ Mohawk College

Une visite à l'Agence - A tour to the Agency

2023-12-13T10:33:00.000-08:00

Hello guys! As the name of my blog goes - PR with Zeus, I am guessing you can tell that I am Zeus, or as my Dad named me, Justus. Also currently studying public relations - Corporate Communications in Mohawk College, hence, my interest in the discussion of PR. Welcome to a new episode of PR with Zeus.

While lectures in class helps with defining and explaining certain things about PR, a little observation could go a mile. And like my father always say, "Observation is one of the best teachers," in this light, on the 1st of November, my entire colleagues in school, myself and our lecturer, Mr. Tim Tuck took a tour to three PR agencies - Birchall and Associates Inc, National Public Relations, and Maverick PR, accordingly.

How was the experience? In one word - ENLIGHTENING. My best experience during the whole trip was at National. There were lots of young adult like you and I doing the PR work, and it was one of the motivational factors for me.

What did I learn? I believe everyone's experience that day was unique individually. Personally, I got to see the importance of teamwork, critical thinking, and boldness, which are aspects of my life that I need work on. BUT I AM GETTING THERE, Ha ha!

Colleagues and I at National and their cool environment.

Maverick PR was inspiring in its own way too. The founder, Julie Rosciolelli previously worked at National PR before resigning and building her own business from the scratch. It was a battle for her, but her resilience and persistence showed its mark on Maverick today. They are a small team, but they are mighty. Btw, they are selling their current location for $7 million. Feel free to contact me for more details if you are interested.

Colleagues and I at Maverick.

At Birchall, which was our first stop, we were greeted very warmly by a dog whose name I can't remember, hence my apologies! It was a warm environment. We heard each employee talk about the challenges and rewards of agency life, how they approach clienteles and their creative process.

Colleagues and I at Birchall...and the dog whose name I cannot remember. Cool guy!

If you are enthusiastic about PR, like I am, take a tour and see what PR is and doing today. 'YOU NEVER KNOW'.

See you next time on PRwithZeus.

CPRS Mentorship Experience!

2023-12-05T08:36:00.000-08:00

A little PSA:

I wish this blog post was due next Tuesday! Tomorrow is the Holiday Humbug Social hosted by CPRS Hamilton and I am so excited to be attending. I truly think that this will be the event of the year (and I would have so much more to write about).

Towards the beginning of the school year, our class was visited by the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS). Committee member, Megan McGinnis, provided our class with a short overview of the CPRS organization, explaining what they do and how the organization can benefit young public relations professionals. In her presentation, Megan introduced to the CPRS Mentorship program. The mentorship program helps individuals entering the public relations industry to gain knowledge and insights from working professionals. This automatically caught my interest. As a young professional soon to be entering the workforce, I will accept any help I can get!

I was convinced. The next day I decided to apply. I signed up with the CPRS Hamilton Branch and filled out my application in hopes of being selected for the mentorship program. Thankfully, I heard back a couple weeks later with good news! Since beginning the program, I have attended the orientation night, met my fellow mentees, and began working with my mentor, Linneah Tovstiga.

Linneah has been incredibly open and has helped me set goals for our time together. Her knowledge of the industry has been insightful, and I have been able to ask her any questions I have regarding public relations and communications. Two goals that I have set for myself are to narrow down which industry or path I would like to work in upon graduation, and to better understand the qualities that employers in this industry look for. Additionally, Linneah is helping me with networking and has offered to connect me to people she knows who are working for companies/organizations that I am interested in. I am beyond grateful for her help, and I am so excited to learn more. It is still early but I look forward to continuing the CPRS Mentorship program.

A Journey Of Discovery; Focusing on the National PR Firm

2023-12-05T07:32:00.000-08:00

Embarking on a road trip from Mohawk College Fennell Campus to the National PR firm in Toronto was not just a travel adventure but a gateway to the real world of Public Relations and Communications. This story aims to capture the essence of the enlightening journey, starting from the drive through Oakville, branching at the Birchall and Associates Inc before heading to Toronto.

The journey commenced with the anticipation of what lies ahead, we students of the Public Relation - Corporate Communications department boarded the bus in front of the School building headed for Toronto. it was like a bridge connecting the academic realm to the professional world.

The course instructor, Tim Tuck served as not just a guardian during the road trip but also as a tour guide simultaneously, sharing experiences and orientational conversations about notable landmarks and different routes leading into Hamilton from different parts of Ontario. Discussing the historical significance of these places and how they relate to the world Public Relations.

A group picture with Tim and Public Relations- Corporate Communications students

A picture of Lanzi and Peter in front of the tower

The moment of arrival at the National PR firm headquarters, located at 320 front street west Toronto was filled with inspirations as every student stood in front of the towers. The atmosphere as i entered into the building was charged with creativity, professionalism and the energy of the real world communications strategy in action. We had a worker walk us through the various departments as we had coffee and snacks before diving into the round table interactive section with delegates from different departments of the firm.

Presentations about the full time services offered by the firm, orientations about what the firm does, previous and potential clients, the working team and their various departments. Questions and answers were welcomed while we talked about the challenges and various carrier goals as a PR practitioner.

A round table interactive session with delegates from different departments at the National PR firm

As we depart the National PR firm for the Maverick PR agency, a group picture was taken in front of the tower by Tim while students pose to mark the remarkable journey.

Crashing The Party

2023-12-05T01:08:00.000-08:00

How Tagging Along to the "Gift of Communication" Worked Out

Every year (pandemic years notwithstanding) the IABC hosts an event called the "Gift of Communication." IABC professionals get together with local non-profits and assess their communication needs, offering suggestions and ideas. At this year's Hamilton event, students from Mohawk signed up to team with professional communicators and representatives from community agencies.

I didn't. To be honest, I didn't know the event was happening until the day of. I missed class the day it was announced, and I must've missed any relevant emails as well. Truth be told, I'm not a very attentive student.

But I wasn't about to let that get in the way of valuable professional experience. On the day of the event, I talked to several of my classmates who were going and secured the following information: time, location, what the event entailed.

Armed with this information (and encouraged by the enthusiasm of those classmates) I drove to the event and walked in the door. After all, what did I have to lose? I fully expected to simply observe the event and gain secondhand experience. Upon failing to find my name on their list (obviously) the organizers gave me permission to sit in on the event, take pictures, and perhaps write about the experience. I was satisfied with this result, and excited to just be present.

However, the fates intervened, for the better. Enter Elizabeth of Community Living Burlington. Elizabeth's boss had failed to properly register CLB for the event, and as a result, she was left without professional help or an assigned student team.

It was a golden opportunity, handed to me on a silver platter.

The organizers approached me with a new plan. Suddenly, I went from wallflower to impromptu self contained Mohawk student team. With no prior research I had to ascertain what CLB was, what they did, and what they might need in terms of communication. It was the deep end, and I jumped in with both feet.

The two organizers spent most of the afternoon with my team. We pitched fundraising ideas, audited their communication structures, and at the end, I gave a short talk about our accomplishments to the room.

You never know where the opportunity is going to come from. Never pass up a chance.

When they said experiential learning, they meant it!

2023-12-04T21:09:00.000-08:00

There is an unfortunate reality check some international students experience after completing an undergraduate study in their home countries. This incites a desire for a better educational experience. It is the sense of having so much information and not knowing how to apply it to real-life situations.

After much hustle in a first real job, it suddenly dawns on us how unprepared we are for the world after school. Four, five, six, or more years pursuing a bachelor’s degree only to complete our studies with much information and little apt for application.

It therefore remains a continual surprise to me looking at the wealth of practical studies I have been engaged in in the Public Relations - Corporate Communications program at Mohawk College. As Tim Tuck, the program coordinator, usually says, “This program is meant to equip you with the skills to land your first PR entry-level job right after school.”

Despite being a short 8-month affair, the program is infused with intense and diverse training. It is only the end of the first semester, and I already feel confident in the real competencies I have been equipped with in this program to apply for jobs in the PR industry. I have been trained practically in media relations, program planning, graphic designing, social media, and digital communication among others. I have been introduced to platforms like Meltwater, Cision, Hootsuite, Google Analytics, Meta Business Suite, and modern PR tools that give me a competitive advantage in the job market.

I have had the opportunity to work collaboratively on communications projects with a real organization in the community through the Agency, exposing me to real client needs and the impact of strategic Public Relations on organizations.

I have the opportunity of picking the brains and being mentored by top industry professionals in a Public Relations field placement, an experience and exposure that makes the classroom sessions even more meaningful. I get to bring the knowledge I have acquired over these few months on board, to complete meaningful PR projects in the organization where I am interning. This makes it easier for me to understand and absorb the concepts taught in class.

As a bonus, I have been trained subconsciously in time management through juggling multiple projects, deadlines, and a field placement in this program. This makes me confident in my trained ability to handle the pressures and demands of a career in PR.

On our way back from a field trip organized by the program, I was in conversation with an international student classmate and our program coordinator, reminiscing about the impact of the day on us as international students. It dawned on me how accessible members of the faculty are at Mohawk College and their sensitivity to the diversity in the student community, creating an engaging and welcoming environment for smooth teaching and learning. This quality aids understanding, and this is important to most international students.

In less than four months I have been thoroughly trained and I am excited to experience who I will be by the end of this program and the endless prospects open to me as a result.

Interveiw Gone Right

2023-12-04T18:30:00.001-08:00

I don't know why, but the placement requirement for the Public Relations - Corporate Communications course seemed daunting to me. Not only did you have to go out there and find someplace willing to take on a student but you had to interview for it and interviews are always daunting.

Initially, I reached out to the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, hoping to find a placement in a field I was super passionate about. Unfortunately, they were in the process of hiring new people, onboarding them and different programs and they couldn't take on a student. Luckily, I heard about the opportunity to work with a local small agency started by a Mohawk Alum, The Public Relations Lab.

I reached out with my resume and a cover letter and I had an interview set for the following Friday! It was on Zoom, which somehow made it easier for me. I was excited! I decided to go to a Starbucks by my house to do the interview, order coffee and wait for the interview to start.

The interview went great! Hannah and I got along so well, and before we knew it, it was less of an interview and more of a conversation between two friends! At the end of the call we had another interview scheduled for Monday morning and I went into the weekend feeling confident!

Monday morning I woke up to get ready for another interview and I had an email from Hannah, instead of another interview, she was offering me my placement!

I may have been nervous about the whole process but I was overthinking it all, the process was smooth and easy. I'm so happy with how it all turned out, even after an initial disappointment.

Gift of Communication 2023

2023-12-04T17:59:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday, November 6th, 2023, I and several other students in the program made their way to the Hamilton Yacht Club to attend the Gift of Communication event. The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Golden Horseshoe Chapter held the event as part of an annual holiday offering to the United Way and local community programs.

Jan Graves Begins Event

The event aimed to assist local United Way Agencies with their current methods of communication and help them reach a tentative plan of action towards improving any identified issues. Agency representatives were partnered with two students and two IABC professionals in order to facilitate an evaluation of organizational communication habtis. The event was to be conducted over the course of three and a half hours, and would conclude with each group presenting what they had identyfied through their discussion.

I was assigned to assist Community Development Halton (CDH), a long-standing organization that seeks to improve the quality of life for Halton residents through research, community development, planning, and promoting volunteerism. Their two attending representatives made up the entirety of the current staff so internal corporate communications were not their focus.

Instead, they had identified two key communications issues:

Assistance with a clear message (what we do)
Messaging about the value of membership (clear a path for the organizations to engage)

CDH Team Discusses Tactics

Through our discussion, we identified some neglected issues in terms of messaging and overall communication of noteworthy information, partially because of the organization's recent handover of leadership and ongoing restructuring. A new website was on the way with plans to launch in the new year, so one thing that was suggested was to remake the membership page to better advertise the benefits of signing up. Namely, the value of the CDH membership outside of granting access to their estensive data base. Current members were also identified as an important target audience as these organizations could work in collaberation with CDH to spread message to other potential memebers.

Additionally, a suggestion was made to standardize the messaging of materials on both CDH socials and their new website, with more frequent posts of reminders and updates. A key issue identified in our discussion was that the social research services that CDH provides were of interest to organizations but their other services and work were going underappreciated. Utilizing more frequent social media activity was seen unanimously as the best communication tool to achieve the following goals which came up during the conference:

Educate people on civic engagement and the benefit of engaging with their community.
Promotion of volunteer center (people want to volunteer but may not know where to go).

Teams Present their Finding

Following our evaluation and advice on marketing and communication strategies, each agency presented their findings of their review to the room and made mention of any key ideas that had been imparted to them today.

Overall the event was an excellent experience for me, and it was a pleasure to work with true communication professionals thanks to the IABC. I feel as though my contributions were helpful in empowering CDH with a better understanding of how to achieve effective corporate communication practices. I highly suggest next year's PR class look to attend the Gift of Communication event in 2024 for both the experiences and connections offered by the event.

Mohawk Student at Gift of Communication 2023

'Brandstorming' Session - Combing Fun, Creativity & Learning

2023-12-02T19:18:00.000-08:00

Recapping our 'Brandstorming' Session in the Agency:

On November 15th as apart of our PR Writing class, each student was placed into a group of 4 or 5, with each group given the task of coming up with a seemingly plausible or absolutely ludicrous product or new brand idea. In addition to "inventing" a new product, each team member was asked to come up with 10 names for their purposed product or brand, with the ultimate goal of narrowing down the 40 or 50 total names, to the top three names deemed the most catchy, marketable, or well-fitting of the product.

For example my group of 4 students bounced around a few logical, but in total honesty, completely boring and lacklustre ideas before landing on what we believed would shake up our class in the eventual presentations!

Our big idea: A toaster with the capabilities of transporting your toast back in time, ensuring an error free experience and guaranteeing the users' perfect piece of toast every time!

Now although this may seem like a silly class exercise, I found this particular afternoon in the agency to be an extremely well-fitting microcosm of my entire experience in the public relations-corporate communications program thus far.

It was fun, challenged us to think outside of the box, emphasized the importance of collaboration, and most of all provided us with an educational experience with very real-world applications.

To sum it all up:

This assignment was a great example of what program coordinator Tim Tuck often mentions in class: being the notion that "We have fun, but we also get our work done."

Through combining fun, unique and educational experiences, each assignment has provided me great joy in partaking in, and is something I look forward to continuing come second semester!

Bonus Fact!

To top off the already fun afternoon of learning, each student received a free agency t-shirt to take home!

Communications Audit Project Reflection

2023-12-02T12:06:00.000-08:00

During our first semester of the Public Relations - Corporate Communications program at Mohawk, we were introduced to a client project. This project involved auditing the entirety of our client's communication initiatives in order to establish communications goals and objectives, identify communications strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas which require activity.

I had the privilege of being part of the team collaborating with the John Howard Society of Hamilton, Burlington and Area (JHSHBA). Prior to undertaking this project, and despite being a Hamilton native, I was unaware of the JHSHBA. In case you are in the same boat as I was, allow me to provide you with some background. JHSHBA is a non-profit organization that is passionately committed to delivering community services to individuals involved or at risk of involvement with the criminal justice system. Established in 1949, the Hamilton location has been operating with a focused approach to a diverse range of prevention, intervention, and reintegration services for both youth and adults. Specific programs focus on areas such as anger management and intimate partner violence.

During my undergraduate program, I had the opportunity to partake in numerous group projects. However, none matched the hands-on nature or the ability to simulate the real-world dynamics of working with a client like this project. I really enjoyed the opportunity to have such responsibility, while offering a glimpse into the trajectory of my career post-graduation. The project provided an opportunity for me to enhance not only my collaboration and communication skills but also acquire new ones. I developed a sense of confidence in the ability to thoroughly examine all aspects of a communication channel/activity. I was also able to explore my research abilities through a range of methods, including surveying the general public, conducting interviews with staff and industry professionals, and creating a focus group with participants of the JHSHBA programs.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my first group project of the year, as well as my first client project. I think it's great that the Public Relations - Corporate Communications program provides such valuable opportunities, allowing students to gain practical work experience for their resumes as they transition into the workforce post-graduation. This approach sets students up for success beyond the program, and I will be looking forward to the learning and opportunities to grow that future client projects will undoubtedly bring!

Navigating the Influencer Landscape: Insights from the Experts

2023-12-02T05:48:00.000-08:00

In a world where everyone has the potential to be an influencer, the journey from a novice creator to a seasoned professional is paved with valuable insights. Recently, in a dynamic influencer panel at Mohawk College's Public Relations class, digital creator Angie Campanelli and TV lifestyle expert Afiya Francisco shared their experiences and expertise in the realms of lifestyle, travel, wellness, and mindset. Both influencers, hailing from different backgrounds, shed light on the evolution of the industry, the changing dynamics between TV and social media influencers, and the indispensable role of adaptability in this ever-shifting landscape.

Angie Campanelli, a seasoned digital creator, emphasized the transformative power of technology in enabling anyone to produce content. Reflecting on her journey, she highlighted her transition from a background in public relations in the fashion industry to becoming a lifestyle partner for global brands. Both influencers stressed the significance of interpersonal relationships in an industry that's constantly on the move.

Afiya Francisco, known for her expertise in fashion and lifestyle, shared her preferred method of contact for brand pitches – email. While she values professionalism, she acknowledges the effectiveness of direct messages through social media. Angie added insights on the importance of contacting brand management when influencers specify it in their bios. Efficiency, brevity, and clarity were key takeaways, with Afiya emphasizing the format of the document and Angie highlighting the need for concise emails that captures key messages and key information like budget.

Afiya provided a fascinating perspective on the income disparity between TV and social media influencers. Angie discussed her involvement in breakfast shows and the national level impact of TV. She emphasized the importance of traditional media in the influencer industry, noting that while social media numbers matter, true success is determined by client satisfaction. Both influencers agreed on the significance of contracts and fostering strong relationships with brands.

The influencers underscored the ever-changing nature of the industry, emphasizing the need for constant adaptation. Afiya, with affiliations across TV, TikTok, and Instagram, highlighted the importance of learning, unlearning, and relearning. They concurred on the critical role of key messages in communication, stressing that the ability to evolve is a key component of sustained success.

As we delve into the intriguing world of influencers, the insights shared by Angie Campanelli and Afiya Francisco serve as a compass for aspiring creators and industry enthusiasts. From the art of pitching to the nuanced differences between TV and social media influence, their wisdom resonates with the importance of adaptability, relationship building, and staying true to the essence of being a creator in this ever-evolving landscape. In an industry where change is constant, their advice to "learn, unlearn, and relearn" becomes a guiding principle for those navigating the dynamic world of digital influence.

Reach out and connect with them on Instagram. Share your thoughts, questions, or simply say hello!

https://www.instagram.com/afiya.francisco/ https://www.instagram.com/angie_campanelli/

Agency Tour (Maverick)

2023-11-14T10:02:00.000-08:00

It feels like stepping into the world of boundless possibilities since I decided to enroll in Mohawk College's Public Relations - Corporate Communications program. Entering this industry fills me with both excitement and uncertainty about what to expect. Surprisingly, the journey that is unfolding has proven to be a life-changing experience for me. While the classroom setting contributes to my growth, I realized the importance of gaining professional work experience.

Our professor introduced us to the idea of a field trip, during which we visited three PR agencies. The trip started at Birchall & Associates and continued through the halls of NATIONAL Public Relations. I was unaware of what awaited me, but as they say, the best was saved for last.

Upon entering Maverick, I received a warm greeting, and getting to know everyone, especially Julie, was delightful. While I had learned the fundamentals of working in a professional environment at previous agencies, Maverick taught me the art of making work enjoyable. I gained insights into diverse customers (whether small or big brands), their unique needs, and the variety of experiences that come with them. Research also plays an essential part in this field, and to excel, one must master platforms like LinkedIn and Meltwater. Also, being diligent and completing assignments can help in all future jobs.

Building on my experiences, I gained deep insight into the working style of the agency. Maverick offers services such as media management, crisis and issue management, and product launches in sectors like food and beverages, health and wellness, finance, and more. Their unique and creative approach to working with clients was another aspect that caught my interest. Maverick's innovative idea of conducting a pizza survey during Valentine's Week to present a new pricing plan for the Little Caesars brand stood out to me. No wonder they named it Maverick; they truly embodied the name by adopting a non-traditional, innovative, and rebellious approach to their work. I even learned about their secret recipe for mastering PR agency life.

At the end of the day, one significant observation from the agency visits was that, while they execute similar tasks and use similar technology, what sets them apart is their unique style, originality, and approach. The enjoyable trip with classmates and our professor, along with the fruitful experiential learning, became a memorable experience for me.

Crafting Connections: Why I Love Mixing Graphic Design and PR

2023-11-14T09:37:00.001-08:00

Crafting Connections: Why I Love Mixing Graphic Design and PR

As I explore the world of visuals and communication, my love for graphic design has become a passion. What excites me even more is combining graphic design with a bit of public relations, creating a powerful blend. This mix not only looks good but also helps convey messages strategically. Join me as I share why I adore the fusion of graphic design and PR and the exciting possibilities it brings.

To me, graphic design is more than making things look nice—it's about telling stories. Using images, colours, and layouts, graphic design creates narratives that are not just eye-catching but also engaging. When mixed with public relations, this creative process goes beyond looks, diving into how people connect with visual content.

In our fast-paced digital world, grabbing attention is crucial. Adding graphic design to public relations strategies makes communication materials stand out. Whether it's a press release, a social media post, or a promo campaign, well-designed visuals not only make things look good but also help effectively convey important messages.

One thing I love about graphic design is its role in shaping a strong brand image. A successful public relations campaign needs a brand that people recognise and trust. Graphic design steps in by creating logos, visually cohesive content, and aligning every visual element with the brand's message. This builds trust and recognition among the audience.

In today's digital age, blending graphic design with public relations is even more important. As a design enthusiast, I've found that a skilled designer with a PR mindset understands digital platforms. This knowledge helps create content that not only stands out but also resonates with the audience on social media, websites, and various online campaigns.

At the heart of public relations is building and maintaining relationships. What fascinates me is how graphic design acts as a bridge, connecting the audience emotionally with a brand or message. Through well-crafted visuals, a designer builds a connection beyond words, creating an emotional bond that strengthens the relationship between the audience and the message.

Jumping into the world of graphic design with a touch of public relations is an exciting journey where my love for creativity meets strategic communication. This partnership not only opens up possibilities but also provides a well-rounded approach to crafting stories and forming connections. As the digital landscape evolves, I've come to see that mixing graphic design and public relations isn't just a trend; it's a smart move for anyone eager to make a lasting impression on their audience.

Public Relations Graduate Profile: Megan Dunscombe

2023-11-13T16:36:00.000-08:00

Mohawk College's Public Relations - Corporate Communications Graduate Certificate program allows students to network with industry professionals, gain hands-on experience in different areas such as graphic design, social media and digital communications, crisis communication, etc. Many graduates of the program have found jobs within the field fairly quickly, including my friend Megan Dunscombe.

Megan graduated from the program in 2021, as part of the class that was fully online. She is currently an Account Manager at MAVERICK Public Relations. After struggling to meet for quite a while, we finally had the time to Facetime the other night to discuss her experience at Mohawk College, her current role at MAVERICK, and she gave me some advice for the future.

Before Megan even began post-secondary education she knew she wanted to be involved in Public Relations. She told me when she was younger she made a 5 year plan and put her future career as a Public Relations professional. Megan completed her undergraduate Bachelor's degree in Media & Communication Studies at Brock University. She then joined the program at Mohawk.

She enjoyed the program and gained many skills. When I first applied to the program, she told me I would love it and she has continued to be an amazing support person throughout my journey at Mohawk College.

Megan talked about how you learn a lot from the Public Relations - Corporate Communications program at Mohawk College, but there are many things you learn on the job. She said the amount of homework we receive in the program is similar to how many projects you'll have due in the PR world, especially at an agency.

Two weeks after graduating from Mohawk College, Megan found her dream job at MAVERICK PR. She has gotten the chance to work on many fun projects and says she loves her job more than anything. Some of her clients include Little Caesar's Pizza, Parmigiano Reggiano, etc.

Her day-to-day life at work includes budgeting, going to events with clients, media planning, social media. and much more. She told me if I was looking for a Monday-Friday, 9-5 job then I'm in the wrong place. She said she works many weekends and there's often times where she will be working late, but she wouldn't change it for the world.

Thank you to Megan for chatting with me about the world of public relations (as well as our personal lives)!

Second Row Far Left: Megan then Me!

MELTWATER REVIEW

2023-11-13T10:34:00.001-08:00

MELTWATER WORKSHOP REVIEW

As a student pursuing a degree in Public Relations-Corporate Communications at Mohawk College, I recently had the privilege of exploring the intricacies of media relations and brand monitoring through Meltwater with the guidance of Elaine Patterson, a Client Success Manager at Meltwater based in Toronto. This workshop was a thrilling experience through the growing world of digital communication.

Our seasoned mentor, Elaine, walked us through the comprehensive features that Meltwater offers, providing us with valuable insights and practical knowledge.

Elaine first introduced us to the Meltwater Academy; a series of online courses that are designed to help understand the Meltwater system a little bit better. Also, you can get certifications from the variety of courses and earn a badge that you can put on your LinkedIn.

The media contact database within Meltwater was like discovering a goldmine that led to an endless network of journalists and essential media contacts. It simplified the process of creating and managing media lists. a crucial aspect of effective communication within the media. We also learned how to filter by beats, location, media channels and so on. These features will help streamline our communication goals.

(A media list is a list compiled by a PR person to send out a media release or article to for publication. The PR person tailors this list according to the direction of his story).

There was a mention of artificial intelligence integration into the meltwater database that’ll help crawl online and publicly available content to be able to generate media contacts. Safe to say Tim wasn’t going to buy into that idea 🤣.

As we continued to delve into Media Monitoring, we came across the "Explore" section. Here, we could track when our stories hit the news cycle. It’s like a guide through a barrage of digital media content. In this section, we discovered two distinct search methods: the keyword search and the advanced search. The keyword search supplied a quick way to find mentions related to our brand. By adding specific keywords, we could refine our results. The advanced search allowed us to create complex queries using Boolean logic.

We also touched on data analysis. We could visualize trends and use AI insights to understand spikes in mentions and analysis.

Meltwater also offered the ability to export data in various formats, ensuring that we could share insights and reports with our team or organizations.

At the end of workshop, I’m sure we were all well-prepared to apply our new knowledge in real-world scenarios also trust Tim to instantly put our knowledge to test with an assignment to develop a media list for our fictional product release.

In all, it was an enlightening workshop. My takeaway from this experience was seeing the massive development in the industry from newspaper clippings to valuable tools like Meltwater and CISION. Also, the meltwater academy is something I definitely want to take a look at to further my knowledge in media monitoring. I also need that badge 😉.

Benefits of the Public Relations-Corporate Communication Program to Me

2023-11-12T15:59:00.000-08:00

In a world where effective communication is paramount, I discovered the importance of good communication. This life-changing experience at Mohawk College has provided me with in-depth knowledge and opportunities I could have only dreamt of. Despite being enrolled in the Public Relations Corporate Communication program at Mohawk College, I have reaped numerous benefits from this course, which sets me on a path to future success.

First day at Mohawk College

While studying the PR program at Mohawk College, I have gained a deep understanding of public relations plans and strategies, effective communication, design techniques, crisis management, media relations, and media monitoring using Meltwater. This knowledge helps me understand the power of effective communication and equips me to be successful in any communications field I find myself in.

One of the most significant benefits of the course is its emphasis on effective communication and writing skills. I learned how to craft compelling messages that not only resonated with my target audience but also conveyed my message accurately.

Additionally, the course has taught me proficient ways of managing crises as a communicator. I have learned what to say, how to say it, and when to communicate during a crisis to help manage and reduce the negative impact the crises may have on an organization's image.

PR Class Agency Tour
(Birchall & Associates)

Another significant benefit of the Public Relations course is its impact on my confidence and public speaking skills. My ability to craft persuasive messages and speak confidently in public has grown exponentially. I have also been exposed to various platforms like Hootsuite and Meltwater which are very useful sites PR professionals must know how to use.

The Public Relations Corporate Communication program at Mohawk College is helping me build a strong foundation for my future career as a PR professional and a Lawyer. The course is equipping me with skills and knowledge, and providing hands-on experiences through the Agency's experiential learning and internships that give valuable insights into work life. With each passing day, I appreciate the program, the profession, and my instructors more. My story is a true testament to the transformative power of education, even for students, as it prepares us for a bright future.

After class with friends

Interview with a Journalist Reflection - Public Relations in Arts Journalism

2023-11-07T20:53:00.000-08:00

Maria Sherman, Music Journalist

Earlier this October, I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing music journalist and New Yorker Maria Sherman for a Media Relations assignment. Maria attended the University of New York in New York City for Music and Cultural Criticism and has been writing professionally since she was 17 years old. Currently, she writes for the Associated Press, but has also written a non-fiction book called “Larger Than Life: A History of Boy Bands from NKOTB to BTS”.

The interview overall was fantastic. I felt as though we had a wonderful conversation and it was so great to meet somebody so talented and simultaneously so kind. I learned a lot about how someone may go about becoming a journalist, and what the hours and scheduling may look like. We managed to speak a little bit on a personal level about a recent album and our favourite songs from it.

When asked about her least favourite part of her job, Sherman’s biggest complaint was publicists. She went on to explain that she sometimes found it difficult to connect with more business-oriented corporate individuals, and found herself more comfortable in the presence of like-minded creatives. When I told her I was in school for PR we had quite a laugh, and she apologized, explaining that there are absolutely publicists she is friends with.

The thing is, I completely understood where she was coming from. I always steered away from business as a career option because I never felt like my personality was compatible with what the positions may need from me. I always pictured someone extremely polished and serious. Because of this, I tended to gear myself more toward the trades or other hands-on industries. My perceived idea of what a business person is was entirely pulled from TV and movies.

I realize now that the PR industry entirely depends on diversity. The ability to adapt to a client’s needs can open doors for new projects. I walked away from this interview feeling hopeful. Knowing that there is a gap in the market for a certain type of individual in more corporate positions, makes me optimistic that there is room in the public relations setting for me.

Public Relations and the Fashion Industry

2022-12-06T08:48:00.000-08:00

Growing up I always loved fashion and styling. I often enjoyed styling different pieces together for my mom and myself. Throughout high school, I knew I wanted to do something in the fashion industry but I also wasn't 100 percent sure if there was another field of study that I would love as well. At first, I wanted to be a buyer, but I knew it came with little to no money at all. Eventually, I came up with my plan. I would study a Bachelor of Arts - General at Wilfrid Laurier University and then go from there to see what I liked or if I still was set on anything within the fashion industry.

Throughout university, I enjoyed my classes, friends and time there. But overall, I did lose my initial desire to go into the fashion industry. Many people tell you that your plans for the future could change while you are in university, and I completely understand what they mean now. Going into second year, I wanted to switch into psychology and eventually get a post graduate degree in therapy. Thankfully for me, this didn't end up working out so I switched my plan and would go into studying Public Relations after university.

Fast forward and its September 2022, after a year of being undecided, I am finally in the Mohawk Public Relations post graduate program. I am unsure what I like about public relations but I tell myself, that is exactly what you came here for, to figure it out. Although I had my plan in my head, I was still opened to new ideas and the possibility there could be other areas of PR that I would be interested in.

Throughout the courses and semester, I realized what I liked of Public Relations and what I wasn't really interested in, it wasn't until this semester came along where I realized that the fashion industry is 100 percent where I want to take my public relation skills and apply them. Throughout the blogging assignment, I had posted 'About Me' and I truly thought long and hard about what I liked. I felt a little lost at the beginning of September, but this first initial blog post of who I am made me sit down and think about everything I love. I love fashion, design, health and wellness, styling and social media. When I come up with a new outfit in my head, I get so excited. My last blog post I decided to write about fashion, I had previously written about the rap industry and the CallHerDaddy abortion documentary episode.

While I was writing about my love for fashion, I came up with an idea about how I can include public relations, fashion and social media all in one. I came up with starting an Instgram account for looks I create on my free time. I will be reaching out and trying my best to get a co-op within the fashion industry but even if I don't, I will be applying to all fashion industry public relation jobs after I graduate. I am determined to get my foot in the door somewhere in the industry with the expectations to move up. My ideal and dream job as of right now would to be public relations director for Aritzia. I will put all my focus into applying for different companies and retailers, big and small names as long as I can work myself up to where I want to be in life.

2022-12-06T05:44:00.000-08:00

Benefits of graphic designs to public relation student

.Graphic design is the art of transmitting messages to groups with pictures and designs. This is applied art through which we can do visual communication in an attractive way. It is used to communicate ideas and inspire consumers by using computer software and creating visual concepts.

There are different types of graphic designs like packaging design, logo design, web design, and print design.

A public relation student learns graphic design in their course. They learn how they can communicate effectively through visual communication to change the minds of people and attract them toward whatever they want from their audience.

They learn to make brochures, posters, presentations in PowerPoint, interactive pdf, and many more things.

A public relation student can use these skills while practicing as public relation practitioner for any company. These students can use this skill to help their company to communicate their ideas effectively through posters and brochures to their audience. They can prepare a very good presentation to attract their partner companies. They can create a good first impression and they can build a brand identity. It will help them to reach their target and keep them apart from the competition. It can help them to build awareness for the brand and look professional. It can help them to get more career opportunities with good salaries.

CPRS Mentorship experience

2022-12-06T01:05:00.003-08:00

Tim introduced the class to CPRS, often known as the Canadian Public Relations Society, at the beginning of October. This sounded really intriguing to me as an international student who was only a month into the program and had minimal networking experience prior to this. However, Tim also invited Megan McGinnis, a current CPRS member who was also a Mohawk student. She spoke to our class about the organization and the annual mentoring program it offers. Megan's presentation was really persuasive, and I was immediately convinced to join the membership program.

Media Relations in a Crisis: My Experience in Nepal

2022-12-05T18:41:00.003-08:00

Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash

This past week, as part of our Media Relations course within the PR program, we focused on the topic of communications and media practices during times of crisis. My memory was triggered during this class module because it brought to the forefront of my mind the experience I had in Kathmandu Valley during the 2015 Nepal earthquake.

The number one takeaway of how communications are managed during times of crisis is the importance of “public safety” and how to effectively translate messages to the masses in a way that establishes directedness, responsibility, and trust to the audience. Effective communication principles used during a crisis often include establishing response within the first 24 hours and the first week after a disaster happens.

In 2015, I had the opportunity to go to Nepal to complete a three-week acupuncture internship through a partnership between my school, The Institute of Traditional Medicine, and the Vajra Varahi Healthcare Clinic in Chapagaon, Kathmandu Valley. The clinic shares land with the Pal Do-Ngak Nyida Mindrol Norbuling Monastery, where Buddhist monks as young as four years of age receive housing and education. During the first couple of days, our team, which included two of my best friends, Ashley Short, and Tijen Yalchin – received education on earthquake protocols and what to do if the situation occurred.

Myself at the Vajra Varahi Healthcare Clinic

However, throughout our information sessions our hosts encouraged us to not be worried, as the country had not had a major earthquake in 80 years. However, on the sixth day after we arrived in Nepal, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake occurred that destroyed much of Kathmandu city, surrounding towns and villages throughout Kathmandu Valley, and caused extreme mudslides across the mountainous regions. Over nine thousand people lost their lives from this catastrophic event. Within the first hour of the tragedy, news releases were sent out around the world to media platforms, which resulted in my family receiving the story of what happened in Nepal hours before I even had a chance to let them know I was safe.

Due to the ability of distributing mass messages through communication tactics, countries around the world were able to effectively administer aid in different forms. According to a report from the Government of Canada, within five days of the earthquake, Canada allocated ten million dollars for humanitarian assistance to Nepal to help victims and displaced families, and launched the Nepal Earthquake Relief Fund to engage Canadian citizens to donate. Effective communication practices allow countries, organizations, or institutions the ability to “demonstrate leadership in resolving situations,” and are the key to ensuring that the most vital information and messages are received and understood. Click here to review Canada's Response to the 2015 Nepal earthquake .

During times of crisis, it is especially effective for communication specialists to appeal to the emotional status of the situation at hand, and the audience receiving the message. We have learned how necessary it is for communicators to express regret and empathy, to take responsibility for the outcome, to directly address the issue at hand, formulate action steps towards a resolution, and offer restitution if viable. A few of the ways in which the crisis in Nepal was managed by leadership and organizations during that time were communicating quickly and frequently with local and global media outlets, issuing media responses with facts, information centers were offered through the consulates across Nepal, and news conferences were used to allow spokespersons to address issues and updates.

Communication between media platforms, journalists, and PR specialists should be honest, direct, and factual. If there is information unknown or not confirmed, it is up to the communicator to make sure the messages disseminated are helpful and not obscure to the audience. As we learned in this module, “perception is reality.” My experience in Nepal was life-changing, and now years later I can look at my experience with a different lens of how the situation was overseen from a public relations and humanitarian perspective, versus being on the receiver end of the crisis. In our module we discussed how sometimes media is not always fair, and that “bad news sells papers and attracts audiences.” I can say I found relevancy in this when I reviewed the articles about myself and friends who experienced the earthquake and the aftermath of that – and how the descriptions of what happened to us or what we experienced were sometimes embellished or inaccurate.

Photo by Markus Winkler on Unsplash

Communications during times of crisis is a major factor to influencing whether outcomes are positive or negative, and how effective messaging to media and audiences can pull individuals across the globe together to encourage necessary change or aid. As someone studying in Mohawk’s Public Relations Grad program, I am grateful for the opportunity to build on my writing and media relation skills so that in the future I will be prepared to meet whatever communication challenges come my way.

News article: https://www.thespec.com/news/hamilton-region/2015/04/28/hamiltonians-wait-in-tents-in-earthquake-ravaged-nepal.html

The Strength of Social Media

2022-12-05T17:25:00.005-08:00

Starting my field placement with Collective Arts Brewing in Hamilton, I knew social media would be a huge aspect within my role. What I didn’t realise was the vast amount of information I would soon have access to, and be largely responsible for cataloguing.
With a folder full every Instagram story or post created mentioning Collective Arts, I began to tie what we had been learning in the first semester of classes to the real world. While a huge part of PR is creating the face of a business, an equally large part of PR is analysing who is engaging, and what they are saying. Pretty well every consumer has access to social media, and given the rise of social media marketing before and during the pandemic, it is now more important than ever to understand what works for your audience, and what doesn’t, on social media. With a click of a button, a company's message can be understood, changed, or ignored, and it is essential to stay up to date with audience opinions.
Even though social media is a standard part of most people’s days, before starting this program, I didn’t realise just how much companies relied on that data to track the success of campaigns and their presence in general.
For the remainder of my placement, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of how social media metrics are collected, used, and analysed, in order to ensure I am able to use this information in the most effective way possible.

The Importance of Creativity in Communications

2022-12-03T20:43:00.001-08:00

Earlier this semester in our Principles of PR course, we had a class discussion about what we felt were the qualities of a great public relations professional. Roughly twenty minutes of brainstorming later with seventeen attributes on the list, the quality that capped it off was: “creative”.

As we moved through our classes in the following weeks, I began to realize just how important of a skill creativity is in this program, and in PR as a profession.

The clearest example of this is our graphic design course. When I think of graphic design in communications, I think about creating digital art that delivers a message or tells a story. PR professionals thoughtfully incorporate colours, textures, shapes, typography, different font faces, images, and more, into pieces that speak to their audiences and make them want to engage with their company or brand. All of this requires creativity.

Photo by Emily Bernal on Unsplash

Similarly, our social media course has also pushed me to be more creative in my communications. One of our assignments was to develop a social media calendar for a business to promote their product and encourage audiences to interact and build a relationship with the company. Crafting quick, simple messages that were fun and engaging, including visually appealing images and eye-catching GIFs and videos, and linking messages to special days or occasions to boost reach, were all challenging tasks in their own way because they required substantial creativity. Additionally, developing unique communications to be circulated on social media where users’ feeds are saturated with other messaging requires professionals to be creative in order to make their messaging stand out.

Photo by Jakob Owens on Unsplash

Even in our program planning course where we analyze the communications activities of organizations, develop public relations plans and integrated marketing and communications plans, creativity comes into play again and again. Coming up with unique strategies and tactics to reach audiences, some of which might include plans for events, campaigns, media kits and promotional launches, all demand that the person building the plan be able to employ creativity in their preparations.

Taking it a step further, even pitching a plan to clients and other stakeholders requires professionals to be creative in order to effectively captivate their audiences and sell them on fresh, new ideas that “think outside the box”.

Photo by Jason Goodman on Unsplash

As a student in this program, I feel lucky to be able to work on projects where I get be imaginative and inventive, and to have my creative efforts contribute to a successful outcome. I like the challenge of coming up with new ideas, collaborating with different teams, and applying our concepts to public relations plans and communications activities.

All in all, I would agree with our class list that being creative is a key quality of a great public relations professional. It is definitely a skill that I look forward to developing further in my career!

Writing is More Than a Skill

2022-11-26T08:52:00.000-08:00

"You can write about anything you want," announced instructor Tim Tuck. This was music to my ears as the class was assigned to create and develop a blog. With an undergraduate degree in Political Science & Philosophy, I have had minimal experience with free writing. Even in the Public Relations program, while there is a degree of creative freedom, students are subjected to writing in a certain way.

However, I wasn't sure what to write about. Fantasy football? Soccer? Video games? I could not decide what to create a blog about. After some more thought, I remembered that we were given free rein on the topic of the blog — so I decided to write about my thoughts.

My friends have mentioned in the past that I provide them with great insight and raise questions that get them thinking. I figured that my thoughts have the potential to make interesting content.

My first post, The Importance of 'The Self,' is about the significance of understanding yourself. Saying that I enjoyed writing this post would be an understatement. It truly felt like I was journaling. While I had been writing for academic purposes my entire life, I never appreciated it as a form of creative expression.

Thus far, I only have two posts on my blog, but I am excited to continue developing and adding to it. Even if no one is reading my blog, I know I have an audience in myself.

Being assigned to develop a blog turned my skill for writing into a passion. The assignment helped me to see that writing is more than simply a way to convey a message. While this is the primary focus of Public Relations, writing is oftentimes forgotten about as an art. While being succinct is the best approach to writing in the field, I believe a PR practitioner must be able to make their writing exciting and engaging.

This is now the way I try to approach my writing for my other assignments in the program. Given how practical the assignments are, I am finding it to be excellent practice as I prepare to start a career. Beyond preparing students for what they will experience in their careers, the Public Relations program enables students to identify and develop a writing style they will use for the rest of their lives.

This realization helped me change my perspective on assignments. Once viewed as daunting, I now see assignments as an opportunity to learn and develop my skill of writing. Some assignments allow for more creativity than others, but all are equally enjoyable to work on.

As the first semester is coming to a close, I am excited to end it on a high note. I am even more excited to begin the second semester and digest new content that the program has to offer. Most importantly, I am excited to start a career in the field of public relations and corporate communications.

Communications Audit: Team Time in The Agency

2022-11-13T14:15:00.002-08:00

As a part of the Program Planning course in the Public Relations Graduate Certificate Program, students are asked to complete a communications audit for one of the public relations clients. Clients work with the Agency at Mohawk College to collaborate with students, providing them with valuable experience in the industry. Client work also provides students with industry connections which are advantageous after graduation.

Source: Experiential Learning Micro-Centers at Mohawk College http://bit.ly/3EtsWel

The communications audit is the first client project of the semester! A communications audit is a detailed review of an organization’s communications activities, including how said organization communicates with their various audiences. Students can meet with their client to discuss project specifications and what is expected from both the client and the group of students.

The Agency at Mohawk College is a great space to both collaborate with group members and hold meetings with clients. Located in the McKeil School of Business, the Agency consists of a large communal space along with several private breakout rooms.

Source: Jason Goodman via Unsplash http://bit.ly/3X29cpa

As a part of the communications audit, students were given six hours of class time to meet in the Agency and work together to complete the assignment. It is valuable time that can be used to bounce ideas off each other, ensuring everyone in the group is on the same page and understands the assignment parameters. Team time in the Agency also allows students to brainstorm together, ensuring that their final product is the best that it can be. They can distribute the work and discuss what needs to be completed before the assignment deadline. Team time is also great because it allows PR students to collaborate on assignments without having to work around busy schedules and arrange a time to get together outside of class. While working in the Agency, students can also discuss ongoing assignments with the PR professors. They are given the chance to ask any questions they may have and can ensure they are steering the project in the right direction.

Source: Brooke Cagle via Unsplash http://bit.ly/3hGCRnX

Team time and access to the Agency are valuable components of the public relations program at Mohawk College. The Agency also emulates what a workspace in the PR industry might look like, further acclimating students to potential work environments. As a student in the program, I have enjoyed my time in the Agency so far and am looking forward to more client work in the future!

Corprorate Social Responsibility defined well in Public Relations course; Organizational Application lecture

2022-10-16T15:46:00.000-07:00

Arriving around 5 minutes late for the organizational application lecture, I was amazed to see that an elaborate video about a shocking incident that took place in Rana Plaza in Bangladesh were workers were kept in inhumane conditions just so they could manufacture clothes for several Canadian retailers.

This issue sometimes take s a backseat due to it happening right across the globe but in this class I could see the intent of the professor to lay emphasis on the ethical parts of business activity and what all actions were taken by the retailers in Canada which were morally wrong and which eventually lead to a drastic loss of life in the collapsed factory which consisted of 7-8 storeys, all of which collapsed.

The best part about the whole activity was that as we were all PR students, such a complex topic invokes discussion and clarifies viewpoints which it did and the whole class gained a lot from the whole discussion about corporate responsibility and communicating with the media about it. Post watching the documentary about it in class, we were given an assignment about it which further created more awareness about the topic and gave us an opportunity to dive deep in a issue and understand possible PR outcomes coming from it.

Questions from the assignment.