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# Arik Hanson

Social Media Content & Consulting

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://arikhanson.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://arikhanson.com/blog/)
- [10 social media marketing trends for 2024](https://arikhanson.com/10-social-media-marketing-trends-for-2024/) - On Friday, Jan. 12, I presented my annual social media trends report to a packed house at Social Media Breakfast in northeast Minneapolis. See below for the full presentation. 10 Social Media Trends for 2024 from Arik Hanson You can also watch a recording of the webinar I gave on Feb. 8 here:
- [15 people I want to have coffee with in 2024](https://arikhanson.com/15-people-i-want-to-have-coffee-with-in-2024/) - Each year for the last 8 years I’ve developed and published a “coffee list”—a list of people I would like to have coffee with in the New Year. I’ve found it to be a great way to meet new people—and a nice way to keep myself accountable throughout the year. Last year, I had coffee
- [Social Media Writing Best Practices Webinar](https://arikhanson.com/social-media-writing-best-practices-webinar/) - On Oct. 4 I shared my best tips, advice and best practices around writing social media content that can help you drive results for your company or clients. If you missed the webinar, you can find the full video below. And if you're interested in working with me to bolster your social media programs, please
- [How analyzing your LinkedIn stats can help you produce more effective content](https://arikhanson.com/how-analyzing-your-linkedin-stats-can-help-you-produce-more-effective-content/) - For people who are "on LinkedIn", the experience is most likely an episodic one. Check in every once in a while. Make a few new connections each month. Post about your new job. For most people, that's what LinkedIn is. They never look at their stats. Heck, they don't even know where to find that
- [Fck Oatly takes transparency, authenticity to a whole level](https://arikhanson.com/fck-oatly-takes-transparency-authenticity-to-a-whole-level/) - fckoatly.com That's the name of the site. And get this: Oatly created it. You heard that correctly. Oatly, the oat milk brand based in Sweden, created a site devoted strictly to its haters and those who have said mean, dishonest and outright lies about the company for last several years on the internet. And it's
- [Which Minnesota-based companies are active on TikTok (and which aren't)?](https://arikhanson.com/which-minnesota-based-companies-are-active-on-tiktok-and-which-arent/) - With the recent momentum around TikTok being banned in the U.S. (I still don't think it'll happen, but you never know!), I got curious: How many Minnesota-based companies are really ON TikTok? In other words: How many companies would this potential ban really affect if TikTok went dark in the U.S.? For the last few
- [10 pragmatic social media marketing trends to pay attention to in 2023](https://arikhanson.com/10-pragmatic-social-media-marketing-trends-to-pay-attention-to-in-2023/) - Yesterday, I gave my annual social media marketing trends presentation to a group of 100+ communicators and marketers across the country. I’m posting it here today in hopes it helps spark creativity for you and your team in 2023. See the full webinar and slide deck below. A couple things to point out as you
- [How many companies are really on TikTok--and do you need to be, too?](https://arikhanson.com/how-many-companies-are-really-on-tiktok-and-do-you-need-to-be-too/) - Earlier this week, Hootsuite came out with its 2023 Social Media Trends report. As part of that report, their very first trend: "TikTok will take over the world." And while that may be true from a user perspective (user numbers and time spent on TikTok continue to climb), from a brand perspective, the picture is
- [Hire me as your social media coach](https://arikhanson.com/hire-me-as-your-social-media-coach/) - Tell me if one of these scenarios sounds familiar: You're a mid-sized or small PR, advertising or marketing agency owner and have a small and junior team heading up social for your clients. They're great but still could use a little guidance from time to time on all things social. And they could use some
- [13 people I'd love to have coffee with in 2023](https://arikhanson.com/13-people-id-love-to-have-coffee-with-in-2023/) - Early January each year means one thing for me: Developing my annual “coffee list!” I’ve been at this (formally and publicly, at least) for 6+ years now. I always have a lot of fun putting this list together, but a few points of clarification first. I build this list each year as an exercise in
- [Are employees the forgotten audience on LinkedIn?](https://arikhanson.com/are-employees-the-forgotten-audience-on-linkedin/) - For many brands, LinkedIn is a key social media channel--especially B2B brands, where LinkedIn can be a key awareness, engagement and even lead driver. For the most part, companies are squarely focused on one audience when it comes to their LinkedIn content: customers. And according to the data (and audit results I've done recently) I
- [Survey says we really *don't* want our leaders speaking out on big topics](https://arikhanson.com/survey-says-we-really-dont-want-our-leaders-speaking-out-on-big-topics/) - For the last few years one message has been loud-and-clear when it comes to executive leadership online: We want our leaders to speak up on key societal topics. The Edelman Trust Barometer, one of the long-time key reports in our industry, claimed this year that "when considering a job, 60% of respondents said they expected
- [Is the pivot from Instagram photo posts to Reels working for brands?](https://arikhanson.com/is-the-pivot-from-instagram-photo-posts-to-reels-working-for-brands/) - We all know there's a massive shift going on with social content formats: From static photos and text to short-form videos (i.e., Reels). Of course, this has been driven by TikTok. But over the past year, Instagram has prioritized its TikTok lookalike, Reels, and brands have taken notice. In fact, some brands have almost moved
- [6 Twin Cities women with amazing PR, comms and marketing career journeys](https://arikhanson.com/6-twin-cities-women-with-amazing-pr-comms-and-marketing-career-journeys/) - A few weeks ago, Ad 2 hosted a great event (led by former Tommie, Chloe Lewis)--a Women's Leadership Panel. I did not attend, but the event featured a number of women leaders talking about their career progressions and encouraging others to seek the curiosity, bravery and creativity needed to drive successful careers--and lives (my educated
- [We're simply not paying our social talent nearly enough](https://arikhanson.com/were-simply-not-paying-our-social-talent-nearly-enough/) - Let's just say it out loud: Some of these social media jobs simply don't pay enough. Starting with entry-level positions. Glassdoor tells us the average salary for a social media specialist (typical entry-level job) is $47,326. Now, to be clear, the Gen Xer in me still thinks that is a lot of money for an
- [I tried Mastodon for a week--here's what I learned](https://arikhanson.com/i-tried-mastodon-for-a-week-heres-what-i-learned/) - What are you using instead of Twitter now? That's the question du jour right now, isn't it? Seems like almost everyone that's been using Twitter for any length of time is hedging bets against the possibility that Mr. Musk may run the platform straight into the ground (for the record, I believe Twitter, in some
- [Why good writing is the best foundation of a successful social media career](https://arikhanson.com/why-good-writing-is-the-best-foundation-of-a-successful-social-media-career/) - David Olgilvy was right. The better you write, the higher you will go. That's almost an exact quote from a famous memo he sent to employees years ago (see below). He also made another statement I wholeheartedly agree with: "People who think well, write well." And we know the best people at the top of
- [Top skills of the 2022 social media professional--as told by the people doing the actual work](https://arikhanson.com/top-skills-of-the-2022-social-media-professional-as-told-by-the-people-doing-the-actual-work/) - You may have seen this graphic last week--it was making the rounds on social media (even I shared it). It's from LinkedIn, which aggregated data to share with us the "top skills" of today's social media manager. However, the list seems flawed on many levels. First how can "social media" AND "social media marketing" be
- [13 lessons I learned from 1,300+ coffee meet-ups over 13 years](https://arikhanson.com/13-lessons-i-learned-from-1300-coffee-meet-ups-over-13-years/) - I've always been a networker. In high school, I was the guy who had a ton of friends, but very few close friends. I also managed an underground student newspaper, so I had to know a ton of students. In college, I worked for the student newspaper. I worked at a computer lab where I
- [How LinkedIn has become my water cooler](https://arikhanson.com/how-linkedin-has-become-my-water-cooler/) - We're starting to settle into this "new normal", whatever that is. Some people are working fully remote. Many are hybrid. And a few are in-person all the time. But, we all know work will probably never be like it was before. And, for the most part, that's OK. You might think that, as an independent
- [Musk buying Twitter perfect chance for brands to abandon platform once and for all](https://arikhanson.com/musk-buying-twitter-perfect-chance-for-brands-to-abandon-platform-once-and-for-all/) - Last week Elon Musk bought Twitter. This week brands will be weighing their options as Musk makes initial layoffs and plans. Obviously there has been much hand-wringing among those who use Twitter the most the last week--media, politicos and everyday people who use it as a newsfeed (Musk is already offering $20 to users to
- [3 lessons corporate blogs can learn from personal blogs](https://arikhanson.com/3-lessons-corporate-blogs-can-learn-from-personal-blogs/) - Corporate blogging has never been bigger. According to the annual University of Massachusetts study of how Fortune 500 companies are using social media, a whopping 77% of companies are using a corporate blog. However, many of these companies follow the same playbook, using their corporate blogs essentially one of two ways: to share corporate news
- [9 social media stats that might surprise you (with context!)](https://arikhanson.com/9-social-media-stats-that-might-surprise-you-with-context/) - If you spend any time reading about the digital marketing industry online, you've undoubtedly seen those "X social media statistics that might surprise you" posts. They're littered across the web. I come across them usually when researching certain topics for building blog posts or decks for class at the University of St. Thomas. However, I've
- [4 common syndromes that are killing social media marketing](https://arikhanson.com/4-common-syndromes-that-are-killing-social-media-marketing/) - Companies are struggling with social media marketing. Oh, you may not read headlines about this. You may not hear CMOs admitting this. But make no mistake about it, many are having a tough time. Many of the reasons are legit, too. Content shock is a real thing--so, so, so much content to compete with out
- [A love letter to the Minneapolis Star Tribune](https://arikhanson.com/a-love-letter-to-the-minneapolis-star-tribune/) - I know I'm a dinosaur. I'm one of the few every day hard copy subscribers of a newspaper in America. Specifically, we subscribe to the Minneapolis Star Tribune--one of just 103,000 people to do just that (probably less, I couldn't find the exact number of 7-day-a-week subscribers). To be clear, this is not a cheap
- [When are we going to learn: Failure = Growth and learning, not a fireable offense](https://arikhanson.com/when-are-we-going-to-learn-failure-growth-and-learning-not-a-fireable-offense/) - Back in January, you may remember, PBR made this tweet: It set off a firestorm of responses and media coverage for PBR. And, it also resulted in PRB firing the social media manager who made the tweet. Or, years ago, many of you may remember a tweet from the Houston Rockets that included a
- [Is it time to give up on grammar once and for all?](https://arikhanson.com/is-it-time-to-give-up-on-grammar-once-and-for-all/) - It might be time, right? You don't want to admit it. I don't want to admit it. But it might be time to give up on grammar. Now, to be clear, I'm not saying we completely give up and just go text messaging on the bit. But I am saying I think the end is
- [Will brands make the transition to using more authentic, less polished content?](https://arikhanson.com/will-brands-make-the-transition-to-using-more-authentic-less-polished-content/) - The social media content world is an interesting place in 2022. Just browse your feeds for a few minutes for a quick glimpse into what I'm talking about. What do you see? If your feed is like most people's you'll notice a ton of: Branded graphics - Some brands' entire feeds are made of up
- [7 things to consider before making the leap to being an independent consultant](https://arikhanson.com/7-things-to-consider-before-making-the-leap-to-being-an-independent-consultant/) - In a few weeks, I'll celebrate 13 years as an independent consultant. It's kinda crazy to think about. Most days, it feels like I just made the leap! And, over those 13 years, I've talked to a lot of people who have been considering "making the leap" to solo life. In fact, just the last
- [Heading back to industry events? 5 tips to re-integrate without being awkward](https://arikhanson.com/heading-back-to-industry-events-5-tips-to-re-integrate-without-being-awkward/) - Over the last 2 weeks, I've attended my first two big industry events since the pandemic began. Yes, it was a little awkward. Yes, I wasn't on my A+ networking game. But yes, it still felt awfully good to see people in person again. During those two events (the Florida PR Association Annual Conference and
- [The challenges (and opportunities) of turning 50 in the digital marketing industry](https://arikhanson.com/the-challenges-and-opportunities-of-turning-50-in-the-digital-marketing-industry/) - Yesterday, I turned 50. I certainly don't feel 50--more like 35. But, the physical signs are there. I now wear glasses (as of a couple years ago). I have a few gray hairs. And, I have a little spare tire going. But, for the most part, I feel great! And I'm hugely optimistic about what
- [Why aren't we scaling back on the number of social media channels we manage?](https://arikhanson.com/why-arent-we-scaling-back-on-the-number-of-social-media-channels-we-manage/) - "I'm a social media team of one--how can I best manage all these different channels?" "My team is stretched super thin and now we're being asked to take on TikTok--how are we going to do this?" "Social media is just a small part of my overall job yet I'm asked to manage multiple social media
- ["Crying CEO" Braden Wallake puts authenticity trend to the test](https://arikhanson.com/crying-ceo-braden-wallake-puts-authenticity-trend-to-the-test/) - Do we really want authenticity from our leaders at the top? That's the question we all should probably be asking ourselves after the CEO of a relatively small social media agency in Ohio went viral this week. In case you missed it, the LinkedIn post from the CEO included a long, detailed note about laying
- [If I were starting an Employer Brand from scratch on social, here's where I'd start](https://arikhanson.com/if-i-were-starting-an-employer-brand-from-scratch-on-social-heres-where-id-start/) - Employer Brand marketing is a hot discipline--and for good reason. Companies in white-collar sectors like ours can't attract new candidates fast enough. In fact, even in the face of 40-year high inflation and other negative economic factors, companies are still hiring at record rates according to last week's jobs report. What's more, candidates are actively
- [Want to get smarter at social media marketing? Good luck to you](https://arikhanson.com/want-to-get-smarter-at-social-media-marketing-good-luck-to-you-7-21/) - My original intent for this post was simple: Write a post about upcoming conferences, events and other professional development opportunities for those interested in getting smarter about social media marketing. However, a strange thing happened as I started to research that post: There just that many solid opportunities out there. Especially here in Minneapolis. In
- [H&R Block's #BlockReboot Employer Brand Campaign Simple But Brilliant](https://arikhanson.com/hr-blocks-blockreboot-employer-brand-campaign-simple-but-brilliant/) - A couple weeks ago I saw an interesting post from H&R Block CEO, Jeff Jones. It caught my eye because of his attire--and he was talking about golf! But, he was talking about golf within the context of a program that I found to be pretty interesting--the #BlockReboot program. This is part of a program
- [Are we ever going back to in-person professional development events?](https://arikhanson.com/are-we-ever-going-back-to-in-person-professional-development-events/) - Yes, I know in-person events are back. Yes, I've even been to a few of them in 2022. And yes, I know we're only 6 month removed from the worst month of the pandemic. But, I've also noticed a trend of late: People seem reticent to attend in-person professional development events. As part of my
- [Do personal posts have a place on LinkedIn?](https://arikhanson.com/do-personal-posts-have-a-place-on-linkedin/) - I read an interesting piece in the Star Tribune over the weekend from recruiter Isaac Cheifitz asking "will sharing more personal posts on Linkedin hurt you?" That column hit on a topic that's coming up more and more on LinkedIn: Should you be sharing personal content on a platform that's clearly designed for the professional
- [The long-term reputation issues with ghosting](https://arikhanson.com/the-long-term-reputation-issues-with-ghosting/) - Recently, long-time social media blogger Mark Schaefer wrote about a topic we’re hearing a lot more about recently: Ghosting. Now, to be honest, I was hearing a lot more about ghosting as it applied to HR folks. In fact, that’s been happening for YEARS. However, it seems to have been ratcheting up lately. What Mark
- [Webinar: How to Unlock Strategies to Bolster your LinkedIn Presence](https://arikhanson.com/webinar-how-to-unlock-strategies-to-bolster-your-linkedin-presence/) - Yesterday, I led a one-hour webinar on how to unlock strategies to bolster your LinkedIn presence. It was designed for anyone who's looking to use LinkedIn as a tool to find a new job, grow professionally or expand their network. I'm sharing the full, unedited webinar here since a number of people that signed up
- [5 creative tactics to get your executives posting more consistently on LinkedIn](https://arikhanson.com/5-creative-tactics-to-get-your-executives-posting-more-consistently-on-linkedin/) - You finally got a couple of your executives on LinkedIn. You helped them brush up (or create) their profiles. You assisted them in learning how to listen and engage. And they even made a couple posts. But since then, things have stagnated. Your execs aren't posting with any regularity. And it's like pulling teeth to
- [Will tomorrow's social media marketers even attend college?](https://arikhanson.com/will-tomorrows-social-media-marketers-even-attend-college/) - Yes, I am a college graduate. Class of 1996 from Winona State University. And yes, I am currently an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas. And yes, I am raising the (increasingly) legitimate question: Will tomorrow's social media and digital marketers need a college education? I say "increasingly" because we're starting to see
- [Why are our social media marketing priorities so messed up in 2022?](https://arikhanson.com/why-are-our-social-media-marketing-priorities-so-messed-up-in-2022/) - When it comes to social media marketing, our priorities seem to be messed up. And, truth be told, they have been for a while. What am I talking about? Where do we focus the bulk of our time and energy in social media marketing? If you're like most brands, it's probably spend in content creation
- [3 key areas companies are missing when it comes to social listening](https://arikhanson.com/3-key-areas-companies-are-missing-when-it-comes-to-social-listening/) - Historically, social listening has been one of those things only the big companies with big budgets and social media monitoring tools do. At least, that's been my perception (and experience with clients) over the last 13 years as an independent. However, according to a new survey by Social Media Today and Meltwater, a full 61%
- [Why don't we celebrate retirees with the same fervor we do interns?](https://arikhanson.com/why-dont-we-celebrate-retirees-with-the-same-fervor-we-do-interns/) - By now, we've all seen them on LinkedIn: The customary posts celebrating the interns. It's usually a late summer/early fall post, showcasing the summer interns, but I've seen them throughout the year as interns start at different times of the year now. I love seeing these posts. Especially as an adjunct who is starting to
- [4 free social media ideas for companies looking to extend their Employer Brand on LinkedIn](https://arikhanson.com/4-free-social-media-ideas-for-companies-looking-to-extend-their-employer-brand-on-linkedin/) - The phrase "Employer Brand" has taken on a life of its own the last few years. Companies are investing more and more in their Employer Brand--mostly because they have to! Talent is at a premium in 2022 and employers know it. So, simply posting open positions on LinkedIn and Indeed ain't gonna cut it anymore.
- [4 keys to conducting a better social media audit](https://arikhanson.com/4-keys-to-conducting-a-better-social-media-audit/) - Over the last 13-plus years as a social media consultant, I've probably conducted 50+ social media audits. Some of them have been pretty small in scope--and some of them have been complete monsters. And over that time, I've picked up some valuable lessons about how to conduct these audits. After all, it's not like there's
- [Pros and cons of being an adjunct professor in social media](https://arikhanson.com/pros-and-cons-of-being-an-adjunct-professor-in-social-media/) - Since I became an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas 3 years ago, an interesting thing has happened: People have started approaching me about how I got the job and how they might do the same thing. I have to admit--I didn't see that coming. But, it's been a fun thing to talk
- [Southwest Air's intern Twitter thread: Brilliant or brutal social media marketing?](https://arikhanson.com/southwest-airs-intern-twitter-thread-brilliant-or-brutal-social-media-marketing/) - In case you missed it, last week Southwest Air turned the keys over to the social media intern on Twitter. Hey everyone. It's the Social Media Intern. They gave me the Twitter password. Might mess around and make a thread, idk. 👀 — Southwest Airlines (@SouthwestAir) April 13, 2022 Of course, the marketing community was
- [We still have a big problem with social video](https://arikhanson.com/we-still-have-a-big-problem-with-social-video/) - By now, we all know it: Video is a very big deal when it comes to social media marketing. According to Sprout Social, more than half of marketers say that video is the most valuable content type. And, maybe more importantly, half of all social media users prefer video over other types of content. So
- [8 personal branding best practices I share with college students](https://arikhanson.com/8-personal-branding-best-practices-i-share-with-college-students/) - Each semester I teach at the University of St. Thomas, we spend at least one class period on personal branding. This semester we'll spend two class periods on the topic--next week! In advance of that class, I thought I'd share my 8 best practices I try to share with every student in my class each
- [For brands sharing "We stand with Ukraine" messages on social, execution matters](https://arikhanson.com/for-brands-sharing-we-stand-with-ukraine-messages-on-social-execution-matters/) - For the last week-plus, many companies have come out with messages of support of the Ukraine, as Russia continues to invade the country. Some of those messages have merely been symbols of support--and others have involved halting operations in Russia. However, as I've been watching these statements and studying them carefully (we just talked about
- [Are employee social media advocacy programs really working?](https://arikhanson.com/are-employee-social-media-advocacy-programs-really-working/) - One of the questions I've heard the most from friends, clients and prospects over the last 6 months or so is: How should I set up a successful employee advocacy program? From a certain perspective, it makes sense why more companies are taking a closer look at Employee Advocacy Programs in 2022. Trust in friends
- [Is getting attention on social media at all costs a sound strategy?](https://arikhanson.com/is-getting-attention-on-social-media-at-all-costs-a-sound-strategy/) - Not sure if you'll remember but back in early January, PBR made this controversial tweet. Eventually, it got Corey Smale, the social media manager at PBR who made the tweet, fired. In case you're wondering, yes, he did it on purpose. And therein lies the conversation. He did it on purpose because he was trying
- [The age-old question: Should you let people "pick your brain?"](https://arikhanson.com/the-age-old-question-should-you-let-people-pick-your-brain/) - Should you let people "pick your brain?" It's one of those questions that's been talked about and debated for years. And, for years, I've gone back and forth to both sides on this hot topic. When I was starting my consulting business 13 years ago now, I was firmly on the “pick away!” side as
- [I dove into the Metaverse on Super Bowl Sunday--here's what I learned](https://arikhanson.com/i-dove-into-the-metaverse-on-super-bowl-sunday-heres-what-i-learned/) - Last week, I went skiing with a friend I haven't seen in a while. We talked about all sorts of industry topics, but eventually the conversation drifted to the metaverse. My friend is pretty plugged into the metaverse and its potential. And, he had a bold prediction that, quite frankly, surprised me: The metaverse will
- [Is being the boss still cool in 2022?](https://arikhanson.com/is-being-the-boss-still-cool-in-2022/) - Maybe a better question is: Is being the boss worth it? It's an interesting question at this moment for a few different reasons: 1 - Less status when we're at home and on Zoom all the time. Back when we were in our offices full-time, being the big boss carried a lot of "status." What
- [Folgers case study sums up what big ad agencies always get wrong about social](https://arikhanson.com/folgers-case-study-sums-up-what-big-ad-agencies-always-get-wrong-about-social/) - Last week in class where I teach as an adjunct at the University of St. Thomas, we discussed a case study. Folgers is trying to remake its brand a bit by ditching its iconic "Best part of waking up" jingle in favor of a famous Joan Jett song, "Bad Reputation." The campaign's centerpiece, of course,
- [The specialist, The manager and The individual contributor: What's the best fit for you?](https://arikhanson.com/the-specialist-the-manager-and-the-individual-contributor-whats-the-best-fit-for-you/) - The specialist. The manager. The individual contributor. Those are, essentially, the three roles you have available to you in the world of marketing and communications. And, over the last 25+ years, I've played in all three. So I thought I'd share my perspectives in the hopes that it might help you as you make decisions
- [Cementing the case against gated content (in most cases)](https://arikhanson.com/cementing-the-case-against-gated-content-in-most-cases/) - For years, we've been debating the merits of "gated" content on the web. On one side, we have marketers who believe gated content is one of the best paths to driving more leads. On the other side, we have marketers who believe gated content simply should not exist. That brands should give it all away
- [9 social media trends for 2022](https://arikhanson.com/9-social-media-trends-for-2022/) - I've been giving this social media trends presentation now for I believe 5 years. I used to give it at Social Media Breakfast--you know, back when we saw people, had coffee together and shook hands! But sadly, the pandemic is still with us. So, this year, like last, I chose to present virtually. Yesterday, I
- [Why I'm struggling (emotionally) as a social media marketer](https://arikhanson.com/why-im-struggling-emotionally-as-a-social-media-marketer/) - I'll admit it: I'm struggling as a social media marketer right now. Not struggling in the "I can't do my job well" way. I had a great year in 2021, and I'm on pace already to have another good one in 2022 with a slew of fantastic clients. No, I'm talking about the emotional and
- [Why are brands resisting social audio (and audio, in general)?](https://arikhanson.com/why-are-brands-resisting-social-audio-and-audio-in-general/) - Consider the evidence: One in three content marketers use podcasts or other audio content. However, 53% of content marketers who leverage podcasts and other audio content say it is the most effective format they use. Just 14% of social media marketers leverage audio chat rooms like Clubhouse and Twitter Spaces. However, 68% of those who
- [Will your kids go to school to be professional social media influencers?](https://arikhanson.com/will-your-kids-go-to-school-to-be-professional-social-media-influencers/) - Sounds crazy, right? That was my first reaction to this what-you-would-think-would-be-a rhetorical question. However, did you know that according to Morning Consult (not exactly a fly-by-night operation), a whopping 86% of young people want to become a social media influencer? Many are most likely enticed by the money--Charli D'Amelio earned $17.5 million in 2020 thanks
- [The future of social is selling--and it'll be live-streamed](https://arikhanson.com/the-future-of-social-is-selling-and-itll-be-live-streamed/) - For years, we've heard the same thing: This is the year social e-commerce takes off. And it really never held true until last year (thank you global pandemic!). The tools are in place. Facebook and Instagram have shopping platforms that are fairly easily to set up--and ridiculously easy to buy on. TikTok has proven itself
- [12 people I want to have coffee with in 2022](https://arikhanson.com/12-people-i-want-to-have-coffee-with-in-2022/) - Early January each year means one thing for me: Developing my annual "coffee list!" I've been at this (formally and publicly, at least) for 5+ years now. As always, it's a fun exercise for me, but I want to clarify a few things before I dive in. First, I create this list each year as
- [Where did all the social media agencies go?](https://arikhanson.com/where-did-all-the-social-media-agencies-go/) - One of the questions I get from time to time from friends and colleagues is "Who would you recommend for a social media agency in Minneapolis?" Good question, right? I mean, there aren't that many "social media agencies." But, many ad, PR and digital agencies claim to offer social media marketing services. So, there's definitely
- [Reflecting back on 2021--and goals for 2022](https://arikhanson.com/reflecting-back-on-2021-and-goals-for-2022/) - Whew. 2021 was a blur, wasn't it? For many people (me included) the whole concept of "time" has become completely different than pre-pandemic times. I'm not sure how to describe it, really. But, 2021 went VERY fast for me. It could have something to do with the fact that I had a lot going in
- [The art of the "I Have a New Job" announcement](https://arikhanson.com/the-art-of-the-i-have-a-new-job-announcement/) - One huge trend that I've completely missed out on over the last 12 years is the whole "I have a new cool job!" job announcement thing on social media. I started as an independent social media consultant 12 years ago, so I haven't had a new job in the social media era. I never got
- [5 ways to reframe the discussion about corporate blogging](https://arikhanson.com/5-ways-to-reframe-the-discussion-about-corporate-blogging/) - For as far back as I can remember (12 years now), there has been one consistent strategy when it comes to social media marketing: To drive traffic from social to our corporate blogs. And, over the years we've seen many companies jump on board. In fact, according to UMass Dartmouth's Center for Marketing Research, 54%
- [Should we be de-prioritizing engagements in 2022?](https://arikhanson.com/should-we-be-de-prioritizing-engagements-in-2022/) - That's an odd headline, isn't it? After all, engagements are the cornerstone of social media marketing. Why on earth would we want to de-prioritize them in our programs in the year ahead? Allow me to make the case. But first, let me remind you of the backdrop. Social media is not the same space as
- [What should be included in your next social media audit?](https://arikhanson.com/what-should-be-included-in-your-next-social-media-audit/) - When was the last time your company conducted a social media audit? If your answer is "not recently" or "never", don't worry. You're not alone. Most brands, I would argue, rarely or never perform these types of audits. They take time. They cost money. And, they take time and energy away from teams that are
- [Time to rethink social strategy for 2022: Leads, Sales Can't be our Only Goal](https://arikhanson.com/time-to-rethink-social-strategy-for-2022-leads-sales-cant-be-our-only-goal/) - As we quickly near the end of 2021 (where did this year go?!?!), many of us will start the planning process for 2022. And, given the changes in: consumer behaviors, platforms and content, social media marketers would be wise to take this chance to truly evaluate their strategies and approaches. Because I think we're on
- [90% of success is just showing up: 3 recent examples](https://arikhanson.com/90-of-success-is-just-showing-up-3-recent-examples/) - Last week, on Tuesday, I showed up to teach my social media/digital marketing class at the University of Minnesota. Unfortunately, only 11 people showed up. There are 34 kids in the class. Only one student sent me an email prior to class saying they would be out. As we sat together in class and wondered
- [Your social media marketing can only impact so much](https://arikhanson.com/your-social-media-marketing-can-only-impact-so-much/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”3.22″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.13.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” width=”100%” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” sticky_enabled=”0″]A couple weeks ago, I joined Life Time, a health club here in Minneapolis. It’s a bit of a lifestyle decision for me as I wanted to get
- [Executives need to get a lot more real in 2022 on LinkedIn](https://arikhanson.com/executives-need-to-get-a-lot-more-real-in-2022-on-linkedin/) - 2021 was the year executives got more active on LinkedIn. And, for many us who have been urging execs to do this for years, it was about time. However, as more execs started using LinkedIn as a tool to reach employees, customers and prospects, one theme started to emerge: These execs were just mouthpieces for
- [4 classes universities should add to strategic communications programs](https://arikhanson.com/4-classes-universities-should-add-to-strategic-communications-programs/) - As I enter into year 3 as an adjunct professor, it's occurred to me: there are a number of classes universities really should offer in an effort to better prepare these kids for the real world in digital and social media marketing. I polled my LinkedIn audience last week, asking: What's one class you wish
- [What I learned about "going viral" on LinkedIn last week](https://arikhanson.com/what-i-learned-about-going-viral-on-linkedin-last-week/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.13.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content” width=”100%” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||” theme_builder_area=”post_content”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}” theme_builder_area=”post_content”]Last week I had my first experience with a post of mine “going viral” on LinkedIn. The funny thing is it was a complete throwaway post. Something
- [9 recommendations to get the most from your LinkedIn promoted posts](https://arikhanson.com/9-recommendations-to-get-the-most-from-your-linkedin-promoted-posts/) - Lately I've been hearing a lot of questions from friends and clients about LinkedIn advertising--specifically promoted posts. And it makes sense because these are still relatively new to a lot of folks (even though, technically, sponsored content has been around a long time on LinkedIn--since 2013, to be exact). It also make sense if you
- [Modern-day bloggers: Too many lists and how-to posts. Not enough opinions.](https://arikhanson.com/modern-day-bloggers-too-many-lists-and-how-to-posts-not-enough-opinions/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.11.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” width=”100%” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]Today, I just have to b**ch about our industry. Just a little. Specifically, bloggers. And yes, I’m aware that I’m a blogger and have been since 2008. The topic at hand:
- [The golden opportunity for modern thought leadership](https://arikhanson.com/the-golden-opportunity-for-modern-thought-leadership/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.11.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” width=”100%” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]Thought leadership is one of those things many brands and leaders want–but very few do well. It’s always been that way. Clients come to agencies all the time with the goal
- [Will high-stress social media jobs drive people out of the industry?](https://arikhanson.com/will-high-stress-social-media-jobs-drive-people-out-of-the-industry/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”3.22″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.11.1″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” width=”100%” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]Over the last 18+ months since the pandemic began, social media teams have had a tough time. I realize social media managers and specialists aren’t the only ones who have had
- [Arik Hanson Social Media: My Marvel Origin Story](https://arikhanson.com/arik-hanson-social-media-my-marvel-origin-story/) - I wasn't a huge comic book nerd growing up, but I LOVE the Marvel movies. In particular, I'm really grown fond of the Marvel "origin story" movies. Recently, Black Widow was fantastic. But, my favorite is probably Captain Marvel (man, Brie Larson is so great in that--and one of my celebrity crushes to boot!). But
- [5 ways the Sons of Anarchy live by the PRSA code of ethics](https://arikhanson.com/5-ways-the-sons-of-anarchy-live-by-the-prsa-code-of-ethics/) - A few weeks ago I started up a new show: SOA. For the unititiated, that's Sons of Anarchy. One of the most brutal and absurd shows on TV. It includes rape. Vigilante justice. Drugs. Guns. And I'm absolutely glued to it. Why? Because it's not a show ABOUT rape, vigilante justice, drugs and guns. It's a
- [To link or not to link: Should you include links in your social media posts?](https://arikhanson.com/to-link-or-not-to-link-should-you-include-links-in-your-social-media-posts/) - Over the last 12 years I've been a consultant, I've conducted a lot of social media audits. And one trend I continue to see in many of those audits is brands attempting to drive organic traffic to their web sites or blogs from social media. In some cases, it works--specifically with Facebook and LinkedIn. But,
- [6 options to spending your time, energy and dollars on Facebook](https://arikhanson.com/6-options-to-spending-your-time-energy-and-dollars-on-facebook/) - Facebook and Instagram were down for six hours on Monday, and we all lost our minds. At least that's what it felt like if you were on Twitter :) However, that "event", coupled with all the recent Facebook news (whistleblower; the fact that they've been outright lying to people about their user numbers among younger
- [14 pragmatic social media trends to watch in 2021](https://arikhanson.com/14-pragmatic-social-media-trends-to-watch-in-2021/) - Every year, about this time, I typically present to the local Social Media Breakfast chapter on the topic of social media trends. It's one of my favorite days of the year. I don't get down to the SMB meetings as much as I used to, so it's a chance for me to reconnect with old
- [Social media marketing: the discipline where everyone has an opinion](https://arikhanson.com/social-media-marketing-the-discipline-where-everyone-has-an-opinion/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.11.0″ custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.11.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]20 years ago (holy cow, I wish I wouldn’t have said that out loud!), I had a job at a small advertising agency in St. Paul. I worked as
- [8 women kicking a** in social media marketing in 2021](https://arikhanson.com/8-women-kicking-a-in-social-media-marketing-in-2021/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.11.0″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.11.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” width=”100%” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.10.8″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”] One of the big lessons I’ve learned over the last year-and-a-half since this darn pandemic started was just how fortunate I am in my professional life. I’ve had
- [Statistical proof that sharing doesn't work on LinkedIn for executives](https://arikhanson.com/statistical-proof-that-sharing-doesnt-work-on-linkedin-for-executives/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”section” _builder_version=”4.11.0″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||0px||false|false” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_row admin_label=”row” _builder_version=”4.11.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” width=”100%” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”3.27.4″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]The share. It’s a powerful thing in social media marketing circles. It’s the holy grail of social media actions–and one we, as social media marketers, spend a
- [[WEBINAR] Writing social media content that gets results](https://arikhanson.com/webinar-writing-social-media-content-that-gets-results/) - Yesterday I presented the first in a quarterly series of webinars I'm planning to give around a number of different topics in the social media marketing world. Up first: How to create digital and social media content that gets results. It was a presentation similar to the one I gave at the Digital Marketing Summit
- [Does your brand need an audio content strategy now, too?](https://arikhanson.com/does-your-brand-need-an-audio-content-strategy-now-too/) - Like we digital marketers need another thing on our plate, right? But, the concept of adding an audio content strategy to your work isn't as crazy as it might have seemed just a few short years ago. For starters, consider just a few stats: 28% of the U.S. 12+ population are now weekly podcast listeners,
- [Most companies are using Twitter wrong--it's all about brand love in 2021](https://arikhanson.com/most-companies-are-using-twitter-wrong-its-all-about-brand-love-in-2021/) - For at least a couple years now, many brands have been asking the same question: Should we give up on Twitter? And, in some instances, the answer has been "yes." Engagement numbers have plummeted on Twitter over the years for brands. Especially retweets and replies. While a good chunk of brands still use Twitter as
- [Minnesota PR/Comms Agency CEOs on LinkedIn--who has the most influence?](https://arikhanson.com/minnesota-pr-comms-agency-ceos-on-linkedin-who-has-the-most-influence/) - Last year, I started a new coaching piece to my business. Specifically social media coaching for executives and leaders. The reason? To help these leaders accomplish their business goals by using social media platforms (namely, LinkedIn). So far, it's been fun--and fairly successful. Over the last year, I've worked with a handful of different executive
- [What content works--what what doesn't--for executives on LinkedIn?](https://arikhanson.com/what-content-works-what-what-doesnt-for-executives-on-linkedin/) - In case you haven't noticed, executive participation on LinkedIn has been way up during COVID. In fact, many leaders have turned to LinkedIn as a key channel for reaching customers, prospects, and employees during the pandemic. It's become a god-send in a way. And I for one, and very happy to finally see it happen.
- [Making the case for the anti-engagement social media strategy](https://arikhanson.com/making-the-case-for-the-anti-engagement-social-media-strategy/) - Pretty much since social media was invented (Al Gore invented social media, right?), one of the primary strategies for brands has centered on engagement. We measure likes, comments, shares, retweets and a whole lot more in the spirit of 'engaging' with our customers. The rationale: That if we can get followers to engage with our
- [Anatomy of the perfect coffee meet-up](https://arikhanson.com/anatomy-of-the-perfect-coffee-meet-up/) - Last week I had, in my estimation, the perfect coffee meet-up with a new friend: Abby Reimer. In a typical year (this hasn't been one), I usually have 80-100 coffee meet-ups, so I see my fair share of approaches. Abby nailed almost every facet of the coffee meet-up. And since many of us are just
- [No one cares about your web site refresh (hey, did I mention I just launched a new web site?!?!)](https://arikhanson.com/no-one-cares-about-your-web-site-refresh-hey-did-i-mention-i-just-launched-a-new-web-site/) - Today I'm officially unveiling a new logo, brand and web site to the world. It was time--after 12 years, I needed a refresh, and a refocus. And, thanks to partners like Patrick North (web/logo design), Kellie Weiland (photography) and Casey Fuerst (messaging), the process was a ton of fun! But, I can't help but think:
- [How Warby Parker's social media content shaped my customer journey over 10+ years](https://arikhanson.com/how-warby-parkers-social-media-content-shaped-my-customer-journey-over-10-years/) - "This story starts a couple years ago. I was sitting in bed, reading, as I often do in the evenings. Probably a Vince Flynn or John Grisham novel, because all I really read is guilty-pleasure fiction. However, just one problem: the words on the page started getting blurry! I was 45 and I had never
- [Happy Holidays...Hanson Style!](https://arikhanson.com/happy-holidays-hanson-style-4/) - Each year, instead of an annual Christmas Card, we put together an annual holiday video. It's so much fun to put together, as it forces us to go back and review our year in pics. Just thought I'd share it here with you today. Happy holidays from my family to yours--Hanson style!
- [Inside Conversations: News and chatter in the Minnesota PR and social media scene](https://arikhanson.com/inside-conversations-news-and-chatter-in-the-minnesota-pr-and-social-media-scene-2/) - Earlier this year, I started a new semi-regular series, aimed at the MSP creative market, around comings and goings in the PR/social/marketing industry. See below for recent hirings, new accounts and other news in our industry. Bridget Jewell, the long-time PR manager over at the Mall of America is now over at Periscope as a
- [Happy holidays...Hanson style](https://arikhanson.com/happy-holidays-hanson-style-2/) - Each year, we receive a ton of holiday cards from family and friends. We end up posting them around the house because we like them so much. It reminds us how lucky we are to have a circle of family and friends that loves us so much. A few years ago, we were using that
- [Twin Cities PR/communications pros on Twitter](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-prcommunications-pros-on-twitter-2/) - Below you'll find the updated list of Twin Cities communicators online (Twitter and blogs). A number of updates this month, including two new agency accounts (Fast Horse & Colle+McVoy). Again, standard disclaimer: This is by no means meant to be an end-all-be-all list. It's a work-in-progress and a resource for us all. So please, if
- [Should an MBA be required for future social media marketers?](https://arikhanson.com/should-an-mba-be-required-for-future-social-media-marketers/) - It's a question posed by the Sprout Social folks the other day. It's an interesting question, actually. As a full-time social media marketing consultant to midsized and large companies AND an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas and the University of Minnesota, I have a unique perspective on this topic. On one hand,
- [What should your social media marketing focus on: Customer service or content?](https://arikhanson.com/what-should-your-social-media-marketing-focus-on-customer-service-or-content/) - What makes a brand "best in class" when it comes to social media marketing? It's a question almost every company wants to answer. Clients are constantly asking me what other companies are doing in terms of social media marketing best practices. Companies want to learn and get better at social media marketing--yes, even in 2021.
- [Does grammar even really matter in social media marketing anymore?](https://arikhanson.com/does-grammar-even-really-matter-in-social-media-marketing-anymore/) - Let's just get this out of the way. In my opinion, the answer to this click-bait-ey headline is a resounding "yes." HOWEVER... It definitely depends on the audience you're targeting--and in some cases, the platform you're using. Let's examine why. For starters, we're all getting a lot more stupid--at least when it comes to grammar.
- [Why do we continue to be loyal to our corporate employers when they're not loyal to us?](https://arikhanson.com/why-do-we-continue-to-be-loyal-to-our-corporate-employers-when-theyre-not-loyal-to-us/) - Earlier this year, a friend of mine was unceremoniously fired from her corporate job. She had been a really good employee-- a star performer as far as I could tell. But, corporate restructuring had other ideas. So, she was walked out the door. I've seen this movie before. Many times. And, it always sucks. But,
- [The power--and risk--of the personal job referral](https://arikhanson.com/the-power-and-risk-of-the-personal-job-referral/) - Earlier this year, my son was talking about how much he wanted a membership at the Edina Life Time. Keep in mind, he's 16 years old and the Edina Life Time is a Diamond Club, so it's the most expensive of all the Life Time clubs. Needless to say, we didn't rush out and buy
- [How often should you post on social media? (A lot less than Hootsuite is telling you)](https://arikhanson.com/how-often-should-you-post-on-social-media-a-lot-less-than-hootsuite-is-telling-you/) - It's become one of the most prevalent questions in the social media industry. And, to me, also one of the most frustrating. Mostly because of article's like Hootsuite's recent post "How Often to Post to Social Media in 2021". You see, most of these "how often to post" articles always wind up with the same
- [3 ideas to help develop social content your audiences actually want to read](https://arikhanson.com/3-ideas-to-help-develop-social-content-your-audiences-actually-want-to-read/) - A recent report from Typeset relayed a concerning stat: 38% of writers said "knowing what our audiences want to read" was either difficult of very difficult. Put differently, 4 in 10 communicators have no idea what content their audiences want to read. Whoa. It makes sense if you think about it. Consider the current situation
- [8 "curiosity conversations" I'd love to have in 2021](https://arikhanson.com/8-curiosity-conversations-id-love-to-have-in-2021/) - Back in January, I wrote and published my annual "coffee list". It's a fun project for me, and a great way to hold myself accountable for meeting up with new people in our industry. I'm making slow progress on the list (thanks global pandemic!), but even over just the last few weeks, I've been getting
- [No, you don't have to know it all in social media marketing](https://arikhanson.com/no-you-dont-have-to-know-it-all-in-social-media-marketing/) - I have a good friend who's completely addicted to TikTok. She spends countless hours on the platform going down rabbit hole after rabbit hole. In some ways, it's been a pleasant distraction for her during the pandemic. But, I'm guessing she's spending more time here than she would normally like. On the other hand, I
- [What good is an earned media placement if no one can read it?](https://arikhanson.com/what-good-is-an-earned-media-placement-if-no-one-can-read-it/) - In case you've been living under a rock for the last 10 years, you've probably noticed the big uptick in paywalls in the media industry. In fact, according to one Wired article, 76 percent of American newspapers used a paywall in 2019, up from 60 percent just two years before. And, it's not just the
- [14 examples that can help you update your social media community guidelines](https://arikhanson.com/time-to-update-your-social-media-community-guidelines-heres-14-examples-that-will-help-you-get-started/) - Governance isn't one of the sexiest areas of social media marketing. But, it's a damn important one. And, after the year we all just had, if you haven't already, now is the perfect time to revisit your social media community guidelines. You know, that document you post to your social pages (or link to on
- [Going solo? Consider ALL your potential revenue sources](https://arikhanson.com/going-solo-consider-all-your-potential-revenue-sources/) - One common call I've received--and taken--from many in the comms world over the last few years has been: "I'm thinking about going solo. I have so many questions!" I've been happy to have these conversations and share my learnings--after all, so many people did the same for me 12+ years ago now. And there are
- [5 content lessons from Axios' local e-newsletters](https://arikhanson.com/5-content-lessons-from-axios-local-e-newsletters/) - In case you haven't heard, Axios is taking over the world. OK, not really. But, their local e-newsletters are infiltrating markets like MSP and changing the media landscape. As in, their e-newsletters are really freaking good. The local MSP version is one of the few I read every single day. For me, it's a super
- [Are impressions the new engagements in social media marketing?](https://arikhanson.com/are-impressions-the-new-engagements-in-social-media-marketing/) - I had an interesting conversation with a friend last week about social media engagement. Her theory: Impressions are highly under-valued in the social media marketing world, whereas she believed there was far too much focus on engagement. Essentially impressions > engagement in social media marketing. Whoa. Is your mind blown? Mine kinda was, for a
- [Companies speaking up on social issues: Lessons learned so far in 2021](https://arikhanson.com/companies-speaking-up-on-social-issues-lessons-learned-so-far-in-2021-5-27/) - Should the company speak up in support of Asian Americans? Should the company stand up against racial injustice? Should the company take a stand on voter suppression laws? These are some of the questions many companies are wrestling with in 2021 as they try to figure out when and how they speak up on a
- [3 ideas to making social media content approval processes a little less painful](https://arikhanson.com/3-ideas-to-making-social-media-content-approval-processes-a-little-less-painful/) - Ask any social media marketer who works for a larger organization the most painful part of their jobs and almost all of them will respond with the same answer: The content approval process. Most companies turn what should be a relatively easy, simple process into one of the most painful, stressful and time-consuming processes in
- [Basecamp situation sign of bigger shift in social/digital labor market](https://arikhanson.com/basecamp-situation-sign-of-bigger-shift-in-social-digital-labor-market/) - You may have heard about the big Basecamp news last week. CEO, Jason Fried, publicly announced some big changes at the tech company that didn't go over so well with employees--or the general public. Chief among them: He wanted to keep politics and issues that are plaguing our society right now far away from work.
- [Did social media platforms learn nothing from the "Stories" rush?](https://arikhanson.com/did-social-media-platforms-learn-nothing-from-the-stories-rush/) - Over the last few weeks, we've seen the big rush on social audio. First, Twitter unveiled Twitter Spaces. Then, LinkedIn said it was thinking about a Clubhouse rival. Then, Spotify. Then Facebook. Seemingly, everyone is now in the social audio game now--or, at least has plans to enter it. But, this all feels very familiar,
- [How the pandemic turned me into something I am not](https://arikhanson.com/how-the-pandemic-turned-me-into-something-i-am-not/) - When this pandemic set in over a year ago now, a lot of things changed for me. My family was at home with me--all the time. I could no longer work at coffee shops. I no longer visited the gym. And I rarely saw friends. All of that took its toll--as it did for many
- [5 surprises from Pew Internet's recent social media usage report](https://arikhanson.com/5-surprises-from-pew-internets-recent-social-media-usage-report/) - A couple weeks ago, Pew Internet released another great report detailing social media use in 2021. I recommend taking a peek at the whole report since it outlines many demos around who's using which platforms. For example, LinkedIn trends toward white, middle-aged men with college degrees making $75+. Makes sense, right? Meanwhile, TikTok trends younger Hispanic
- [What I learned from moderating my first Clubhouse room](https://arikhanson.com/what-i-learned-from-moderating-my-first-clubhouse-room/) - Yesterday, I had the good fortune to moderate (or really, co-moderate) my first Clubhouse room. This came about from a post I made last week about the evolving nature of social media roles and job descriptions. Tom Buccheim, executive social media advisor at American Family Insurance, had shared my post and since he's so connected
- [Why social media job descriptions and roles need to change in 2021](https://arikhanson.com/why-social-media-job-descriptions-and-roles-need-to-change-in-2021/) - According to a recent study by LinkedIn, "digital marketing jobs" were among the top 15 most in-demand jobs in the U.S. in 2021. Anecdotally, I can confirm that. As someone who looks at Indeed, LinkedIn and other online job portals every week for my Friday e-newsletter, I am seeing FAR more digital marketing and comms
- [When will we go back to in-person industry events?](https://arikhanson.com/when-will-we-go-back-to-in-person-industry-events/) - I know, I know, it's mid-April and COVID cases and deaths are rising again. But vaccinations are ramping up, too. Hope is on the horizon. It feels like we're almost there. And, as I think about what's next, in-person industry events immediately pop to mind. The big question is: When will that be? When will
- [PR Rock Stars: Thrivent's Kristina Wright](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-thrivents-kristina-wright/) - Kristina Wright is one of those people everyone seemingly is drawn to. Just a quick glimpse at her LinkedIn posts and you'll see what I mean. I felt the same way--even though, to my knowledge (COVID brain is hurting my memory these days!), we've never met in-person. But, I can just kinda tell. Kristina is
- [Krispy Kreme's #vaxmarketing effort highlights bigger issue for brands in 2021](https://arikhanson.com/krispy-kremes-vaxmarketing-effort-highlights-bigger-issue-for-brands-in-2021/) - A free donut a day with your vaccine card. That's what Krispy Kreme offered up last week in the first (big) attempt at #vaxmarketing we've seen so far. To no one's surprise, the internet lashed back. Specifically around the issue that donuts are potentially worse than the vaccine! I mean, I'll give you a minute.
- [Long-form content is making a big comeback](https://arikhanson.com/long-form-content-is-making-a-big-comeback/) - For years, what's been one of the key social media "best practices" that's been beaten into our heads? SNACKABLE CONTENT! It's all about snackable content, right? Your videos need to be 10 seconds or fewer. Your blog posts should be 500-700 words. No more. Your social posts should be short so people can "snack" on
- [Will the new hybrid work model be everything we want it to be?](https://arikhanson.com/will-the-new-hybrid-work-model-be-everything-we-want-it-to-be/) - Since last spring/summer when this pandemic began to take hold, we've all been talking about how its changed work forever and how the "new normal" will most like be a version of what most are calling a "hybrid model." We started to see that come to life, officially, last week as Prime Therapeutics announced it's
- [Learning from Failures and Successes in the Crappiest Year Ever](https://arikhanson.com/learning-from-failures-and-successes-in-the-crappiest-year-ever/) - A year ago today was the day I remember this all started feeling very real. The pandemic was real. Lockdowns were happening. Kids were not going to school. And, the future did not look all that good (this was the last pic I have of myself pre-pandemic from our trip to Palm Springs last March).
- [Scenario planning key to social media marketing to an angry mob in 2021](https://arikhanson.com/scenario-planning-key-to-social-media-marketing-to-an-angry-mob-in-2021/) - I don't know if you've noticed, but people are angry out there. I mean, like REALLY ANGRY. It's no surprise. Between the pandemic, politics, racial injustice, and a long list of other issues and topics, there's absolutely no shortage of things to be legitimately frustrated and angry about right now. But, it doesn't detract from
- [2020: The year everyone had a career "Come to Jesus" moment](https://arikhanson.com/2020-the-year-everyone-had-a-career-come-to-jesus-moment/) - I can't take credit for the idea behind this post. A fella I follow on Twitter named Matt Lindner tweeted this earlier in the week: He's spot on. I've been hearing the same thing from so many friends and colleagues over the last 6-9 months. And it's not surprising at all. Not given what we've
- [When "digitally integration" doesn't integrate](https://arikhanson.com/when-digitally-integration-doesnt-integrate/) - Digital integration. It's one of THE buzzwords in our marketing world. When done right, it works wonderfully well. Other times, well, let's just say some campaigns aren't exactly "integrated." One of those examples just occurred about a week ago with the beloved M&Ms brand. M&Ms announced its new "integrated" digital campaign to the world via
- [Gary V: Most hated or most loved person in social media?](https://arikhanson.com/gary-v-most-hated-or-most-loved-person-in-social-media/) - Gary V is a fascinating personality to me. For so many reasons. But mostly because of his position in the industry--he's become one of THE lightning rods in our social media marketing world. People either absolutely LOVE him and share his quotes and content. Or, they really, really, really hate him and all he represents
- [Clubhouse by the numbers (and the numbers might surprise you)](https://arikhanson.com/clubhouse-by-the-numbers-and-the-numbers-might-surprise-you/) - So much has been written about Clubhouse already--I hesitated to even try to add another viewpoint. However, as I continue to think about Clubhouse from a brand perspective, and field questions from clients on the topic, I wanted to create an informed opinion not based on my personal preferences, but based on the data. So,
- [Did Zillow take advantage of its "viral moment" on SNL?](https://arikhanson.com/did-zillow-take-advantage-of-its-viral-moment-on-snl/) - In case you missed it, Zillow had a moment last weekend. A "viral" moment, to be clear. Because for about 24-48 hours, a lot more people were talking about Zillow. And, in a positive way (for the most part). And, not only was it positive sentiment, it was striking a very real chord with A
- [Did Mr. Peanut's brand-to-brand engagement Twitter strategy work during the Super Bowl?](https://arikhanson.com/did-mr-peanuts-brand-to-brand-engagement-twitter-strategy-work-during-the-super-bowl/) - Tide. Jeep. Bud Light. Doritos. These were the brands you were paying attention to during the Super Bowl Sunday because these were the brands with ads during the Big Game. But Planters Peanuts--much like many other brands--decided to go against the grain this year and go without an ad (you remember their "controversial" ad during
- [Owning up to--and learning from--a big mistake](https://arikhanson.com/owning-up-to-and-learning-from-a-big-mistake/) - Last week, a post I wrote caught some serious flack on LinkedIn. It centered on J-Lo's recent influencer marketing gaffe. The original title of that post: "It's high time A-Rod gave J-Lo some influencer marketing advice." After sharing it on LinkedIn, I received feedback from some female friends and colleagues that I have a lot
- [What can social content marketers learn from Shutterstock's 2021 visual trends?](https://arikhanson.com/what-can-social-content-marketers-learn-from-shutterstocks-2021-visual-trends/) - New Year. New Content! That's what many social media marketers are thinking about as we start 2021. And, as you think about new content ideas, you need to think about visuals as much as text (even more so, really). And, what better place to turn than one of the biggest repositories of visuals on the
- [How title-chasing can sometimes backfire](https://arikhanson.com/how-title-chasing-can-sometimes-backfire/) - A couple weeks ago, I noticed an acquaintance of mine accepted a new job as a VP of marketing. Sweet title, right? And, this person is probably in his/her early 30s. So, yay for him/her! VP by 32. This person has made it. They have achieved greatness in marketing and they are officially a success.
- [Edelman Trust Barometer data: More CEOs should be active on social media](https://arikhanson.com/edelman-trust-barometer-data-more-ceos-should-be-active-on-social-media/) - Trust in everything is plummeting. Except my company's CEO. That's the message from the 21st edition of the Edelman Trust Barometer (side note: They've been producing this thing for 21 years?!?! Man, I feel old). While the continued loss of trust in government, NGOs and media is definitely concerning--and not great for communicators. The rise
- [A sensible view of the "next big thing" in social: Clubhouse](https://arikhanson.com/a-sensible-view-of-the-next-big-thing-in-social-clubhouse/) - One thing I've learned about social media marketing over the 12 years I've been a consultant: Everyone wants to know what the next big thing is going to be. At the moment, "the next big thing" = Clubhouse. Clubhouse is the audio-only app that's really taken off since May when it launched--especially in the tech/angel
- [17 people I want to have coffee with in 2021](https://arikhanson.com/17-people-i-want-to-have-coffee-with-in-2021/) - This post has become an annual tradition. A ritual I now go through to identify 15+ folks I'd like to share coffee with in the year ahead. I've been publishing it now for six years (here was the first post) and it's been a fantastic way for me to meet new people in the worlds
- [Theory: Boomers in PR don't trust influencers or influencer culture](https://arikhanson.com/theory-boomers-in-pr-dont-trust-influencers-or-influencer-culture/) - I have a theory I want to test with you today: I think there's a segment of our industry that completely detests--and doesn't trust--the current influencer culture. Note I said "segment of our industry"--I think this is a generational issue. More clearly stated: I think most people under, say, the age of 40 get that
- [Learn from Walmart: 4 social media governance best practices to reduce your risk of "going viral" in a bad way](https://arikhanson.com/learn-from-walmart-4-social-media-governance-best-practices-to-reduce-your-risk-of-going-viral-in-a-bad-way/) - You may have missed it, but Walmart's social media team got itself in a bit of hot water last week when someone inadvertently tweeted a personal opinion from the corporate Walmart handle. It was a response to Rep. Josh Hawley from Missouri around his stance on voting against the Electoral College. https://twitter.com/hawleymo/status/1344355788303855617?s=11 This certainly isn't
- [Pixar's Soul's message resonates in "hustle-driven" PR industry](https://arikhanson.com/pixars-souls-message-resonates-in-hustle-driven-pr-industry/) - Like many others, I watched Pixar's new "Soul" on Christmas Day. And, as usual for Pixar movies, it didn't disappoint. Like many of the other Pixar movies before it, this one was all about the story--and the messages. For both old and young viewers. And, after watching it, the movie's primary message was one that
- [11 festive Zoom backgrounds to make your holiday season a bit brighter](https://arikhanson.com/10-festive-zoom-backgrounds-to-make-your-holiday-season-a-bit-brighter/) - Early on in the pandemic, you may remember the Room Rater on Twitter. It was an account that "rated" the Zoom backgrounds of thought leaders and SMEs who were showing on TV. The account continues, of course, but I thought it would be fun to give this a local and holiday flavor. So, let's take
- [Finding and starting a new job during COVID: Stories from four recent hires](https://arikhanson.com/finding-and-starting-a-new-job-during-covid-stories-from-four-recent-hires/) - During this pandemic, many people have lost their jobs. No doubt about that. And, it's been horrible. But, at the same time, many people are accepting and starting new jobs--including many in the PR, comms and social media world. And, over the last few months, I'm starting to see more of these folks in my
- [What returning to the "new normal" at work will really look like in 6 months](https://arikhanson.com/what-returning-to-the-new-normal-at-work-will-really-look-like-in-6-months/) - Even though we're entering the darkest period of the pandemic, there is finally glimpses of a light at the end of the tunnel. Two vaccines seem to be very viable options for 2021. Therapeutics are coming along--we're getting smarter about how we treat people with COVID. And testing is becoming more pervasive--and easier--every day. So,
- [The corporate blog makes a major comeback in 2020](https://arikhanson.com/the-corporate-blog-makes-a-major-comeback-in-2020/) - Since it's 2020 and everything sucks, allow me to take you back to 2015. Instagram was the hot social media network. Facebook was purring along. And influencers were starting to work more closely and frequently with brands in the market. Oh, and also, corporate blogging was almost dead. OK, I'm exaggerating for effect. But, corporate
- [Difference in approach matters for health care leaders on LinkedIn](https://arikhanson.com/difference-in-approach-matters-for-health-care-leaders-on-linkedin/) - As we all know by now, here in Minnesota we’re in the midst of a four-week shutdown--at minimum. No more restaurants. No more health clubs. No more youth sports. For at least four weeks (my guess: probably more). Even though there’s finally a light at the end of this tunnel, we’re in for a pretty
- [PR Rock Stars: Retired Vice President of Content & Public Relations at DKY, Holly Donato](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-retired-vice-president-of-content-public-relations-at-dky-holly-donato/) - Today's a first for this blog--and series. I'm showcasing someone who no longer works in the PR industry...because she retired! And, I feel kinda badly about that because I really should have highlighted Holly a long time ago. If you've worked in the Twin Cities PR industry for any length of time, you've probably heard
- [The age-old question: Do you need to be active on social media to be successful in social media?](https://arikhanson.com/the-age-old-question-do-you-need-to-be-active-on-social-media-to-be-successful-in-social-media/) - It's the age-old debate (at least over the last 10 years!): Do you need to be active on social media channels to be successful as a social media marketing professional? A Jess Smith post on Twitter about a month ago got me thinking about that question again. Because, historically, it has been a controversial issue.
- [How one PR pro works from the road in an RV during a worldwide pandemic](https://arikhanson.com/how-one-pr-pro-works-from-the-road-in-an-rv-during-a-worldwide-pandemic/) - Seven-plus months into this pandemic, we're all tired of working from home. But, as we stare down the barrel of quite possibly the roughest winter of our lives, there's little chance too many people in our industry are going back to the office before spring or summer 2021. Given that backdrop, people are looking for
- [What I learned about digital short-form content from 2,462 Republican recruitment text messages](https://arikhanson.com/what-i-learned-about-digital-short-form-content-from-2462-republican-recruitment-text-messages/) - How many text messages have you received from Republican or Democrat operatives in the last few weeks? For me, it's probably north of 500. For real, stop with the text messages! Interestingly enough, I seem to have found my way on a Republican list--I get no fewer than 20 messages a day addressing someone named
- [How brands are helping "get out the vote" efforts for the Nov. 3 election](https://arikhanson.com/how-brands-are-helping-get-out-the-vote-efforts-for-the-nov-3-election/) - The most important election of our lifetimes (and some say, since 1908), is now less than 2 weeks away. And, if early voting trends continue, this could be the biggest voter turnout of our lives, too. As we've seen for the last few years, brands are increasingly getting involved in societal issues--racial injustics, climate change
- [Why Ted Lasso is the boss you've always wanted to work for](https://arikhanson.com/why-ted-lasso-is-the-boss-youve-always-wanted-to-work-for/) - Much like many of you, I was recently looking for a new show to stream. I had just finished The Mandalorian (which I liked, but didn't love). And, given the political climate and the fact that we're facing a pretty rough winter, I wanted something a bit lighter. Enter Ted Lasso. I had heard many
- [6 comms pros weigh in: What would you do if you were managing Joe Biden's social comms campaign?](https://arikhanson.com/6-comms-pros-weigh-in-what-would-you-do-if-you-were-managing-joe-bidens-social-comms-campaign/) - There's little doubt: Next month's election is the most important in most of our lives. Now, I don't usually talk politics on this blog (or on social, for that matter). But, given the gravity of the situation, I've decided to table that approach for the next few months (heck, I tabled it a number of
- [8 initial reactions to LinkedIn Stories for users (and brands, eventually)](https://arikhanson.com/8-initial-reactions-to-linkedin-stories-for-users-and-brands-eventually/) - It was bound to happen. And, after they announced it earlier this year, it was due to happen. LinkedIn recently unveiled "Stories" on its platform. Let me summarize the reaction for a vast majority of LinkedIn users: UGH. I know we're only one week in, but my initial reaction can be summed up in that
- [Trend: 5 companies using LinkedIn video to advance goals during the pandemic](https://arikhanson.com/trend-5-companies-using-linkedin-video-to-advance-goals-during-the-pandemic/) - Video. We've heard about it ad naseum for the last 4-5 years in trend posts like this. So, video, it and of itself, is hardly a trend in 2020. Especially when it comes to platforms like Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. But, LinkedIn? That's been a different story. Historically, LinkedIn has been a platform heavily predicated
- [4 trends in journalism and what they mean for the PR industry](https://arikhanson.com/4-trends-in-journalism-and-what-they-mean-for-the-pr-industry/) - Everyone is glued to the news these days. Between coronavirus, racial unrest and the biggest election of our lifetimes, there's no shortage of hard news to read each and every day. But, that doesn't mean journalism is thriving again. In many ways, the situation is more dire than ever. Trust levels remain low. Media outlets
- [6 ways to network like a human](https://arikhanson.com/6-ways-to-network-like-a-human/) - A couple weeks ago, I had coffee (actual in-person coffee!) with the wonderful Laura King. We had never met before, but I've been a fan from afar for quite some time. We talked about jobs. We talked about her Marketers Community. And, of course, we talked about networking. We talked about the absolute importance of
- [5 new iOS 14 update features that impact communicators' day jobs](https://arikhanson.com/5-new-ios-14-update-features-that-impact-communicators-day-jobs/) - In case you haven't noticed yet, Apple came out with a new iOS last week--iOS14, the biggest update Apple has unveiled in some time. I would encourage you to watch one of the many videos about the update--like this one below--for your personal use. Lots of updates that are pretty darn useful. But, today I
- [Do you need a social media coach?](https://arikhanson.com/do-you-need-a-social-media-coach/) - During the pandemic, I've been lucky enough (emphasis on LUCKY) to secure a few new clients. One of those has been Stacia Nelson owner and founder of Pivot Strategies. However, it hasn't been my typical consulting arrangement. Stacia hired me—in part—to help her find her voice on social media, especially LinkedIn. Her posts have helped her share more
- [The 22 most influential people in PR, Comms & Social in the Twin Cities](https://arikhanson.com/the-22-most-influential-people-in-pr-comms-social-in-the-twin-cities/) - I know, I know. Everyone hates lists. A number of people have told me as much straight to my face in the past! But, I've always been a fan. Our industry has proliferated them to the point of being a popularity contest. But, I've always tried to use and develop lists that are interesting, built
- [PR Rock Stars: Life Time's Dan DeBaun](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-life-times-dan-debaun/) - "The Snack Guy." That's what a number of folks know Dan DeBaun as at his employer, Life Time. But, as you'll quickly see in this short interview, Dan is a whole lot more. He's a former journalist-turned-PR pro. He's a runner. And, he may be the first (and only) journalist to interview cats on TV!
- [The missed opportunity that was Slideshare](https://arikhanson.com/the-missed-opportunity-that-was-slideshare/) - In case you missed it, LinkedIn sold Slideshare, the once-popular slide deck social sharing site, to Scribd a few weeks ago. That thud you hear is the sound of the news landing in social media circles. Few people cared. And, for good reason. Since buying Slideshare in 2013 (it's been SEVEN YEARS since they bought
- [Why Rex Chapman is the best modern-day example of the power of content curation for brands](https://arikhanson.com/why-rex-chapman-is-the-best-modern-day-example-of-the-power-of-content-creation-for-brands/) - Rex Chapman. Does the name ring a bell? For many in 2020, you probably know him as that guy on Twitter who shares mostly awesome (and funny) stuff in your feeds. For a smaller number of people, the name Rex Chapman conjures up images of dunks wearing a University of Kentucky uniform in the early
- [The missed opportunity of birthday marketing](https://arikhanson.com/the-missed-opportunity-of-birthday-marketing/) - News flash: It was my birthday yesterday (8/24). Don't worry if you didn't send me a card--I only get 3 anymore (and I love those three!). I received the usual influx of happy birthday messages on Facebook, LinkedIn, text and email. Side note: Not one person called me on my birthday. Not one! Anyway, I
- [The single toughest job in marketing/communications: The community manager](https://arikhanson.com/the-single-toughest-jobs-in-marketing-communications-the-community-manager/) - I saw this tweet last week and it made me chuckle (the second tweet made me chuckle even harder!). Not so much because it was funny (it is)--but because it's true. Man, is it true. And, I'm here to say during the last five months, few people in marketing and communications have had a tougher
- [Will your employer let you relocate south for the winter?](https://arikhanson.com/will-your-employer-let-you-relocate-south-for-the-winter/) - As summer slowly draws to a close here in Minnesota, there's been increasing chatter about one big topic: Are you thinking about relocating for the winter months? With the pandemic showing no signs of slowing down and Old Man Winter staring us right in the face, Minnesotans are facing the grim prospect of being locked
- [Are Twitter Watch Parties a tactic to consider the rest of 2020?](https://arikhanson.com/are-twitter-watch-parties-a-tactic-to-consider-the-rest-of-2020/) - Our COVID-19 winter has seen the start of many social media marketing trends. But, one I find particularly interesting--the Twitter Watch Party. After all, it wasn't too long ago that many people (including me) were saying Twitter was essentially dead as a social media marketing tool (my podcast co-host, Kevin Hunt, said Twitter and Facebook
- [Does anyone really search by hash tags on LinkedIn?](https://arikhanson.com/does-anyone-really-search-by-hash-tags-on-linkedin/) - What's our hash tag strategy? It's a question I think every company has asked itself or its agency partner over the last 10 years. And, it's a question I've written about before. But a recent Social Media Examiner article got me thinking about hash tags again. Specifically if and how people are using them. This
- [My motivation: Don't tell me I can't achieve that goal](https://arikhanson.com/my-motivation-dont-tell-me-i-cant-achieve-that-goal/) - A few weeks ago, friend, partner and client, Stacia Nelson, made the following post on her Facebook page. The message: Don't tell me I can't achieve that huge goal. I'LL SHOW YOU! That post resonated with me a ton, because it's exactly what I've used to motivate myself throughout my life and career. I remember
- [When it comes to social media posts, write when you're hot](https://arikhanson.com/when-it-comes-to-social-media-posts-write-when-youre-hot/) - One of the most successful (most viewed) posts I've ever made on this blog was this post about how people (at the time--but still today, really) were over-using ridiculous phrases like "peeps" and "obvi" to the point of driving me insane! I think I remember writing that post in about 10 minutes. I wrote it
- [The little white lie of the social media profile shot](https://arikhanson.com/the-little-white-lie-of-the-social-media-profile-shot/) - We all have that friend or colleague. You know the one. That person with the social media profile shot that doesn’t exactly match their actual appearance. Or, to be more blunt: their social media profile shot looks nothing like them. In some cases, it’s a profile shot from 10+ years ago—making the person look younger.
- [Consultant or therapist? You want to be both.](https://arikhanson.com/consultant-or-therapist-you-want-to-be-both/) - Over the years, I've had more than a few clients say some version of the following phrase to me: "You're part consultant, part therapist." I couldn't think of bigger compliment! Why a compliment? Because, for a client to say that it means they trust you implicitly. It means they feel they can confide in you.
- [Trend: CEOs posting employee-only memos on personal LinkedIn profiles (and other social media sites)](https://arikhanson.com/trend-ceos-posting-employee-only-memos-on-personal-linkedin-profiles-and-other-social-media-sites/) - There's been a trend emerging during the coronavirus and civil unrest--one that's flown under the radar a bit, but one I'm hoping we see more of in the years ahead. It's the notion of CEOs sharing employee-only messages with external audiences. Microsoft's Satya Nadella was probably one of the first to put this practice into
- [Now is the time to diversify your social ad strategy](https://arikhanson.com/now-is-the-time-to-diversify-your-social-ad-strategy/) - In case you missed it, the list is now pretty long of companies boycotting Facebook to support the #StopHateforProfit campaign. Unilever, Coca-Cola, Patagonia and Ben & Jerrys are just a few of the companies on the list. Some of these companies are boycotting for July. And, some, like Unilever, are boycotting for the second half
- ["Grabbing coffee" is going to look a little different in the COVID-19 era](https://arikhanson.com/grabbing-coffee-is-going-to-look-a-little-different-in-the-covid-19-era/) - Each year, I make a "coffee list." Essentially, it's 12-15 people I really want to have coffee with this year. It's not an expansive list. Most years, I have coffee with upwards of 75+ people. But, as we all know, 2020 is not a typical year. That said, I have had coffee with six people
- [How do we get more people of color in the PR industry? A conversation with United FC's Gabriela Lozada](https://arikhanson.com/how-do-we-get-more-people-of-color-in-the-pr-industry-a-conversation-with-united-fcs-gabriela-lozada/) - A couple weeks ago, I wrote a post about steps I believe companies across the country (and world) should be taking to put an end to systemic racism in our culture--and our industry. I felt weird writing it because, after all, people in my age group and race (middle to older white men) are a
- [Why aren't we talking more about expectations and the current remote working situation?](https://arikhanson.com/why-arent-we-talking-more-about-expectations-and-the-current-remote-working-situation/) - Read yet another media story on working remotely and how it will change work forever once the pandemic is over. This one, from Bloomberg, actually took the opposite stance and talked about how the future of work is in the office. But, all these media reports and articles are ignoring the bigger issue right now:
- [Why are many social media marketers still working from the 2015 playbook?](https://arikhanson.com/why-are-many-social-media-marketers-still-working-from-the-2015-playbook/) - No one will question that the global pandemic has had far-reaching impacts on our daily lives--in just three short months. It's changed how we work. It's changed how we eat out. It's changed how (if) we travel. But, it's also changed how social media marketing is working--in quite a big way. And, in a very
- [Will companies keep up the momentum around racial injustice--and what will it look like?](https://arikhanson.com/will-companies-keep-up-the-momentum-around-racial-injustice-and-what-will-it-look-like/) - The last couple weeks, amidst the marches and protests, we started to see companies put speaking up racial injustice--with their pocketbooks. Many people would say, "it's about time." To be fair, some companies, like Ben & Jerrys, have been speaking up for years, and making a difference with their investments. But, in the last two
- [Where are the brands standing up for George Floyd?](https://arikhanson.com/where-are-the-brands-standing-up-for-george-floyd/) - Earlier this week George Floyd was killed by the Minneapolis Police Department. By now, you've seen the video. You've probably also seen the aftermath--here in Minneapolis and in spots across the country. Enough is enough. We need real change. Now. My family lives 16 blocks from where Floyd was murdered. We visit a restaurant just
- [Why can't brands replicate the success of "Some Good News?"](https://arikhanson.com/why-cant-brands-replicate-the-success-of-some-good-news/) - In case you missed it, John Krasinksi's popular "Some Good News" was sold to VIACOM-CBS last week. It's not all that surprising. According to an AdAge article, SGN generated 55.3M views on Facebook alone since its inception--outranking Stephen Colbert and Seth Myers of late-night fame. It only trailed Noah, Fallon and Corden, but Krasinksi had
- [How an underground high school newspaper led to a 10+ year blog](https://arikhanson.com/how-an-underground-high-school-newspaper-led-to-a-10-year-blog/) - Last Saturday, there was a wonderful article in the Variety section of the Minneapolis Star Tribune about groups of kids who had started neighborhood newspapers during the pandemic. I can't tell you how much I loved that article--for a couple reasons. First, we need more local journalism--whether it's professional or not. People want to learn
- [The two brands leading the way with brand journalism during COVID might surprise you](https://arikhanson.com/the-two-brands-leading-the-way-with-brand-journalism-during-covid-might-surprise-you/) - The term "brand journalism" is a bit of a lightning rod term in the social media marketing business. For some, it conjures up imagery of "advertorials" and "sponsored content." And, over the years, there have certainly been a fair share of corporate failures when it comes to brand journalism. Many starts and stops. There have
- [How "Last Dance" is proving leadership has evolved quite a bit since the 90s](https://arikhanson.com/how-last-dance-is-proving-leadership-has-evolved-quite-a-bit-since-the-90s/) - This quote from Michael Jordan in the popular "Last Dance" documentary says it all about MJ's attitude during his championship runs in the 90s: “My mentality was to go out and win at any cost. If you don’t want to live that regimen or mentality, then you don’t need to be alongside of me, ’cause
- [How to start "freelancing" during a pandemic](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-start-freelancing-during-a-pandemic/) - With unemployment levels rising and more companies big and small furloughing or laying off employees every week, I'm guessing some of these folks are considering the possibility of "freelancing." I put that term in quotes because, personally, I despise it. I've never called myself a "freelancer". I think it cheapens the work I do. I
- [Teaching social media via Zoom--the ups, the downs and the sideways glances](https://arikhanson.com/teaching-social-media-via-zoom-the-ups-the-downs-and-the-sideways-glances/) - It was March 13. I was enjoying another lazy day by the pool in Palm Springs. We go each year to see my parents who live in a wonderful golf community. The pandemic was just starting here in the U.S. The NBA had shut down. March Madness was next. People were starting to work from
- [4 under-the-radar tips for finding a job on LinkedIn during COVID-19](https://arikhanson.com/4-under-the-radar-tips-for-finding-a-job-on-linkedin-during-covid-19/) - With unemployment approaching 2008-09 levels (and some projecting Great Depression 30% levels), finding a job the next few months to a year is going to be something a lot of people are doing. Even in our industry. Just in Minneapolis, Best Buy, Sleep Number and Regis have already furloughed employees. Many agencies have asked employees
- [7 brands experimenting with new social media marketing approaches during COVID-19](https://arikhanson.com/7-brands-experimenting-with-new-social-media-marketing-approaches-during-covid-19/) - As the COVID-19 outbreak began last month, I noticed there seemed to be two kinds of brands. Those who went quiet and were going through the crisis communications playbook when it came to content on social channels. And, those who decided to switch it up, adapt to the new circumstances and take some calculated risks.
- [Working from home isn't all it's cracked up to be--and the COVID outbreak will prove it](https://arikhanson.com/working-from-home-isnt-all-its-cracked-up-to-be-and-the-covid-outbreak-will-prove-it/) - Disclaimer: I know and fully realize a lot of people have lost--and will lose--their jobs during COVID-19. This is not designed to be a glib discussion, but merely a different take on the "working from home during COVID changes everything" conversation. Over the first four weeks of this #quarantine, there's been a ton of talk
- [5 social media trends we'll see during the rest of the COVID-19 outbreak](https://arikhanson.com/5-social-media-trends-well-see-during-the-rest-of-the-covid-19-outbreak/) - Just a few months ago, I set out to create my annual social media trends presentation, which I've now given to a handful of audiences. If we weren't in the middle of a pandemic, I'd be giving that presentation to other groups in the weeks ahead. Instead, I'm re-evaluating that list and thinking about how
- [CEO social profiles critical comms tools during COVID-19](https://arikhanson.com/ceo-social-profiles-critical-comms-tools-during-covid-19/) - The last three weeks have been the longest crisis comms drill of our entire lives. It's absolutely nutso. And, there's really no end in sight (sometime in May, please!). Comms teams have been on full-tilt since early March communicating with employees and stakeholders seemingly non-stop. They've largely been using the traditional channels--email, intranets, town halls
- [How social networks are surging and changing during the COVID-19 outbreak](https://arikhanson.com/how-social-networks-are-surging-and-changing-during-the-covid-19-outbreak/) - Last week, in one of my client meetings, an interesting discussion came up--what social networks were surging and which were lagging? And, which were CHANGING? Apparently, we weren't the only ones thinking about this. Matthew Kobach (director of social for the NYSE) led a similar discussion on Twitter (he's a must-follow right now, btw, if
- [Content marketing that is truly making a difference during the COVID-19 outbreak](https://arikhanson.com/content-marketing-that-is-truly-making-a-difference-during-the-covid-19-outbreak/) - So much of social media marketing, and marketing in general, for that fact, seems like it's almost in the background right now. First and foremost, many people are worried about their health and the health of loved ones. Next, they're worried about their jobs and income. That's about where it ends--right now at least. That's
- [3 lessons I learned during the most stressful week of my 25+-year career](https://arikhanson.com/3-lessons-i-learned-during-the-most-stressful-week-of-my-25-year-career/) - At the risk of adding yet another "what I've learned during the COVID-19 crisis" post to the internet ether, I just wasn't sure what to write about this week. Clearly, COVID-19 has taken over our personal and professional lives. So, for the time being, it almost feels weird to write about anything BUT the virus.
- [Why aren't employers giving PR employees the benefits they want?](https://arikhanson.com/why-arent-employers-giving-pr-employees-what-they-want/) - By now, the "war for talent" has been well-documented. We're facing a shortage of talent. Employees hold all the cards. Employers need to adapt in terms of what employees really want in the new economy. Except, here's the problem: They're not doing that. Not even close. According to Ragan's 2020 Salary and Workplace Culture Survey,
- [How your content's half-life should (drastically) impact your social media strategy in 2020](https://arikhanson.com/how-your-contents-half-life-should-drastically-impact-your-social-media-strategy-in-2020/) - Last week, Greg Swan shared an interesting tweet as part of his presentation on the state of social media in 2020. It talked about the "half life" of content. See below. Fascinating to compare the half-life of content across platforms (time it takes for a piece of content to reach 50% of its total lifetime
- [We ask our leaders to be authentic online, but are communicators setting a good example?](https://arikhanson.com/we-ask-our-leaders-to-be-authentic-online-but-are-communicators-setting-a-good-example/) - Last week, a friend sent me a note the posed an interesting question: "How do we remain authentic about our business selves on LinkedIn? Comms people are ethical, authentic and we challenge our leaders to be authentic communicators. Yet, on LinkedIn everything is so positive. Rarely do people show any hint of humility." Great point,
- [A day in the life of one solo PR/social media consultant (and adjunct professor)](https://arikhanson.com/a-day-in-the-life-of-one-solo-pr-social-media-consultant-and-adjunct-professor/) - "What's a typical day look like for you?" It's a question I heard a lot last semester at the University of St. Thomas. The students asked that question of the guest speakers. They asked it when we went on our tours at Best Buy and Padilla. And, they asked it of me! I also love
- [The secret weapon to promoting your next rebrand on social media](https://arikhanson.com/the-secret-weapon-to-promoting-your-next-rebrand-on-social-media/) - Last week, Andersen Windows & Doors (AWD) unveiled its new rebrand to the world. I really like the new branding/logo--great job by the folks at Rise and Shine (full story here on the Egotist)! But, while the brand refresh appears to be a big hit for AWD, I'm not so sure about the social activation
- [Visit Winona leverages Squarespace Super Bowl spot for PR home run](https://arikhanson.com/visit-winona-leverages-squarespace-super-bowl-spot-for-pr-home-run/) - It was big news in my world when Squarespace ran a Super Bowl spot featuring my adopted home town, and alma mater, Winona. The spot featured Winona Ryder, who was born and raised in Winona (no, really), seeking the “real Winona”. The spot did feature a few images from Winona, but funny--the first image was
- [Why you--not an agency--need to own your influencer relationships](https://arikhanson.com/why-you-not-an-agency-need-to-own-your-influencer-relationships/) - Never a dull moment in the world of influencer marketing. Last week, Digiday wrote an article essentially claiming that agencies are destroying influencer marketing (influencer marketing agencies, in particular). This should surprise no one. These influencer marketing agencies and networks have always seemed to me a little like the former mom blog networks. Transactional--not cohesive
- [The laziest phrase in content marketing (and what to do instead)](https://arikhanson.com/the-laziest-phrase-in-content-marketing-and-what-to-do-instead/) - I saw this post in my feed the other day and it reminded me of a post I had been meaning to write for ages. The title: The top 10 laziest phrases in social content marketing. But, after I saw this post, I decided to amend that headline. Because there's only one phrase that can
- [#RIPeanut highlights brand-to-brand trend actually may be working on Twitter](https://arikhanson.com/ripeanut-highlights-brand-to-brand-trend-actually-may-be-working-on-twitter/) - Last fall, Popeye's trolled Chick-Fil-A on Twitter into helping it launch its new chicken sandwich that ended up selling out and causing gun play in stores. Then, Netflix asked brands for their best x-rated sex tweet in what might be the very best Twitter thread of all time. And last week, Planters got in on
- [9 (realistic) social media trends for 2020](https://arikhanson.com/9-realistic-social-media-trends-for-2020/) - For the last few years, I've been developing a "Social Media Trends" presentation in January that I've now given more than 20 times. While I don't proclaim to be a trend-spotter, I do keep up with social media trends each week--mostly because I have to! For this blog. For the Talking Points Podcast. For my
- [6 pro tips for using LinkedIn that won't make you look like an amateur](https://arikhanson.com/6-pro-tips-for-using-linkedin-that-wont-make-you-look-like-an-amateur/) - I spent a lot of time on LinkedIn these days. It is, without a doubt, the most valuable social network to me now (in a professional sense). So, I see a lot of "interesting" behavior--especially among people who are often looking for a job! Now, I don't claim to be one of these "LinkedIn gurus",
- [The age-old fallacy of the "hash tag strategy"](https://arikhanson.com/the-age-old-fallacy-of-the-hash-tag-strategy/) - "What should our hash tag strategy be?" It's a question I get from clients at least a few times a year. And, it's one that's usually met with a swift response. "We don't need one." Not really. Not in the sense most people are thinking about. Not in 2020. Your time and energy is better
- [The news feed has a five-year shelf-life (at most)](https://arikhanson.com/the-news-feed-has-a-five-year-shelf-life-at-most/) - The news feed, as we know it, will be gone in five years. Controversial? Somewhat. But, I'm not actually saying that to be a contrarian. I think we may see a shift soon. Here's why. First, just take a peek at the current news feed. What do you notice--immediately? Unless you're lying to yourself, the
- [We're putting WAY too much time and effort into building content](https://arikhanson.com/were-putting-way-too-much-time-and-effort-into-building-content/) - Tell me if any of these scenarios sound familiar: You are asked to lead the revamp of your corporate web site. It's a big task. It involves collaborating with many stakeholders. It involves working with numerous vendors. Recoding. Revamping. Rewriting. And multiple rounds of revisions. All told, it takes you a YEAR to complete the
- [How I learned more than my students in my first semester of teaching](https://arikhanson.com/how-i-learned-more-than-my-students-in-my-first-semester-of-teaching/) - About a month ago, I finished teaching my first class at the University of St. Thomas. This was a bit of a dream of mine. Not only to teach, but to teach at an institution like St. Thomas--a school I've come to adore over the last 10+ years. Going into the experience, I thought I
- [15 people I'd love to have coffee with in 2020](https://arikhanson.com/15-people-id-love-to-have-coffee-with-in-2020/) - The last couple years, I've written a simple post listing out the people I'd love to have coffee with in the New Year. It's not designed to be a comprehensive list. After all, I had coffee with 60+ people in 2019! But, it is an "aspirational" list, of sorts. A mix of mostly new people
- [How my social media journey has changed the last 12 years](https://arikhanson.com/how-my-social-media-journey-has-changed-the-last-10-years-1-2/) - I still remember my first blog post. It was Dec. 5, 2008. More than 11 years now. The title: Five ways to start fixing the health care industry. That post represented the start of my social media journey. A journey that would not only transform my professional trajectory--it would completely change my life. I started
- [Talking Points - A Year in Review](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-a-year-in-review/) - 2019 was an interesting year for me professionally. It definitely had its ups and downs. At one point in the year I was working with just two clients--the fewest I've worked with in almost 10 years! On the other hand, I started teaching at the University of St. Thomas--somewhat of a life-long dream of mine.
- [Who "stays in touch" (and, more importantly, who doesn't) says a lot about you](https://arikhanson.com/who-stays-in-touch-and-more-importantly-who-doesnt-says-a-lot-about-you/) - There's a common phrase you hear uttered by all when they leave a job: "let's stay in touch." You've said it before. I've said it before. We've all said it. The big question is: Who really means it. More to the point: Who actually DOES it. Because the people who actually DO stay in touch--those
- [Why you actually have to *plan* for the outrage culture now](https://arikhanson.com/why-you-actually-have-to-plan-for-the-outrage-culture-now/) - In the span of just the last four weeks, we've seen the Internet Flash Mob take down two big advertising campaigns. First, there was South Dakota's new "On Meth" campaign. The outrage-o-meter was at about a 8.5 on this campaign, as exhibited by tweets like these: People believed the campaign was stupid. That it painted
- [The sunsetting of one of Minnesota's most successful all-time blogs--the MN PR Blog](https://arikhanson.com/the-sunsetting-of-one-of-minnesotas-most-successful-all-time-blogs-the-mn-pr-blog/) - If you've worked in the PR industry in the Twin Cities for any length of time, you've probably heard about or visited, the MN PR Blog. Because, it's been around FOREVER! Since, 2003, to be exact. In fact, to my knowledge, the MN PR Blog was one of the first PR blogs in the entire
- [Why the top 5 productivity hacks for remote workers are all wrong](https://arikhanson.com/why-the-top-5-productivity-hacks-for-remote-workers-are-all-wrong/) - As a remote worker for going on 10 years now, I definitely have learned my share of "productivity hacks". When you're working for yourself, you kinda have to! So, when I saw this post on PR Daily recently about 11 productivity tips for remote workers, I was intrigued. Let's see what others have to say!
- [PR Rock Stars: Room & Board's Rebecca Lechner](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-room-boards-rebecca-lechner/) - Truth be told, I don't know Rebecca Lechner all that well. I've never worked with her. She's never been a client. Heck, I only just met with her for the first time a few weeks ago! But, I'm also a big believer in cues. For example, she's one half of a Minneapolis/St. Paul Power PR
- [3 surprising stats from PRWeek/Cision's Global PR Report](https://arikhanson.com/3-surprising-stats-from-prweek-cisions-global-pr-report/) - A couple weeks ago, PRWeek and Cision released their Global PR Report full of data points and nuggets ripe for discussion on blogs like this. The full report is worth a glance, if you work in PR/comms. It's full of data around topics like: comms single-biggest challenge; influencers sway over consumer spending decisions; and top
- [The cold, hard truth: The PR and ad industries are still hooked on "vanity metrics"](https://arikhanson.com/the-cold-hard-truth-the-pr-and-ad-industries-are-still-hooked-on-vanity-metrics/) - If you spent a few minutes on social media last week, you undoubtedly heard about South Dakota's new anti-meth ad campaign (here's the link to one story--I share an AdWeek link below). This sparked all kinds of conversation--mostly around why the campaign was a failure. But, one side conversation that I found particularly interesting revolved
- [6 answers to commonly-asked questions I'm getting from the modern job seeker](https://arikhanson.com/6-answers-to-commonly-asked-questions-im-getting-from-the-modern-job-seeker/) - A couple of weeks ago, I received an email from someone who was recently laid off from his job. This guy was an acquaintance. I had met him before at events, but only in passing. So, I didn't have direct work experience with him, I wasn't a fellow colleague and he wasn't a friend. I
- [REI's Uncommon Path a rare brand journalism home run](https://arikhanson.com/reis-uncommon-path-a-rare-brand-journalism-home-run/) - Brand journalism, as a concept, hasn't exactly had a great run. Casper's vaunted "Van Winkles" brand journalism effort lasted just more than a year. Verizon shuttered its foray into brand journalism (Sugarstring) after JUST ONE MONTH! There's a long line brand journalism fails. But, on that rare occasion, brand journalism can flourish. Coca-Cola has been
- [How to optimize your comms tech stack in 2020](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-optimize-your-comms-tech-stack-in-2020/) - Earlier this month, the Arthur Page Society unveiled some new research around the changing nature of the CCO position. Essentially, the takeaway was that the CCO role is expanding to include a variety of different disciplines it wasn't managing just a few years ago. One of those areas is "CommTech." And, so far, CCOs could
- [Did Panera really mishandle their recent crisis on TikTok?](https://arikhanson.com/did-panera-really-mishandle-their-recent-crisis-on-tiktok/) - In case you missed it, Panera had a kerfuffle on its hands a couple weeks ago. PR Daily recapped the crisis nicely here. TLDR: a Panera employee took to TikTok to shoot a video titled “How Panera prepares mac & cheese.” Let’s just say, it wasn’t the most flattering video for Panera. The video showed
- [Everyone has career regrets--here are my big 3](https://arikhanson.com/everyone-has-career-regrets-here-are-my-big-3/) - Last week, I came upon this post on PR Daily detailing research that laid out employees top 10 career regrets. It was full of what I thought were some pretty interesting factoids about regrets in the career progression. And, given the nature of the topic, it's something that's not often discussed. After all, who wants
- [Why Spanx's Sara Blakely might be the best CEO on LinkedIn](https://arikhanson.com/why-spanxs-sara-blakely-might-be-the-best-ceo-on-linkedin/) - Not Microsoft's Satya Nadella. Not General Motors' Mary Barra (who has 1.2M LinkedIn followers, btw) Not even American Family's Jack Salzwedel (although he is great--I wrote about him first in 2015). Nope, Sara Blakely, the founder and CEO of Spanx is the best CEO on LinkedIn. And I'm not sure it's close. Want proof? Let's
- [What I learned from 3 of the top corporate podcasters in Minneapolis](https://arikhanson.com/what-i-learned-from-3-of-the-top-corporate-podcasters-in-minneapolis/) - ICYMI, I moderated a wonderful panel of three smart people at General Mills last week as part of the Social Media Breakfast-Minneapolis/St. Paul series. The panel consisted of General Mills' Kevin Hunt, US Bank's Monica Wiant and Hubbard Interactive's Melissa Young. Photo credit: Debbie Friez In preparation for this event, I drafted a series of
- [Celebrating 10 years as a solo social media and PR consultant](https://arikhanson.com/celebrating-10-years-as-a-solo-social-media-and-pr-consultant/) - Today, I celebrate 10 years as a solo social media and PR consultant. Truth be told, I don't know if today is the actual anniversary. I can't remember my "first day" in this role 10 years ago. It really doesn't matter. What does matter is what's happened in those 10 years. Because I'm about to
- [It's high time to start an awards program for solo communications consultants](https://arikhanson.com/its-high-time-to-start-an-awards-program-for-solo-communications-consultants/) - OK, so I know this kind of headline sounds pretty self-serving coming from me. And, you know what? You'd be right! But, biases aside, the fact remains: There are few (none in Minnesota, as far as I can tell) awards programs specifically for solo PR, marketing and social media consultants. And, I think it’s high
- [Media relations is getting harder...much harder (but here's a few tips for how you can get more stories placed)](https://arikhanson.com/media-relations-is-getting-harder-much-harder-but-heres-a-few-tips-for-how-you-can-get-more-stories-placed/) - This just in: media relations is getting tougher. Much, much tougher. The stats back up the claim. Consider the following: Demand for media attention is high: Most top-tier writers now receive 100, 250 or 500 pitches a week for 5 story spots. Media is outnumbered: PR Pros now outnumber journalists by a factor of 6
- [What I would be budgeting for in 2020 if I were a brand-side PR manager](https://arikhanson.com/what-i-would-be-budgeting-for-in-2020-if-i-were-a-brand-side-pr-manager/) - Last week, the PR Daily folks released survey findings from a recent survey among comms types about 2020 budgeting (nice work, Ted Kitterman and team!). Timely, right? Not surprisingly (at least to this consultant), most PRs said budgets will remain flat in 2020. I don't disagree. Where it gets interesting, though, is when the PR
- [Why I'm advocating for every PR/comms pro to spend 10 minutes a day on LinkedIn](https://arikhanson.com/why-im-advocating-for-every-pr-comms-pro-to-spend-10-minutes-a-day-on-linkedin/) - When you talk to people in our industry about LinkedIn, predictably you get a wide range of responses. "It's not for me." "I don't have time for LinkedIn." "I'm not looking for a job right now--why would I use LinkedIn?" "I don't have anything to share--what would I do there?" "There's too much spam in
- [Are employee social advocacy programs at direct odds with your personal brand?](https://arikhanson.com/are-employee-social-advocacy-programs-at-direct-odds-with-your-personal-brand/) - Employee social advocacy programs are having a moment. Come to think of it, they've been having a moment for a while now. Fact is, more companies are globbing on to this trend--and, for good reason. According to the Edelman Trust Barometer, the most trusted relationship people have right now is with their employer! Companies like
- [Why I think it's OK (if not preferred) to "always be looking"](https://arikhanson.com/why-i-think-its-ok-if-not-preferred-to-always-be-looking/) - Back when I was working for other people, I always got a ton of push-back when I mentioned I had always adopted an "always be looking mindset." I think a lot of people took it the wrong way. Like "this guy is going to be looking for a new job the moment he comes in
- [Are people working in marketing happier than those working in PR?](https://arikhanson.com/are-people-working-in-marketing-happier-than-those-working-in-pr/) - A couple weeks ago, I made a post on LinkedIn lamenting that the media relations game has gotten a lot harder over the last few years. The stats I've seen lately appear to back it up. Most top-tier reporters receive 100, 250 or 500 pitches a week for an average of 5 story spots (Fractl).
- [3 (relatively) easy ways to get your brand started on TikTok](https://arikhanson.com/3-relatively-easy-ways-to-get-your-brand-started-on-tiktok/) - TikTok is having a bit of a moment. Allow me to share some stats that back up that statement: TikTok now has more than 500M active users worldwide, ahead of Twitter, LinkedIn, Snapchat and Pinterest. TikTok was the third most downloaded app in Q1 of 2019 TikTok was the most downloadable app in the Apple
- [Natty Light's Catalina Wine Mixer scores A+ for creativity (but not sure what's going on with execution)](https://arikhanson.com/natty-lights-catalina-wine-mixer-scores-a-for-creativity-but-not-sure-whats-going-on-with-execution/) - In early August, Natty Light introduced a new entry to the hard seltzer game: the Catalina Lime Mixer. Or, in other words, the best named hard seltzer beverage in all of history (you'll know why if you Google "Catalina Wine Mixer"--simply brilliant). The product is in direct competition with the most popular thing going: White
- [Standing up for real estate mogul Kris Lindahl: 4 reasons I love his marketing approach](https://arikhanson.com/standing-up-for-real-estate-mogul-kris-lindahl-4-reasons-i-love-his-marketing-approach/) - ICYMI, Kris Lindahl is taking over. The (overly) popular real estate mogul has been seen on bus sides, billboards and even in the sky (over Allianz Field and Target Field recently) via his airplane giveaways. Kris Lindahl is everywhere. And it's pissing off the internet. God dammit. pic.twitter.com/4cuVj9tcwq — kyle matteson (@solace) August 18,
- [How to make the most of new and emerging media outlets](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-make-the-most-of-new-and-emerging-media-outlets/) - Thinking back to the early days in my career, clients often had one request when it came to the media relations game: I want to be on Oprah. Or, The Today Show. Or, in The New York Times. Those were the kinds of media outlets clients wanted to be in. Mainstream media outlets with monstrous,
- [It's time to call the Popeye's tweet a huge social media win](https://arikhanson.com/its-time-to-call-the-popeyes-tweet-a-huge-social-media-win/) - ICYMI, another "Twitter war" broke out last week. This episode featured Chick-Fil-A, Popeye's and the king of Twitter wars, Wendy's. I've been a long-time skeptic of these Twitter battles, as I believe they add virtually nothing from a marketing/communications perspective. The only reason I can see to even pursue such a strategy is to drum
- [Facebook's pushing Groups, but how can brands really use them?](https://arikhanson.com/facebooks-pushing-groups-but-how-can-brands-really-use-them/) - One big trend I see accelerating in the social media world in 2019 is the move to more "community" and less "let's go viral". It's something I talked about in my trends presentation I put together that I've given now to five different groups in the Twin Cities. Facebook is pushing Groups now, as exhibited
- [The one big rule for pitching podcast guests](https://arikhanson.com/the-one-big-rule-for-pitching-podcast-guests/) - Kevin Hunt and I have been publishing our Talking Points Podcast now for five years. We just recorded our 117th episode a couple weeks ago. Because we've been around a while now, and there's surprisingly not a lot of social media/comms podcasts that have consistently posted every month for the last five years, we're getting
- [AP Style: How relevant is it in 2019?](https://arikhanson.com/ap-style-how-relevant-is-it-in-2019/) - The AP Style folks recently made an earth-shattering change to its AP Style Standards: You no longer have to spell out "%" after a number. AUDIBLE GASP! That was actually close to the reaction I got from friends and colleagues on a LinkedIn post where I shared this news a few weeks ago. And, for
- [In defense of Facebook: Why I'm still a daily user](https://arikhanson.com/in-defense-of-facebook-why-im-still-a-daily-user/) - My Talking Points Podcast partner, Kevin Hunt, is not a fan of Facebook. I give him grief about it on the show all the time. He doesn't like the data mining. He doesn't like the lying. He thinks it toxic. And you know what, he's right on all counts. No doubt about it, really. And,
- [Are thought leadership media opportunities in the business media drying up?](https://arikhanson.com/are-thought-leadership-media-opportunities-in-the-business-media-drying-up/) - Ten years ago or so, thought leadership opportunities in the business media world were somewhat prevalent. You could pitch bylined ideas to publications like Harvard Business Review, Forbes and Fortune and, given you were somewhat competent, you had a chance. In the media relations world, this was huge because a big part of our value
- [The dying art of small talk in the social media age--and the implications for communicators](https://arikhanson.com/the-dying-art-of-small-talk-in-the-social-media-age-and-the-implications-for-communicators/) - We've all witnessed this scene in any number of public spaces, right? People using smartphones on a train platform Not uncommon at all in 2019. In fact, I might say this is the new norm. Here's a specific scenario. Let me know if it sounds familiar to you parents out there. You're in the car
- [Are we (finally) starting to phase out the a++holes?](https://arikhanson.com/are-we-finally-starting-to-phase-out-the-aholes/) - If you're a Minnesota Wild fan, you've undoubtedly heard the news: GM Paul Fenton is out. According to ownership, he wasn't a "culture fit." That's typically code for: he was a jerk to employees. And, that's not me saying that, it's talk show hosts, media and fans over the last week or so. via GIPHY
- [Your CEO doesn't have to post his own articles to be effective on LinkedIn](https://arikhanson.com/your-ceo-doesnt-have-to-post-his-own-articles-to-be-effective-on-linkedin/) - Is 2019 the year of the social CEO? I wrote about this trend in my recent 2019 trends presentation. And, I've noticed a few more prominent CEOs taking a more active stance in social recently. Shelly Ibach, CEO and president of Sleep Number (client) comes to mind. In many of these situations, CEOs start on
- [Social Media Rock Stars: Be the Match's Ryan Pena](https://arikhanson.com/social-media-rock-stars-be-the-matchs-ryan-pena/) - For years, Ryan Pena was one of those people I definitely knew about, but never had a chance to meet. I recently figured it was time to change that, and asked Ryan to happy hour. And man, am I glad I did. Not only is Ryan a leading-edge social media marketer (and future pop star--have
- [Sometimes it's OK to be a social media follower](https://arikhanson.com/sometimes-its-ok-to-be-a-social-media-follower/) - Today's internet culture is very much predicated on one basic principle: Me. Me, as in, how can I create more thought leadership to share on Twitter. Me, as in, how can I become an influencer and make hundreds of thousands of dollars on Insta, YouTube and TikTok. Me, as in, how can I talk more
- [How I'm organizing my first class on strategic communications at the University of St. Thomas](https://arikhanson.com/how-im-organizing-my-first-class-on-strategic-communications-at-the-university-of-st-thomas/) - This fall I'll assume a role I've been working toward for the last 20+ years. The role of professor. I'll be teaching my first class as an adjunct professor at the University of St Thomas starting on Sept. 3. The class? Strategic communications. It's a capstone class of sorts, previously taught by the outstanding Bruce
- [17 people who should have been on MN AdFed's 32 Under 32 List](https://arikhanson.com/17-additional-winners-for-the-32-under-32-list/) - In case you missed it, AdFed officially posted its 32 Under 32 list a few weeks ago. This is a great event that has taken on a life of its own the last few years. Seemingly everyone in town under the age of 32 has been nominated for this award! Jokes and cheap shots aside,
- [Ice cream truck's bold claim: We're charging influencers DOUBLE (and why it might signify a tipping point in influencer marketing)](https://arikhanson.com/ice-cream-trucks-bold-claim-were-charging-influencers-double-and-why-it-might-signify-a-tipping-point-in-influencer-marketing/) - In case you missed it, a soft-serve ice cream entrepreneur in California made news recently. Yeah, instead of catering incessantly to influencers, he's basically thumbing his nose at them. In fact, he's going well beyond that. His recent Instagram post sums his approach up best: “We’ve decided to make this thing official with signage. We
- [PR Rock Stars: Solo PR Consultant Peg Roessler](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-solo-pr-consultant-peg-roessler/) - If you want to get your client on TV in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, and you've worked in PR for more than five minutes, you know there's only one person to call: Peg Roessler. Peg has more than 35 years experience in the PR industry--including 28 working for herself! She's not only a legend in
- [I'll admit: I'm overwhelmed by technology](https://arikhanson.com/ill-admit-im-overwhelmed-by-technology/) - Over the weekend, we had wi-fi issues at Chez Hanson. If you have teens and/or tweens and you've had wi-fi issues, then you know when that happens your home is basically on DEF-CON 15. And I am not being dramatic. After a little research and a phone call to CenturyLink, world order was restored and
- [How I deal with my professional social media FOMO](https://arikhanson.com/how-i-deal-with-my-professional-social-media-fomo/) - On The Gram, I follow a fellow solo consultant named Katie Miller. Katie's a relatively new solo--been at it a couple years now. From all accounts, she's doing quite well. But, what really strikes me about Katie is her ability to work from anywhere in the world. And when I say "anywhere in the world"
- [Why do social media marketers continue to invest in organic reach?](https://arikhanson.com/why-do-social-media-marketers-continue-to-invest-in-organic-reach/) - Organic reach. Aren't we all tired of talking about this yet? I know I sure am. But, it continues to be a topic of discussion--mostly because not every brand has the budget of Walmart and can continue to sink hundreds of thousands of dollars each year into social media advertising. But, I still can't help
- [How did I get to be the grown-up in the room?](https://arikhanson.com/how-did-i-get-to-be-the-grown-up-in-the-room/) - I had a bit of an epiphany recently. I'm the grown up in the room now. I know, sounds stupid, right? After all, I'm 46 years old and have been working in this business now for 20+ years. But, a few instances lately really made this realization pop. For example, I'm going to be teaching
- [8 social media trends to watch for the rest of 2019](https://arikhanson.com/8-social-media-trends-to-watch-for-the-rest-of-2019/) - Yesterday, I presented at what is becoming an annual event for Minnesota PRSA--it's digital storytelling workshop. It was chock full of insights from some of the smartest people in our industry--from Scott Severson at Brandpoint to Bridget Jewell at Periscope to Erin MacMillian with General Mills. My topic: Social media trends. Specifically, I talked about
- [How Target uses branded gifs to bolster community engagement on Twitter](https://arikhanson.com/how-target-uses-branded-gifs-to-bolster-community-engagement-on-twitter/) - If you've worked in the social media marketing world for more than five minutes, you know how most brands treat "engagement" on Twitter. I'll simplify: When it comes to engagement, Twitter has become a full-on customer service channel managed by the customer service team. Just take a peek at Macy's account: Pretty typical for a
- [State of social media teams: Small, under-resourced with a growing list of responsibilities](https://arikhanson.com/state-of-social-media-teams-small-under-resourced-with-a-growing-list-of-responsibilities/) - One question I've consistently heard from companies re: social media marketing over the last 10 years of consulting has simply been: What are other companies doing with their social media teams? Implied in that comment are the following sub-questions: Where do these social media teams sit in the organization? Who do they report up through?
- [Customer experience matters--except when it doesn't (which is a lot of the time)](https://arikhanson.com/customer-experience-matters-except-when-it-doesnt-which-is-a-lot-of-the-time/) - Last week I brought my son to the orthodontist for his regular check-in. We had an 8 a.m. appointment. Great--early in the day, I thought. They'll surely be on time. In the past, this particular ortho has decidedly NOT been on time. Like never. I once waited an hour with my son to get in.
- [8 lessons from 10 years of blogging](https://arikhanson.com/8-lessons-from-10-years-of-blogging/) - Last December, I celebrated my tenth year of blogging. Whoops, I guess I forgot to pop that bottle of champagne! I'm usually a sentimental guy, but apparently when it comes to my blog I lost that capacity. At any rate, I got around to reflecting on 10 years of blogging recently. I've written more than
- [Experience still matters in digital marketing (no matter what the 'pundits' say)](https://arikhanson.com/experience-still-matters-in-digital-marketing-no-matter-what-the-pundits-say/) - Last week, a post by long-time blogger and consultant, Mark Schaefer, ruffled a few feathers--and for good reason. Generally, the post was about how MORE experience could actually HURT you in the marketing profession. It started with a quote from Olga Adrienko, head of global marketing for SEMRush: “In our field of marketing, experience is
- [Finally, the PR industry takes a stand on unpaid internships](https://arikhanson.com/finally-the-pr-industry-takes-a-stand-on-unpaid-internships/) - Last week, the PR Council, an association representing 110 top U.S. public relations firms, announced a new policy for its member firms: Pay your interns! My initial response? What took so damn long! Full disclosure: I had two unpaid internships in 1995 and 1996. It was not pleasant. This has been a lightning rod issue
- [Less "let's go viral" and more "let's build community"](https://arikhanson.com/less-lets-go-viral-and-more-lets-build-community/) - Last week, Hootsuite's Ryan Holmes wrote an outstanding piece about how the rules of social media marketing have changed. Namely, how we've gone from "Town Square" to "Family room" (read the full post for his explanation). While Holmes talked about how we're in the midst of transitioning to a post-social-media landscape, I envision another stark
- [What grade would you give the MIAC in handling the St. Thomas fiasco?](https://arikhanson.com/what-grade-would-you-give-the-miac-in-handling-the-st-thomas-fiasco/) - Yesterday, the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (MIAC) issued a four-sentence press release that officially booted the University of St. Thomas out of the conference. And just like that a founding member of the conference was history. Communicated with a 94-word press release. And no further comment from anyone at any of the other MIAC universities.
- [The Facebook truth for brands: It's not going away anytime soon (but it IS worth re-evaluating your presence there)](https://arikhanson.com/the-facebook-truth-for-brands-its-not-going-away-anytime-soon-but-it-is-worth-re-evaluating-your-presence-there/) - I'm not breaking news by saying Facebook hasn't had the best year. Privacy concerns. A slew of negative PR hits. And, rumors that more people are leaving Facebook every day. As a result, many pundits in our industry are predicting the end of Facebook--some (former founders) are even calling for it to be broken apart!
- [Why are more people going the solo consultant route?](https://arikhanson.com/why-are-more-people-going-the-solo-consultant-route/) - According to a recent Freshbooks survey, I say it's all about control. That was the number-one factor among those who have chosen to go the solo route. In this sense, "control" meant a few different things: Mostly, it meant WHEN you work. Not surprising, as we see countless companies continue (stupidly) to chain workers to
- [#StarbucksCup on #GoT: What to do when a PR lottery ticket falls in your lap](https://arikhanson.com/starbuckscup-on-got-what-to-do-when-a-pr-lottery-ticket-falls-in-your-lap/) - ICYMI, a (supposed) Starbucks coffee cup was caught on-screen at Winterfell in episode 4, season 8 of Game of Thrones last Sunday. Predictably, Twitter went berserk. Of course, it took Starbucks less than 24 hours to respond with a smart and uber-relevant tweet: A day later, and people were saying Starbucks already had received 2.3
- [Looks like our over-reliance on social media tools and technology will continue (and that's not a good thing)](https://arikhanson.com/looks-like-our-over-reliance-on-social-media-tools-and-technology-will-continue-and-thats-not-a-good-thing/) - Technology is accelerating at a pace so fast, few can keep up. In our day-to-day lives, technology has completely changed how we communicate, how we capture photos and video and how we consume media. On the marketing/comms side, it's no different. Technology has completely changed the way to perform many day-to-day tasks at work. Measuring
- [What does the PESO model look like in five years? 3 key takeaways from the recent USC Annenberg Center for PR Study](https://arikhanson.com/what-does-the-peso-model-look-like-in-five-years-3-key-takeaways-from-the-recent-usc-annenberg-center-for-pr-study/) - PESO. In case you haven't heard, that's Paid-Earned-Shared-Owned. It's the acronym that has come to define our generation of marketing and communications. But, it's also a model in constant flux. Ask today's CEO what the PESO model looks like in five years, and here's what they will say (according to the USC-Annenberg Center for Public
- [How I research influencers *without* using influencer management tools](https://arikhanson.com/how-i-research-influencers-without-using-influencer-management-tools/) - Talk to anyone about influencer marketing for more than five minutes and inevitably the topic comes up: How do you find and research your influencers? It's a good question. Researching and identifying the right influencers to work with might be THE key to success in influencer marketing. And, if you listen to many in the
- [4 questions to ask yourself before you make the jump to being a solo consultant](https://arikhanson.com/4-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-you-make-the-jump-to-being-a-solo-consultant/) - Over the last year or so, it seems like the number of emails I get from people wanting to talk about making the jump to going solo has increased. Maybe it's just me, but it feels like more people are making this transition--or, at the very least, giving it a try. I'll talk with just
- [Social media personal branding advice for the class of 2019](https://arikhanson.com/social-media-personal-branding-advice-for-the-class-of-2019/) - Over the last week, I've spoke to two college classes about one hot topic: Personal branding. More specifically, how college seniors about to enter the workforce can build, nurture and sustain an effective personal brand online (photo credit below: Mark Jenson, professor, Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Minnesota). It's
- [5 free social media marketing ideas for the winner of the Star Tribune's Beer Bracket--Castle Danger Brewing](https://arikhanson.com/5-free-social-media-marketing-ideas-for-the-winner-of-the-star-tribunes-beer-bracket-castle-danger-brewing/) - A few years ago (I think), the Minneapolis Star Tribune unveiled its first-ever "Beer Bracket" as a way to play off March Madness. Not all that inventive, but fun considering the craft beer boon here in Minnesota the last 5-10 years. For the last two years, the winner of that Beer Bracket has been Two
- [Is KFC's virtual influencer Colonel Sanders the start of a new (weird) trend?](https://arikhanson.com/is-kfcs-virtual-influencer-colonel-sanders-the-start-of-a-new-weird-trend/) - In case you missed it, KFC launched its own virtual influencer last week--a virtual Colonel Sanders--on Instagram. It's the brainchild of Weiden + Kennedy and the KFC folks and it seems to have a lot of people talking--including many on Twitter talking about how "hot" the virtual Sanders is! On one hand, this is a
- [Still think unbranded content doesn't work? Don't tell Budweiser.](https://arikhanson.com/still-think-unbranded-content-doesnt-work-budweiser-would-disagree/) - By now (especially if you're a basketball fan), you've seen the Dwyane Wade video Budweiser produced. It has been shared everywhere over the last few days--timing up with Wade's retirement from the NBA. And, it's eliciting all the feels from fans and non-fans. It's an impressive idea and piece of social content from Budweiser, no
- [Why the Big 4 entering the marketing world is great news for solos](https://arikhanson.com/why-the-big-4-entering-the-marketing-world-is-great-news-for-solos/) - In case you missed it, Accenture made big news last week by acquiring an independent NY-based agency named Droga5. This is big news, of course, because Accenture (and the Big Four in general) seem to be making a big-time play at ad and marketing dollars. This seems to have been a growing trend for the
- [Is the PR industry missing the boat with influencer marketing?](https://arikhanson.com/is-the-pr-industry-missing-the-boat-with-influencer-marketing/) - For years, the PR industry had an intense love affair with "influencers." Or, I should probably use a more accurate term: bloggers. Go back to the early 2010s and that was the name of the influencer game: Engaging and working with bloggers. All kinds, really. Mom bloggers ruled the roost. But other types of bloggers
- [The best influencer marketing case study you'll never hear about](https://arikhanson.com/the-best-influencer-marketing-case-study-youll-never-hear-about/) - You've read influencer marketing case studies. But believe me when I tell you, you've never seen an influencer marketing case study like the one I'm about to share with you (unless, of course, you're a loyal listener of the Power Trip Morning Show on KFAN, in which case you'll know everything by now). This story
- [15 Up-and-Coming PR and Social Media Marketers to Watch](https://arikhanson.com/15-up-and-coming-pr-and-social-media-marketers-to-watch/) - Last week, I shared my news that I'll be teaching social media at the University of St. Thomas. A big part of the reason I pursued this adjunct professor role was the opportunity to shape young minds. But, the truth is, young minds are kicking ass! And, they have been for a while now. I
- [The ever-evolving nature of the PR/social media corporate reporting structure](https://arikhanson.com/the-ever-evolving-nature-of-the-pr-social-media-corporate-reporting-structure/) - "Who do you report up through?" It's a question that's been popping up a lot more lately--in conversations over coffee, in meetings and online. And, apparently, for good reason. According to one recent survey, in-house comms teams report up through at least EIGHT different departments, including--GULP--legal! (I don't want to know the story behind that
- [Teaching at the University of St. Thomas: A (mini) dream come true](https://arikhanson.com/teaching-at-the-university-of-st-thomas-a-mini-dream-come-true/) - The year was 2012. A good friend, Shelli Lissick, had recommended my name to Dr. Tom Grier, a professor at my alma mater, Winona State University. After chatting with Dr. Grier over the phone, I made the trip to Winona to speak to his class for the first of what would be many times over
- [Don't overlook the lurkers](https://arikhanson.com/dont-overlook-the-lurkers/) - Remember back to the early days of social media when we put customers/fans/people in convenient persona buckets? Typically, these were titles like: commenters, influeners, creators, sharers, engagers, and lurkers. Ever since, most companies have been focused on those engagers, creators and influencers. And, maybe for good reason. I saw one recent stat that claimed 22%
- [PR Rock Stars: Medtronic's Greg Zimprich](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-medtronics-greg-zimprich/) - Coming up in the PR and comms world in the Twin Cities, Greg Zimprich was always one of those names I saw often. Probably partly because, at the time, he had a killer job managing brand PR for General Mills. And partly because, well, he's a rock star! But, over the course of many years,
- [Is the press release still relevant in 2019?](https://arikhanson.com/is-the-press-release-still-relevant-in-2019/) - Last week, a friend sent me a Facebook DM: "Should we still be using press releases?" Simple question, but one that's full of history and heated debated on both sides of the coin. But, in 2019, I think it's a question worth seriously considering. Do you really still need to be using press releases as
- [I'm still confused why so many brands continue to use gated content](https://arikhanson.com/im-still-confused-on-why-so-many-brands-continue-to-use-gated-content/) - One approach companies have long struggled with since the dawn of social media marketing is the simple concept of giving content, information and data away--for free. I see this in our own profession all the time. You have some agencies, like Top Rank Marketing, for example, who clearly believe in the power of giving
- [How to "manage up": 5 tips I've learned over 20+ years](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-manage-up-4-tips-ive-learned-over-20-years/) - If there's one thing I learned from my years on the corporate side (and in my years since working with larger corporate clients) it's this: Managing up is everything. I've seen many people who are/were talented strategists and writers passed up for promotions because they didn't understand how to "manage up." Heck, I've been one
- [How to develop a process for onboarding and managing influencers](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-develop-a-process-for-onboarding-and-managing-influencers/) - When it comes to influencer marketing, a lot of the content I've read over the last year or so has focused on one of two areas: How to SELECT influencers that are right for your brand; and how to MEASURE success once you've engaged these influencers. Very little has been written about the PROCESS of
- [Is it OK to not always find a deeper meaning in your work?](https://arikhanson.com/is-it-ok-to-not-always-find-a-deeper-meaning-in-your-work/) - Had coffee with a relatively new friend last week. This friend had recently accepted a senior position with a health care company in town. Not surprisingly, we talked about her new role and the process she went through to find it. She talked a lot about her focus on finding a position that would allow
- [Introducing sponsorship opportunities for the Talking Points e-newsletter](https://arikhanson.com/introducing-sponsorship-opportunities-for-the-talking-points-e-newsletter/) - Eight years ago, I started an e-newsletter called "The HAPPO Report." For those who have known me for a few years, I co-founded an "organization" named HAPPO years ago--Help a PR PR Out. This e-newsletter was an outgrowth of that organization. One year later, I decided to shift the focus of the newsletter to my
- [Just imagine how we'll market to today's tweens when they're 20-somethings](https://arikhanson.com/just-imagine-how-well-market-to-todays-tweens-when-theyre-20-somethings/) - A couple weeks ago, I attended my nephew's fourth birthday party. At that party were seven kids (including mine) under the age of 14--Gen Z, according to the experts. Of course, we parents all had our phones out documenting many moments of this party. But, later that day, I couldn't help but think about the
- [Why Starbucks isn't "taking a stand" behind Howard Schulze's run to the White House](https://arikhanson.com/why-starbucks-isnt-taking-a-stand-behind-howard-schulzes-run-to-the-white-house/) - In case you missed it, former Starbucks CEO, Howard Schulze is mulling over a bid to become the 46th president of the United States. And, currently, that's causing some problems for the company he ran for many years. Baristas are boycotting and threatening to walk out. Social media pushback has been rampant. It all forced
- [What I learned from Buffer's 2019 State of Social Report](https://arikhanson.com/what-i-learned-from-buffers-2019-state-of-social-report/) - In case you missed it, Buffer came out with a fantastic "State of Social" report in January. I say fantastic, because Buffer has been a first-rate publisher of insights and opinions on its blog for years. I dare say Buffer may be the best tool, platform or social media company blogging today (I also love
- [The real cautionary tale of the Fyre Festival](https://arikhanson.com/the-real-cautionary-tale-of-the-fyre-festival-1-31/) - Earlier this week, I joined a large percentage of Netflix subscribers and watched the Fyre Festival documentary on the popular streaming service. My immediate reaction: Shock and horror that Ja Rule is allowed to be in charge of anything, let along a major music festival! In all seriousness, the doc was a bit shocking. But,
- [Is 2019 the year brands move away from engagement as a KPI?](https://arikhanson.com/is-2019-the-year-brands-move-away-from-engagement-as-a-kpi/) - Before you spit up your coffee, hear me out. Because I think there's a trend in the making here. My thinking is based on three mini-trends and observations over the last six months: Brand increasingly aren't even interested in true engagement Over the last year, I've done a number of audits for different clients. One
- [Will the next article you read on Forbes be written by a robot?](https://arikhanson.com/will-the-next-article-you-read-on-forbes-be-written-by-a-robot/) - If things keep progressing the way they are now, the answer to my question in the headline is most certainly "yes!" Why do I have such confidence? Last summer, Forbes started using a new CMS, dubbed "Bertie." This new AI-driven tool recommends article topics for Forbes massive contributor network based on their previous articles. It also serves up
- [Yet another challenge for the modern day newspaper](https://arikhanson.com/yet-another-challenge-for-the-modern-day-newspaper/) - I've been a long-time subscriber of the Star Tribune. My parents have been long-time subscribers of the St. Paul Pioneer Press. I grew up reading newspapers. I will probably (hopefully) grow old reading them. I say hopefully because, as we all know, the newspaper industry is in trouble. Not "they might not survive the year"-type
- [Will fake #sponcon be the end of influencer marketing?](https://arikhanson.com/will-fake-sponcon-be-the-end-of-influencer-marketing/) - A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon a very interesting article in the Atlantic titled "Rising Instagram Stars are Posting Fake Sponsored Content." The idea: Wannabe influencers are now posting fake sponsored content in hopes brands will see it and approach them about long-term partnership deals. Yep, it's for real. And yep, it's happening. And
- [Will 2019 (finally) the year of the Social CEO?](https://arikhanson.com/will-2019-finally-the-year-of-the-social-ceo/) - We've been talking about the concept of the "social CEO" for years now. In fact, I remember Richard Branson being on Twitter in 2007! But, the notion of the social CEO has really never taken off. Sure, there are a number of CEOs who are somewhat active on social media channels (Spencer Raskoff-Zillow, John Legere-T-Mobile
- [Introducing: Talking Points Podcast Sponsorships](https://arikhanson.com/introducing-talking-points-podcast-sponsorships/) - Four years ago, my friend Kevin Hunt (General Mills) and I had a crazy idea: Why don't we start a podcast focused on social media and communications? Actually, not so crazy, right? The market is full of podcasts covering these topics. BUT, there are very few (any?) based in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area. And, there
- [16 people I'd love to have coffee with in 2019](https://arikhanson.com/16-people-id-love-to-have-coffee-with-in-2019/) - If you feel like you've read this post before, it's because you have. Kinda. This "coffee" post has become a bit of an annual tradition. And, truthfully, it's more of a way to hold myself accountable than anything else. And, before we go any further, I should hold myself accountable for my 2018 list. Here's
- [What building a "personal brand" means in 2019](https://arikhanson.com/what-building-a-personal-brand-means-in-2019/) - I've never really liked the term "personal brand." Just something about it. Seems cheesy. Seems inauthentic. Seems contrived. But nevertheless, there it is: personal brand. No matter what I think of the term itself, the CONCEPT of a personal brand is a very important one. In fact, I might argue one's "personal brand" has never
- [58 people I'm thankful I had coffee with in 2018](https://arikhanson.com/58-people-im-thankful-i-had-coffee-with-in-2018/) - Over the course of any year, I have coffee with a lot of people. I do it for a lot of reasons. 1) To get out of the house! Being a solo can get lonely! 2) To cultivate new business connections, 3) To meet new people to feature on this blog, or on the Talking
- [The widening generation gap--and what it means for communicators](https://arikhanson.com/the-widening-generation-gap-and-what-it-means-for-communicators/) - Two generations. Living very different lives. One generation still watches the evening news. They read the newspaper. They trust and admire the media. They go to sporting events. They may even visit the library! (remember those?!?!). This generation also uses its cell phones to call people voice-to-voice. They may even leave a voice mail from
- [There are no shortcuts in influencer marketing](https://arikhanson.com/there-are-no-shortcuts-in-influencer-marketing/) - Over the last year, influencer marketing has been one of the most talked about digital tactics in all of marketing. We've seen scores of articles about best practices, tips and case studies. And, in many of those articles, brands and agencies make it look easy. These articles talk about tools the author/brand/agency use to identify
- ["Never stop looking" -- Follow these 4 strategies and you'll always have a job](https://arikhanson.com/never-stop-looking-follow-these-4-strategies-and-youll-always-have-a-job/) - For the first 15 years of my professional life, when I was working as a full-time employee, I had a mantra: "Always be looking." Quite simply, I was always looking for a better or different job. Now, that didn't mean I didn't like my current employer (I did, in some cases). It didn't mean I
- [Three lessons corporate bloggers can takeaway from Orbit's recent blogger research](https://arikhanson.com/three-lessons-corporate-bloggers-can-takeaway-from-orbits-recent-blogger-research/) - Each year, something called "Orbit" (don't worry, I had to look it up, too) publishes a survey of 1,000+ bloggers on best practices in the industry. I now pay attention to this survey if for no other reason than there just aren't that many surveys of bloggers like this around anymore in 2018 (which, actually,
- [Why I'm NOT buying the employee advocacy hype machine (at least, not yet)](https://arikhanson.com/why-im-not-buying-the-employee-advocacy-hype-machine-at-least-not-yet/) - Do you ever get the sense this whole Employee Social Advocacy concept is being shoved down our throats by a number of "thought leaders" and software vendors who have everything to gain by advancing this agenda? OK, so that was a leading question. But, it's just one of several reasons I haven't bought into the
- [Have non-profits given up on social media marketing to fundraise during Give to the Max Day?](https://arikhanson.com/have-non-profits-given-up-on-social-media-marketing-to-fundraise-during-give-to-the-max-day/) - Sure seems like it. My original idea for this post was to feature 4-5 non-profits that executed exceedingly creative social media marketing campaigns during Give to the Max Day. This should be easy to find, right? After all, non-profits don't have huge teams or budgets, so they need to be scrappy. Creative. And, boot-strappy. Although
- [5 new business ideas I've been considering - what do you think?](https://arikhanson.com/5-new-business-ideas-ive-been-considering-what-do-you-think-11-16/) - Like many of you, this is the time of year when I start planning for the year ahead. Part of that involved thinking about new ideas. New ideas for how I can drum up new business. New ideas for how I can be an active member of our local digital/comms community. And new ideas for
- [PR Rock Stars: Blue Cross Blue Shield's Sara Mulder](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-blue-cross-blue-shields-sara-mulder/) - I first met Sara Mulder at a client meeting. Turns out, we shared a client (Sleep Number). At times, meeting the bigger agency folks who work with clients can be a little stand-off-ish--with competitiveness and all. But, I didn't sense that at all with Sara. And, I came to discover quite the opposite. Sara was
- [Do you respond to every request on LinkedIn?](https://arikhanson.com/do-you-respond-to-every-request-on-linkedin/) - Last week, Edelman exec, David Armano made an interesting post on LinkedIn. His question: Do you respond to everyone who reaches out to you professionally for help? It's a great question and one I've struggled with as long as I've been a solo (nine years and counting now!). Apparently, I'm not alone as Armano was
- [The real reason brands are still posting 30X a month on Facebook](https://arikhanson.com/the-real-reason-brands-are-still-posting-30x-a-month-on-facebook/) - Two years ago I wrote this post. The theory: Brands no longer need to post 20 times a week to drive results in social media marketing. Back in 2016, this was actually a somewhat progressive concept. A few brands were leading the way (Target, at the time, was the example I liked to use), but
- [Four social media channels most communicators overlook](https://arikhanson.com/four-social-media-channels-most-communicators-overlook/) - Facebook. Instagram. Twitter. LinkedIn. These are the "Big Four" of the social media marketing world. And, they encompass about 90% of all social media marketing for most companies. In fact, according to a recent UMass-Dartmouth study, 91% of Fortune 500 level companies use Twitter, 89% use Facebook, 63% use Instagram and 98% use LinkedIn. However,
- [What A Star is Born can teach us about creating great social media video content](https://arikhanson.com/what-a-star-is-born-can-teach-us-about-creating-great-social-media-video-content/) - I know everyone is sick to death of blog posts titled this way. Really, I am aware. However, I just couldn't think of a better way to title this post--and I really just wanted to write about this movie today. Because this was the best movie I've seen all year. Might have been the best
- [7 takeaways from Scott Belksy's MIMA Summit keynote](https://arikhanson.com/7-takeaways-from-scott-belksys-mima-summit-keynote/) - I'm a sucker for a good keynote presentation. Lucky for me, the MIMA Summit seems to hit home run after home run when it comes to keynotes. This year was no different. Unfortunately, I missed the morning keynote, otherwise I'm sure I'd be blogging about Cindy Gallop this morning. But, I did make the afternoon
- [What social media trends do you see in 2019?](https://arikhanson.com/what-social-media-trends-do-you-see-in-2019/) - It's that time of year--yes, trend season is underway, my social media friends! You're likely to see no fewer than 2.1 million trend posts between now and Dec. 31. ENJOY! Most of these trend posts, mind you, will be complete and utter garbage. In fact, many of them are literally cut-and-pasted from last year's trend
- [Will 3D photos really become "a thing" for social media marketers in 2019?](https://arikhanson.com/will-3d-photos-really-become-a-thing-for-social-media-marketers-in-2019/) - Last week, for the first time, I saw a 3D photo in my Facebook feed. It was from friend and Fallon employee, Greg Swan--a pic of his dog. It was a little jarring as the pic moved just a bit as I scrolled by it. Users and brands will all soon be able to take
- [Corporate blogging up among Fortune 500, but broadcast mentality prevails](https://arikhanson.com/corporate-blogging-up-among-fortune-500-but-broadcast-mentality-prevails/) - The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth Center for Marketing Research recently released its annual report showcasing how many Fortune 500 companies are using social media channels. It's a report I review every year--partly because my clients are mostly all big companies and partly because my podcast partner, Kevin Hunt, always flags it for me! The report
- [The social media career path...or lack thereof](https://arikhanson.com/the-social-media-career-path-or-lack-thereof/) - Consider the following scenario: You take a job out of college as a coordinator at a big agency. You develop a feel and love for social media marketing, and move up into a AE role and then a Senior AE role. You then find a job on the corporate side as a social media manager.
- [Trend: Shift to "dark social" will impact your marketing plans in 2019](https://arikhanson.com/trend-shift-to-dark-social-will-impact-your-marketing-plans-in-2019/) - We've been hearing about this whole "dark social" trend for quite a while now. After all, the concept of texting and private messaging isn't exactly new. But, recent statistics and trend lines have me thinking 2019 may be the year we start to see "dark social" truly start to impact social media marketing plans. For
- [Work-from-home lifestyle can come at a big cost](https://arikhanson.com/work-from-home-lifestyle-can-come-at-a-big-cost/) - I've been an independent consultant now for nine years. And during those nine years the most common refrain I hear from friends and colleagues is: "Must be nice to work from home." During those winter snowstorms when most are stuck in three-hour commutes home? Yep, sure is. During those warm Minnesota summer Fridays when I
- [Why professional trade organizations need a complete revamp--and five ideas on how to do it](https://arikhanson.com/why-professional-trade-organizations-need-a-complete-revamp-and-five-ideas-on-how-to-do-it/) - Professional trade associations are under fire. In fact, they have been for some time. Organizations like IABC, PRSA and AdFed are struggling to find their place in this new, highly competitive world of professional development and networking. The common challenges? "We need more members." "We need to engage more senior members." "We need to be
- [Why Instagram is the new social media "home base" for brands](https://arikhanson.com/why-instagram-is-the-new-social-media-home-base-for-brands/) - For as long as "social media marketing" has been around, Facebook has held the title of most brands' social media home base. That is, Facebook is the place where they spend the most time, resources and money. But, that tide is definitely turning. First, just look at Instagram's recent numbers. Instagram just surpassed 1 billion
- [Can brands really be friends with customers on social media?](https://arikhanson.com/can-brands-really-be-friends-with-customers-on-social-media/) - Last week, I ran across this interesting article in the Atlantic. TLDR: Brands and customers can't really be "friends" on social media. Do you think that's true? This particular author told stories of a number of specific examples he's been involved with, or heard of, in the last year. Randomly, his personal anecdote was a story
- [5 numbers from Nike's recent "Dream Crazy" campaign that confirm its smashing success](https://arikhanson.com/5-numbers-from-nikes-recent-dream-crazy-campaign-that-confirm-its-smashing-success/) - In case you've been on a desert island somewhere for the last week, you've undoubtedly heard about Nike's "Dream Crazy" campaign featuring new front-man Colin Kaepernick. Believe in something, even if it means sacrificing everything. #JustDoIt pic.twitter.com/SRWkMIDdaO — Colin Kaepernick (@Kaepernick7) September 3, 2018 Since the launch of that campaign, there's been a non-stop
- [Instagram pods indicative of 10-year social media trend](https://arikhanson.com/instagram-pods-indicative-of-10-year-social-media-trend/) - Like my friend Sarah Ziehr said on Facebook, if there was an "eye roll" emoji, I would have used it when I saw this post on Hubspot's blog last week. Not so much because "Instagram pods" are an actual thing and they are (arguably) an effective tool used by influencers. But instead, because I've seen
- [The new era of transparency is a huge opportunity for PR](https://arikhanson.com/the-new-era-of-transparency-is-a-huge-opportunity-for-pr/) - "Transparency" has been a buzzword of sorts the last year. It's popping up in the news more. It's a focal point for social platforms right now. And, most importantly, it's top of mind with consumers. That came out in spades in a recent Sprout Social report which found that millennials ranked brands--not politicians, surprisingly--as the number one
- [The transition from media to PR: Four former journalists talk about the surprises, struggles and wins](https://arikhanson.com/the-transition-from-media-to-pr-four-former-journalists-talk-about-the-surprises-struggles-and-wins/) - Since the beginning of the year, I've noticed a distinct trend: more former media folks making the transition to the PR/social side. I know, I know, I'm not breaking news here. Newsrooms are more lean than ever before. Newspapers are cutting staff. In many ways, the media isn't the best place to work right now.
- [What's on my desk - the PR/Social media version](https://arikhanson.com/whats-on-my-desk-the-pr-social-media-version/) - A couple weeks ago I ran across a feature in Twin Cities Business dubbed "What's on my desk." My curiousity was piqued when they profiled local agency owner, Alexis Walsko (um, she got to hand out with Richard Branson on Necker Island for a weekend!) And, then in the following weeks, Jason DeRusha's desk! Now, this
- [Trend: Behavior change--not "peak social media"--is what communicators should focus on](https://arikhanson.com/trend-behavior-change-not-peak-social-media-is-what-communicators-should-focus-on/) - Over the last few months, the following has occurred: Snapchat announced a drop in users for the first time ever. Facebook is reporting flat growth, and certain reports say page engagement is down by as much as 50 percent. Twitter reported a small decline in monthly active users. Some are saying, as this CNBC report
- [PR Rock Stars: Best Buy's Bianca Jones](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-best-buys-bianca-jones/) - One of the big drawbacks of working as an independent consultant is that you're completely disconnected from the workplace and working with other people. And, for me, since many of my clients are more on the senior side, I feel even more disconnected from younger people. Bottom line: I rarely get a chance to work
- [Why modern-day unicorn marketer's just don't exist](https://arikhanson.com/why-modern-day-unicorn-marketers-just-dont-exist/) - A few weeks ago, I ran across this visual in my LinkedIn feed from a fella named Larry Kim, CEO of Mobile Monkey: The notion of the "unicorn" marketer is nothing new. It's a concept that's been discussed for years now. All companies want one, and most have a very hard time finding them. I'm
- [Ageism in hiring: The real trend in PR and social media marketing that no one wants to talk about](https://arikhanson.com/ageism-in-hiring-the-real-trend-in-pr-and-social-media-marketing-that-no-one-wants-to-talk-about/) - In a couple short weeks I will be closer to 50 than I am to 40. That's a sobering fact. No, 50 isn't that old. But, it's definitely a milestone and once you're past 50, you're closer to death than you are to your birth (now THAT'S a sobering fact!). Since I'm in that mid-40s
- [Ranking 11 new LinkedIn features from 2018 (so far)--and what they mean for job seekers](https://arikhanson.com/ranking-11-new-linkedin-features-from-2018-so-far-and-what-they-mean-for-job-seekers/) - We all know Facebook, Instagram and Twitter are constantly tweaking their platforms. It seems not a week can go by without one of those social media networks changing SOMETHING in the user experience. But, one social platform seems to fly under the radar a bit when it comes to this conversation: LinkedIn. And it definitely
- [The biggest frustration (by far) of being an independent consultant](https://arikhanson.com/the-biggest-frustration-by-far-of-being-an-independent-consultant/) - Usually, you'll find a mix of content on this blog that's either helpful or interesting--at least that's always my goal. Today, you're going to hear a rant. Because I've had enough. I need to vent. I need to share my experience and hear others who have had similar experience (please, in the comments, if you
- [Trend: The over-investment in social media tools and technology](https://arikhanson.com/trend-the-over-investment-in-social-media-tools-and-technology/) - I've seen a number of articles recently that have focused on a growing--and increasingly troublesome--trend in our industry: Our complete over-reliance on tools and technology. In a recent guest post on Mark Schaefer's blog, the author tried to make the case for why more marketers should be budgeting for social analytics software. I would violently
- [How paywalls are killing social media sharing of PR placements](https://arikhanson.com/how-paywalls-are-killing-social-media-sharing-of-pr-placements/) - Let me know if the following situation sounds familiar: Your PR team works for months on end to secure a fantastic media placement with The New York Times. The story runs in the New York Times! Your employees are ecstatic and proud. You make it available to them in your employee advocacy tool. Employees are
- [Social Media Rock Stars: Toro's Christian Plewacki](https://arikhanson.com/social-media-rock-stars-toros-christian-plewacki/) - I usually have a rule for folks I profile in this series: I must have met them in person. Simple rule. And I've followed it to the letter of the law. Until today. I've "known" Christian Plewacki for years. That is, I've followed him on a combination of Twitter and LinkedIn. And, I've always respected
- [Why haven't there been more small PR and social firms founded in the last 10 years?](https://arikhanson.com/why-havent-there-been-more-small-pr-and-social-firms-founded-in-the-last-10-years/) - I was all set to write a post I was going to title "The PR agency family tree." I was modeling it after a great article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune last weekend featuring the Minneapolis advertising agency family tree. But, as I started to research this "family tree" I started to see a trend.
- [Why don't companies invest in training their PR and social employees?](https://arikhanson.com/why-dont-companies-invest-in-training-their-pr-and-social-employees/) - Last week, Jeremy Wheaton wrote an interesting piece on just how far we've fallen when it comes to companies and training employees to fill the increasingly large skills gap. The article talks about the issue from a 10,000-foot level, looking at the economy across industries. However, today, I'd like to talk about a topic specific
- [The Twin Cities' social media power brokers](https://arikhanson.com/the-twin-cities-social-media-power-brokers/) - I've long been a fan of list posts. No so much in consuming or reading them--I'm more about creating them. But, unlike many others in our industry, I really just like to have fun with them. I've written about this mindset before (way back). Today, I wanted to take a stab at sharing a list of
- [What will IGTV's role be in your social media mix?](https://arikhanson.com/what-will-igtvs-role-be-in-your-social-media-mix/) - By now you've heard of Instagram's latest update: IGTV. Instagram made the announcement a couple weeks ago, and since then it's been a very hot topic of conversation among marketers, communicators and social media creators and influencers. However, the big question on marketer's minds is this: How does IGTV fit into my already busy social
- [When we celebrate PR/social media success why do we always zero in on impressions?](https://arikhanson.com/when-we-celebrate-pr-social-media-success-why-do-we-always-zero-in-on-impressions/) - There's a huge dichotomy going on in the PR/social industry that's been bothering me for a while now and I just want to talk about this for a minute today. The topic: Using impressions as the key success metric when we celebrate case study wins. We see it all the time. In fact, I just
- [PR Rock Stars: Minnesota Timberwolves' and Lynx's Kirsten Wenker](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-minnesota-timberwolves-and-lynxs-kirsten-wenker/) - Working for an amateur or professional sports team has always been a dream of mine. The University of Kansas athletic department, for example. Or, closer to home, perhaps the Minnesota Timberwolves and Lynx. This is what led me, in some ways, to interview our Rock Star today: Kirsten Wenker. I've gotten to know Kirsten a
- [What's the best fit for you: Manager or individual contributor?](https://arikhanson.com/whats-the-best-fit-for-you-manager-or-individual-contributor/) - Graduate college. Get a job as an intern at a big agency in Minneapolis. Rock the internship, volunteer for additional projects and get hired full-time as an assistant AE. Get promoted to AE within a year. Get promoted to account supervisor within two years. Get promoted again to account director in another two years. Start
- [Is there still a place for PR wire services in the 2018 communicator's toolbox?](https://arikhanson.com/is-there-still-a-place-for-pr-wire-services-in-the-2018-communicators-toolbox/) - PR wire services have always been a bit of a mystery to me. I've never been a big user, and I've never been a big advocate. Maybe it's been the kind of work I do (primarily social/digital the last eight-plus years). Maybe it's been the kinds of companies I worked for in the past. Maybe
- [Is LinkedIn doomed to repeat the same mistake Facebook made?](https://arikhanson.com/is-linkedin-doomed-to-repeat-the-same-mistake-facebook-made/) - Last weekend, I read an interesting article by Jennifer Van Grove, columnist for the San Diego Union (her original article was picked up by the Star Tribune). In particular, this quote struck a chord with me: "Facebook has a friends and family problem, meaning the tight-knit social fabric that drew us in — important or
- [Why does the marketing/communications job search process have to suck so badly?](https://arikhanson.com/why-does-the-marketing-communications-job-search-process-have-to-suck-so-badly/) - I've been asking myself that exact question for the last 20-plus years. And, apparently, I'm not the only one. I posed this question on LinkedIn last week and saw a tsunami of comments from friends and colleagues who have had HORRIBLE experiences in the not-so-distant past. To be clear, I'm not currently looking for a
- [Why Instagram is all about Stories right now -- and why that's a big challenge for brands](https://arikhanson.com/why-instagram-is-all-about-stories-right-now-and-why-thats-a-big-challenge-for-brands/) - An interesting shift is going on with the second-most popular social network in the U.S. Instagram is now all about "stories." Consider the stats: By last count, Instagram Stories now has 300 million daily active users. That's more users than Reddit, Twitter, Tumblr and LinkedIn. Stories have also reportedly increased the time users spend on Instagram,
- [Four social media ideas for Entenmann's Chief Donut Officer contest](https://arikhanson.com/four-social-media-ideas-for-entenmanns-chief-donut-officer-contest/) - Did you know that June 1 is NATIONAL DONUT DAY?!?!? Why am I (virtually) screaming? Because I'm a huge donut fan. Goes back at least 30 years for me with my family buying us donuts after church each Sunday. These days, I live in the belly of the donut beast--within a few miles of Baker's
- [3 former PR pros who made mid-career shifts and lived to talk about it](https://arikhanson.com/3-former-pr-pros-who-made-mid-career-shifts-and-lived-to-talk-about-it/) - "I'm done with agency life. It's too many hours, too stressful and I have other things I'd like to do." It's a conversation I've had with more than a few friends and colleagues over the years. You could replace "agency life" with "corporate life" and insert a whole other sub-set of people, too. Truth is:
- [PR Rock Stars: Geosys's Emily Negrin](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-geosyss-emily-negrin/) - I've known Emily Negrin now for probably almost 10 years. And, she's always been one of those people I think would be fun to work with. Why? She's smart. Values networking and ongoing learning. And, genuinely likes to laugh--and doesn't take herself too seriously. That's my kind of co-worker! Who knows, maybe we'll get that
- [Time for communicators to help manage Employer Brand social channels](https://arikhanson.com/time-for-communicators-to-help-manage-employer-brand-social-channels/) - Recently, I've noticed a lot more traction around a term and space I've worked in with a couple clients the last few years: the "Employer Brand." According to Wikipedia, an "Employer brand" is the reputation of an employer, and its value proposition to its employees, as opposed to its more general corporate brand reputation and value proposition to
- [Brands *should* be adopting Reddit--so why aren't they?](https://arikhanson.com/brands-should-be-adopting-reddit-so-why-arent-they/) - That's the million dollar question, isn't it? Especially on the heels of recent news that Reddit's user base now outnumbers Twitter's. In fact, Reddit now has the THIRD MOST users (330 million) of any social platform on the web (behind only Facebook and Instagram). What's more, Reddit has grown a whopping 30 percent in just
- [Why agency experience is so damn valuable](https://arikhanson.com/why-agency-experience-is-so-damn-valuable/) - When I was in my early 20s I heard the question for the first time: "Do you have any agency experience?" At the time, I didn't. But, I quickly realized I had better get some because it was all anyone on the agency OR corporate side was talking about. At least, that's what it seemed
- [The 5 unwritten rules of working from coffee shops](https://arikhanson.com/the-5-unwritten-rules-of-working-from-coffee-shops/) - As an independent consultant for the last eight-plus years, I spend a fair amount of time in coffee shops. I meet people for coffee in coffee shops. I meet clients, occasionally, in coffee shops. And I do a fair amount of work in coffee shops. Before you judge (because I know this is frowned upon
- [Is technology killing employee communications?](https://arikhanson.com/is-technology-killing-employee-communications/) - A recent survey by Dynamic Signal brought some fairly interesting facts to light. Consider the following: Three out of four (75 percent) employees report wasting time to keep up with the constant dings, pings, chats and more Two-thirds of employees (66 percent) report losing between 30 minutes and 1 hour every day from pressure to
- [An inside look at the new Cambria blog with Alyssa Greve](https://arikhanson.com/an-inside-look-at-the-new-cambria-blog-with-alyssa-greve/) - A few weeks ago, I noticed Alyssa Greve, director of content marketing at Cambria, touting a new Cambria blog on LinkedIn. Although corporate storytelling has been under fire a bit lately, I continue to be a strong supporter of such efforts--and this one, in particular, looked interesting. So, I reached out to Alyssa to get
- [Time to defend the term "hustle"](https://arikhanson.com/time-to-defend-the-term-hustle/) - A couple weeks ago, long,-time blogger, Mark Schaefer, got a lot of people going by bringing up a significant lightning-rod topic: the intolerance of the "hustle" culture. In the post, Schaefer talks about "Hustle" proponents and how they tend to look down on people who do not chase their dream or job hop for the
- [Social Media Rock Stars: Collegis Education's Kendall Bird](https://arikhanson.com/social-media-rock-stars-collegis-educations-kendall-bird/) - Higher education advocate. Social media and communications professional. Self-proclaimed data geek. And movie buff. Just a few of the terms I'd use to describe this month's Social Media Rock Star: Kendall Bird. I got to know Kendall a bit during her time at the Mall of America earlier in her career. Since then, I've worked
- [6 career management tips I've learned over the last 20 years](https://arikhanson.com/6-career-management-tips-ive-learned-over-the-last-20-years/) - It seems like career management has been a hot topic lately. In fact, Minnesota AMA hosted a session on this exact topic last week. And, it's a topic I'm particularly passionate and interested in--always have been. When I worked on the corporate side. When I worked on the agency side. And, now, as I work
- [The big problem with influencer outreach--highlighted in one horrible example](https://arikhanson.com/the-big-problem-with-influencer-outreach-highlighted-in-one-horrible-example/) - A couple years ago, I made a decision: I wasn't going to deride brands or people online when it came to social media marketing campaigns. I've done it a bit in the past, and I always felt bad about it. And, bottom line: it wasn't--and isn't--productive. However, with that said, I'm calling one example out
- [Why aren't more brands using Instagram Stories?](https://arikhanson.com/why-arent-more-brands-using-instagram-stories/) - It's a question I've been asking myself more and more lately. Why? Because the stats lay out a pretty compelling case for consideration right now: The coveted millennial audience increasingly spends a lot of time on Instagram Instagram trends younger--59% of those ages 18-29 use the platform and 33% of those 30-49 use it Influencers
- [The C-suite still doesn't understand social media metrics--and here's how we can change that](https://arikhanson.com/the-c-suite-still-doesnt-understand-social-media-metrics-and-heres-how-we-can-change-that/) - A post by Ted Bauer got me thinking lately: "The dirty little secret about our supposed data revolution in organizations is that C-Suiters literally have no idea what they’re looking at most of the time" He's right. But, I'd take it one step further: Not only does the C-suite have no idea what they're looking at
- [H&R Block's Tax Shred Live: Social media stunt or brilliant marketing move?](https://arikhanson.com/hr-blocks-tax-shred-live-social-media-stunt-or-brilliant-marketing-move/) - When you're one of the largest tax consulting/preparation companies in the country, there are certain events that come up year after year that marketers and communicators are challenged with promoting. Like National Shred Day. OK, so that's kinda a made up day (I couldn't find evidence online--save HRB's announcement--but maybe it is real given there's
- [It's time to dispel the notion that solo consultants don't make great full-time employees](https://arikhanson.com/its-time-to-dispel-the-notion-that-solo-consultants-dont-make-great-full-time-employees/) - A couple weeks ago, I had a conversation with a colleague I've heard far too often over the last eight years since I began my solo consultant journey: "Hiring managers and recruiters are telling me they're not interested in me for full-time roles." It's a refrain I've heard from solo friends looking for full-time jobs
- [Introducing Talking Points Mini-Strategy Sessions](https://arikhanson.com/introducing-talking-points-mini-strategy-sessions/) - For the last few years, I've heard a few common refrains among friends and colleagues working for smaller and mid-sized organizations: "I need social media marketing help, but I'm not sure I can afford an agency." "I just need a quick, fresh perspective when it comes to my communications approach." "I need to revamp our
- [#HeForShe: 5 women who made a big impact on my career (but may not know it)](https://arikhanson.com/heforshe-5-women-who-made-a-big-impact-on-my-career-but-may-not-know-it/) - If you’ll remember, a few months ago I made a commitment to supporting the #HeForShe movement. One way I committed to doing this—writing a blog post a month around the topics highlighted on the #HeForeShe site. Today, I wanted to talk a bit about women who have made an impact on my career. In particular,
- [7 ways to get more mileage for your trade show social content AFTER the show](https://arikhanson.com/7-ways-to-get-more-mileage-for-your-trade-show-social-content-after-the-show/) - A few weeks ago, I attended my first trade show on behalf of a client in three years. It was a rather large trade show and I was tasked with social media strategy and execution during and after the show. I've always found trade shows to be fun--pure adrenaline and exciting for me, as a
- [We've got a serious problem with bots in social media marketing](https://arikhanson.com/weve-got-a-serious-problem-with-bots-in-social-media-marketing/) - Lately, there's been a lot of hand-wringing over the drop in Facebook usage. And while the big blue network is definitely priority number-one for most people when it comes to social media marketing, I think a much bigger issue is lying in the weeds. Bots. By now, you probably read the New York Times piece
- [What would you do if Facebook really did fail?](https://arikhanson.com/what-would-you-do-if-facebook-really-did-fail/) - There's been an awful lot of hand-wringing about Facebook lately. Edison Research released a report last week claiming Facebook usage was down--for the first time ever--from 67% to 62%. What's more, Facebook usage among the coveted 12-34 segment was down from 79% in 2017 to 67% in 2018. According to a recent BuzzSumo report, social
- [Social Media Rock Stars: Cargill's Sue Serna](https://arikhanson.com/social-media-rock-stars-cargills-sue-serna/) - I first heard the name "Sue Serna" a couple years ago from my clients at Cargill. Since then, her name has started to pop up with increasing frequency. As a leader. As a hiring manager. And, a social media thought leader here in the Twin Cities. As Sue builds out her social media team at
- [There's no excuse for not responding to that coffee invite](https://arikhanson.com/theres-no-excuse-not-to-respond-to-that-coffee-invite/) - As an independent consultant, I have coffee with a lot of people in any given year. In fact, I just blogged about 14 people I want to grab a cup of joe with in the year ahead. It's part of my job. Meeting new people benefits me in many different ways. The person I'm having
- [10 social media blogs and e-newsletters I suggest following](https://arikhanson.com/10-social-media-blogs-and-e-newsletters-i-suggest-following/) - As an independent consultant, a big part of my job is keeping my clients one step ahead when it comes to social media marketing. And, that's damn hard, considering the speed at which social media marketing moves. If you're reading this blog, you also know I produce a lot of content on a monthly basis:
- [An inside look behind Sleep Number's Super Bowl social media activations with Chanel Schmidt](https://arikhanson.com/an-inside-look-behind-sleep-numbers-super-bowl-social-media-activations-with-chanel-schmidt/) - Two weeks ago, the eyes of the world were on Minneapolis during Super Bowl week. And, among other things (including a fantastic game), that meant brand activations. At parties. At Mall of America. And, at Super Bowl LIVE in downtown Minneapolis. One of my clients (my longest-running client, in fact) was particularly active that week
- [Is it still "cool" to work for a Fortune 500 company?](https://arikhanson.com/is-it-still-cool-to-work-for-a-fortune-500-company/) - I graduated from college in 1996. And I remember thinking when I graduated how cool it would be to work for either General Mills or Best Buy--two of the bigger Minnesota-based companies at the time. As I joined the workforce, I remember talking to agency folks, and the singular mantra seemed to be how cool
- [Five years later: Reflecting on 7 big social media trends from 2013](https://arikhanson.com/five-years-later-reflecting-on-7-big-social-media-trends-from-2013/) - Last week, my friend Amanda Oleson sent me a note about a post I had written that featured her that popped up in her "Facebook Memories" from 2012. The post was about Path. Yeah, you remember Path. The hot new social networking app destined to dethrone Facebook in 2012. Yeah, that didn't happen. But, that
- [PR Rock Stars: Trane's Heidi McGuire](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-tranes-heidi-mcguire/) - I first met Heidi McGuire three years ago through a mutual friend. She was referred to me for a potential piece of business with Thermo King (at the time). After a couple meetings, Heidi and I were working together. That work ended a couple years ago, but I knew I wanted to stay closely connected
- [The four best social media executions I've seen during Super Bowl week (so far)](https://arikhanson.com/the-four-best-social-media-executions-ive-seen-during-super-bowl-week-so-far/) - Living in Minnesota, I feel compelled to write about Super Bowl-related topics this week. After all, I'll probably be north of 75 the next time the Big Game comes to our state! Last weekend, we visited Super Bowl LIVE on Nicollet Avenue downtown Minneapolis. I've been following along online all week to see what brands
- [The best content marketing you'll see during Super Bowl week is from a Minnesota brewpub](https://arikhanson.com/the-best-content-marketing-youll-see-during-super-bowl-week-is-from-a-minnesota-brewpub/) - For those of us living in Minneapolis this week, it's kind of a marketer's dream. There are "brand activations" everywhere. I took my family downtown Minneapolis last weekend to check out Super Bowl LIVE and you couldn't go 10 feet without seeing some sort of brand logo or signage. Yep, we're in the belly of
- [4 approaches the best executives take to connect with followers on LinkedIn](https://arikhanson.com/4-approaches-the-best-executives-take-to-connect-with-followers-on-linkedin/) - Other than Instagram, what's the hottest social media platform in 2018? Probably LinkedIn. Consider the facts: LinkedIn now has 500 million daily active users--that's more than every other platform except Facebook and Insta. 36 percent of LinkedIn members read interesting articles they find in their feed--an increase of 20 percent since 2014. Videos from the limited release
- [When did social media marketing become "un-social"?](https://arikhanson.com/when-did-social-media-marketing-become-un-social/) - Earlier this week, the Twin Cities experienced the biggest winter storm we've seen in five years. 10+ inches of snow fell in many parts of the cities, crippling roadways and commuters. As a result, Minneapolis Public Schools and St. Paul Public Schools canceled school for the day on Tuesday. And, as you can imagine, social
- [12 social media, marketing and PR leaders I'd work for in a second](https://arikhanson.com/12-social-media-marketing-and-pr-leaders-id-work-for-in-a-second/) - Last week, a friend seeking new opportunities sent me a note on LinkedIn: "Who are the top people to work for in the PR/comms industry in Minneapolis/St. Paul?" Great question! So, I started thinking: Great question, but TOUGH question. Because, contrary to popular belief, there a lot of really talented, wonderful people to work with
- [Brands should take a page from Kansas University basketball when it comes to customer experience](https://arikhanson.com/brands-should-take-a-page-from-kansas-university-basketball-when-it-comes-to-customer-experience/) - Let's face it: Most brands suck when it comes to customer experience. I'm sorry--it's just a fact of life. Sadly, examples like Nordstrom and Starbucks are more the exception than the rule. But, one "customer experience" continues to blow me away year after year: The experience of attending a Kansas Jayhawk basketball game at Phog
- [Answering 6 key questions about Facebook big changes to the newsfeed](https://arikhanson.com/answering-6-key-questions-about-facebook-big-changes-to-the-newsfeed/) - In case you haven't heard, Mr. Zuckerberg broke some fairly big news on his platform last week: In essence, Facebook is going to focus more on facilitating interactions and engagements between users and their friends and families. Which, as you may guess, could come at the expense of brands and their engagement and content strategies
- [How we're creating content isn't lining up with how people are consuming it](https://arikhanson.com/how-were-creating-content-isnt-lining-up-with-how-people-are-consuming-it/) - Sometimes, it kinda feels like we're still living in 1995 as PR counselors. Doesn't it? Consider this chart for a moment: Americans now spend a whopping 5 hours and 50 minutes with digital media on any given day. And just 25 minutes on print media. Think about that for a minute. And remind me again
- [8 realistic social media trends for 2018](https://arikhanson.com/8-realistic-social-media-trends-for-2018/) - It's 2018 trend prediction season! Yes, it's that time of year when we see roughly 4,632 social media trend posts on the internet. Only 95% of them are complete garbage. That's because they harp on trends that are painfully obvious. Organic social media is dead! 2018 is the year video explodes! Or, Twitter will die
- [14 people I'd love to have coffee with in 2018](https://arikhanson.com/14-people-id-love-to-have-coffee-with-in-2018/) - If you've read my blog for the last few years, you'll know this post has become an annual tradition. But, it's also an important exercise for me because it forces me to really think about who I'd like to get to know (or, get to know BETTER) in the year ahead. These coffees are important
- [The best of Talking Points in 2017](https://arikhanson.com/the-best-of-talking-points-in-2017/) - The last two weeks of the year are two of my favorite weeks of the year professionally. Why? Because I usually have a little extra time to reflect and do some planning for the year ahead. Part of that process is taking a long, hard look at my site and blog and discovering what kinds
- [Social video may be exploding, but social video metrics are lagging](https://arikhanson.com/social-video-may-be-exploding-but-social-video-metrics-are-lagging/) - This just in: Video is exploding on social media channels? Have you heard? Yep--video is big business in the social media world these days. Just ask anyone. That news has been plastered all over the web the last couple months in all sorts of trend posts. We all know video is going to increase in
- [#HeForShe: Which female business leader do you most admire and why?](https://arikhanson.com/heforshe-which-female-business-leader-do-you-most-admire-and-why/) - A few weeks ago, I made a pledge to support #HeForShe and my female colleagues by blogging about ideas relevant to this issue on a monthly basis. So, here goes! I thought I'd start by taking ideas directly from the #HeForShe web site, as they have a list of potential topics and conversation starters. First
- [8 questions to ask before starting your first corporate podcast](https://arikhanson.com/8-questions-to-ask-before-starting-your-first-corporate-podcast/) - It seems like everyone is talking about podcasting right now. Clients are asking about it. Friends are promoting them (on Instagram, no less). And, people are listening. Oh, are people listening. According to Edison Research, 40 percent of Americans 12+ have ever listened to a podcast. And 24 percent have listened to a podcast in
- [PR Rock Stars: UnitedHealth Group's Kendra Klemme](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-unitedhealth-groups-kendra-klemme/) - I first met Kendra Klemme six years ago. We were introduced by a mutual friend. Kendra was working as the director of communications and PR at Starkey at the time, and luckily for me, we wound up working together for a few years. I say luckily because I could tell right away in meeting Kendra was
- [While most brands avoid POTUS, Patagonia chooses to challenge him head-on](https://arikhanson.com/while-most-brands-avoid-potus-patagonia-chooses-to-challenge-him-head-on/) - Over the past year, I think it's a fair statement to say most brands would like nothing more than to stay out of @TheRealDonaldTrump's way--especially as it relates to social media and Twitter. Meanwhile, one company is taking dead aim at POTUS and challenging him head-on in the most public of arenas--on social media. In
- [3 ways brands can use LinkedIn native video before company pages get access](https://arikhanson.com/3-ways-brands-can-use-linkedin-native-video-before-company-pages-get-access/) - Two months ago, LinkedIn rolled out yet another new feature for its members: The ability to record and upload video right from your mobile device. Video, of course, isn't necessarily new to LinkedIn. You could upload video to a post whenever you'd like. But, "native video" (video you record on your device and upload directly)
- [Trend or Mirage: Should PRs respond to HARO queries from corporate blogs?](https://arikhanson.com/trend-or-mirage-should-prs-respond-to-haro-queries-from-corporate-blogs/) - Interesting post and discussion in our #SoloPR Facebook group a few weeks ago. Long-time #SoloPR, Alison Kenney, made the following post: "Another trend on HARO: queries for corporate blogs. I'm seeing more and more article queries that are actually for posts on company blogs. Sometimes it's hard to tell there's a company brand behind the
- [The rumors about our voice tech overlords have been wildly over-exaggerated](https://arikhanson.com/the-rumors-about-our-voice-tech-overlords-have-been-wildly-over-exaggerated/) - Voice tech is a topic that's about as hot as any in the tech and marketing worlds. And, for good reason in many ways. Consider the facts. We know voice tech is growing--24 MILLION speakers are projected to ship in 2017. That's compared with just 6 million shipped in all of 2016. And, keep in
- [PR Rock Stars: Winona State alum & Pediatric Home Service's Katlyn Bourget](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-winona-state-alum-pediatric-home-services-katlyn-bourget/) - Four years ago, I made a decision to join the Winona State Alumni Board. As part of that work, we started the Winona State Mass Comm Reunion. It's an annual event held each January at a brewery in downtown Minneapolis, and it gives me a great chance to reconnect with old friends and meet new
- [The big problem with the "hustle culture"](https://arikhanson.com/the-big-problem-with-the-hustle-culture/) - There's been an awful lot of talk about "hustle" in the business world lately. I blame Gary V. for 98% of this. All kidding aside, Gary is merely a small part (OK, fine, BIG part) of the larger "hustle culture" that has emerged in the business (and PR/social) world the last few years. And, truth
- [WIIFM mindset key to successful influencer outreach](https://arikhanson.com/wiifm-mindset-key-to-successful-influencer-outreach/) - As a blogger, I don't get pitched all that often. After all, I'm not a trendy food blogger/influencer. However, I did receive two somewhat interesting and relevant "pitches" in the last month. They were both local events that I would at least consider attending. They were both at least mildly intriguing (to be clear, neither
- [Is organic social media engagement making a big comeback?](https://arikhanson.com/is-organic-social-media-engagement-making-a-big-comeback/) - An interesting post titled "No, Organic Content Isn't Dead. It Just Has a New Purpose" on LinkedIn got me thinking recently. We've heard so much recently about organic social being completely dead, with huge drops in organic engagement. We're constantly told that social media is now a pay-for-play environment. And, if you don't want to
- [If someone were researching you online, what would they find?](https://arikhanson.com/if-someone-were-researching-you-online-what-would-they-find/) - Over the course of any given year, I meet a lot of people. It's the nature of my business. Essentially, in many ways, I get paid to know a lot of people. It's good for business. It's good for this blog. It's good for the podcast. And it's good for the events I help run.
- [DMs, texts, LinkedIn messages, emails: How do you keep up with daily communication from colleagues, managers and clients?](https://arikhanson.com/dms-texts-linkedin-messages-emails-how-do-you-keep-up-with-daily-communication-from-colleagues-managers-and-clients/) - Last week was a pretty typical week in terms of how I communicate with clients and colleagues. I wrote 25 direct messages on Facebook. 12 direct messages on LinkedIn. 21 texts. 3 direct messages on Twitter. 1 direct message on Instagram. And way too many emails to count. And I'm quite certain I'm on the
- [Brand journalism case study: How the University of St. Thomas covered the largest Division III Football Game in U.S. History](https://arikhanson.com/brand-journalism-case-study-how-the-university-of-st-thomas-covered-the-largest-division-iii-football-game-in-u-s-history/) - Not sure if you heard, but Target Field hosted a small football game last month. Truth be told, it was a very BIG football game--both in terms of the matchup, and size of the crowd in attendance. The St. Thomas/St. John rivalry has been around for decades, but when they played at Target Field on
- [Did we blow our chance to change the marketing world with social media?](https://arikhanson.com/did-we-blow-our-chance-to-change-the-marketing-world-with-social-media/) - Last week, I attended a momentous event for those of us here in Minneapolis. Our 100th Social Media Breakfast. No other SMB in the country has made it to 100 yet--quite a testament to the community we have here in Minnesota. And, it never happens without Rick Mahn (who founded our SMB) and Jen Jamar
- [Should you remove author names from blog posts when employees leave?](https://arikhanson.com/should-you-remove-author-names-from-blog-posts-when-employees-leave/) - Last week, together with my friends at Bellmont Partners, we held our most recent Talking Points event focused on corporate blogging 2.0. Our panelists, Kevin Hunt (General Mills and my podcast partner-in-crime), Krysta Larson (director of external communications and content at CH Robinson) and Chris Havens (internal communications manager at Best Buy) did a fantastic
- [The next generation won't watch TV news--at all (and that's a big problem for PR)](https://arikhanson.com/the-next-generation-wont-watch-tv-news-at-all-and-thats-a-big-problem-for-pr/) - Reading my morning paper last weekend, I came upon this story in the Variety section of the Star Tribune. It talks about a relatively successful YouTuber named "Jacksepticeye" who is now touring as a result of racking up some 17 million subscribers on his YouTube channel (he's one of these YouTubers who apparently makes snarky
- [How I'm supporting the #HeForShe movement in 2018](https://arikhanson.com/how-im-supporting-the-heforshe-movement-in-2018/) - Over the last week, I've had three separate, but distinct, experiences: I listened to #HeForShe founder, Elizabeth Nyamayaro (who was outstanding, by the way), talk about the constant struggle women experience as they seek out leadership positions at corporations, agencies and other organizations across the world at MIMA Summit. I watched as virtually all of
- [Growing my blog has been all about...](https://arikhanson.com/growing-my-blog-has-been-all-about/) - Last Saturday, I had the great honor to keynote the eighth Minnesota Blogger Conference. I say "great honor" because this is an event I co-founded with Missy Voronyak years ago. From our first, small event in CoCo St. Paul, I don't think either one of us could have imagined it would be around today years
- [PR Rock Stars: Maccabee PR's Paul Maccabee](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-maccabee-prs-paul-maccabee/) - If you've worked in the PR field in Minneapolis/St. Paul over the last 25 years, it's virtually impossible that you haven't heard the name "Paul Maccabee." For many, that's been via MN PRSA, where he's been a strong advocate and sponsor over the years. For others, it has been as an employer (friends Kendra Klemme
- [A comprehensive list of 57 corporate blogs in Minnesota](https://arikhanson.com/a-comprehensive-list-of-57-corporate-blogs-in-minnesota/) - List posts are a dime a dozen in our industry. I've written about this "phenomenon" before. Most are geared strictly to procure clicks. Very few, on the other hand, are designed to be resources for the reader. But, that's exactly what I wanted to do today. And my angle--corporate blogs. You see, whenever I see
- [The number-one challenge facing social media advocacy programs (and why it really isn't a challenge at all)](https://arikhanson.com/the-number-one-challenge-facing-social-media-advocacy-programs-and-why-it-really-isnt-a-challenge-at-all/) - A few weeks ago, notable consultant, Jen McClure and JEM Consulting announced findings from its 2017 State of Employee Advocacy Survey. Some of the results were surprising , including these two: There has been more than 25% growth in employee advocacy program adoption and more than 30% growth in social selling in the past year
- [Everyone wants to be on a list--and you shouldn't have to apologize for it](https://arikhanson.com/everyone-wants-to-be-on-a-list-and-you-shouldnt-have-to-apologize-for-it/) - A few weeks ago I received an email from Anuj Agarwal, founder of something called Feedspot. Yeah, don't feel bad. I had to look it up, too. Apparently, he was emailing to let me know I was on a list of the top 30 communications blogs on the web. He shared his congratulations with me
- [Power of Possible Podcast: U.S. Bank takes interesting approach with new podcast](https://arikhanson.com/power-of-possible-podcast-u-s-bank-takes-interesting-approach-with-new-podcast/) - Forty percent of Americans age 12 or older have listened to a podcast at some point. And, according to consultant, Jay Baer, "67 million Americans listen to podcasts monthly. That's more common than Catholicism." Humor aside (c'mon, that was funny), podcasting is finally a legit channel for companies big and small after years of languishing
- [Why isn't PR taken more seriously? Look no further than the Oxford comma debate](https://arikhanson.com/why-isnt-pr-taken-more-seriously-look-no-further-than-the-oxford-comma-debate/) - Are humans having an impact on global warming? Are violent videos games impacting our gun culture in the U.S.? What's to blame for the massive opioid problem in our country? Do you use an Oxford comma or not? These are the great debates facing our society in 2017. Kidding. Kinda. Take a peek at this
- [Breaking: ACH Communications launches innovative new web site](https://arikhanson.com/breaking-ach-communications-launches-innovative-new-web-site/) - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (tongue firmly planted in cheek) Arik Hanson ACH Communications, Inc. arik@arikhanson.com ACH Communications unveils groundbreaking new web site New site promises to usher social media and digital marketing consultancy into the 21st century MINNEAPOLIS, MINN.: ACH Communications, a Minneapolis-based social media and digital marketing consultancy, introduced a new, fully-featured web site to
- [My national industry conference FOMO problem--and what I'm doing about it](https://arikhanson.com/my-national-industry-conference-fomo-problem-and-what-im-doing-about-it/) - SXSW. PRSA National. International IABC. Social Media Marketing World. Content Marketing World (just a few weeks ago!). I haven't been to a single one of these events in my now more than 20 years in the business. Not a single one. I think my friend Greg Swan has been to every SXSW since its inception.
- [Should brands promote their efforts to help hurricane victims?](https://arikhanson.com/should-brands-promote-their-efforts-to-help-hurricane-victims/) - The last few weeks we've watched friends, families and colleagues struggle in Texas and Florida with two of the biggest hurricanes to ever make landfall in the U.S. We've also watched a number of brands make the same mistake we've been watching brands make for years--attempting to "capitalize" on a horrible situation that literally involves
- [sparked: A new kind of social media training program](https://arikhanson.com/sparked-a-new-kind-of-social-media-training-program/) - "Arik, I have a couple team members I need to train up when it comes to social media ad buying--where should I send them?" It's a question I've been getting more and more the last couple years. And, so far, my response has been: "Beats me." Because, really, there's not a solid, reputable place to
- ["Join the conversation"--officially a dead internet phrase](https://arikhanson.com/join-the-conversation-officially-a-dead-internet-phrase/) - "Join the conversation." It's a phrase that's been ubiquitous since social media blew up in 2007-2008. It's been used in countless agency pitches. It's been used in marketing campaigns. And, it's been used (to death) in signage by retailers, restaurants and media. And, as of Sept. 12, 2017, it's officially a dead internet phrase. Three
- [Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte launch: Creative social win or PR mess?](https://arikhanson.com/starbucks-pumpkin-spice-latte-launch-creative-social-win-or-pr-mess/) - Tuesday was essentially a national holiday for many who worship at the table the coffee bean. Of course, it was National PSL Day. In layman's terms, National Pumpkin Spice Latte Day. It was the day Starbucks officially launched its signature drink (one of them, at least) to the world. It's become a bit of a
- [That's it: I'm calling for the abolishment of RFPs](https://arikhanson.com/thats-it-im-calling-for-the-abolishment-of-rfps/) - You heard me. #AbolishRFPs. Check it--it's trending. This isn't a new topic in our industry. Heck, I've even written about it before. But, it keeps popping up and every time I'm referred to an RFP, it gets me a little fired up. Here's why: As a solo, I believe RFPs/RFQs/RFIs are a complete waste of
- [7 online resources for the Minnesota PR/social job seeker](https://arikhanson.com/7-online-resources-for-the-minnesota-prsocial-job-seeker/) - Each week, I put together and distribute The Talking Points e-newsletter (sign up here). It's full of stories and articles designed to help people like YOU do your job's just a little bit better. And, it's also full of jobs I think would be interesting to readers. My process for identifying and curating those jobs
- [How the Mall of America uses its 55425 blog to bolster awareness for the largest mall in U.S.](https://arikhanson.com/how-the-mall-of-america-uses-its-55425-blog-to-bolster-awareness-for-the-largest-mall-in-u-s/) - If you live in the Twin Cities, chances are, by now you've probably heard 2017 is the Mall of America's 25th birthday. They just had a huge celebration for the actual birthday a couple weeks ago--and the coverage was everywhere (nice work Sarah Grap!). MOA has actually been a fairly big part of my life--especially
- [26 fantastically awesome GIFs to use when responding to Facebook comments](https://arikhanson.com/26-fantastically-awesome-gifs-to-use-when-responding-to-facebook-comments/) - GIFs aren't a new thing on the internet. In fact, they've almost been around as long as the internet itself. But, when it comes to brands and GIFs--that's a whole different story. Some brands have jumped right in, and are using GIFs somewhat frequently in their posts--Wendy's, and Denny's come to mind (here's a few
- [17 more Minnesota-based Instagram influencers to watch](https://arikhanson.com/17-more-minnesota-based-instagram-influencers-to-watch/) - A few weeks ago, I shared a post featuring 10 local Minneapolis influencers I'd be connecting with if I were a Minnesota-based brand. As a result of that post, I heard from a number of people with influencers to add to such a list. So, I thought I'd share a few of those folks with
- [PR Rock Stars: Metre's Zachary Spanton](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-metres-zachary-spanton/) - As many of you know, I'm a Winona State University grad. And while I have certain loyalties to the U of M, and my Kansas Jayhawks, I bleed purple and I'll always think of Winona State as my college home. So, whenever I get the chance, I try to highlight the great people here in
- [Prediction: 50% of media relations positions will be eliminated in 10 years](https://arikhanson.com/prediction-50-of-media-relations-positions-will-be-eliminated-in-10-years/) - Now THAT'S a headline, right? Sure, it might seem a little bombastic. But, it's actually rooted in a number of facts. And that's exactly what I want to talk about today. You see, it seems to me we're at a bit of a crossroads. On one hand, I see a lot of people still working
- [Why execution eats strategy for breakfast](https://arikhanson.com/why-execution-eats-strategy-for-breakfast/) - For years, I've listened to experts and thought leaders tell me PR and digital marketing is all about strategy. And yes, sound strategic thinking is important. But I'm here today to tell you that in my experience execution eats strategy for breakfast. OK, so I'm playing off the old "culture eats strategy for breakfast" cliche.
- [OMG, can we please make the "how to" posts stop now?!?!](https://arikhanson.com/omg-can-we-please-make-the-how-to-posts-stop-now/) - If you're reading this blog, chances are you work in the PR or digital marketing industries. And, if you work in those industries, chances are you are responsible for content development for you company or clients. And if you're responsible for content development, you're always looking for best practices, ways you can craft your content
- [Boy Scouts missed the boat with response to President Trump's Jamboree speech](https://arikhanson.com/boy-scouts-missed-the-boat-with-response-to-president-trumps-jamboree-speech/) - A few years ago, I attempted to get my then 9-year-old son into Scouting. After all, he had shown great interest in the outdoors, camping and other areas Scouts routinely participate. But, after a few meetings, I found out the Scouts were about so much more--and all of it very good. You see, I didn't
- [Where are they now? 7 former colleagues that went on to do amazing things](https://arikhanson.com/where-are-they-now-7-former-colleagues-that-went-on-to-do-amazing-things/) - If you've met me before, or are a frequent reader of this blog, you probably know I'm a big fan of the networking thing. Always have been. Well before I struck out on my own almost nine years ago. In fact, I'm the guy that always said "let's stay in touch" when I left a
- [PR Rock Stars: Patterson Dental's Sarah Matsumoto](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-patterson-dentals-sarah-matsumoto/) - I've "known" Sarah Matsumoto for a long time now. But, for many of those years, that relationship was mostly based on interactions on Twitter and Facebook and seeing Sarah at events around town from time to time. Recently, I started a new relationship with Sarah's current employer, Patterson Dental, and I've had the chance to
- [The app that few marketers are talking about (but probably should be)](https://arikhanson.com/the-app-that-few-marketers-are-talking-about-but-probably-should-be/) - My daughter is nine (soon to be 10). And, apparently, age 9 is now the socially acceptable time to ask for (and in many cases, receive) a phone. In fact, it's happening earlier than age 9, believe it or not. Some of her friends had phones TWO YEARS AGO (yep--second grade folks). For all I
- ["You guys": Acceptable internet slang or public speaking killer?](https://arikhanson.com/you-guys-acceptable-internet-slang-or-public-speaking-killer/) - Last weekend I was at The Dells with my kids (no laughing please--I grew up going to the Dells and have a strong affinity for the Upper Midwest's Redneck Capital!). As part of that adventure, we hit the Wisconsin Ducks. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, check this out. Our tour guide
- [10 Instagram influencers I'd be targeting with if I were a Minnesota-based brand](https://arikhanson.com/10-instagram-influencers-id-be-targeting-with-if-i-were-a-minnesota-based-brand/) - Influencer marketing. So hot right now. In fact, influencer marketing has been hot for a while now. And, I see no end in sight as brands find new and interesting ways to partner and work with influencers (including agencies using influencers as creatives). But, if you've headed up an influencer marketing campaign yourself, you know
- [PRWeek's "Power List" Overlooks Minnesota and Fly-Over Country...Again](https://arikhanson.com/prweeks-power-list-overlooks-minnesota-and-fly-over-country-again/) - Earlier this week, PRWeek unveiled its annual "Power List"--a list of people they believe are power brokers in the PR business across the U.S. (of course, I can't read more about the list because PRWeek is gated and I'm not paying $350 a year to read all their content). The list includes senior leaders at
- [The psychology behind social media's biggest shifts in the last year](https://arikhanson.com/the-psychology-behind-social-medias-biggest-shifts-in-the-last-year/) - Maybe it's my psych minor. And maybe it's my innate interest in human behavior. Any way you slice it, I've always fancied myself an amateur psychologist (extremely amateur, to be clear). And, there's no more interesting place to watch that human behavior play out than the internet on a day-to-day basis. Over the last 9-12
- [#MyOreoCreation Contest - Personalized social at its best?](https://arikhanson.com/myoreocreation-contest-personalized-social-at-its-best/) - A few weeks ago, while checking Twitter, I happened across an interesting hash tag: I decided to participate: #myoreocreation #contest I cannot believe Coffee Oreos don't exist yet! — arikhanson (@arikhanson) May 8, 2017 A few days later, I received the following DM from the @Oreo account: A special surprise from the Wonder Vault? Now
- [Talking Points Event Series: 4 Ways Companies can Bolster Brand Awareness during the "Big Football Game" next February](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-event-series-4-ways-companies-can-bolster-brand-awareness-during-the-big-football-game-next-february/) - Last year, I approached the University of Minnesota about starting a new speaker series named "Talking Points: Exploring the Future of Media & Communications." After three events, we decided to part ways (for a variety of reasons). The Talking Points event series was conceivably kaput. Until one day when I brought the topic up with
- [You're not a blogger until you've offended someone](https://arikhanson.com/youre-not-a-blogger-until-youve-offended-someone/) - A couple weeks ago, I wrote a post about how I believe (most) brand-side folks are less networked than their agency peers. Pretty sure that post ruffled a few feathers among my brand-side friends (but, like I said in the post, there are exceptions--and I know a lot of those people!). And, that's OK. Because
- [PR Rock Stars: U.S. Bank's Susan Beatty](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-u-s-banks-susan-beatty/) - Susan Beatty knows a lot of people. Like A LOT. And when you run into someone who knows Susan, the likely response you'll get is something along the lines of: "Oh, you know Susan? She's so great." I've heard it more than once. Believe me. I just wrote about this last week, but Susan is
- [Rethinking how to introduce a new CEO to employees](https://arikhanson.com/rethinking-how-to-introduce-a-new-ceo-to-employees/) - In case you haven't been reading the Star Tribune business section lately, there's been a rash of CEO turnover in town. General Mills has a new CEO. US Bank has a new CEO. Patterson Dental (client) just ousted its CEO. And, just this past weekend, Buffalo Wild Wings' CEO, Sally Smith, abruptly retired. That's a
- [Why are brand-side PR pros less networked than their agency peers?](https://arikhanson.com/why-are-brand-side-pr-pros-less-networked-than-their-agency-peers/) - In case you missed it, AdFed recently held their wildly popular 32 Under 32 Awards. As usual, more than 100 people were nominated (105 to be exact). And, as usual, a large chunk of those nominees came from one area of our industry. Agencies and vendors. 74 percent of the #32Under32 nominees were agency-side folks
- [The 9 best coffee shops for PRs/marketers to work from in Minneapolis](https://arikhanson.com/the-9-best-coffee-shops-for-prsmarketers-to-work-from-in-minneapolis/) - Being a solo consultant is a lonely existence. It's definitely one of the few drawbacks to this lifestyle. So, I make a habit of getting out of my home office as much as I can to the neighborhood coffee shops in Minneapolis. And, I have plenty of options, because there are a TON of them.
- [Yes, we have a social media mentor problem](https://arikhanson.com/yes-we-have-a-social-media-mentor-problem/) - I recently had coffee with a younger colleague who plays a key social role for a fairly large company here in Minneapolis. He/she was sharing a story I've been hearing more and more lately. Essentially it boiled down to this: There's no one in the senior ranks at my company who knows more about social
- [Trend: Repurposing Snapchat Stories across other social media channels](https://arikhanson.com/trend-repurposing-snapchat-stories-across-other-social-media-channels/) - We've all heard about the "storification" (yeah, I just made that word up) of the social web and how it represents the future of social. And how companies should start paying attention because "stories" are the new news feed (that's questionable at best, in my view). But, we haven't seen too many good examples of
- [Are online media placements worthwhile if there's a paywall?](https://arikhanson.com/are-online-media-placements-worthwhile-if-theres-a-paywall/) - The paywall. On the media side, some see it as the savior of their business. On the PR side, it could be seen as a major hurdle. Because here's the scenario that's playing out increasingly with PR folks: You secure a great story in The Washington Post. Your client is excited. You're pumped because, well,
- [PR Rock Stars: Boston Scientific's Amanda Gebhard](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-boston-scientifics-amanda-gebhard/) - You know how when you meet some people you can just tell they're going to be a big deal some day. That's how you feel when you meet Amanda Gebhard. And I'm quite sure that feeling will pay off in the years ahead (you watch!). She's currently in a social role over at Boston Scientific,
- [9 things to consider before making the leap to being a solo PR consultant](https://arikhanson.com/9-things-to-consider-before-making-the-leap-to-being-a-solo-pr-consultant/) - What tips do you have for someone considering making the transition to being a solo marketing/comms consultant? It's a question I hear more than you might think. Partly because I am a solo. And partly because it seems like more people are considering this as a career path all the time (certainly more than when
- [What today's executive leaders could learn from UW-Eau Claire's Chancellor Jim Schmidt](https://arikhanson.com/what-todays-executive-leaders-could-learn-from-uw-eau-claires-chancellor-jim-schmidt/) - We've all heard the litany of excuses our executive partners give us for why they can't be a bit more active on social channels. "I just don't have any time." "It's just too risky." "I still don't see the business benefit." In fact, according to recent reports, only 38% of public and private company CEOs have
- [New trend: Companies making product design trends based on Instagram](https://arikhanson.com/new-trend-companies-making-product-design-trends-based-on-instagram/) - By now, you've most likely seen Starbucks newest concoction: The Unicorn Frappuccino. It's purple. It's pink. And, maybe most importantly to Starbucks, it's inherently Instagrammable--to the tune of 150,000+ pics on the platform so far using the #unicornfrappuccino hash tag--there are tens of thousands more using the #starbucks hash tag. Except, according to most, it
- [Should companies pay their PR interns?](https://arikhanson.com/should-companies-pay-their-pr-interns/) - Yesterday, I made my bi-annual journey down to my alma mater to speak to PR and Mass Comm students. In one of the classes I spoke with, an interesting discussion broke out around internships. Specifically: Should companies pay their PR interns? Understandably, many of the students tended to say "yes--companies should definitely pay us." And,
- [What bothered me most about the United Airlines crisis](https://arikhanson.com/what-bothered-me-most-about-the-united-airlines-crisis/) - By now, we're all kinda United'ed out, aren't we? My Facebook feed was full of people still talking about it last week. My LinkedIn feed is STILL full of people opining about the incident. And, most (if not all) of this commentary has been highly critical of United. PEPSI: We made the biggest PR blunder of
- [PR Rock Stars: American Academy of Neurology's Leah Johnson](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-american-academy-of-neurologys-leah-johnson/) - Truth be told, I don't know Leah Johnson all that well. I met her through my work with MIMA and a common friend (and fellow rock star, Madeline Strachota). But, in the short amount of time I've gotten to know Leah a bit better, I can tell she has rock star tendencies. How can I
- [Targeting micro-influencers: The next big thing that should have been a big thing 5 years ago](https://arikhanson.com/targeting-micro-influencers-the-next-big-thing-that-should-have-been-a-thing-5-years-ago/) - AdAge reporter, Kristy Sammis, recently wrote an article that sums up how I've felt about the whole influencer thing for years. No need to pay big-time influencers gobs of money to broadcast your products and services when you can target "micro-influencers" to do the heavy lifting instead--for far less, if any, money. The last couple
- [Have we suddenly "over-storied" the social web?](https://arikhanson.com/have-we-suddenly-over-storied-the-social-web/) - First, there were Snapchat Stories. Those fun, whimsical little snapshots into our days broadcast for 24 hours on the (previously) hot social app. Then, last August, Instagram introduced its own version of "Stories" to the world. And people flocked. According to Bloomberg, in the 25 weeks since launch, Instagram Stories has reached 150 million daily
- [3 big (ongoing) issues the recent Cracker Barrel social media crisis highlights](https://arikhanson.com/3-big-ongoing-issues-the-recent-cracker-barrel-social-media-crisis-highlights/) - In case you missed it, Cracker Barrel fell victim to the most recent "internet mob" last week and had its social media pages completely taken over by folks fighting for Annette Byrd (#BradsWife) to get her job back. A little background: In Feb., Cracker Barrel fired Annette Byrd. On Feb. 27, Annette’s husband, Brad, started
- [4 reasons your brand's YouTube videos continue to fall flat](https://arikhanson.com/4-reasons-your-brands-youtube-videos-continue-to-fall-flat/) - You know what's really interesting to me about YouTube? There are seemingly two worlds: The world of influencers and "user"-generated content The world of brand-generated content The former is engaging, interesting, educational and LOL-worthy. The latter is typically stiff, over-produced and typically includes countless marketing claims. The former is content that people actually SUBSCRIBE to on YouTube.
- [Why is good social media training so hard to find?](https://arikhanson.com/why-is-good-social-media-training-so-hard-to-find/) - Go ahead. Google the phrase "Social media training Minneapolis." What comes up? A couple academic institutions attempting to pull it off. A handful of agencies. And an Eventbrite list. In a nutshell, that describes my experience with social media training programs (or a lack thereof) in the Twin Cities. Where are they? Why isn't anyone
- [The biggest challenges facing today's social media job seeker](https://arikhanson.com/the-biggest-challenges-facing-todays-social-media-job-seeker/) - I'm not a recruiter. I'm not a hiring manager. And, I'm not looking to hire anyone at ACH Communications (I have all the help I need at the moment!). So, I want to start this post by making it clear that I'm not a recruiting specialist, nor do I hire people on a routine basis.
- [PR Rock Stars: 3M's Heather Cmiel](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-3ms-heather-cmiel/) - I can't really remember the first time I met Heather Cmiel. Which is kinda odd. Because Heather isn't the kind of person you forget. In fact, I would think most people remember the first time they met Heather quite well because she's a big personality and a very warm person. The kind of person most people
- [5 reasons an Amazon Echo Dot is a "must" for any PR person's office](https://arikhanson.com/5-reasons-an-amazon-echo-dot-is-a-must-for-any-pr-persons-office/) - A few weeks ago, I bought an Amazon Echo Dot. Complete impulse buy. If I remember correctly, we were at Best Buy to purchase something for my son. But, I walked out with an Echo Dot. A few weeks later, I hadn't touched it. Until earlier this week, when I added it to my office
- [Why the 2017 Edelman Trust Barometer actually shouldn't scare the s**t out of you](https://arikhanson.com/why-the-2017-edelman-trust-barometer-actually-shouldnt-scare-the-st-out-of-you/) - Make no mistake about it: Edelman's Trust Barometer is a fantastic resource each year. I love it. It's usually full of great content many people use in blogs, e-newsletters, and client recommendations throughout the year. But, don't forget, it is a sales tool. And, this year in particular, it's a fear-based sales tool. It's actually
- [Tackling the many misperceptions of the impact of influencer marketing](https://arikhanson.com/tackling-the-many-misperceptions-of-the-impact-of-influencer-marketing/) - Hypothetical situation I'm sure is playing out with clients/companies every day: Client says they want to reach a "younger audience." Client says they need to engage these folks, raise awareness for their brand and sell more (insert widget/service here). Among other ideas, you suggest influencer marketing as a potential tactic, given: 1) Most influencers ARE
- [Why I've decided to break one of my golden social media rules](https://arikhanson.com/why-ive-decided-to-break-one-of-my-golden-social-media-rules/) - When it comes to personal and professional social media use (and those are the same for me), up until about two weeks ago, I had to big rules. #1: Never discuss religion. #2: Never discuss politics. As a consultant, I saw no upside to discussing either in a public forum. For one, there are so
- [5 functionalities every PR person wish LinkedIn had](https://arikhanson.com/5-functionalities-every-pr-person-wish-linkedin-had/) - I spend a lot of time in LinkedIn these days. A lot of it is for research reasons--for this blog, for my Talking Points e-newsletter, for clients, and for the Talking Points Podcast. But, the other half of it is for client work. Helping manage corporate LinkedIn pages. And, helping executives communicate with employees, customers and
- [3 reasons digital marketing should NOT own influencer marketing](https://arikhanson.com/3-reasons-digital-marketing-should-not-own-influencer-marketing/) - Traackr recently released a study named "Influence 2.0--the Future of Influencer Marketing." I was curious, so I downloaded the full report and checked it out. But, I also take these types of studies with a very small grain of salt. After all, Traackr is a IRM (influencer relationship marketing) platform. It benefits by sharing data that
- [The most interesting Super Bowl commercial had nothing to do with selling products](https://arikhanson.com/the-most-interesting-super-bowl-commercial-had-nothing-to-do-with-selling-products/) - Last Sunday, most of us tuned it to watch the Super Bowl. And many of us tuned in more for the commercials and entertainment than for the actual game (who cares about another Patriots championship anyway? YAWN!). One of the more interesting developments of the evening was one I wasn't expecting: The most interesting Super
- [PR Rock Stars: Sun Country's Brittany Chaffee](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-sun-countrys-brittany-chaffee/) - Young people amaze me sometimes. They're brave. They're fierce. And, they take risks that I would have never taken at that age. That kinda describes Brittany Chaffee. Look no further than her Wild Morning project for proof. Nowadays, she's over at Sun Country honing her craft in the marketing world. But, this is one interesting
- [How the current political environment is impacting Facebook brand marketing](https://arikhanson.com/how-the-current-political-environment-is-impacting-facebook-brand-marketing/) - In case you haven't noticed (and if you haven't, you've most likely been vacationing on the moon for the last 3+ months), your Facebook newsfeed has been taken over by politics. Activism is at what I would have to believe is an all-time high (at least in the internet era). And that's great to see.
- [Is the age of the follower over?](https://arikhanson.com/is-the-age-of-the-follower-over/) - Close your eyes for a moment. Think back to 2010. Twitter was only a few years old. Social was relatively new. Some brands still didn't have a Facebook page. And follower counts on Twitter, Facebook and other social channels was a big deal. In fact, you could say it was a key metric for many
- [9 (realistic) social content trends to keep your eye on in 2017](https://arikhanson.com/9-realistic-social-content-trends-to-keep-your-eye-on-in-2017/) - Last Friday, I had the opportunity to speak to 150 social media enthusiasts at Social Media Breakfast. My topic: Social media trends! Tis the season, right? But, I had a little different take on social media trends than you might think. You see, most trend posts are largely garbage--the trends are typically outdated or overblown and
- [The automation rebellion is coming](https://arikhanson.com/the-automation-rebellion-is-coming/) - Earlier this month, I attended a local mastermind meeting I help run and the topic of automation came up--this time, the discussion focused on chatbots. One of the participants made what I believe to be an astute observation: "Are we on the precipice of a huge rebellion when it comes to automation?" What he meant was,
- [Talking Points Event Series: How fake news is already impacting the corporate and media worlds](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-event-series-how-fake-news-is-already-impacting-the-corporate-and-media-worlds/) - Can fake news negatively impact your company's reputation and stock price? Can fake news negatively impact the reputations of your corporate executives? And how is fake news impacting the media as trust levels among readers continues to erode? These questions are on many PR, corporate communications and media people's minds in 2017. And, for good reason. Because
- [8 job changes that re-shaped the PR/social market in Minnesota in 2016](https://arikhanson.com/8-job-changes-that-re-shaped-the-prsocial-market-in-minnesota-in-2016/) - 2016 was a good year to be a job seeker. Specifically, for mid- to senior-level PR folks with a strong digital skill set. As a result, we saw a far amount of hopping industry-wide. But, we also saw a number of key moves that I think will impact 2017. These were almost (and I hate
- [True engagement is slowly dying on the internet](https://arikhanson.com/true-engagement-is-slowly-dying-on-the-internet/) - Take a peek at any corporate social media program and you will likely see "engagement" listed as a KPI in some way, shape or form. Yet, the way the social web is going, that might be a foolish proposition. Look no further than Twitter for just one example. When was the last time you had
- [PR Rock Stars: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota's Laura Kaslow](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-blue-cross-blue-shield-of-minnesotas-laura-kaslow/) - I don't remember the first time I met Laura Kaslow (give me a break, I'm getting old and losing brain cells over here!). But, what I do remember is being impressed. And, she's done nothing but confirm that initial suspicion since that first meeting (even if I can't remember it!). She's a life-long learner (see--pursuing
- [6 ways to better prepare for a fake news attack](https://arikhanson.com/6-ways-you-can-be-more-ready-to-counteract-a-fake-news-attack/) - If there was one "trend" that emerged in 2016 that should scare the bejesus out of PR counselors it's this: Fake news. We've all read about the phenomenon by now and its impact on the 2016 election. But, what you may not have given as much thought to is fake news' potential impact on your
- [14 people I'd love to have coffee with in 2017](https://arikhanson.com/14-people-id-love-to-have-coffee-with-in-2017/) - Last year I made a post that I'm going to make into an annual series--or challenge. The concept is simple: Publicly document and state 24 people I'd like to meet and grab a cup of coffee with in the next year. How did I do last year? Not too shabby. I did get to know
- [Mainstream media versus YouTube Influencers - Which has the bigger audience?](https://arikhanson.com/mainstream-media-versus-youtube-influencers-which-has-the-bigger-audience/) - 2016 was a good year for influencers. Specifically, 2016 was a VERY GOOD year to be a YouTube influencer. Just ask Casey Neistat who sold his video-sharing app, Beme to CNN for a cool $25 million. But, for every Casey Neistat (who's been huge for years), there's an emerging Tanner Fox. Or, Liza Koshy. And, these
- [Face it, there are no "dream jobs"](https://arikhanson.com/face-it-there-are-no-dream-jobs/) - It's time to give up the ghost. There are no "dream jobs." Yeah, I said it. And you know why? Because I'm living my "dream job." (outside of running social media for the PGA Tour) And while I'm exceedingly happy with my current role, it's far from a "dream job." Because the "dream job" is
- [The future of content looks like THIS (and it's pretty crazy)](https://arikhanson.com/the-future-of-content-looks-like-this-and-its-pretty-crazy/) - ICYMI: Renowned YouTuber, Casey Neistat blew everyone's minds earlier this week when he released the following video: It already has 3.9 million views as of 6:50 p.m. on Wed., Dec. 21. It's the result of a partnership between Neistat and Samsung. And, I believe it represents the future of content. Because this is what it's
- [Fruit baskets or Nut Assortments: What's the best approach for PR client holiday gifts?](https://arikhanson.com/fruit-baskets-or-nut-assortments-whats-the-best-approach-for-pr-client-holiday-gifts/) - Every year about this time (actually, much earlier than this, but for effect we'll go with "about this time"), I run into the same conundrum: What do I get clients/colleagues for a holiday gift? It's a common challenge for vendors like me. As I see it, we have a three options: 1--No gift at all. Certainly, holiday
- [PR Rock Stars: United Health Group's Madeline Strachota](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-united-health-groups-madeline-strachota/) - We Gen X'ers like to stereotype Millennials. We label them as lazy. We say they're entitled. We call them title-grabbers. But, the fact of the matter is this: There are plenty of Millennials that don't fit into that mold at all. In fact, there are a lot of Millennials like Madeline Strachota. No, let me
- [When was the last time you conducted a social content audit?](https://arikhanson.com/when-was-the-last-time-you-conducted-a-social-content-audit/) - If you work in the world of social media marketing, your days are most likely filled with: Creating content Meetings Managing communities More meetings Developing dashboards Even more meetings And more meetings Fact it--you're busy. Head down, hair on fire, 24/7, 365. That's just the way social media marketers work (in my experience, at least).
- [How Anytime Fitness uses 100 percent user-generated content to feed its Instagram account](https://arikhanson.com/how-anytime-fitness-uses-100-percent-user-generated-content-to-feed-its-instagram-account/) - Despite what you see from the Dunkin Donuts, Oreos and Starbucks of the world, starting and maintaining a corporate Instagram account isn't always easy. The biggest reason? The constant drumbeat of visual content. Not everyone has the "machinery" needed to sustain the visual output that Instagram demands. Other companies face different challenges--like Anytime Fitness. "As a
- [Conditions are favorable for the comeback of the daily newspaper](https://arikhanson.com/conditions-are-favorable-for-the-comeback-of-the-daily-newspaper/) - For years, every time I make a comment about how my wife and I subscribe to and read the daily newspaper, I always get a smattering of comments like "They still have daily newspapers?" or "I get all my news from social media now." I mean, I get it. There are more ways than ever to
- [PR Rock Stars: Life Time Fitness' Ava Beilke](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-life-time-fitness-ava-beilke/) - Yep, Ava Beilke is a millennial. But, she doesn't act the part (at least, not according to stereotypes). In fact, I believe I've heard Ava say "I'm a grandma trapped in a millennial's body" the last time I saw her at a Talking Points event in September. Ava is being sarcastic, but the reality is
- [Super-early brand adopters show interesting uses for Snap Spectacles](https://arikhanson.com/super-early-brand-adopters-show-interesting-uses-for-snap-spectacles/) - As you probably know by now, a couple weeks ago Snapchat unveiled its version of the previously doomed Google Glass: Snap Spectacles. At $130 a pop, they're much more affordable than Glass was, but equally as tough to get your hands on--only available in pop-up vending machines that Snap alerts you to on Snapchat (brilliant
- [The evolving media consumption habits of Gen Z--and what they mean for communicators](https://arikhanson.com/the-evolving-media-cosumption-habits-of-gen-z-and-what-they-mean-for-communicators/) - For many companies, targeting and talking about Millennials has become a full-blown obsession. I mean, how many articles have you read this year with "Millennial" in the title? 20? 30? 1,000? And sure, Millennials represent a sizable audience for almost any company to consider. And for good reason--they're starting to accumulate wealth, and they'll be
- [Does the four-day workweek work in PR and digital?](https://arikhanson.com/does-the-four-day-workweek-work-in-pr-and-digital/) - The four-day workweek. For many, it's a pipe dream. But, for an increasing number of people, it's quickly becoming a reality. In fact, just a few weeks ago a friend and former client negotiated her four-day workweek. And, from what I've heard so far, it's worked out incredibly well for her. And I think it's a trend
- [4 simple reasons the mobile newsfeed is the future of employee communications](https://arikhanson.com/4-simple-reasons-the-mobile-newsfeed-is-the-future-of-employee-communications/) - In case you haven't noticed, there's an interesting trend going on in the employee communications world. More brands are shifting to a mobile-first, newsfeed-like approach. Take Nissan, for example. It's VP of Communications in Europe, Stuart Jackson, recently shared results from his team's move away from the corporate intranet to an employee app: Nissan Insider
- [I was going to write a post ripping the current state of influencer marketing, but I wrote this instead](https://arikhanson.com/i-was-going-to-write-a-post-ripping-the-current-state-of-influencer-marketing-but-i-wrote-this-instead/) - You know one easy way you can tell if an internet, social media or tech trend has "jumped the shark?" It shows up on 60 Minutes. I'm half-kidding. Just watch this 60 Minutes segment on "social media influencers" and try not to laugh. No really--if you can make it all 12 minutes and not laugh
- [Talking Points Speaker Series: How the way companies break news is changing](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-speaker-series-how-the-way-companies-break-news-is-changing/) - In Sept., along with my partners at the University of Minnesota, we launched the Talking Points Speaker Series. The idea? To discuss the big, hairy, audacious and forward-looking topics in communications and media in a more intimate setting with leaders in our industries. Our first event focused on the social media skills gap. Alex Tan,
- [Marketing jobs of the future signal sharp turn for industry](https://arikhanson.com/marketing-jobs-of-the-future-signal-sharp-turn-for-industry/) - Last week, I attended the annual MIMA Summit in downtown Minneapolis. As always, a tremendous event (great work by Holly Speath and Bryan Vincent who spearhead the event). And even though my day at Summit was cut short for a few different reasons, I did get to see the two keynotes--Amy Webb and Jim McKelvey.
- [Why communicators should be paying more attention to Glassdoor](https://arikhanson.com/why-communicators-should-be-paying-more-attention-to-glassdoor/) - When you hear the name "Glassdoor", what comes to mind? Employee reviews. Unfiltered opinions on a particular employer. Where you go to research a job before you accept it. Right? But, truth be told, the 2016 version of Glassdoor is a whole lot more. It's one of the primary places where companies craft "employer brands" online.
- [The Talking Points #39between35and49](https://arikhanson.com/the-talking-points-39between35and49/) - The Business Journal has its long-time 40 Under 40 "competition." Adfed2 has its 32 Under 32. And now, Pollen has its 50 Over 50. As usual, the Gen Xers are COMPLETELY over-looked. Figures, too. We've been overlooked for years. And yeah, I'm going to play the victim card. And yeah, I'm going to complain about
- [I'm calling for the abolishment of hoodies at client meetings](https://arikhanson.com/im-calling-for-the-abolishment-of-hoodies-at-client-meetings/) - Today, I just have to rant. And I know it's a rant we've heard before. But, it's a rant worth repeating. Earlier this week, I was out visiting a friend at one of the bigger Fortune 100 companies here in Minneapolis. In the lobby, I usually come across a potpourri (I just wanted to say
- [Which social data do you trust?](https://arikhanson.com/which-social-data-do-you-trust/) - I've had the same question come up with a few different clients recently, so I'm betting it's one you might be asking, too: Which social data do you trust? Because, you most likely have multiple sources. For example, any socially active company will most likely have the following data sources: Facebook Insights (including ad metrics)
- [Why PRSA's stringent APR rules need to change](https://arikhanson.com/why-prsas-stringent-apr-rules-need-to-change/) - I want to start by making one thing clear: This is not a post designed to bash PRSA or the APR. I was a PRSA member, committee member and board member for years. I earned by APR years ago. I might not be a current member, but I'm a huge PRSA supporter. And, I earned
- [How my golf game is a perfect metaphor for my professional career](https://arikhanson.com/how-my-golf-game-is-a-perfect-metaphor-for-my-professional-career/) - I've had a pretty incredible golf week. I spent last weekend playing four unbelievable courses in Brainerd (The Classic, two courses at The Pines and Deacon's Lodge) with 12 guys as part of our almost 20-year #BrainerdCup tradition. Then, earlier this week, I got to experience the Ryder Cup (practice round) for the first time.
- [You don't have to be aggressive to be an effective PR consultant](https://arikhanson.com/you-dont-have-to-be-aggressive-to-be-an-effective-pr-consultant/) - I think there's a a bit of a misconception in our industry. That you need to be aggressive to be an effective consultant. I've noticed it from the beginning (at least MY beginning). It's not a rule that's written on a chalkboard or bulletin board anywhere. Or in a text book. But, that seems to be
- [Are LinkedIn endorsements unethical for PR pros?](https://arikhanson.com/are-linkedin-endorsements-unethical-for-pr-pros/) - Earlier this week, I gave a presentation to a group of employees at a local client. The topic: Enhancing your reputation online in today's digital age. It's not a topic I talk about a lot, but I was doing it as a favor to a friend--and, it turned out to be a lot of fun.
- [The most over-looked component of many social media campaigns](https://arikhanson.com/the-most-over-looked-component-of-many-social-media-campaigns/) - You know what's perplexing about the way companies plan for today's social media campaigns? They don't plan for BEST-CASE scenarios. And, in this case, that means planning and staffing appropriately for community management. Consider the following scenario: You've been planning a social media campaign as part of a broader marketing effort to launch a new
- [Talking Points Speaker Series: 3 takeaways from the social media skills gap discussion](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-speaker-series-3-takeaways-from-the-social-media-skills-gap-discussion/) - On Wednesday, we held the first-ever Talking Points Speaker Series event on the University of Minnesota campus. Our topic? The social media skills gap. Our speakers? Alex Tan, director of digital and social at Golin and Matt Rozen, director of social at Adobe (see below--Alex at left, Matt at right). We had a nearly sold-out
- [Does content marketing even have to link to your product anymore?](https://arikhanson.com/does-content-marketing-even-have-to-link-to-your-product-anymore/) - I'm sorry, but I have to call BS on this recent Contently post. I've always been somewhat of a skeptic when it comes to Coca-Cola's brand journalism initiative: Coke Journey, which launched back in 2012. The big reason for my skepticism? Why would anyone visit the Coke web site for "news and information"--even if that "news
- [Where are companies turning for digital professional development?](https://arikhanson.com/where-are-companies-turning-for-digital-professional-development/) - Allison Kent-Smith, founder of Smith & Beta, a talent development firm, had an interesting quote in a post this week: "Agencies continue to invest in acquiring talent versus developing talent. The surprising thing is that there’s not more investment in the people that walk in the doors every day." Kent-Smith was talking about ad agencies
- [What the new (upcoming) LinkedIn Company page format means for brands](https://arikhanson.com/what-the-upcoming-new-linkedin-company-page-format-means-for-brands/) - Looks like LinkedIn is revamping the layout for "company pages"--and it's testing the concept with some of its biggest customers (GE and IBM are the two I've seen so far). Since I've seen no official news from LinkedIn or other media organizations so far, I can only assume this is a beta version (see the URL
- [Why "Walmart's Riding in Cars with Execs" is Employer Brand gold](https://arikhanson.com/why-walmarts-riding-in-cars-with-execs-is-employer-brand-gold/) - If you've worked in the Employer Brand-Social space for any length of time, you know, great case studies and good work is hard to come by. If you look around at what most brands are doing on the Employer Brand-Social front, it's not all that sophisticated. Much of the day-to-day content shared on Facebook by
- [How long before brands completely abandon Twitter?](https://arikhanson.com/how-long-before-brands-completely-abandon-twitter/) - Before you click away, I encourage you to read on. Because this isn't one of those typical "Twitter is dead" posts. It's more like "Will Twitter be dead to businesses within 2 years"-type posts. Because, I'm starting to believe it might. Brands have long (well, as least for the last 7-8 years) relied on Twitter
- [Meet Minnesota's Power PR Couples](https://arikhanson.com/meet-minnesotas-power-pr-couples/) - If you've worked in this industry long enough, you've probably met one: A PR "Power Couple." You know, that couple that either met in college in PR classes, or met early in their careers while working at an agency in town. And, more often times than not, they are, in fact "power" couples. That is,
- [If you were going to build a social media team from scratch how would you do it?](https://arikhanson.com/if-you-were-going-to-build-a-social-media-team-from-scratch-how-would-you-do-it/) - Look, I'm comfortable in my current position as an independent consultant. In fact, I'm thrilled I get to do this job day-in and day-out. I'll do it as long as my clients let me. But, from time to time, I've given thought to what it would be like to take one of these lead social/digital
- [Why LinkedIn is completely missing the boat with its new influencer videos](https://arikhanson.com/why-linkedin-is-completely-missing-the-boat-with-its-new-influencer-videos/) - In case you missed it, LinkedIn announced some "big news" last week: It gave 500 influencers the ability to post videos right in your feeds. I say "big news" because I think LinkedIn really missed the boat with this move--and it's indicative of a strategy that may miss an even bigger boat down the road.
- [9 social content trends to watch in 2017](https://arikhanson.com/9-social-content-trends-to-watch-in-2017/) - Earlier this week, I had the privilege at speaking at the Florida Public Relations Association Annual Conference at the Innisbrook Resort in Tampa. The #SoloPR Summit is now part of this event--an event I've spoken at for the last four years. It's the one chance we solos have to get together each year and see
- [Thanks to social media the chasm between the C-suite and employees has never been greater](https://arikhanson.com/thanks-to-social-media-the-chasm-between-the-c-suite-and-employees-has-never-been-greater/) - A story in the Minneapolis Star Tribune over the weekend highlighted for me a trend I've been thinking a lot about lately: The chasm between senior leaders and employees has never been wider--thanks (in a larger way than you might think) to social media. The Strib story was about a incoming freshman at Concordia University
- [Announcing ... Talking Points: Exploring the Future of Media and Communications](https://arikhanson.com/announcing-talking-points-exploring-the-future-of-media-and-communications/) - A number of years ago, I started hearing about this new event here in Minneapolis: CATFOA. What the heck is a CATFOA, you ask? It stood for (actually, stands for, as MIMA has re-ignited the series a bit) "Conversations about the Future of Advertising." People were raving about this event. It was organized by then
- [IHOP's pancakes on a beach Facebook Live-stream: Brilliant or brutal?](https://arikhanson.com/ihops-pancakes-on-a-beach-facebook-live-stream-brilliant-or-brutal/) - Confession: When I started this post, my intention was to write something that basically undressed IHOP's recent Facebook Live stunt of pancakes on a beach. If you haven't seen it yet, block off an hour-and-a-half and settle in. It's "must-see" Facebook Live :) In all seriousness, it was a bit of a stunt--very much in
- [Can we please figure out a different way to say "I'm busy"?](https://arikhanson.com/can-we-please-figure-out-a-different-way-to-say-im-busy/) - Let's face it, we've all been guilty of the following scenario: Friend asks you: "Hey, (insert name here), how have you been?' You reply: "I'm soooo busy. I can hardly see straight right now." OK, so maybe you don't exaggerate that much, but you'd probably agree that the answer to "how are you?" is "so busy"
- [Why aren't more brands using Facebook 360 photos so far?](https://arikhanson.com/why-arent-more-brands-using-facebook-360-photos-so-far/) - By now, most of us know that video is completely taking over Facebook. We heard as much from Contently last week. Heck, some brands are going to an (almost) all-video newsfeed (ah-em, Oreo). But, thanks to a new piece of functionality recently rolled out by Facebook, brands still have an opportunity to immerse their fans
- [How I'm looking at the back half of my career arc](https://arikhanson.com/how-im-looking-at-the-back-half-of-my-career-arc/) - You know what's scary? Knowing you're on the downhill slide of life. I'm 43--soon to be 44. Average life expectancy for a male in the U.S.: 78. That means, technically, I peaked at 39--it's all downhill from here folks (but, it's going to be a helluva ride!). That also means I'm definitely in the midst
- [The not-so-secret way brands are creating podcasts (without exhausting internal resources)](https://arikhanson.com/the-not-so-secret-way-brands-are-creating-podcasts-without-exhausting-internal-resources/) - These days, you can't read too much in the digital marketing realm without running into someone talking about how hugely popular podcasting has become. Forrester and Edison Research seem to come out with a new study each quarter telling us how huge podcasting is with consumers. But, have all those numbers and charts translated into
- [Why "working remotely" may negatively impact your career trajectory](https://arikhanson.com/why-working-remotely-may-negatively-impact-your-career-trajectory/) - Today's "remote" worker faces an unfair uphill battle. No one respects you. OK, so that might be taking it a bit far, but today's remote worker certainly doesn't enjoy the advantages as those who work in the traditional office environment. Consider the following two scenarios--assume both of these people are star employees who are looking
- [We need to stop saying "My team"](https://arikhanson.com/we-need-to-stop-saying-my-team/) - I want to talk about a little thing that's been bugging me lately. It's not a big thing. It's not really all that critical to my overall life satisfaction. But, it's bugging me. Nagging at me. Consistently. It revolves around how people talk about their work teams. Here's what I hear from some people in
- [4th of July posts: Are brands finally learning holiday posts aren't worth their time?](https://arikhanson.com/4th-of-july-posts-are-brands-finally-learning-holiday-posts-arent-worth-their-time/) - Yes, it is 2016. Yes, I am tired of writing about this topic. And yes, I do have good news to report. Brands may finally be getting it when it comes to marketing on holidays. At least the bigger brands. With a bit of simple research, I found just three of the top 25 brands
- [Is Pinterest the most underutilized tool in social media?](https://arikhanson.com/is-pinterest-the-most-underutilized-tool-in-social-media/) - If you do any reading in the social media marketing space on regular basis, you know there are a number of platforms that are often discussed. And they all begin and end with the word: "Facebook." In all seriousness, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat are probably the most discussed--with Facebook leading the way by
- [What the Microsoft's acquisition of LinkedIn means for corporate communicators](https://arikhanson.com/what-the-microsofts-acquisition-of-linkedin-means-for-corporate-communicators/) - In case you missed it, last week Microsoft acquired LinkedIn for 26.2 billion dollars. Huge news in the tech space. And, huge news in the social enterprise software space as this move gives Microsoft a pretty big stake in the game (along with its acquisition of Yammer years ago). But, the big question for us: What does
- [Stats prove we should actually be ENCOURAGING social media use at work--not blocking it](https://arikhanson.com/stats-prove-we-should-actually-be-encouraging-social-media-use-at-work-not-blocking-it/) - For years, we've been trying to answer the same question: Why are brands banning social media sites at work? Believe me, it's still happening. Maybe not as much as it was 4-5 years ago, but there are still companies out there (I know a number in the Twin Cities area) who block employees from accessing social
- [Can I be a digital marketer AND a good parent?](https://arikhanson.com/can-i-be-a-digital-marketer-and-a-good-parent/) - Last Sunday, I read an op-ed in the Minneapolis Star Tribune from a teacher in Minneapolis about the derisive force smartphones have become for our children. As a parent to 8- and 11-year-old children, I can see it coming. If we didn't put paramaters on screen time for our kids, they would be glued to
- [How to start networking from the ground up](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-start-networking-from-the-ground-up/) - Last week, I wrote a post about the importance of networking outside the four walls of your company. Like others, I maintain this is an essential and critical strategy to bolstering your career trajectory--and to help your current company in many different ways. In the post, I wondered aloud why so many people ignore this
- [When relaunching a new web site actually IS news](https://arikhanson.com/when-relaunching-a-new-web-site-actually-is-news/) - By now, most of us have been in the following situation. "We're revamping our web site--this is big news! Shouldn't we write up a news release and alert the media?" "Yeah, I mean, we now have a more 'mobile-friendly' site--that's news, right?" "And we completely changed our navigation and added bigger, splashier photos, too!"
- [The not-so-hidden reason staying within the four walls of your company is a really bad idea](https://arikhanson.com/the-not-so-hidden-reason-staying-within-the-four-walls-of-your-company-is-a-really-bad-idea/) - In a previous life, I spent my days working for a large health care organization based here in Minneapolis. I had taken the job as a “step back”. As a way to get a better handle on my career, and survive those early years with my kids (young parents—you’ll relate). But, one thing I found fascinating
- [Is LinkedIn really broken?](https://arikhanson.com/is-linkedin-really-broken/) - Last week, I saw the following post from Augie Ray, research director at Gartner, in my LinkedIn feed. I wasn't surprised to see this kind of post from Augie. He's railed against LinkedIn before. But, this time, he put a finer point to his frustration by calling out specific items he believes have led/are leading
- [The real reason the PR agency model is broken](https://arikhanson.com/the-real-reason-the-pr-agency-model-is-broken/) - I'm not a career agency guy. I didn't cut my teeth at Spong. I didn't work my way up from intern to VP at Weber. I just don't have a ton of experience in the agency world. But, I did spend time at two agencies earlier in my career (Concept Group--a small marcom shop in
- [How five early-adopter brands are using Facebook Live](https://arikhanson.com/how-five-early-adopter-brands-are-using-live-facebook-video-519/) - As you probably know by now, Facebook unveiled live video for brand pages earlier this year. Among the earliest adopters were a host of media outlets, Red Bull and Dunkin Donuts (they gave a behind-the-scenes tour of one of their test kitchens--see below) Since then, a number of other brands have begun experimenting with Facebook
- [Executive announcement news releases - productivity wasters or useful PR tools?](https://arikhanson.com/executive-announcement-news-releases-productivity-wasters-or-useful-pr-tools/) - Back when I was working for other people, I had a job where I had to write and post a steady stream of executive announcements. Oh, you know the drill: "Gary Jones joins Company X as executive vide president of ya-da-ya-da-ya-da." If you've been in the PR business for any length of time, you know
- [How--and why--I changed my social media sharing and participation habits](https://arikhanson.com/why-and-how-i-changed-my-social-media-sharing-and-participation-habits/) - I've been hearing and talking a lot lately with folks about the way people are creating and sharing differently on social networks. Much has been written recently about Facebook, in particular, and how fewer people are creating and sharing content there--and what that could mean for the future of Facebook (and social media, in general).
- [The most essential--and overlooked--skill in PR](https://arikhanson.com/the-most-essential-and-overlooked-skill-in-pr/) - With a headline like that, you might expect me to talk about something like media relations skills, or video editing skills, or maybe even writing skills. But, while all those skills are essential and key to today's PR counselor, what I'm thinking about is actually more more basic. But still just as essential. Typing. No,
- [PR Rock Stars: HealthFitness' Andy Jacobson](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-healthfitness-andy-jacobson/) - A few weeks ago, a colleague recommended to me that I feature more experienced pros within this series from time to time. Maybe I had gotten a bit *too* focused on our millennial audience in 2016. But, rest assured, I certainly haven't forgotten about our more senior-level counselors, as I've showcased people like Betsy Anderson,
- [The Skimm: THE case study for employee social advocacy](https://arikhanson.com/the-skimm-the-case-study-for-employee-social-advocacy/) - By now, I'm guessing 99.9 percent of you have heard about The Skimm. In large part, that's because they have a virtual army of "Skimmbassadors' helping share their message--literally, and figuratively. 6,000-plus Skimmbassadors, to be exact (according to the founders). In fact, that's really how most people have heard about the The Skimm. By word
- [22 PR Rock Stars of the Future](https://arikhanson.com/22-pr-rock-stars-of-the-future/) - Each year, I give recent grads the floor here and showcase some of the best PR students across the country. Why? A few reasons: 1) I believe in giving back and helping students along--just like so many helped me out as I began my career, 2) It's an extension of my work on the Winona
- [The (almost) all-video newsfeed: How 5 brands are using video (almost) exclusively on Facebook](https://arikhanson.com/the-almost-all-video-newsfeed-how-5-brands-are-using-video-almost-exclusively-on-facebook/) - It's no secret: Video on Facebook has exploded in the last couple years. In fact, recent numbers tell us Facebook video for brands is increasing at an astronomical rate (8 BILLION daily video views!). So, we know brands are using video more and more. But, did you know some brands have essentially went to an all-video
- [The only answer to the question: "How do you do it all?"](https://arikhanson.com/the-only-answer-to-the-question-how-do-you-do-it-all/) - It's a question I get a lot from industry peers and friends: "How do you do it all?" It's the same question I ask of people like my friend, Natalie Bushaw, who leads PR for Life Time Fitness, has two growing boys, volunteers on multiple boards of directors and has about 435 other things in
- [The changing media landscape...and what it means for media relations](https://arikhanson.com/the-changing-media-landscape-and-what-it-means-for-media-relations/) - It's no secret--the media landscape has shifted. Seismically. Media share news differently now. Media create news differently now. Media are different. Much different than they were 16 years ago (wanted to keep it to 2000 for comparisons). And sure, the PR world has adapted the way they pitch and work with the media. To varying
- [What effect will the explosion of chat apps have on our ability to present and persuade?](https://arikhanson.com/what-effect-will-the-explosion-of-chat-apps-have-on-our-ability-to-present-and-persuade/) - The "chat-ification" of our culture is now completely out-of-control. More than 800 million people use Facebook messenger each month. 100 million people use Snapchat each day. And people between the ages of 18-24 send, 3,200 text messages...PER MONTH. Chatting is, without question, one of the most popular functions people use on mobile devices. I'm not here
- [Do news releases REALLY help with SEO?](https://arikhanson.com/do-news-releases-really-help-with-seo/) - In my perusing of Linked last week, I came across this post from Nancy Shenker, CEO of the ONSwitch. In the post, Nancy makes a claim we've all heard thousands of times: News releases are good for SEO and "Google Cred." Except, every time I hear that, I want to call BS. Now, I'm not
- [Beware of the inflated trade publication media kit](https://arikhanson.com/beware-of-the-inflated-trade-publication-media-kit/) - Some things in the world of PR make me scratch my head. Trade publication media kits, for example. When researching a new trade publication or outlet to pitch stories on behalf of your client, this is typically your first stop. You need to determine audience size. You need to see if the demographics match up--and
- [7 Job Search Tips for New PR Grads that You Won't hear from your Career Counselor](https://arikhanson.com/7-job-search-tips-for-new-pr-grads-that-you-wont-hear-from-your-career-counselor/) - Today, I'm headed to Winona for my bi-annual pilgrimage where I speak to a slew of PR classes on campus (part of my Alumni Board work). This time around, I'm also chatting with the Winona St. PRSSA chapter. They asked me to come prepared to talk a bit about job search strategies for senior and
- [The changing face--and strategy--of today's corporate online newsroom](https://arikhanson.com/the-changing-face-and-strategy-of-todays-corporate-online-newsroom/) - The online corporate newsroom has undergone big shifts in the way it looks and operates in the last 15 years--for sure. Remember when online corporate newsrooms used to consist of a list of news releases and nothing more? Literally. Heck, many corporate online newsrooms still DO look like that. And therein lies the problem. The cold,
- [Why "content librarian" will be one of the hot new jobs in 2016](https://arikhanson.com/why-content-librarian-will-be-one-of-the-hot-new-jobs-in-2016/) - According to a recent Accenture Interactive survey, 50 percent of marketers now have more content than they can effectively manage. Mark Schaefer predicted it two years ago--content shock is officially upon us now, folks. And, that means a slew of challenges for brands on the strategy side. But today, I want to talk a little about
- [When is it OK to stop climbing the PR career ladder?](https://arikhanson.com/when-is-it-ok-to-stop-climbing-the-pr-career-ladder/) - There's a conversation I keep having with colleagues close to my age level (35-45, shall we say). Not sure if it's a new conversation, but it's one that doesn't get a lot of attention when it comes to the larger career discussions. "I don't want to be a SVP. I don't want to be a
- [The (not so) hidden way brands are getting started on Snapchat](https://arikhanson.com/the-not-so-hidden-way-brands-are-getting-started-on-snapchat/) - Snapchat. It's THE platform right now that brands *want* to figure out, but just can't. I mean, 100 million active daily users draws a lot of attention, right? So, why can't brands figure out Snapchat? For the same reason they couldn't figure out Twitter initially--it's not *designed* for brands (at least, most of Snapchat's not designed
- [The four cardinal sins public speakers continue to break](https://arikhanson.com/the-four-cardinal-sins-public-speakers-continue-to-break/) - The last few months, I've attended a number of local events here in Minneapolis. Good events put on by great people. And, in all cases, the speakers were solid. Except for one thing. They all continue to break a number of public speaking cardinal sins. Which is surprising, really. I mean, these cardinal sins, they're
- [Let's get serious--and honest--about influencer marketing](https://arikhanson.com/lets-get-serious-and-honest-about-influencer-marketing/) - I recently read a post by popular blogger, podcaster and professor, Mark Schaefer, on influencer marketing. The post was titled "8 Practical Applications for Influence Marketing." While I largely agreed with a lot of what Mark had to say in the post (especially #1 and #2 in the list), he made two claims that stopped me
- [Do we really have a social media skills gap?](https://arikhanson.com/do-we-really-have-a-social-media-skills-gap/) - Hey--it's not me asking this question. It's a topic that's coming up with clients and friends I've talked with in town for a little while now. Is there a social media skills gap among younger folks here in Minneapolis? Maybe. Maybe not. The bigger issue is this: Why are we even having this discussion? I thought young
- [PR Rock Stars: Sleep Number's Kaitlyn Cox](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-sleep-numbers-kaitlyn-cox/) - I can't recall how or when, exactly, I met Kaitlyn Cox for the first time. But, I'm sure glad I did meet her. Kaitlyn is one of the most kind and sweet people you'll ever meet in our profession. And, she's a heckuva a rock star. Just ask her teammates at Sleep Number (client). I
- [Instagram Zero will be a reality by 2017](https://arikhanson.com/instagram-zero-will-be-a-reality-by-2017/) - Last week, social analytics company, Locowise, released an interesting report on Instagram analytics. The most interesting piece of data: Post engagement rates had dropped from 12 percent in Dec. 2015 to just 0.95 percent in January 2016. Wow. As you know, late last year, Instagram opened up its ad platform to all brands. And many
- [Mayo Clinic's first-ever live colonoscopy on Periscope: A big win for 5 reasons](https://arikhanson.com/mayo-clinics-first-ever-live-colonoscopy-on-periscope-a-big-win-for-5-reasons/) - Last Tuesday morning, I spent the first 30 minutes of my day watching a grown man (Lee Aase of Mayo Clinic social media fame) get a colonoscopy. That's right--I watched the whole thing on Periscope as Mayo Clinic launched the first-ever livestream of a colonoscopy. In typical Mayo Clinic fashion, the whole event was promoted
- [Is sharing third-party media articles via social a solid strategy for brands?](https://arikhanson.com/is-sharing-third-party-media-articles-via-social-a-solid-strategy-for-brands/) - Does this sound like a familiar dilemma? "Should we continue sharing articles to third-party sites? I mean, every time we share one we get above-average engagement on Facebook and LinkedIn!" It's becoming a fairly common question I'm getting from clients and colleagues in recent months. So, I thought it might be worth further exploration and
- [10 skills the PR pro of the future will need (revised)](https://arikhanson.com/10-skills-the-pr-pro-of-the-future-will-need-revised/) - Almost four years ago, I wrote a post titled "10 skills the PR pro of 2022 must have." It was based on trends I've seen with clients, tidbits I've picked up in talking to industry friends and little bits of information I'd stowed away from articles and posts I've read on the interwebs. Four years later,
- [Six Millennials who defy typical Millennial stereotypes](https://arikhanson.com/six-millennials-that-defy-typical-millennial-stereotypes/) - After this week's Yelp kerfuffle with one disgruntled Millennial--and then another rebuking the first Millennial's rant--I got to thinking: Man, it must really suck to be a Millennial these days. Pretty much two entire generations (Gen X and Boomers, predominantly) scoff at everything you do (or don't do, in many cases). You are written about
- [The virtual office--not the "open office"--is the future of work in PR](https://arikhanson.com/the-virtual-office-not-the-open-office-is-the-future-of-work-in-pr/) - The last job I had before jumping out on my own was with Fairview Health Services. During my time at Fairview, we made the transition from more of a traditional office environment (with walls and doors) to an open office environment with no walls and very few offices. It didn't go over well (at least
- [PR Rock Stars: Exponent PR's Allison O'Keefe](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-exponent-prs-allison-okeefe/) - I think I met Allison O'Keefe in 2008 at a PRSA meeting here in Minneapolis. In fact, she introduced herself to me. Keep in mind, she was probably all of 20 years old when she introduced herself--and probably one of two students at this meeting. I don't think I even knew what PRSA was when
- [9 questions to ask yourself BEFORE going #SoloPR](https://arikhanson.com/9-questions-to-ask-yourself-before-going-solopr/) - I've almost been a #SoloPR now for seven years. Seven years. That's actually pretty crazy for me to comprehend. And, according to recent articles and stories I've seen, I may have been ahead of the trend! In case you haven't heard, the solo economy is BURSTING. Report after report touts the rise of the solo
- [Emojis may be hot, but they're destroying the art of communication](https://arikhanson.com/emojis-may-be-hot-but-theyre-destroying-the-art-of-communication/) - By now, I'm sure you're sick of hearing about my personal stance on emojis as a communication tool. But, despite my personal feeling, the thundering success of emojis rages on. Obviously, they've long been a tool for texting. But, in the last year they started showing up much more frequently on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (just
- [PR Rock Stars: Explore Minnesota's Alyssa Ebel](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-explore-minnesotas-alyssa-ebel/) - The first time I saw or heard Alyssa Ebel's came when I was researching the fantastic #OnlyInMn campaign. Since then, she seems to pop up everywhere. And, as WCCO-TV's Jason DeRusha said in a recent Facebook comment thread, she's "always on brand." That couldn't be more true. Every time you see her pop up in
- [What to read--and what NOT to read--in digital marketing](https://arikhanson.com/what-to-read-and-what-not-to-read-in-digital-marketing/) - One question I get A LOT when meeting with colleagues and clients: What should I be reading? Which blogs? Which media outlets? Which Tumblrs? (OK, not really, but I needed a third one for symmetry!) It's a complex question these days because there's so much junk out there. So much junk. So, you typically have
- [Why more brands AREN'T experimenting with Snapchat](https://arikhanson.com/why-more-brands-arent-experimenting-with-snapchat/) - Yeah, I know Snapchat has 100 million daily active users. I know they have like 46 billion views on their videos (slight exaggeration). And I know every 17-year-old alive checks Snapchat no fewer than 89 times per day. I get it--Snapchat is a BFD (you aren't the only ones who can use cool acronyms, Millennials!). Yet
- [Less is the new more when it comes to social posting frequency](https://arikhanson.com/less-is-the-new-more-when-it-comes-to-social-posting-frequency/) - A friend of mine raised a question we've heard before on Facebook the other day: How many times should I be posting to Facebook per week? A question that's been asked by thousands of clients and company-side folks over the last few years (but a question I haven't heard in quite a while, actually). And,
- [Are we still over-relying on media relations?](https://arikhanson.com/are-we-still-over-relying-on-media-relations/) - Something I've been thinking about a lot lately: Are we over-relying on media relations in PR? I'm talking about the broader scope of PR here--media relations, content marketing, social media marketing, community relations, etc. For many years, media relations has been one of the core aspects of PR. But, a number of stats and reports
- [Crystal Knows: The new PR stealth weapon of choice](https://arikhanson.com/crystal-knows-the-new-pr-stealth-weapon-of-choice/) - MIMA Summit is always a great event here in Minneapolis. In fact, it's one of the top-tier events in the Upper Midwest. One reason: We get grade-A speakers like Amy Webb. Amy was our closing keynote this year, and one nugget she dropped on everyone in attendance was the emergence of a new tool named
- [How the psychology of "engaging" on Twitter has changed](https://arikhanson.com/how-the-psychology-of-engaging-on-twitter-has-changed/) - No, this isn't another post on how Twitter is changing. Or has changed. Or needs to change. I believe that ground has been covered. And then some. What I'd like to talk about today is how the psychology of user behavior has changed on Twitter--and more importantly, how that impacts us as marketers. To level
- [Why can't corporate intranets just die already?](https://arikhanson.com/why-cant-corporate-intranets-just-die-already/) - My internal and employee comms friends aren't going to like this post. Not one bit. But, before you take my head off about the headline, let's have an honest discussion about corporate intranets. You know, those vast wastelands of information that are supposed to serve as a key employee communications channel? I'm here to say
- [11 great opportunities thanks to 22 people in 2015](https://arikhanson.com/11-great-opportunities-thanks-to-22-people-in-2015/) - I'm going to take a moment today to talk about me. I don't do it very often, but I'll admit: I'm writing this post more for me, than you. Sorry. Check that. I'm really writing this post for 32 people who helped me along in one way, shape or form in 2015. Some helped me by
- [Talking Points Podcast: Is Social Media Losing its Human Face?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-is-social-media-losing-its-human-face/) - In this episode of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I discuss trends impacting corporate communicators in 2016, the recent GE #DigitalSnowGlobe campaign and Limelight's State of the User Experience Report. SHOW NOTES - December 17, 2015 “Seven Tech Trends Chief Communications Officers Should Track in 2016” http://blog.wcgworld.com/2015/12/seven-tech-trends-chief-communications-officers-should-track-in-2016 SPOTLIGHT: “GE #DigitalSnowGlobe: Magic of
- [24 people I'd like to have coffee with in 2016](https://arikhanson.com/24-people-id-like-to-have-coffee-with-in-2016/) - Almost two years ago, I ranted on this blog about how I was done with coffee meet-ups. Apparently, a lot of people were listening. I've heard jokes, smart remarks and comments from too many friends to list here about that post over the last year-plus. And while I'm not backing off my primary claims (no coffees
- [What I learned from my time on the MIMA board of directors](https://arikhanson.com/what-i-learned-from-my-time-on-the-mima-board-of-directors/) - On Dec. 31, I will retire from the Minnesota Interactive Marketing Association board of directors. That sounds very official, but in reality, I'm just pulling back from commitments that fall outside my top two priorities at the moment (family+business). Sadly, volunteer opportunities like MIMA are falling by the wayside. After two years of serving on
- [Are we over-relying on data to make social media decisions?](https://arikhanson.com/are-we-over-relying-on-data-to-make-social-media-decisions/) - Big data. Data-decision decisions. Data. Data. Data. Isn't that all we've heard the last few years? The data discussion has been so big, in fact, that there's often room for nothing else when it comes to digital and social media strategy. Now, I'm not here to debate the validity of data. I know it's an important
- [Talking Points Podcast: Is corporate blogging cooling?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-is-corporate-blogging-cooling/) - SHOW NOTES - December 3, 2015 “The 2015 Fortune 500 and Social Media: Instagram Gains, Blogs Lose” http://www.umassd.edu/cmr/socialmediaresearch/2015fortune500andsocialmedia/ SPOTLIGHT: “Holiday Inn Express Delivers First BREAKFA-moji Keyboard” http://brandchannel.com/2015/11/25/holiday-inn-breakfast-emoji-112515/ “Is It Time to Ditch Your Company Blog’s Comments Section?” http://contentmarketinginstitute.com/2015/11/ditch-blog-comment-sections “Should you remove the comments section from your corporate blog?” https://arikhanson.com/2015/12/01/should-you-take-comments-off-your-corporate-blog/ “Journalists
- [Should you remove the comments section from your corporate blog?](https://arikhanson.com/should-you-take-comments-off-your-corporate-blog/) - A few weeks ago, I spoke at the sixth annual Minnesota Blogger Conference. You can read all about what I talked about here. Part of my presentation caused a bit of a stir: My prediction that more people (and I would also argue, companies) will remove comments from their corporate blogs in the year ahead. Wait,
- [How to navigate corporate office politics: A consultant's perspective](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-navigate-corporate-office-politics-a-consultants-perspective/) - I want to preface this post by saying, I sucked at office politics when I was on the client side. Worse yet, I had absolutely no interest in it. I didn't want the corner office. I didn't necessarily want more responsibility (read: a bigger team). I just didn't want to play the game. That said,
- [7 trends impacting every blogger at #mnblogcon](https://arikhanson.com/7-trends-impacting-every-blogger-at-mnblogcon/) - On Saturday, I had the opportunity to speak at the sixth annual Minnesota Blogger Conference--an event I helped start with Missy Berggren years ago. Nowadays, Jen Jamar and Mykl Roventine run it, and they are doing a WONDERFUL job. After my limited experience at the event on Saturday, I just can't say enough good things
- [Talking Points Podcast: An interview with Children's Hospitals & Clinics' Jen Swanson](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-an-interview-with-childrens-hospitals-clinics-jen-swanson/) - In this episode of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I sat down with Jen Swanson, director of digital marketing at Children's Hospitals and Clinics (one of our families very favorite local hospitals--they've taken VERY good care of our kids in the past). On the show, Jen talks about her varied background, her role in
- [12 pieces of advice I would give my team (if I had one)](https://arikhanson.com/12-pieces-of-advice-i-would-give-my-team-if-i-had-one/) - One of the biggest drawbacks of working for yourself is the complete and utter lack of a team. I work by myself at my home office most days. I love it. But, it is a fairly lonely existence. You have to make an effort to get out and see people (hence my involvement in MIMA,
- [The employee tech experience: The chasm between personal and professional tools grows](https://arikhanson.com/the-employee-tech-experience-not-as-ideal-as-wed-like-to-think-119/) - Five to six years ago, one of the big conversations you heard a lot about was around how many companies were blocking Facebook at work. There was outrage. There was pillaging. There was plundering. And then, companies got smarter (well, most companies, at least), and they started opening up social media usage at work. Today, there's more
- [Engaging media on Twitter: Through personal or corporate accounts?](https://arikhanson.com/engaging-media-on-twitter-through-personal-or-corporate-accounts/) - Ran into an interesting situation recently with a client. Part of our work is media outreach. So, not surprisingly, one way we're staying connected with reporters is through Twitter. We developed the requisite Twitter lists. Researched them inside and out. And started "engaging" (i.e., monitoring and looking for small opportunities to talk to them). Seems
- [Talking Points Podcast: 9 trends in tech and media for 2016](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-9-trends-in-tech-and-media-for-2016/) - In this episode of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I talk about tech and media trends--from a little different perspective (that of a former Yahoo board member). I say "different" because it's not the usual marketing predictions. Instead, this deck (featured in the show notes below) talks about much broader tech and media trends--but
- [REI's #OptOutside move: Isn't it really all about the money?](https://arikhanson.com/reis-optoutside-move-isnt-it-really-all-about-the-money/) - First, I want to share this disclaimer: I'm an REI member and a HUGE fan. My son and I LOVE REI. Second disclaimer: This was a brilliant move. From multiple perspectives. That said, amidst all the "best move ever" hype, I can't help but wonder: Wasn't this really just a smart business decision by REI? Because, let's
- [7 ways companies are (already) using Instagram ads](https://arikhanson.com/7-ways-companies-are-already-using-instagram-ads/) - Instagram users noticed a distinct change in their feeds as of late. More ads. Like a LOT more ads. Earlier this year, I'd be lucky if I saw a single ad in one sessions of scrolling on Instagram. Now? I probably see 4-5 per session. At least. That's because Instagram recently opened up its ad
- [Behind-the-scenes content: The most over-rated content in the history of the Internet](https://arikhanson.com/behind-the-scenes-content-the-most-over-rated-content-in-the-history-of-the-internet/) - Last week, Playboy announced it was cutting the nudity out of its magazines. I know, weird way to start a post, right? Stay with me for a moment. The Playboy news was a long time coming. The internet killed Playboy's corner on naked woman many years ago. But, for YEARS, Playboy did have the corner
- [Talking Points Podcast: Should Brands Really Have an Opinion?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-should-brands-really-have-an-opinion/) - Fun show this week. Kevin and I talked about the #PlayMoreMN campaign, why brands need to have an opinion (big topic!), and the rough-and-tumble life of today's blogger (insert sarcasm here). Hope you enjoy the show! SHOW NOTES - October 15, 2015 “How to Work with Journalists: Straight from a Tribune Panel” http://spinsucks.com/communication/how-to-work-with-journalists-straight-from-a-tribune-panel/ SPOTLIGHT: “#PlayMoreMN
- [#PlayMoreMN case study: Why the "tell us your story" approach is NOT dead](https://arikhanson.com/playmoremn-case-study-why-the-tell-us-your-story-approach-is-not-dead/) - If you live here in the great state of Minnesota, last week you probably noticed an explosion of tweets, Facebook posts and Instagram pics in your feeds last Wednesday. That's because the Children's Museum of Minnesota unveiled a new one-day campaign (as part of a larger brand revamp) named #PlayMoreMN. The premise? In our go-go
- [7 creative ways to promote your company's corporate volunteer efforts](https://arikhanson.com/7-creative-ways-to-promote-your-companys-corporate-volunteer-efforts/) - When it comes to corporate volunteerism and social media, isn't this what we normally see from brands? Good story. Great, model employee. Driving traffic to the web site. All good things. Except, the Pella folks forgot to amplify the content. 637 views and 36 likes ain't gonna cut it folks. We also see posts like
- [Why "I want to get on Buzzfeed!" is replacing "I want to be on Oprah!"](https://arikhanson.com/why-i-want-to-get-on-buzzfeed-is-replacing-i-want-to-be-on-oprah/) - A friend and colleague of mine posted the following on Facebook last Friday: "Potential new client just said this: Magazines are great but we really want to have online coverage. Magazines have a short life span and everyone is reading news online nowadays and it lives forever. Please focus on that." Did that just happen? Are
- [Why are influencers still not disclosing paid relationship? (and why brands should really care)](https://arikhanson.com/why-are-influencers-still-not-disclosing-paid-relationship-and-why-brands-should-really-care/) - It's 2015, and we're still seeing posts like this: Big deal, you say. Seems like a perfectly innocuous Instagram post by an "influencer" to me, right? Let's look a little closer. While this post doesn't seem to clearly be affiliated with a sponsor or brand, what about this one? Now, I can't say this influencer
- [Why are we punishing our senior leaders by sticking them in meetings 7-8 hours a day?](https://arikhanson.com/why-are-we-punishing-our-senior-leaders-by-sticking-them-in-meetings-7-8-hours-a-day/) - Back when I worked on the corporate side, I distinctly remember trying to get on my boss' calendar. It was impossible. Why? Because she was booked with back-to-back meetings all day long. Double-booked, in fact. Unbelievable. Her story is hardly an uncommon one. Many of my big corporate clients today face the same dilemma. Meetings
- [Talking Points Podcast: A Conversation with United Health Group's Bryan Vincent](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-a-conversation-with-united-health-groups-bryan-vincent/) - In this edition of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I sit down with Bryan Vincent, director of digital communications at United Health Group and talk LinkedIn, the recent Mayo Clinic/Minneapolis Star Tribune partnership, MIMA Summit and a little Packers/Vikings football. SHOW NOTES - October 1, 2015 Bryan Vincent https://twitter.com/bvincent 2015 MIMA Summit http://www.mimasummit.org/ “Why
- [Why do big brands continue to completely ignore LinkedIn?](https://arikhanson.com/why-do-big-brands-continue-to-completely-ignore-linkedin/) - Ok, so the headline might be a little provocative, but the more I think about it, the more I think many big brands continue to under-utilize one of the more effective and useful social networks on the web today. What am I talking about? Think about these three questions: Why do brands continue to use
- [Is the corporate blog still content marketing's "home base"?](https://arikhanson.com/is-the-corporate-blog-still-content-marketings-home-base/) - For years, what's been beaten into our head? Drive all social traffic back to our corporate blog and/or web site. We own that content. We can drive leads on our site. We can track user behavior more accurately. Drive all social traffic back to our corporate blog and/or web site. And, for the most part,
- [Has Facebook made us lazy when it comes to birthdays?](https://arikhanson.com/has-facebook-made-us-lazy-when-it-comes-to-birthdays/) - A few weeks ago, I celebrated a birthday. And I got the requisite Facebook "happy birthday" posts on my wall. A bunch of them. Wonderful (thank you to those who left a note!). We all know the feeling. Now, I'm going to preface this next comment by saying I'm not looking for sympathy. I'm not playing
- [What four designers and builders can teach you about how to win on Houzz](https://arikhanson.com/what-four-designers-and-builders-can-teach-you-about-how-to-win-on-houzz/) - I know what you're thinking: "What the heck is Houzz?" If you don't work in the construction, architectural or design worlds, you wouldn't know. But, if you do work in those worlds--or, you have recently redesigned your home--you know all about Houzz. Houzz is THE niche social network for construction, design and architectural professionals. And,
- [Talking Points Podcast: How declining trust in CEOs impacts PR](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-how-declining-trust-in-ceos-impacts-pr/) - SHOW NOTES - September 10, 2015 “Why PR pros should care about declining trust in CEOs” http://www.prdaily.com/Main/Articles/19241.aspx SPOTLIGHT: “Peace Day Burger” http://burgerking.tumblr.com/post/128138156969/it-looks-like-were-going-to-need-a-bigger-table SPOTLIGHT: "An Open Letter To Burger King" http://news.mcdonalds.com/Corporate/Media-Statements/An-Open-Letter-To-Burger-King SPOTLIGHT: "McDonald's politely declines Burger King's offer of world peace" http://www.theverge.com/2015/8/27/9214071/mcdonalds-burger-king-world-peace-declined "Internships 2015 - The Wasted Summer" https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/internships-2015-wasted-summer-gillian-gabriel “That Facebook post you just liked is
- [I still love you PRSA--even though I'm no longer a member](https://arikhanson.com/i-still-love-you-prsa-even-though-im-no-longer-a-member/) - About five years ago, I made the tough decision to not renew my PRSA membership. It was purely a business decision. I was on the board of directors at the time. I was on the executive track, in fact. But, I was starting my business at the time, and felt my time would be better
- [What are the *real* incentives for employees to advocate for your brand on social media channels?](https://arikhanson.com/what-are-the-real-incentives-for-employees-to-advocate-for-your-brand-on-social-media-channels/) - I currently work with a couple clients on managing and developing "Employer Brands" on social media. What that means, essentially, is developing a brand that will help retain and recruit the best and brightest talent for the company. It's interesting work. I love it. It combines two loves of mine: employee communications and social media.
- [Why "creative" job titles won't lead to a better career path](https://arikhanson.com/why-creative-job-titles-wont-lead-to-a-better-career-path/) - Digital Marketing Magician. Senior Road Warrior Marketing Intern Mobile Sensei Digital Overlord Wizard of Light Bulb Moments Dream Alchemist We're all seen these types of job titles on LinkedIn, right? And, most of the people I know would scoff at these. Yet, they seem to be popping up in increasing numbers lately. Why? Maybe because
- [Talking Points Podcast: Is social media officially dead?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-is-social-media-officially-dead/) - In this edition of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I talk about Josh Bernoff's recent post claiming that social media is dead--and that we should burn it down and start over. It's a bold claim, and one we discuss in depth. We also talk about a new Pew Internet Research report featuring the latest
- [Case study: How the Minnesota Pork Board dispelled myths with "urban foodie" influencers](https://arikhanson.com/case-study-how-the-minnesota-pork-board-dispelled-myths-with-urban-foodie-influencers/) - Influencer outreach. Its still one of those tactics that's often talked about by companies and agencies, but rarely executed well. How do I know? I get the pitches. And, I hear/read about other people getting the pitches. Most influencer outreach is horribly executed. And, it's hard work. It's time consuming. It's heavily predicated on long-standing relationships.
- [5 things I'm working on to better myself in my 43rd year](https://arikhanson.com/5-things-im-working-on-to-better-myself-in-my-43rd-year/) - Today's my birthday. Yeah, yeah, save it for Facebook :) I'm 43 years old today. Damn, that sounds really old writing that down. Recently, I started thinking more about how I could improve myself in the year ahead. You see, my birthday is kinda like most people's New Year's Day. I look at it as
- [Amazon case study: Should rank-and-file employees be speaking on behalf of brands?](https://arikhanson.com/amazon-case-study-should-rank-and-file-employees-be-speaking-on-behalf-of-brands/) - Last Saturday, you may have read the scathing New York Times piece on Amazon's culture. Huge story. Huge media buzz. Huge legs on social media. Numerous follow-up stories were written. Facebook was abuzz. It was an A topic for a few days. But, along the way, we heard from one surprising source as the story unfolded:
- [9 Digital Trends Reshaping PR](https://arikhanson.com/9-digital-trends-reshaping-pr/) - Last week, I spoke at the Florida Public Relations Association Annual Conference in Orlando. Our annual #SoloPR Summit was part of the event (thanks to the efforts of Kellye Crane), so I was graciously invited to speak. My topic: Digital trends reshaping the PR industry. My angle: To talk, not about the trends *everyone* is
- [Was Target lucky--or strategic--with its Troll posts?](https://arikhanson.com/was-target-lucky-or-strategic-with-its-troll-posts/) - ICYMI, last week, Target was at it again: Back in the news feed. This time, they were taking some heat for its decision to label toys in a more gender-neutral way. That is, until Mike Melgaard started chirping in. This AdWeek post tells the full story. In short, Melgaard was "trolling" Target--but only for a
- [Why speaking at PR industry conferences is tougher than it looks](https://arikhanson.com/why-speaking-at-pr-industry-conferences-is-tougher-than-it-looks/) - Earlier this week, I was at the Florida Public Relations Association Annual Conference and #SoloPR Summit in Orlando. It's the one chance I have each year to get together with my #SoloPR compadres like Dan Farkas, Besty Decillis, Heather Whaling and Kellye Crane. The conference was one of the better run events I've ever attended. Really,
- [Talking Points Podcast: Will Real-Time Marketing Still be a Thing a Year From Now?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-will-real-time-marketing-still-be-a-thing-a-year-from-now/) - Hello from sunny Florida! Well, technically, I'm back home today--but I was in Orlando at the #SoloPR Summit and Florida Public Relations Association Conference yesterday and earlier this week. In this edition of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I discuss a trend that (along with "emoji marketing") can't die soon enough, in my view:
- [The challenges of helping C-level executives communicate with rank-and-file employees](https://arikhanson.com/the-challenges-of-helping-c-level-executives-communicate-with-rank-and-file-employees/) - A few weeks ago, Josh Bernoff made a post that talked about a recent communication from Satya Nadella, Microsoft's CEO, to employees about a recent series of layoffs. If you read Bernoff's blog with any regularity (as I do), you probably picked up on the fact that he wasn't a big fan of the language
- [When will the emoji marketing madness stop?](https://arikhanson.com/when-will-the-emoji-marketing-madness-stop/) - Yeah, I know. Emojis are everything. I know it's how all the Millennials of Mother Earth communicate. I know brands want to appear "hip" and "on fleek." But haven't we all taken this just a bit too far? I mean, Chevy created an entire news release in emojis earlier this year. A NEWS RELEASE. A
- [Facebook video views: The new fluff social media metric](https://arikhanson.com/facebook-video-views-the-new-fluff-social-media-metric/) - Earlier this week, YouTube creator Hank Green authored a pretty pointed post about Facebook video and its many flaws titled "Theft, Lies and Facebook video." While the post is full of rants against Facebook for the many "crimes" against creators, the most relevant for us marketers is this: The Facebook video view is kind of
- [Talking Points Podcast: A conversation with Deluxe's Heather Rist](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-a-conversation-with-deluxes-heather-rist/) - In this edition of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I are joined by Heather Rist, director of social media and content for Deluxe. We talk about emojis (yes--emojis!!!!), corporate blogging and the trend of more companies insourcing their marketing efforts. It was an energizing discussion (did I mention we talked about EMOJIS?!?!?!?) Hope you'll
- [7 of the most unique and interesting Instagram brand campaigns in 2015 (so far)](https://arikhanson.com/7-of-the-most-unique-and-interesting-instagram-brand-campaigns-in-2015-so-far/) - Instagram is arguable THE platform for brands right now. According to a SocialBakers survey, Instagram is CRUSHING Twitter in terms of engagement. You're seeing brands like Nike, Starbucks and Adidas with MASSIVE communities on Instagram. And, we're seeing some brands using Instagram in all sorts of interesting and interactive ways with their customers. That's what I
- [Are we really on the right side of the digital divide?](https://arikhanson.com/are-we-really-on-the-right-side-of-the-digital-divide/) - I read an op-ed in the Minneapolis Star Tribune yesterday titled, "The future of work in a digital world." The article talked about how digital tools and technologies have made the world a better place to live--but, quite possibly could also lead to a sharp downturn, and potentially the death, of our society. That's a
- [The misunderstood case of "brand voice" in social media](https://arikhanson.com/the-misunderstood-case-of-brand-voice-in-social-media/) - When you think of companies that have nurtured a great "brand voice" on social media, which organizations come to mind? According to my research, the "experts" will tell you the list looks something like this: Sharpie (accounts dead, btw) DiGiornia Pizza Red Bull NBA Oreo Taco Bell As I continued to dig in, I noticed
- [Why aren't more companies using LinkedIn Sponsored Updates to retain and recruit talent?](https://arikhanson.com/why-arent-more-companies-using-linkedin-sponsored-updates-to-retain-and-recruit-talent/) - As we're all painfully aware by now, Facebook has morphed into a complete pay-for-play platform thanks to the prevalence of "sponsored posts." But LinkedIn? That's a different story. "Sponsored updates", as they're labeled, on LinkedIn are a bit less ubiquitous than its Facebook brethren. But, according to many, they can be more successful (if used
- [How to find a good social media blog to add to your reader](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-find-a-good-social-media-blog-to-add-to-your-reader/) - Like many of you, I read a decent amount during the day. I read the newspaper. I read emails. I read news sites. And I read blogs. I use Feedly to aggregate all the blogs I read. I organize them by categories: MN blogs, advertising blogs, PR blogs, content blogs. And social media blogs. I
- [Talking Points Podcast: Is content discovery the new holy grail of PR?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-is-content-discovery-the-new-holy-grail-of-pr/) - In this week's show, Kevin and I discuss content curation and discovery and its future in our business, the #PrimeDay experiment this week, Microsoft's recent corporate communication laying off 7,800 employees and Jen Kane's recent post on content that's lame. Take a listen! SHOW NOTES - July 16, 2015 “Content discovery: The new Holy Grail
- [All brands are media: The biggest lie the marketing industry has ever told](https://arikhanson.com/all-brands-are-media-the-biggest-lie-the-marketing-industry-has-ever-told/) - One of my favorite blogs is the Content Strategist. It's full of interesting, insightful and easy-to-read posts about everything in the content world. And it's full of stories that bang on the "all brands are media" drum. That should come as no surprised to anyone. The blog, after all, is written by Contently, a content
- [Engaging reporters on Twitter: Why it's an over-hyped "best practice"](https://arikhanson.com/engaging-reporters-on-twitter-why-its-an-over-hyped-best-practice/) - For years, we've heard the mantra: Engage reporters on Twitter. Build relationships on social media. In essence: Social media was to give us a better, more efficient tool for nurturing relationships with reporters. Except, maybe it hasn't. On one hand, Twitter and social media platforms have given us a set of tools that help us
- [Do you take time to celebrate your successes?](https://arikhanson.com/do-you-take-time-to-celebrate-your-successes/) - Over the years, I've worked in every possible setting in the PR world. Agency. Corporate. Non-profit. Independent. One observation through working for those different kinds of organizations: Agency people know how to celebrate. Big time. Corporate, non-profit and independent peers? Not so much. I'm not sure why that is. I mean, corporate, non-profit and independent folks are
- [Talking Points Podcast: An interview with Social Fresh's Jason Keath](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-an-interview-with-social-freshs-jason-keath/) - Today, my podcast partner, Kevin Hunt interviews Social Fresh founder, Jason Keath. They talk social media conferences, blogging, and social media careers paths. Hope you'll consider listening! SHOW NOTES - July 2, 2015 JasonKeath.com http://www.jasonkeath.com/ Social Fresh http://www.socialfresh.com/ Social Fresh Conference http://2015.socialfreshconference.com/2015
- [You are your priorities: How to say "no" and better manage your professional life](https://arikhanson.com/you-are-your-priorities-how-to-say-no-and-better-manage-your-professional-life/) - I came across one of those "40 quotes that..." posts last week on Forbes. As usual, one quote stuck with me: "You are your priorities." Can't remember who said it, but I like it because it hits on something I've been thinking a lot about lately. How we manage our lives. My priority list is
- [Twin Cities PR This Month - June](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-month-june/) - Little switch--for the last year-plus, I've been providing weekly, then bi-weekly updates on comings/goings, agency wins and other events around Minneapolis/St. Paul. Since that's more work that it seems, I'm going to ratchet it back just a bit to monthly. I'm still going to capture the same information--it'll just be on a less frequent basis.
- [Why did @Sharpie shut down all its social media accounts?](https://arikhanson.com/why-did-sharpie-shut-down-all-its-social-media-accounts/) - I was researching social media brand voice examples on behalf of a client the other day, and I stumbled across the Sharpie accounts. For those who have been paying attention, Sharpie has been widely heralded as one of the more progressive and "hip" brands when it comes to social media. Many have even applauded them
- [#chevygoesemoji: Brilliant PR strategy or ridiculous stunt?](https://arikhanson.com/chevygoesemoji-brilliant-pr-strategy-or-ridiculous-stunt/) - Earlier this week, you may have noticed Chevy broke some new ground in the world of PR. It unveiled the first-ever all-emoji news release. Yeah, you heard me. All emojis. No, for realz. I mean, emojis are hot, right? Everyone is using them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (where they're plentiful these days). And, the
- [My cord-cutting experiment...three years later](https://arikhanson.com/my-cord-cutting-experiment-three-years-later/) - Roughly three years ago, I made the leap. I cut the cord. No more cable. My intentions were simple. I wanted our family to watch less TV. I wanted to spend less money on "TV." And I wanted to watch shows and movies when I wanted (not on someone else's schedule). A year in, I
- [Why does Instagram make it impossible to post from your laptop?](https://arikhanson.com/why-does-instagram-make-it-impossible-to-post-from-your-laptop/) - It's the question I'm sure nearly every social media manager has asked themselves over the last couple years: Why doesn't Instagram come up with a way to post from your laptop? I know, I know, it's a mobile platform. But, for brand and agency folks, posting to Instagram from your own mobile device is far
- [Talking Points Podcast: A Year in Review](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-a-year-in-review/) - SHOW NOTES - June 18, 2015 “How Coca-Cola Journey Made the Most of Its ‘Mad Men’ Moment and Drew 200,000 Readers” http://contently.com/strategist/2015/06/10/how-coca-cola-journey-made-the-most-of-its-mad-men-moment-and-drew-200000-readers “Report: Social Media is the Slowest Way to Resolve Customer Service Issues” http://www.adweek.com/socialtimes/report-social-media-is-the-slowest-way-to-resolve-customer-service-issues/621548 "Facebook’s latest news feed change is just too creepy" http://propr.ca/2015/facebooks-latest-news-feed-change-is-just-too-creepy/ “Facebook News Feed changes again: Now it's all about time
- [11 tips on how to manage your career in PR AND be a parent](https://arikhanson.com/11-tips-on-how-to-manage-your-career-in-pr-and-be-a-parent/) - 10 years ago, I became a parent. An event that forever altered the course of my life. Not just my personal life--my professional life, too. Because let's face it, your professional life AFTER kids is so much different than your professional life BEFORE kids (what in God's green earth did I do with all the
- [Talking Points Podcast: Are PR people really liars?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-are-pr-people-really-liars/) - In this episode of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I discuss Mary Meeker's Internet Trends Report, KFC's new Twitter strategy, and why everyone should throw their current crisis communications plans in the trash. SHOW NOTES - June 4, 2015 "2015 Internet Trends Report" http://www.slideshare.net/kleinerperkins/internet-trends-v1 "Advertisers are Missing Out on $25 Billion in Mobile
- [4 ways clients can be better clients](https://arikhanson.com/4-ways-clients-can-be-better-clients/) - A few weeks ago, Hubspot made a post about why clients fire PR agencies. Lots of the reasons you thought would be on a list like that showed up: * Lack of communication * Lack of results * Lack of initiative I get it. Agencies suck sometimes. But you know what, sometimes clients suck, too.
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - May 29](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-may-29/) - Every two weeks, this is where you'll find who's been promoted, who's changing jobs, who's looking for talent and who's hosting events here in the Twin Cities. It's your one-stop shop for all things PR and digital marketing here in town! Want to make it even easier? Sign up for my weekly e-newsletter and you
- [Are social media certification programs a worthwhile investment?](https://arikhanson.com/are-social-media-certification-programs-a-worthwhile-investment/) - Last week, a colleague asked a simple question. "Are social media certification programs worth it? Simple question, right? Unfortunately, the answer isn't as black and white. Because the answer requires context. It's also situational--since not everyone is looking for the same "off-the-shelf" product as the next person. So, instead of a black-or-white "yes" or "no"
- [Talking Points Podcast: Special guest Allianz Life's Jamie Plesser](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-special-guest-allianz-lifes-jamie-plesser/) - This week, we had a special co-host on the show: Allianz Life's Jamie Plesser! Jamie shared a bit about his current role and background and then joined us as a guest commentator for the rest of the show. Enjoy! SHOW NOTES - May 21, 2015 "Facebook’s new ‘Instant Articles’ program poses dilemma for publishers" http://venturebeat.com/2015/05/11/facebooks-new-instant-articles-program-poses-dilemma-for-publishers/
- [PR Rock Stars: space150's Morgan Hay-Chapman](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-space150s-morgan-hay-chapman/) - When I first met Morgan Hay-Chapman (in I believe 2011) she was the president of the U of M MN PRSSA chapter (a big deal), president of the MN Daily (an even BIGGER deal), a full-time student (ho-hum), and I believe she had an internship, too (at space150, where she is currently employed--go figure). As
- [Facebook is building its own Hotel California](https://arikhanson.com/facebook-is-building-its-own-hotel-california/) - Today's guest post comes from a good friend of mine, Tony Saucier, director of social media at Life Time Fitness. Really good topic--this won't be the last time we talk about this development. There's this moment about halfway into Wall-E, when you realize the movie is about more than just a lovable little robot wandering
- [Personal blogging in PR ain't dead--not by a long shot](https://arikhanson.com/personal-blogging-in-pr-aint-dead-not-by-a-long-shot/) - A few weeks ago, on the Talking Points podcast, Kevin Hunt and I discussed a guest post over on Mark Schaefer's blog about the demise of blogging--or, as the author titled it, "Why the economics of blogging are diminishing." In the article, the author talks about how blogging worked 5-6 years ago, how it's changed, and
- [PR Rock Stars (of the future): 19 new college grads ready to take over the world](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-of-the-future-19-new-college-grads-ready-to-take-over-the-world/) - Last year, I published a list of future PR rock stars. Students (seniors or juniors) destined for PR greatness--as nominated by their PR professors. So, not just some ad-hoc list--but a list of students from across the country who have been hand-picked by the people who undoubtedly know them best. It felt good to make
- [Does Minneapolis need a digital marketing awards show?](https://arikhanson.com/does-minneapolis-need-a-digital-marketing-awards-show/) - A couple weeks ago MN PRSA held its annual Classics Awards. I didn't attend this year, but most years I make an effort to go Not because I submit an award entry (as a solo, that's rarely worth it, in my opinion), but because it's like a big ol' reunion. TONS of people and friends
- [Talking Points Podcast: Advice for PR grads](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-advice-for-pr-grads/) - It's that time of year--graduation is already upon us! And that means a flood of new PR grads will soon be knocking on your doors looking for that first job. Since none of us have gotten to the spots we are today without a little help, Kevin and I thought we'd give back and dole
- [The commencement speech I would have given (if Winona State had asked)](https://arikhanson.com/the-commencement-speech-i-would-have-given-if-winona-state-had-asked/) - President Olson, distinguished faculty, families and class of 2015 graduates, my name is Arik Hanson and I am an independent marketing consultant and a graduate of the class of 1996. I am your 2015 commencement speaker. Apparently, the other 5,421 grads from 1996 as well as pretty much everyone else that graduated between 1997-2014 was unavailable
- [Tide's #OurColors NFL Draft Day Twitter campaign: Boom or bust?](https://arikhanson.com/tides-ourcolors-nfl-draft-day-twitter-campaign-boom-or-bust/) - If you followed the first round of the NFL Draft on Twitter last Thursday, you noticed something a bit odd (but, expected for those of us in the marketing world). More brands were showing up in our feeds connected to the players getting drafted. Notably: Tide. Tide's #OurColors campaign was one of several throughout the
- [The "social CEO": How AmFam's Jack Salzwedel manages his social media profiles](https://arikhanson.com/the-social-ceo-how-amfams-jack-salzwedels-manages-his-social-media-profiles/) - About a year ago, I talked about 14 things your CEO should talk about on Twitter. It was part of a larger discussion about CEOs and how they tackle social networks from a content perspective. As part of that research, I stumbled on American Family Insurance CEO, Jack Salzwedel. You see, it's actually pretty tough
- [PR Rock Stars: Bellmont Partners' Maggie Lamaack](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-bellmont-partners-maggie-lamaack/) - The first thing I noticed upon meeting Maggie Lamaack is this is one woman who's not afraid to speak her mind. Or, share her loves (Hello--Tay-Tay! More on that later). I'm drawn to people who aren't afraid to share their opinions or perspectives--even if they run contrary to popular opinion. And, I also tend to
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - April 27](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-april-27/) - Every two weeks, this is where you'll find who's been promoted, who's changing jobs, who's looking for talent and who's hosting events here in the Twin Cities. It's your one-stop shop for all things PR and digital marketing here in town! Want to make it even easier? Sign up for my weekly e-newsletter and you
- [Talking Points Podcast: Is focusing on 5% of your fans enough?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-is-focusing-on-5-of-your-fans-enough/) - That's essentially the question we sought to answer in this week's edition of the Talking Points Podcast. The question is based off Mark Schaefer's new book, "The Content Code", where he talks about nurturing trust and catering to your "alpha" audience as a means to building broader-scale awareness. It's an interesting talker--hope you'll take a
- [Are we going about influencer outreach all wrong?](https://arikhanson.com/are-we-going-about-influencer-outreach-all-wrong/) - Last week, I had a brainstorm with a new client about influencer outreach. As we mapped out our approach, we considered folks who might be "influencers" in the niche we were targeting (for purposes of this post, let's just assume we're talking about the music industry). Who are the music bloggers in town? Who attends concerts
- [How Target's #lillyfortarget launch was a huge social media (and business) win](https://arikhanson.com/how-targets-lillyfortarget-launch-was-a-huge-social-media-and-business-win/) - Target was in the news over the weekend. And, they were ALL OVER social media after the Bullseye's web site crashed after its launch of the new #LillyForTarget line. For those Target loyalists, we've seen this movie before. Remember in 2011 when they unveiled a new line with Italian fashion house Mossino? Same story--different line. Web
- [Why some brands are hesitant to use Periscope and Meerkat](https://arikhanson.com/why-some-brands-are-hesitant-to-use-periscope-and-meerkat/) - I realize everyone is writing about Periscope and Meerkat right now. To the tune of 3.65 million responses when I Google "Periscope app." I realize I'm not contributing to the content marketing vortex. Yet, when I read most of these posts, I don't see too many people talking about the realistic implications for brands. Sure,
- [7 connectors who transformed my career](https://arikhanson.com/7-connectors-who-transformed-my-career/) - Last week, I was down in Winona again speaking at my alma mater. It's a tradition of sorts for me, as I go down once a semester to speak with students. After my day was complete, and I was driving back to the Twin Cities, I started thinking about how I got reconnected to my
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - April 13](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-april-13/) - The MN PRSA Classics Awards are one of my favorite events of the year. Sadly, this year, I could not attend. But, it sounds like it was yet another fantastic event last week. You can see the full list of winners here on the MN PRSA site. In particular, I want to call out Maggie
- [Talking Points Podcast: Do People Trust PR Counselors?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-do-people-trust-pr-counselors/) - Good discussion in this week's Talking Points Podcast about a not-so-new topic: distrust among the public of the PR profession. It's the result of a post by PRWeek based on recent (but hardly illuminating) research. My take? Yes, and no. PRs do have a larger responsibility to the public at large. To do the right thing. To
- [Go ahead, underestimate me](https://arikhanson.com/go-ahead-underestimate-me/) - As an independent consultant, one joke you hear constantly from other independent consultants is around attire worn during our "day jobs." That is: Slippers (preferably Homer Simpson slippers!). Sweat pants. Worn t-shirts. You know, the typical clothing most people wear while at the gym or sleeping, or while sleeping in a dumpster (OK, I'll just
- [Will native advertising eventually be PR's demise?](https://arikhanson.com/will-native-advertising-eventually-be-prs-demise/) - I read some pretty damn surprising stats recently in a Content Strategist post. The post outlined the success the New York Times brand studio (T Brand Studio) is having with their custom advertising content (referred to as "paid posts"). The stats: * When measured against Paid Posts created by third-party advertisers, T Brand Studio-produced content
- [How long before virtual reality transforms corporate storytelling?](https://arikhanson.com/how-long-before-virtual-reality-transforms-corporate-storytelling/) - Two weeks ago on the Talking Points Podcast, I lauded a local company (Victory Motorcyles) and agency (space150) that recently killed it with a virtual reality execution at a trade show in Chicago. In case you missed it, Victory gave attendees the opportunity to experience a trip through the Badlands in South Dakota by way
- [5 reasons you SHOULDN'T start a business podcast](https://arikhanson.com/5-reasons-you-shouldnt-start-a-business-podcast/) - Lately, I've been reading a number of posts imploring marketers and communicators to start podcasts on behalf of their corporate clients. The numbers make sense. Recent Edison research says podcasts "share of ear" has increased 18 percent in the last six months. Podcasts now have a total "share of ear" of 30 percent (for context,
- [Why words still matter (more than ever)](https://arikhanson.com/why-words-still-matter-more-than-ever/) - Four weeks ago yesterday, my uncle passed away. I'm not going to get into a lot of details, because I think some things are better left personal. But, I want to talk about just one piece of my experience: my cousin's eulogy. She wrote a wonderful eulogy to her Dad which she then delivered to
- [What is social media's "revolving door" effect on your business?](https://arikhanson.com/what-is-social-medias-revolving-door-effect-on-your-business/) - Had a good conversation with a client the other day about social media churn. As usual, we were both lamenting the lack of really good junior- to mid-level talent in the digital space. Sure, there are a TON of people out there with the experience to do some of these jobs. But, doing them WELL?
- [Talking Points Podcast: Millennials refuse to pay for the news](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-millennials-refuse-to-pay-for-the-news/) - In this week's episode of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I talk about millennials and their refusal to pay for the news (say it ain't so millennials!), Victory's big win with VR, Meerkat (of course), PR and analytics and three content formats that one blog predicts will take off in 2015. Hope you'll take
- [Does brand reputation even matter to Spirit Airlines?](https://arikhanson.com/does-brand-reputation-even-matter-to-spirit-airlines/) - Last week, I did what marketers like us WANT consumers to do on social media: I asked my friends and family for a recommendation. In this case, I was asking folks if they've ever flown Spirit--and what their experience was like. I was considering flying Spirit for a family trip this summer. The response I
- [Don't call me a freelancer](https://arikhanson.com/dont-call-me-a-freelancer/) - If you want to get under a consultant's skin, call them a FREELANCER. It's been an ongoing conversation in the solo world for years. What do we call ourselves? Some people call themselves a "solo PR pro." Some people call themselves a "freelancer." And some people call themselves a consultant (or, an "independent consultant"). You're probably thinking:
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - March 16](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-march-16/) - If you live outside the Twin Cities area, you may not have heard the big news this week: Target laid off 1,700 employees on Tuesday. Including a few friends of mine. I blogged about this on Thursday--and I've offered up my assistance to a few friends already. Now, I challenge you--what can you do to
- [An open letter to former Target employees](https://arikhanson.com/an-open-letter-to-former-target-employees/) - Dear former Target employees: I'm sorry. I know you've heard that a lot this week, but really, I'm sorry. Getting laid off sucks. I've been fortunate--I've never been fired in my almost 20 years in this industry (I was threatened twice, however). But, I hear it's pretty much like getting dumped. I know what that feels
- [Will Meerkat be the next Twitter--or the next Ello--for marketers?](https://arikhanson.com/will-meerkat-be-the-next-twitter-or-the-next-ello-for-marketers/) - The last week, my Meerkat notifications have been BLOWING UP! Of course, that's on me. I could turn those off anytime I want. But, I chose to turn them on initially to see how mad the rush was to the new platform. And boy, has it been a mad rush. In case you haven't heard,
- [Lack of women leaders in PR? Not in Minneapolis!](https://arikhanson.com/lack-of-women-leaders-in-pr-not-in-minneapolis/) - In this Sunday's edition of the Star Tribune, there was an interesting column about a major kerfuffle in the local restaraurant industry. Minneapolis/St. Paul Magazine highlighted 12 of the top chefs in the Twin Cities on its cover. Not one woman was on the cover. We've seen this movie before, right? Specifically, in the PR/social
- [Why aren't more company leaders publishing on LinkedIn?](https://arikhanson.com/why-arent-more-company-leaders-publishing-on-linkedin/) - The other day, I was browsing through LinkedIn (something I do at least once a day, for various reasons). I came upon this post from Dustin McKisson, vice president at something called First Resource. It's a familiar story. Person starts publishing on LinkedIn out of curiousity. Person published one story that nets thousands of hits. Ego
- [Talking Points Podcast: A Conversation with Shel Holtz](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-an-conversation-with-shel-holtz/) - In this week's edition of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I had the distinct pleasure to sit down with a PR podcasting legend: Shel Holtz. We talked a bit about Shel's work, the surge in podcasting recently, and his recent post that discussed the widening skills gap in the PR industry in terms of
- [4 Employer Brands that Get Social Media Marketing](https://arikhanson.com/4-employer-brands-that-get-social-media-marketing/) - A couple weeks ago, I wrote a post about why so many Employer Brands continue to struggle with social media. As I researched these Employer Brands, I noticed a number of brands (big brands, mind you) making some fairly common missteps when it came to how they used social media. My friend, and recruiter by
- [What will PR technology look like in 2025?](https://arikhanson.com/what-will-pr-technology-look-like-in-2025/) - A few weeks ago, the MN PRSA folks asked me to present at the local APR study session on "technology." It's always a fun thing for me to do since once upon a time I was APR certified (different story for a different day). I love going back and 1) Giving back to the an
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - March 2](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-march-2/) - I was out of town late last week, so I'm getting this to you all a day late. But, as usual there's been a lot going on here in the Twin Cities the last couple weeks. See below for the full list of comings, goings, promotions, events and open jobs. Promoted... Congrats to Derrick Shields
- [How the biggest company in America--Walmart--breaks news in 2015](https://arikhanson.com/how-the-biggest-company-in-america-walmart-breaks-news-in-2015/) - In case you've been living under a rock, you probably heard the big news out of Bentonville last week: Walmart is set to increase its minimum wage for associates. Big news, right? HUGE news is more like it. So, given the fact that I am a PR counselor by trade, and Walmart has been a client
- [4 unwritten commandments of the corporate communicator](https://arikhanson.com/4-unwritten-commandments-of-the-corporate-communicator/) - Today's corporate communicator has a legion of responsibilities. Everything from executive communications to media relations to employee communications falls under its umbrella. Corporate communicators must be good writers. They must be able to hold and lead a meeting. They must have good interpersonal skills. And, they must be able to work well alone--and in a
- [Talking Points Podcast: Can Twitter Really Drive Traffic for Brands?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-can-twitter-really-drive-traffic-for-brands/) - In this week's episode, Kevin and I discuss the Atlantic article that made the rounds this past week about Twitter's inability to drive traffic (big surprised, right?). We also tackle a really interesting PBS story about the evolving nature of media, and Justine Sacco, who was back in the news this past week. SHOW NOTES
- [The changing face of social media news distribution](https://arikhanson.com/the-changing-face-of-social-media-news-distribution/) - Sure, we all know Facebook and Twitter have become absolutely critical to many media and publishers when it comes to sharing and distributing news stories. But, for most media outlets, that has meant to things: * Merely sharing stories on those two networks--sometimes with paid advertising to support the stories (see: Any of your local
- [Why don't we teach our kids how to use the internet to create, invent and do good?](https://arikhanson.com/why-dont-we-teach-our-kids-how-to-use-the-internet-to-create-invent-and-do-good/) - I read a post by Jay Baer recently about teaching social media to kids in high school. The post alluded to teaching cyber security to kids as a way to protect themselves and their personal reputations and data. But, I couldn't help but think. Sure, we want to teach our kids about the RISKS of
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - Feb. 13](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-feb-13/) - A number of promotions in this week's edition of Twin Cities PR This Week, which is always good to see. But, that brings up an interesting topic: What are you doing TODAY to advance your career? Have you thought about getting more involved in your professional organization (call me, if you're interested in getting more
- [Snapchat: As explained by a 42-year-old](https://arikhanson.com/snapchat-as-explained-by-a-42-year-old/) - A couple weeks ago, I was reading an article saying Snapchat may be wildly underestimating its total number of users. I wasn't necessarily *astounded* by the numbers. I know Snapchat is a big, bad gorilla--especially among younger audiences But, the article still made me feel out of touch a bit. I'm not a Snapchat user. I
- [Why so many Employer Brands struggle with social media](https://arikhanson.com/why-so-many-employer-brands-struggle-with-social-media/) - In industry media and on PR/marketing blogs like this one, we talk an awful lot about "master brand" social media marketing work. That is, the brand that companies create to drive value, revenue and reputation. However, we don't talk nearly as much about "employer brands." That is, the brand that companies create to aid and
- [Talking Points Podcast: Real-Time Marketing "War Rooms" are Dying](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-real-time-marketing-war-rooms-are-dying/) - In this edition of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I talk about an interesting article by Contently last week that laid out all kinds of interesting stats about real-time marketing "war rooms" (wow--expensive!). Especially the stats around the cost per impression for real-time marketing "war room"-based tactics vs. other forms of advertising--quite eye-opening. We
- [The best corporate Instagram account from Minnesota you haven't heard of](https://arikhanson.com/the-best-corporate-instagram-account-from-minnesota-you-havent-heard-of/) - Sure, the Target Instagram account has more than 500,00 followers. And yeah, the Nature Valley account is still one of my favorites with all its outdoorsy pics from the western U.S. Even the Minnesota Zoo's account is tremendous with all its uber-adorable furry friends. But, the best "corporate" (OK, so it's not really a "corporate" account, but
- [Could two professional memberships really make sense?](https://arikhanson.com/could-two-professional-memberships-really-make-sense/) - Last Saturday, I had the honor or presenting at one of the annual PRSA APR study sessions thanks to my friends Betsy Anderson and Julie Eastling. I opened up my presentation by saying I had sat in the exact chair these folks had been sitting in 10 years ago as an APR student. I had been
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - Jan. 30](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-jan-30/) - Earlier this week, I made a post highlighting some of the biggest moves in PR/social media here in the Twin Cities in 2014. You may see a few familiar faces! It's indicative of all the great talent we have here in Minnesota. Judging by the number of open positions so far in 2015, I may
- [15 PR and social media career moves in Minnesota in 2014](https://arikhanson.com/15-pr-and-social-media-career-moves-in-minnesota-in-2014/) - Each year, about this time, I write a post highlighting all the big PR and social media career moves here in Minnesota in the last twelve months. This year's list, like last year's, is chock full of big moves. But, fewer BIG moves than I anticipated. A lot of agency folks stay put in 2014--something
- [How to pitch the modern journalist](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-pitch-the-modern-journalist/) - A recent report from the folks at Edelman last week got me thinking about how we approach and work with our colleagues on the media side. As our world has changed the last number of years, so has the media world. No big epiphany, right? But, how often do you actually think about how those
- [When are we going to stop coddling Millennials?](https://arikhanson.com/when-are-we-going-to-stop-coddling-millennials/) - A PSFK post stopped me in my tracks earlier this week. In fact, at first glance, I really thought it was an sponsored Onion post on PSFK. Really, I did. But nope--this is very real. Grey Advertising, AdWeek's 2014 Agency of the Year, has created a separate work environment--specifically for Millennials--within its New York office called
- [Talking Points Podcast: Is Digital Strategy All Wrong?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-is-digital-strategy-all-wrong/) - In this latest episode of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin Hunt and I talk about a very interesting (and very well written) article in HRB titled "Your Digital Strategy Shouldn't Be About Attention" (see Show Notes below for link). In the article, the author laments that digital strategy, as we know it, is essentially broken.
- [LinkedIn vs. Facebook: What's the best social network for job seekers?](https://arikhanson.com/linkedin-vs-facebook-whats-the-best-social-network-for-job-seekers/) - Last week, author and consultant, Shel Israel started an interesting conversation on Facebook: So, this isn't necessarily a new discussion. People have debated which social network is best for job seeking, business networking and recruiting for years. But, in previous years, I haven't heard it discussed in terms of LinkedIn vs. Facebook, which is
- [Why more brands are using Facebook CTA buttons (but more still should)](https://arikhanson.com/why-more-brands-are-using-facebook-cta-buttons-but-more-still-should/) - In case you missed it, Facebook rolled out "call to action" buttons last February. It was hardly a revolutionary move. Advertisers wanted to bolster results. They needed clearer calls to action. More advertisers were joining the fray. It was time for something like this. Since then, we've seen more and more companies using these buttons.
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - Jan. 16](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-jan-16/) - Happy New Year! It's been almost a month since my last "Twin Cities PR This Week" update. A lot has happened already this year! New jobs. Promotions. New board members. It's been a busy first few weeks of January. So, let's get right to it. Changing... Ryan Mathre, who was recently over at Starkey Hearing
- [4 key skills to be an effective corporate communicator (and strangely, writing isn’t one of them)](https://arikhanson.com/4-key-skills-to-be-an-effective-corporate-communicator-and-strangely-writing-isnt-one-of-them/) - Over my almost 20 years in the communications business, I've spent a fair amount of it on the corporate communications side. I've worked on the corporate side (McGladrey, Fairview). I've worked on the agency side, consulting with big clients (Beehive/Deluxe). And now, I've worked on the consultant side, working with midsized and larger clients (Ingersoll
- [Is there really a shortage of good writers?](https://arikhanson.com/is-there-really-a-shortage-of-good-writers/) - This is a common lament among agencies and corporations. It's not a new issue. Folks have been wringing their hands about the loss of writing skills for YEARS. Heck, I remember hearing about it when I entered the workforce in 1996. However, I think there are a few new factors that really point to a
- [Talking Points Podcast: Stop Saying Content is King](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-stop-saying-content-is-king/) - We're back from a short holiday hiatus--that's right, the Talking Points Podcast is back! Hold all applause, please :) In this week's episode, we discuss internet trolls, burnout, and one interesting topic that was blogged about by Augie Ray late in Dec. In the post, Augie says "Stop saying Content is King. Start focusing on
- [Why it pays to stay connected to your college alumni group](https://arikhanson.com/why-it-pays-to-stay-connected-to-your-college-alumni-group/) - Last year, I accepted a role on my alma mater's (Winona State University's) alumni board. I did it for a few reasons: 1) To give back, plain and simple, 2) It gives me a chance to travel a couple hours down to Winona every year (for those not living in Minny, Winona is a beautiful river town
- [Should you take conference calls in a coffee shop?](https://arikhanson.com/should-you-take-conference-calls-in-a-coffee-shop/) - As many of you know by now, I'm an independent consultant. And, I don't have an office. I work from my home, by and large. I just have never seen the need for an office. Seems like an additional expense for no real solid reason. But, I know many independent consultants who have offices. They
- [Will first gen social media marketers start to burn out in 2015?](https://arikhanson.com/will-first-gen-social-media-marketers-start-to-burn-out-in-2015/) - Last week, blogger, author and consultant Jay Baer wrote a post about how he thinks social media jobs may be about to disappear. Good read, if you have the time. I'm not sure I'm 100 percent with Jay on this one, but it's an interesting notion to consider. However, it does play into what I see
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - Dec. 15](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-dec-15/) - I don't know about you, but WOW, what a busy week! I broke away from work for a bit to celebrate with my MIMA friends Wednesday night at the annual MIMA Holiday Party at Aria. An excellent time as always catching up with old friends and new. Since I know everyone is eager to get
- [Talking Points Podcast: 2015 Social Media/PR Trends](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-2015-social-mediapr-trends/) - In this week's show, Kevin and I talk 2015 trends. But, they may not be the trends you probably think of when you consider the onslaught of "prediction" posts we see every time this year. SHOW NOTES - December 18, 2014 “App Downloads Will Surpass Facebook Friend and Twitter Followers for Most Brands” http://www.clickz.com/clickz/column/2386659/10-digital-marketing-predictions-for-2015 “How to
- [10 things the PR consultants won't tell you about PR consultants](https://arikhanson.com/10-things-the-pr-consultants-wont-tell-you-about-pr-consultants/) - If you're a regular reader of this blog, you know I'm a big devotee of reading the hard copy print edition of my local newspaper, the Minneapolis Star Tribune. And, like many, I particularly enjoy the Sunday edition. Mostly because it just includes so much more editorial than the daily paper. One of my favorite
- [A telecom company holding a red carpet PR event? Verizon kinda pulled it off.](https://arikhanson.com/a-telecom-company-holding-a-red-carpet-pr-event-verizon-kinda-pulled-it-off/) - A couple weeks ago, I was invited to a small, unique event at the Verizon "Concept Store" at the Mall of America. I say "unique" because it was pitched as a red carpet event where Verizon would show off its latest holiday technologies and gadgets. Now that's a different approach, I thought. And, I happened
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - Dec. 8](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-dec-8/) - Random note: One of the downsides of the independent lifestyle: No holiday parties. Fortunately, I find ways to wiggle my way into a bunch of different client and organizational holiday parties each year. This year, I hit the MN PRSA holiday party earlier this week (great time catching up with old friends). And, I'm also
- [Talking Points Podcast: An interview with Walmart's Chad Mitchell](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-an-interview-with-walmarts-chad-mitchell/) - On this week's episode of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I interview Chad Mitchell, senior director of digital communications at retail-giant Walmart (disclosure: Walmart has been an ACH client in the past). We talk about Walmart's Black Friday communications efforts, what's behind the Walmart blog, and Walmart's strategy of managing several different Twitter accounts
- [How long should you stay at that dead-end job?](https://arikhanson.com/how-long-should-you-stay-at-that-dead-end-job/) - During the first few years of my career, I was in a lot of what most people would call "dead end jobs." It wasn't that these jobs were dead-ends. It's that there was no room for growth and advancement. The positions were typically coordinator/specialist positions where I was working for a manager level marketing director
- [5 social media marketing predictions for 2015 that are flat-out wrong](https://arikhanson.com/5-social-media-marketing-predictions-for-2015-that-are-flat-out-wrong/) - It's that time of year. Yes, those 2015 trends/prediction posts are just starting to roll out. And man, I've already had my fill. Between the all-too-tired and predictable (2015 is the year of mobile!) to the ridiculously far-fetched (augmented reality will TRANSFORM PR in 2015!), I'm already fairly sick of 99% of these posts. However,
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - Dec. 1](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-dec-1/) - Just back from a speaking gig up in lovely St. Cloud, Minn. today. There, I talked about Facebook advertising--specifically, a number of campaigns I've helped orchestrate in the last couple years. Take a peek, if you're so inclined. Now, onto the latest job changes, promotions, events, new account wins and awards in Twin Cities PR in
- [Talking Points Podcast: Black Friday Social Media Case Studies](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-black-friday-social-media-case-studies/) - After a week off and a week "on location" (look at us, on location! :), Kevin and I are back at it this week (I know, you missed us, right?). The topics of conversation? Black Friday and brand case studies, Facebook's new rules for brands, and the difference between content marketing and brand journalism. Hope
- [Should I keep blogging?](https://arikhanson.com/should-i-keep-blogging/) - Two Facebook posts in the last week got me thinking: Should I really keep blogging? Does is still make sense for me? First, Geoff Livingston talked about how if he had to do it all over again, and start his social presence from the ground up, he would NOT blog. Then, I followed a conversation
- [Why I believe the Page Like is completely dead](https://arikhanson.com/why-i-believe-the-page-like-is-completely-dead/) - Last week I was in lovely New Ulm, Minn., presenting to a small group on Facebook advertising. You can find the full deck here, if you're interested. As I prepped for this presentation, I was refreshing myself with a few clients I've worked with in the last 2-3 years, and the Facebook ad campaigns associated
- [Giving thanks and feeling awfully grateful](https://arikhanson.com/giving-thanks-and-feeling-awfully-grateful/) - I've noticed a disturbing trend recently: That monster, cancer, is seeping into my life more and more. My family member is fighting a losing battle. I'm watching, along with many others here in the Twin Cities, as Aaron Purmort fights his battle (his wife's blog is a wonderfully sad recount of what's happened, and is happening).
- [Revamp your content strategy by following these 9 content cornerstones](https://arikhanson.com/revamp-your-content-strategy-by-following-these-9-content-cornerstones/) - Last week, I gave a presentation to 300-plus folks on a Cision/Vocus webinar around content strategy. It was a similar presentation to the one I gave at the Fort Worth PRSA meeting in October (I shortened and updated the deck with a bunch of new examples and case studies). As part of that presentation, I
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - Nov. 21](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-nov-21/) - I'm writing to you today from lovely New Ulm, Minn., where I spoke to a group of 40-or-so marketers and PR folks about Facebook ads. I'll have the prezo up later today, if you're interested (right after I make a pit stop at the Schell's Brewery!). However, you're not here to here about my life--you're
- [Talking Points Podcast: An interview with David Jungers and Erin Vande Steeg from the Mall of America](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-an-interview-with-david-jungers-and-erin-vande-steeg-from-the-mall-of-america/) - The holiday shopping season is officially upon us--so Kevin and I thought we'd go right to the source this week: Mall of America! In this episode of the Talking Points Podcast, we interview David Jungers and Erin Vande Steeg, the social media brains behind MOA's social efforts. We talk about career paths, working with retailer
- [Is the phone call completely dead in PR?](https://arikhanson.com/is-the-phone-call-completely-dead-in-pr/) - Recently, I made a decision with a client of mine: I was going to pick up the phone and call her once a week (at least). As with most clients, I conduct most of my business with clients via email. I provide updates via email. I share files. I provide advice. But, I typically don't spend a lot of time on
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - Nov. 14, 2014](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-nov-14-2014/) - As I said last week, I'm going to try something a bit new here on the blog. A regularly post that captures what's going on in PR/social in Minneapolis/St. Paul on a weekly basis. Job opportunities, promotions, interesting case studies. Stuff like that. Here's what's happening this week: Changing/Promoting... Friend and MIMA board member, Holly
- [Talking Points Podcast: Do iHops "Tumblr-speak" tweets really work?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-do-ihops-tumblr-speak-tweets-really-work/) - In this week's edition of the Talking Points Podcast (one of our best, in my opinion), we talk about #alexfromtarget (and the seedy, internet under-belly that's seemingly behind it), iHop and it's new Tumblr-like approach to Twitter, Chevy's expert handling of the #technologyandstuff issue, and I kinda rant about a post I recently read on
- [Why 99% of companies should completely forget about brand journalism](https://arikhanson.com/why-99-of-companies-should-completely-forget-about-brand-journalism/) - Relatively recently, Verizon joined a number of big companies in the business of brand journalism. The new site, SugarString (interesting name, right?), is full of original content produced solely by Verizon. According to a recent WaPo article, the site will publish "thoughtful tech-focused stories that track humanity's climb towards the new next." It's hardly the
- [Robot content machines: Viable option for today's corporate communicator?](https://arikhanson.com/robot-content-machines-viable-option-for-todays-corporate-communicator/) - A few months ago, I started seeing articles about robots that could develop actual content if given a somewhat organized data set. In essence, these "robots" were producing content from numbers. Wait, is this for real? Are robots going to steal communications jobs? ARE ROBOTS TAKING OVER THE WORLD? After I calmed down a bit, I
- [Twin Cities PR This Week - November 7, 2014](https://arikhanson.com/twin-cities-pr-this-week-november-7-2014/) - Going to try another new kind of series today. Actually, it's a bit of a re-imagination of a former series I had titled "Insider Conversations" where I highlighted people who had changed jobs recently, agencies who had won new accounts, and folks who had won awards. Basically, the news in our industry here in Minneapolis
- [Talking Points Podcast: Interviews with SocialMedia.Org's Andy Sernovitz and Whole Foods' Natanya Anderson](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-interviews-with-socialmedia-orgs-andy-sernovitz-and-whole-foods-natanya-anderson/) - I had the week off this week, but luckily Kevin Hunt had the opportunity to interview Andy Sernovitz of SocialMedia.Org and Natanya Anderson of Whole Foods around the topics of native advertising, digital storytelling and key rules every social media leader should keep in mind (great post by Kevin over on Linked about this) SHOW
- [PRSA, IABC, MIMA, AdFed: What's the right professional organization for you?](https://arikhanson.com/prsa-iabc-mima-adfed-whats-the-right-professional-organization-for-you/) - The lines are blurring in the marketing, communications, creative and PR worlds. More so now than ever before. PR people are playing in the advertising sandbox. Advertising people are adding PR to their resumes. Interactive folks get involved with content. I mean, let's be honest, the lines aren't even there anymore. Screw blurring--they've completely disappeared!
- [Maybe I *should* start branding my business as an #unfinishedsneeze](https://arikhanson.com/maybe-i-should-start-branding-my-business-as-an-unfinishedsneeze/) - First, I want to say I typically use this blog as a way to write what I think will be interesting for you, the reader. To educate. To inspire. Usually, that's the lens with which I write. But today, I just have to rant. I don't do it that often. Please bear with me. A
- [Instead of lame holiday social posts, why couldn't brands try this?](https://arikhanson.com/instead-of-lame-holiday-social-posts-why-not-try-this/) - When you think of holiday posts from brands on networks like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, isn't this what we've come to expect? I mean, really? Stock photography AND a product sell job? On the other hand, when I looked at my Facebook and Instagram feeds last Friday, they were FULL of creative, interesting and downright
- [Talking Points Podcast: Talking wearable tech and the future of content with Weber Shandwick's Greg Swan](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-talking-wearable-tech-and-the-future-of-content-with-weber-shandwicks-greg-swan/) - This week, my esteemed co-host, Kevin Hunt, was down at the SocialMedia.Org Brands-Only Summit in wonderful Walt Disney World in Florida. So, this episode features our first with a fill-in co-host--Weber Shandwick's Greg Swan. We sat down and talked about wearable technology and its impact on the future of content creation (really fun discussion, when
- [Should you feel ashamed for reading the hard copy newspaper?](https://arikhanson.com/should-you-feel-ashamed-for-reading-the-hard-copy-newspaper/) - Every so often, I'll see it in one of my social feeds: That comment or remark from a friend, colleague or industry person taking jabs at the hard copy newspaper and those that read it. It's not surprising. We've all read the headlines, after all. Newsprint is dead. Twitter and Facebook are the new newsfeeds.
- [Do you need a separate visual tone for your brand online?](https://arikhanson.com/do-you-need-a-separate-visual-tone-for-your-brand-online/) - I've long been a fan of Starbucks use of visual marketing via their social accounts. Just look at their Instagram account. It's a perfect mix of fan content (lots of #regrams lately) and not-over-staged brand photography. And, that last part is the key: "not overly-staged." When it comes to visuals on social, most brands seem
- [The best brand holiday use of Instagram I've seen yet--from Target](https://arikhanson.com/the-best-brand-holiday-use-of-instagram-ive-seen-yet-from-target/) - When it comes to holidays and social, well, brands haven't exactly traditionally wowed fans and customers. When I think of branded experiences and holiday promos, I think of this: So, when I heard Target was creating a virtual trick-or-treating experience on Instagram earlier this week, I was automatically skeptical. Man, I couldn't have been more
- [Talking Points Podcast: Do CEOs really need social media profiles?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-do-ceos-really-need-social-media-profiles/) - It's not a new discussion, but thanks to a post by Shelly Kramer this week (and a report on CEO.com), Kevin and I re-opened the conversation this week. We also discuss the recent MIMA Summit, talk to Shoutlet's Greg Gerik and discuss Target's new Instagram Halloween campaign. Hope you'll take a listen... SHOW NOTES
- [How executives are using LinkedIn publishing to drive organizational PR goals](https://arikhanson.com/how-executives-are-using-linkedin-publishing-to-drive-organizational-pr-goals/) - Two weeks ago, I talked about content strategy with a group of fine folks at the Fort Worth PRSA chapter meeting. As part of that presentation, we talked about a number of steps to set your content strategy. Conducting a content audit, identifying your content resources (I blogged about that last week). Developing content. And,
- [Prediction: "Unplugging" will be a trend among 40+ crowd in 2015](https://arikhanson.com/prediction-unplugging-will-be-a-trend-among-40-crowd-in-2015/) - There's a Starbucks that's less than a mile from my house. To say I visit it frequently is probably an understatement. The baristas know me and my drinks by name. It's sad, really. I'm usually visiting this Starbucks during the morning rush. During that time, the line can extend out the door (side rant: Only
- [What's the best way to source content: In house vs. agency vs. freelance](https://arikhanson.com/whats-the-best-way-to-source-content-in-house-vs-agency-vs-freelance/) - As more companies join the content marketing arena, one of the bigger issues these companies face is this: How do we source all this content? Many organizations just aren't set up to create an ongoing dribble (let alone a firehose) of online content. I know that sounds ridiculous, but in my experience, I've found it
- [Your content strategy is broken--here's how to fix it](https://arikhanson.com/your-content-strategy-is-broken-heres-how-to-fix-it/) - Last week, I visited the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolis (I had never been, surprisingly), to chat with the Fort Worth PRSA chapter. The topic of my half-day presentation: Content strategy. Specifically, I talked about how today's branded content is broken. And, of course, I offered up ideas on how to best fix it. Again, it was
- [Talking Points Podcast: Does building relationships with journalists still matter?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-does-building-relationships-with-journalists-still-matter/) - That was a hot topic in this week's Talking Points Podcaast, as Kevin Hunt and I sat down to debate. The conversation is based on a post on PR News on that very topic--does building relationships with journalists still work? Or, do journalists just want the straight information? Interesting discussion--and be sure to read the
- [How corporate IT is actually killing employee communications](https://arikhanson.com/how-corporate-it-is-actually-killing-employee-communications/) - Years ago, I worked for an accounting and consulting firm here in Minneapolis. They ran their systems on Lotus Notes. For those of you born after 1985, Lotus Notes is an operating system that runs all sorts of programs internally for big organizations, including email. It's actually surprisingly easy to use, and simple. But it's
- [Why the best dreams are those you stumble into](https://arikhanson.com/why-the-best-dreams-are-those-you-stumble-into/) - You've seen those American Family commercials by now. The "If you can dream it, we can protect it." These ones, specifically. They always get me thinking about dreams. Now that I'm older and wiser, I have a few dreams. Walking my wonderful daughter down the aisle someday. Getting to be a Grandpa. Living either near an
- [Talking Points Podcast: Why we Should Start Ignoring Millennials](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-why-we-should-start-ignoring-millennials/) - In this edition of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I talk about the future of Ello (or, non-future, in my view), the CEO/rank-and-file salary gap and how it could impact PR efforts and my favorite topic: Millennials! If you haven't read the Ad Contrarian's post on why we should all start ignoring Millennials, take
- [Why do PR people hate Excel so much?](https://arikhanson.com/why-do-pr-people-hate-excel-so-much/) - Of course, I know the answer. I know the answer because I'm one of the people who hate Excel. It is the bane of my existence. But, it's something I need to know (and, I need to know it better), as I work with many Fortune 500 clients, and in that world, Excel and Powerpoint
- [Why Ello isn't the new Facebook (and the reason has nothing to do with technology)](https://arikhanson.com/why-ello-isnt-the-new-facebook-and-the-reason-has-nothing-to-do-with-technology/) - Last week, new social network Ello was all over my social streams. I mean ALL OVER them. Early adopters were handing out invites. And people were snapping them up. Hell, people were BEGGING for them. BEGGING! Lots of tire kicking I'm sure went on over the weekend. And, I'm sure we'll see tons of posts this
- [Microsoft Stories: Best brand storytelling site on the web?](https://arikhanson.com/microsoft-stories-best-brand-storytelling-site-on-the-web/) - After just a quick peek at the Microsoft Stories site, you can't help but be impressed. Clean. Easy to scan. Big, popping visuals. It's a pretty slick site. What's more, dig in a bit, and the content is every bit as good as the wrapper it comes in. For example, take the post about Microsoft's "Garage"
- [Talking Points Podcast: An interview with SHIFT's Scott Monty](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-an-interview-with-shifts-scott-monty/) - In a year of huge social media job moves, unquestionably the biggest was the decision of Scott Monty to leave his long-time job at Ford, then deciding to join Todd Defren, Christopher Penn and the ranks at SHIFT later in the year. Kevin Hunt and I had the fantastic opportunity to sit down with Scott
- [No time to create content? Follow Jay Baer's lead](https://arikhanson.com/no-time-to-create-content-follow-jay-baers-lead/) - OK, I know what you're thinking. He's writing a post about a significant industry thought leader in hopes of landing a RT or share. I would have been guilty of that charge...5 years ago. Now: I could care less if Jay reads this post (no offense Jay, if you do in fact read it). What I
- [Why does the marketing media continue to ignore Gen  X'ers (and focus on Millennials)?](https://arikhanson.com/why-does-the-marketing-media-continue-to-ignore-gen-xers-and-focus-on-millennials/) - I get it. Millennials are the best thing since Harrison Ford flew the Millennium Falcon (wait, Millennial friends, you do know who Harrison Ford is, right? RIGHT?). I get it. Your generation will comprise 99.9% of the workforce by 2025. I get it. Your generation shares more, consumes more and is more digitally savvy than
- [Talking Points Podcast: The evolution of employee advocacy programs](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-the-evolution-of-employee-advocacy-programs/) - My friend Kevin Hunt was flying solo on this week's Talking Points Podcast. And it's too bad, because it's a topic I'm very interested in and would have loved to participate in (darn meetings!). Kevin was at the first-ever 2014 Employee Advocacy Summit in Atlanta where he had the chance to chat with Chris Boudreaux,
- [Challenge: Can you put your phone/computer away in meetings for ONE WEEK?](https://arikhanson.com/challenge-can-you-put-your-phonecomputer-away-in-meetings-for-one-week/) - I've been testing a new tactic lately. It's called "listening." Here's my strategy. When I go to a meeting, I sit down, take out my pen and paper, and, you know, listen to the people talking in said meeting. It's a groundbreaking approach, I realize. But, it's one I intend to stay with. You
- [4 ways I'd sell this year's MIMA Summit to my boss (if I had to)](https://arikhanson.com/4-ways-id-sell-this-years-mima-summit-to-my-boss-if-i-had-to/) - OK, so I'm going to write this post like I would if I were trying to sell my boss on sending me to MIMA Summit. Because, realistically, that's what I hear a lot. Full disclosure: I'm on the MIMA board of directors, so it's in my best interest to get as many people to Summit
- [Talking Points Podcast: Are Attorneys Killing Brand Newsrooms?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-are-attorneys-killing-brand-newsrooms/) - In this week's episode of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I talk about some pretty meaty topics including Amber Naslund's post about social media engagement numbers (which was one of my favorites from last week). We also discuss how to best work with your legal group as you map out social content (and responses).
- [PR Rock Stars: Life Time Fitness' Nora Purmort](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-life-time-fitness-nora-purmort/) - The legend of Nora Purmort existed far before I ever met Nora. She has a sister who is very successful in the interactive world here in Minneapolis (Meghan Wilker). She's a successful interactive/communicator/marketer at Life Time Fitness. She was on the MIMA board of directors for the last two years. She's won awards left-and-right, as
- [How to impress your new client in the first 30 days](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-impress-your-new-client-in-the-first-30-days/) - You just signed that new client. You're excited. Anxious to get started. And you want to knock their friggin socks off out of the gate. But, how the heck do you do that? How do you really make a great impression on that new client right away in that first month (other than the obvious--do great
- [What's the best Instagram reposting app?](https://arikhanson.com/whats-the-best-instagram-reposting-app/) - What are the two biggest challenges for brands just starting with Instagram? * Find compelling visuals worth sharing that aren't overly brand-focused * Building a community within the platform from scratch Am I right? Most brands don't have a ton of Instagram-ready visuals just sitting around. Sure, they have catalog photography. Great brand pics. Advertising
- [Talking Points Podcast: Why are Marketers so Hung up on Real-Time Marketing?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-why-are-marketers-so-hung-up-on-real-time-marketing/) - In this week's edition of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin Hunt and I talk about why marketers are so hung up on real-time marketing (no really, why are they?), the campaign-based natures of many digital marketing efforts (hello Barbie!), and many brands' rush to use Instagram's new Hyperlapse tool this last week. SHOW NOTES
- [The campaign approach to content--and how it's killing brands (you can thank Barbie)](https://arikhanson.com/the-campaign-approach-to-content-and-how-its-killing-brands-you-can-thank-barbie/) - Oh you remember the blitz back in late June. "Entrepeneur Barbie" was everywhere. Including LinkedIn. Predominantly, LinkedIn, actually. The new tagline: If you can dream it, you can be it. Fans could follow Barbie on LinkedIn for business inspiration (don't laugh), news about her company (what?), and social media updates (I can't wait to hear
- [How to avoid the content "click-flu"](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-avoid-the-content-click-flu/) - I wish I had come up with that term: "click flu." It's a term coined by Jake Athey in this NextWeb post. And, he shares some interesting analysis in the post. His rationale: Companies are focusing too much on "snackable" content across social channels--to the point that they're disappointing customers and potential customers and damaging
- [6 golden rules to responding to client emails](https://arikhanson.com/6-golden-rules-to-responding-to-client-emails/) - Thanks to my friend Allan Schoenberg, I ran across this Muse post the other day. While I applaud the concepts and ideas in this post (don't we all?) the harsh and unfortunate reality is that email still rules all as a business communications tool. And it's going to be next-to-impossible (fight the good fight!) to
- [Is it all downhill from here?](https://arikhanson.com/is-it-all-downhill-from-here/) - Yesterday, I turned 42. My "silver" birthday, as my son tells me. I had a great birthday, too. Maybe my favorite in recent memory. It started with a surprise round of golf (organized by my wife) with my brother, Mom and Dad. That would have been good enough on its own merits, since I haven't
- [The Talking Points Podcast: An interview with Lee Odden](https://arikhanson.com/the-talking-points-podcast-an-interview-with-lee-odden/) - I'm posting this week's Talking Points Podcast even though I didn't participate in in! I'm up on the North Shore with my family for a few days so my co-host Kevin Hunt took the reins. It wasn't the best podcast to miss either as Kevin interviews one of my favorite local bloggers, Lee Odden, owner
- [Talking Points Podcast: Are most B2B influencers offline?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-are-most-b2b-influencers-offline/) - In this week's episode (episode 7) of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I talk about the B2B influencer world based on another of our favorite podcasts--the FIR B2B Podcast with Paul Gillin and Allan Schoenberg. We also talk about Red Bull and its drive to become a full-fledged media company, women and their dominance
- [Are PR agencies setting new parents up to fail?](https://arikhanson.com/are-pr-agencies-setting-new-parents-up-to-fail/) - I got a note from a friend a few weeks ago. It was a story I've heard before. "I'm burned out on my agency job." This friend went on to talk about how she has been putting in long hours (50-60/week plus travel), which was putting significant pressure on her family, and taking a toll on
- [Talking Points Podcast: A conversation with Polaris' Holly Spaeth](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-a-conversation-with-polaris-holly-spaeth/) - For episode six of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I sat down with Holly Speath, social lead at Polaris to talk about two big recent product launches she's helped lead, her involvement with the Minnesota Interactive Marketing Association (MIMA), and recruiting and building a digital team in today's shifting landscape. As usual, if you
- [#42over42: 42 (OK, 45 really) PR and Marketing Pros You Should Know Over the Age of 42](https://arikhanson.com/42over42-42-ok-45-really-pr-and-marketing-pros-you-should-know-over-the-age-of-42/) - 40 Under 40. #32Under32. 15 under 15 (OK, just kidding, but seriously!). It seems like every award platform I see lately is highlighting our younger generations. And that's great. We should showcase these fine folks. There are some incredibly smart younger people out there working in PR and social media marketing. People locally like Danny
- [Are social media pros underpaid?](https://arikhanson.com/are-social-media-pros-underpaid/) - According to a recent survey by CIO magazine, the median salary for a social media professional was $43,400. The median pay for those social pros in companies with fewer than 100 people was $40,900, while the median pay for those with companies of more than 1,000 people was $58,400. Sounds low, doesn't it? The median
- [The unique--and extremely varied--background of today's social media thought leaders](https://arikhanson.com/the-unique-and-extremely-varied-background-of-todays-social-media-thought-leaders/) - When you think of the word "thought leader", what pops to mind? For me, it's someone with years and years of experience. Someone who's been practiced well before they preached. Someone who had held positions of increasing authority within their industry. Wikipedia defines a thought leader this way: A thought leader is an individual or firm that
- [Talking Points Podcast: Is company blogging broken?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-is-company-blogging-broken/) - In this latest episode of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin and I experimented with a new format. We asked famed Dell blogger, Lionel Mechaca, to join us as a guest commenter. Lionel, now with WCG, joined our discussion as we talked corporate blogging (of course), the future of social media strategy, and Minnesota Vikings football
- [Passing the #mnblogcon torch](https://arikhanson.com/passing-the-mnblogcon-torch/) - Four years ago, Missy Berggren and I started the first conference in Minnesota solely devoted to Minnesota bloggers: The Minnesota Blogger Conference. We started the event because we saw a need (at the time): to help bloggers from different walks of life, who blog about different topics, come together and learn from each other. And,
- [Niche: The next evolution of influencer outreach?](https://arikhanson.com/niche-the-next-evolution-of-influencer-outreach/) - $10,000 per Vine. That was the stat that caught my eye a few weeks ago, when I started hearing more about Niche. What's Niche, you ask? According to its site, Niche is the professional network for social media creators to analyze, grow and monetize their audience. For brands, it may just be the future of
- [7 ways PR pros in their 20s can ensure they retire by age 55](https://arikhanson.com/7-ways-pr-pros-in-their-20s-can-ensure-they-retire-by-age-55/) - OK, I know the title is a bit extreme, but I had to get your attention given this is a PR/marketing blogger talking about finances :) First, I want to start this post with two quick disclaimers: 1--This is not your average Communications Conversations post. I am NOT going to talk about PR, social media or
- [Talking Points Podcast: The state of digital transformation - Episode 4, July 24, 2014](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-the-state-of-digital-transformation-episode-4-july-24-2014/) - In this week's fourth episode, Kevin and I talk about Altimeter's recent State of Digital Transformation study, a Geoff Livingston post about the post-social media era, and Microsoft's employee communications efforts around recent layoffs. As always, we'd love to hear your thoughts and feedback below in the comments, or on Twitter. Enjoy! “The 2014 State of
- [Social media marketing's forgotten audience: The employee](https://arikhanson.com/social-media-marketings-forgotten-audience-the-employee/) - When most brands think about engaging their employees via social media, what do you think comes to mind? I tend to think most companies see employees as a conduit to selling and raising awareness for the firm. And why shouldn't they? Employees are essentially the face of any company. They are and will be your
- [Should agency experience *really* be required?](https://arikhanson.com/should-agency-experience-really-be-required-721/) - Those dreaded three words. "Agency experience required." I say "dreaded" because for many, that's exactly what it is. It's actually quite a conundrum for many (including this guy as of about 10 years ago). "How do I get agency experience when agencies won't hire me?" That's what I kept asking myself before I was hired
- [Talking Points Podcast: Is Content Really the Joker?](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-is-content-really-the-joker/) - In this week's edition of the Talking Points Podcast, Kevin Hunt and I discuss a post written by a former journalist turned content marketer. It's a classic rant (mostly lamenting the demise of modern journalism), but in the post, the author also raises a good point: Are we, as PRs/marketers, pushing executives to product TOO
- [PR Rock Stars: University of St. Thomas' Betsy Anderson](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-university-of-st-thomas-betsy-anderson/) - Betsy Anderson first asked me to speak to her University of St. Thomas PR class a number of years ago. Ever since, I've been a regular guest speaker--I think mostly because I beg her to do it :) But, over the years I've gotten to know Betsy quite well. Many lunches and coffees later and
- [Is LeBron James a secret employee communications expert?](https://arikhanson.com/is-lebron-james-a-secret-employee-communications-expert/) - By now, many of you have probably read the LeBron James letter in Sports Illustrated last week. I know there have been the requisite "What we can learn about X from LeBron James' Sports Illustrated post" posts already. But, as I read the piece, I kept thinking of a different angle. A corporate communications angle.
- [6 creative ways to get employees more involved with social](https://arikhanson.com/6-creative-ways-to-get-employees-more-involved-with-social/) - We've all heard the rallying cry: "We need to get our employees on social media" "We need to *activate* our employees socially" (that's my favorite, actually; how exactly, do you activate a human being? I didn't know there was an off/on switch) "We need our employees to tweet this sale" While those all sound extremely
- [Talking Points Podcast: Digital will account for 75% of marketing budgets in 5 years](https://arikhanson.com/talking-points-podcast-digital-will-account-for-75-of-marketing-budgets-in-5-years/) - In this week's edition of the Talking Points Podcast,General Mills' Kevin Hunt and I discuss: * Recent Accenture survey highlights CMO's thoughts' on the future of digital marketing--including the stat that 35% of CMOs believe mobile will account for 50% of their marketing budgets in five years. Full story here: http://www.adweek.com/news/technology/cmos-expect-75-marketing-budgets-be-digital-within-5-years-158481 * Every Company Is
- [Are agency PR counselors better networkers than their corporate counterparts?](https://arikhanson.com/are-agency-pr-counselors-better-networkers-than-their-corporate-counterparts/) - The title of this post represents a general observation. But, I've found it to be more than a trend. Case in point. My time at a major health care system here in Minnesota. I was at this health care organization for two years, and during that time, I was a part of PRSA. On the board,
- [Outfit of the Day - Solo PR edition](https://arikhanson.com/outfit-of-the-day-solo-pr-edition/) - This post is the third in a continuing series around what PR folks wear to work. I started with the agency folks. I then moved on the corporate folks. And today, I'd like to highlight one of my favorite groups--solo PRs! I tried to select a good mix of folks. Solos who work from home. Those
- [New Talking Points Podcast with General Mills' Kevin Hunt](https://arikhanson.com/new-talking-points-podcast-with-general-mills-kevin-hunt/) - Last year when friend and colleague, Kevin Hunt, approached me about a potential podcast, I was a bit skeptical. Does anyone listen to podcasts anymore? (answer: YES!) Do I have the time? (answer: We'll find out!) And why would we want to compete with the likes of Shel Holtz, Jay Baer and Joe Pulizzi for
- [PR Rock Stars (of the future): Carmichael Lynch's Laura Fitzpatrick](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-of-the-future-carmichael-lynchs-laura-fitzpatrick/) - You know how when you meet someone for the first time and you just know they're going to go big places in life? That's how I felt when I met Laura Fitzpatrick the first time. In fact, I'm guessing that's how many people feel when they meet the brand sociologist from Carmichael Lynch. At the
- [LinkedIn's new app: Will it transform the job search process?](https://arikhanson.com/linkedins-new-app-will-it-transform-the-job-search-process/) - In case you missed it, LinkedIn may have just transformed the job search process--and this time, for the better. For the MUCH better. By launching its new LinkedIn Job Search app, LinkedIn may have just made what can be a fairly painful experience on the job seeker side into something that could be as easy
- [6 lessons from creating posts using LinkedIn publishing for the last month](https://arikhanson.com/6-lessons-from-creating-posts-using-linkedin-publishing-for-the-last-month/) - In early May I finally got access to LinkedIn's new publishing tool. You can read all about it here. Essentially, LinkedIn has given us all the opportunity to create blog posts on LinkedIn. Smart move. And recently, I've been seeing more activity from friends and colleagues. So, in mid-May I decided to give it a
- [6 reasons the Minnesota creative community can no longer be considered "fly-over country"](https://arikhanson.com/6-reasons-the-minnesota-creative-community-can-no-longer-be-considered-fly-over-country/) - Ask anyone around the U.S. about the top creative communities and markets like San Francisco, New York and Chicago pop up quickly. Even markets like Austin, Seattle and Atlanta seem to work their way on that list from time to time. But Minneapolis/St. Paul isn't mentioned as much. In fact, many people on the coasts
- [Walmart takes on the New York Times with creative PR tactic](https://arikhanson.com/walmart-takes-on-the-new-york-times-with-creative-pr-tactic/) - Opinion pages. In some cases, they're a fantastic tool in the PR toolbox. In other cases, they can be a PITA as columnists and community leaders skewer brands who are frequent (and easy) targets. Enter Walmart (note: Walmart is a client, although I did not assist with this particular project). Now, think what you will
- [BW3's Instagram #fannerism campaign: Creative, interesting, but lacking teeth?](https://arikhanson.com/bw3s-instagram-fannerism-campaign-creative-interesting-but-lacking-teeth/) - Earlier this week, Minnesota-based BW3s unveiled a new campaign on Instagram: #fannerism. According this article on the Minneapolis Egotist, the campaign was "put together to help drive brand affinity with this new fandom on a platform they love." Minneapolis-based Periscope was behind the campaign as BW3's social agency of record. So far, BW3's has only
- [The big digital hiring shift--and what it means for you](https://arikhanson.com/the-big-digital-hiring-shift-and-what-it-means-for-you/) - We all heard about Scott Monty leaving Ford recently. If you didn't, I'm not sure how you missed it. Many people blogged about it--and apparently, Mr. Monty leaving Ford signaled the apocoplyse ;) But, in the last couple months, a number of other bigger names have made big changes in the social world, too. Allan
- [Summer hours guilt--are you a sufferer?](https://arikhanson.com/summer-hours-guilt-are-you-a-sufferer/) - It's that time of year--yes, summer hours are officially here! And, if you live here in Minnesota, you know how precious our summer weekends are. Especially coming off a winter where we had about 563 days BELOW ZERO! However, there's a little problem with this whole summer hours thing. A lot of people never take
- [7 online marketing lessons on launching a small business from Bogart's Doughnuts](https://arikhanson.com/7-online-marketing-lessons-on-launching-a-small-business-from-bogarts-doughnuts/) - Some may not know this about me, but I'm a HUGE donut geek. I may be skinny (weighing in at 170 lbs), but I'm addicted to my donuts and coffee. I've cut back lately, but I still enjoy a good donut. And I live at the epicenter of the donut universe in Minnesota. I'm less
- [Why LinkedIn Showcase pages actually DON'T make sense for most brands](https://arikhanson.com/why-linkedin-showcase-pages-actually-dont-make-sense-for-most-brands/) - In case you missed it, LinkedIn unveiled a new product for marketers earlier this year--Showcase Pages. The idea? To give brand marketers another tool in their arsenal to micro-target niche audiences on LinkedIn. Showcase Pages are niche pages that can be built right off your main company page. In essence, they replace the old Products
- [If I were 22...I'd skip ahead to 32](https://arikhanson.com/if-i-were-22-id-skip-ahead-to-32/) - Recently LinkedIn sparked its own meme on the professional network: "If I were 22..." The initial intent? For LinkedIn's influencers to share their wisdom with folks much younger. The result? A whole slew of posts from all sorts of LinkedIn members. Lots of the usual stuff. Follow your passion. Travel if you get the chance.
- [PR Outfit of the Day - Corporate edition](https://arikhanson.com/pr-outfit-of-the-day-corporate-edition/) - A couple weeks ago, I made a post about a hard-hitting topic we all care about: What we wear to work! I chose to highlight the agency folks first. But, this week, I'd like to cast the spotlight on the corporate people. And, I got enough flack for highlighting one only man last time that I
- [Should you put MBA behind your name on your LinkedIn profile?](https://arikhanson.com/should-you-put-mba-behind-your-name-on-your-linkedin-profile/) - Last week, three friends/colleagues/clients graduated from business schools locally here in MSP with advanced degrees--MBAs. A tremendous achievement. A great honor. And another step in their lifelong commitment to always getting smarter as a professional communicator/marketer. Not coincidentally, all three work on the corporate side, where the MBA has almost become a prequisite of sorts for
- [Fallon's 13-hour Arby's ad: Blatant PR stunt or brilliant advertising?](https://arikhanson.com/fallons-13-hour-arbys-ad-blatant-pr-stunt-or-brilliant-advertising/) - In case you missed it, Arby's ran a thirteen-hour commercial over the Memorial Day weekend featuring its new smokehouse brisket sandwich. You read that correctly--a thirteen HOUR commercial. Here’s one of our favorite scenes from the #13hourbrisket commercial. Feel the drama. http://t.co/Q9hu3Kb1gS pic.twitter.com/Cec9JGyj4S — Arby's (@Arbys) May 28, 2014 Reportedly, the commercial was 13 hours
- [Who's the ONE mentor that changed your PR career trajectory?](https://arikhanson.com/whos-the-one-mentor-that-changed-your-pr-career-trajectory/) - Everyone has that one person who changed the trajectory of his/her career. That person who, for whatever reason, made a difference in your professional life. That person, who really stands out, as THE person who really supported you, through thick or thin. For me, that person was Deborah Ely-Lawrence. The year was 2002 and
- [How to use Iconosquare to bolster Instagram results](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-use-iconosquare-to-bolster-instagram-results/) - ICYMI: Brands are flocking to Instagram. And, they're seeing engagement rates that are through the roof--especially compared to other brands. But, as a brand, how do you measure progress on Instagram? What tools are available? Here's one that provides a nice snapshot of data you can use (for free) in your marketing efforts: Iconosquare (formerly Statigram).
- [Target's Jeff Jones' LinkedIn message: Cowboy move or brilliant communications strategy?](https://arikhanson.com/targets-jeff-jones-linkedin-message-cowboy-move-or-brilliant-communications-strategy/) - Earlier this week, you may have heard about the most recent kerfuffle retailer Target found itself in (yes, again). This time, Target's culture was the bullseye. A former employee went off to Gawker (classy move, by the way) and vented. One day later, Target CMO, Jeff Jones took to LinkedIn to share his views, and
- [The dark side of PR...thy name is "control"](https://arikhanson.com/the-dark-side-of-pr-thy-name-is-control/) - This Valleywag post was the rounds earlier this week--Apple comms chief, Katie Cotton, is apparently leaving the big, shiny red apple. If you read the article though, you'll see it's not really about Katie leaving--it's about her "reign" as comms director for one of the biggest, most revered companies in the U.S. And, the fear she instilled
- [Why GoPro has become THE content marketing juggernaut](https://arikhanson.com/why-gopro-has-become-the-content-marketing-juggernaut/) - Talk content marketing case studies with any consultant or big brand marketer right now and one name consistently comes up: GoPro. Yeah, the guys who make that cool camera that you can affix to pretty much anywhere that has captured some of the most amazing video on the web recently. What makes GoPro so successful?
- [Are employers looking for the right skills in today's content marketer?](https://arikhanson.com/are-employers-looking-for-the-right-skills-in-todays-content-marketer/) - About a month ago, I read an article over on MarketingProfs about the top trends in content marketing hiring. The big stat the MP folks were promoting in the post was the fact that 54 percent of companies plan to hire content marketers in the year ahead. I guess that's good news for those in
- [Ford Motor Company: One of the few brands to go “all in” with Google+ so far](https://arikhanson.com/ford-motor-company-one-of-the-few-brands-to-go-all-in-with-google-so-far/) - For a while now (read: Since Scott Monty took the help as head of social), Ford Motor Company has been on the cutting edge of all things social. OK, that might not be fair—let me rephrase. Ford has not been shy about taking risks and pushing the envelope when it comes to social media marketing. So,
- [Why unplugging matters](https://arikhanson.com/why-unplugging-matters/) - I spent the last six days in the wonderful Caribbean isle of St. John--my brother got married on Trunk Bay on Saturday evening. If you've never been to St. John, I'd suggest rectifying that as soon as you can. It is one of the most wonderful places on earth. In fact, for me and my
- [BREAKING: I revamped my web site!](https://arikhanson.com/breaking-i-revamped-my-web-site/) - OK, so the headline is a little tongue in cheek. But, if I were a larger corporation, I probably would have sent a press release talking about all the major changes I made with my site. And how it's now more full-functional and high-powered than ever before! Oh, and did I tell you about my flash
- [Is the age of the independent PR blogger over?](https://arikhanson.com/is-the-age-of-the-independent-pr-blogger-over/) - Earlier this week, popular and long-time PR/social media blogger, Danny Brown, announced he was shuttering his popular blog. Well, he wasn’t closing it down, necessarily. But, he was announcing that he would not be blogging about PR an social media-specific topics all the time from here on out. That’s an interesting move for a guy
- [PR Rock Stars (of the future): Laura Jollie](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-of-the-future-laura-jollie-2/) - I've had the pleasure of meeting Laura Jollie a few times now--namely at the MN PRSSA Leadership Rally last summer, and at PRSSA meetings at the University of Minnesota. She's just one of those young people who has "it." I'm never sure what "it" is, but "it" is definitely a good thing. "It" is really just a
- [Isn't it time to give up the #humblebrag?](https://arikhanson.com/isnt-it-time-to-give-up-the-humblebrag/) - The #humblebrag. One part humble. One part brag. OK, but let's be honest for a minute: The #humblebrag is all about bragging. And that's fine. We've kinda all done it at this point. You're excited about a client win. You're proud of a big project at work. Whatever the professional case--you want to talk about
- [Why is job hopping so rampant in digital marketing?](https://arikhanson.com/why-is-job-hopping-so-rampant-in-digital-marketing/) - According a recent survey fellow MIMA board member and friend, Jeff Sauer and I administered earlier this year, 59 percent of respondents have switched jobs in the last two years. Not too shocking, right? The job market in our industry is up. Economy is solid. Companies are hiring. That all means people will have a
- [Why aren't more brands prioritizing Instagram as a platform-of-choice?](https://arikhanson.com/why-arent-more-brands-prioritizing-instagram-as-a-platform-of-choice/) - From what we've heard from recent media and blogger reports and studies, Instagram is THE hot platform for brands right now. According to eMarketer, brands are seeing higher engagement and interaction rates on Instagram--up to 15 times more than Facebook, in some cases. And, Instagram is growing faster than Twitter, Facebook and Pinterest combined (which,
- [The best blogging advice no one ever gave me](https://arikhanson.com/the-best-blogging-advice-no-one-ever-gave-me/) - Last week, I was at the Minnesota PRSA Classics Banquet and a student at the event asked me: If you could share just one blogging tip with me, what would it be? Good question. Many, many posts have been written about this topic. Many, many suggestions have been made. But I thought about that question.
- [PR Outfit of the Day: Agency edition](https://arikhanson.com/pr-outfit-of-the-day-agency-edition/) - The hash tag is: #OOTD. Wait, what the heck is #OOTD? Yeah, that was my response, too (glad I'm not the only one). For the uninitiated (read: men), #OOTD stands for "Outfit of the Day"--and it's a BOOMING hash tag on Instagram. To the tune of 25 MILLION mentions of the #OOTD hash tag on
- [Why I've become a serial TV viewer--and almost completely ditched movies](https://arikhanson.com/why-ive-become-a-serial-tv-viewer-and-almost-completely-ditched-movies/) - As a PR/communications professional, one thing we essentially get paid to do is to stay on top of trends. That includes media and pop culture. That includes TV shows and movies. Yep--we essentially get paid to watch TV. OK, so we really don't get paid cash for watching TV shows. But tangentially, we do get
- [Insider Conversations: Comings and Goings in Twin Cities PR and digital marketing](https://arikhanson.com/insider-conversations-comings-and-goings-in-twin-cities-pr-and-digital-marketing/) - Last night, I attended the annual Minnesota PRSA Classics Awards banquet. It's a lovely evening, but I've missed the last couple. This year, my friends at Bellmont Partners were gracious enough to invite me along (thanks guys!). And, as a result, I had the privilege to watch them walk away with THREE Classics awards (they
- [Nostalgia is more than “fun old photos”— it’s a powerful tool to celebrate a brand’s innovation and stability](https://arikhanson.com/nostalgia-is-more-than-fun-old-photos-its-a-powerful-tool-to-celebrate-a-brands-innovation-and-stability/) - I'm giving my friend Laura Kaslow the floor today. Laura is part of the Blue Cross Blue Shield PR team and plays a lead role in the organization's social media efforts. I have a strong affinity for Blue Cross here in Minnesota since they've been my wife's employer for almost 20 years (thanks Blue Cross!).
- [6 PR and marketing e-newsletters that will make you smarter](https://arikhanson.com/6-pr-and-marketing-e-newsletters-that-will-make-you-smarter/) - Email overload. We all suffer from it, right? But, on the other hand, we all have a need to stay on top of what's new and trending in our industry. One of the best ways to do that? Subscribe to key industry e-newsletters that do the content aggregation for you. Those that really pull together
- [Should building a community really be your primary goal when starting a blog?](https://arikhanson.com/should-building-a-community-really-be-your-primary-goal-when-starting-a-blog/) - Last week, uber-popular marketing blog, Copyblogger, decided to shut down comments on its site. It's reasons: 1) Conversations were happening elsewhere, and they wanted to support that. 2) They want people to form their opinions and post on their own blog--not Copyblogger's. 3) Spam Needless to say, this decision resulted in all sorts of fever-pitched
- [The age-old debate: Agency or corporate PR?](https://arikhanson.com/the-age-old-debate-agency-or-corporate-pr/) - Yesterday, I made one of many trips to Winona (my alma mater) to speak to kids as part of my responsibilities on the WSU Alumni Board. As part of yesterday's trip, I spoke to a few different classes--one of which wanted to hear more about life on the agency side vs. life on the client
- [Yes! Yes! Yes! How One Word Should Change How You Think About Social Storytelling](https://arikhanson.com/yes-yes-yes-how-one-word-should-change-how-you-think-about-social-storytelling/) - I'm giving friend and fellow solo counselor, Dan Farkas, the floor today. I've had the good fortune to meet Dan twice in person--both times at the Solo PR Summit the last two years. Dan and I share a love for sports (although he's typically on the wrong side of the discussion :) and teaching (Dan
- [Why I'm completely revamping my coffee meet-up strategy](https://arikhanson.com/why-im-completely-revamping-my-coffee-meet-up-strategy/) - I'm kinda done with my current coffee routine. If you're "friends" with me on The Facebook, you saw my rant last week. You see, I started thinking about it and there's three reasons people ask me to coffee: 1) They want to "pick my brain"--the worst kind. I'm now officially turning these down these requests.
- [PR Rock Stars: Polaris' Holly Matson Spaeth](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-polaris-holly-matson-spaeth/) - I really can't recall how or when, exactly, I met Holly Matson Spaeth--it may have been on Twitter. But, we share a love for "breakfast for lunch" and have gotten to know each other a bit better over the years as a result. I've always had a lot of respect for Holly. Not because we've
- [Can Klout really be a social media management tool?](https://arikhanson.com/can-klout-really-be-a-social-media-management-tool/) - Last month, social scoring platform Klout shared news: it was adding important new features to its tool. No longer was Klout just going to be a social scoring platform designed to help manage "influence." Now, it claims, it will help you BUILD your influence by helping you discover new content it believes your followers want
- [Why I'm not using my laptop in meetings anymore](https://arikhanson.com/why-im-not-using-my-laptop-in-meetings-anymore/) - Let me just get this out there before we start: I have lousy handwriting. So lousy, I can barely read my OWN handwriting. It's chicken-scratch. It's horrible. It's unreadable. What's more, my hands hurt when I write with pen or pencil. I blame my elementary school teachers. After all, this must be someone's fault, right?
- [Do you really need to kiss up to clients?](https://arikhanson.com/do-you-really-need-to-kiss-up-to-clients/) - A big part of being on the agency or consultant side of our business is relationship-building and management. No question. In essence, your job is to build repoire and trust with the client. You want them to see you as a partner--a key member of the team. But, in some instances, this "relationship building" can
- [The next generation of PR: 17 PR students to watch](https://arikhanson.com/the-next-generation-of-pr-17-pr-students-to-watch/) - Each year, I make a point of going back to my alma mater, Winona St. University, to speak with students there about life in the PR world. Dr. Tom Grier graciously asks me back each year--it truly is one of the things I look forward to each fall and spring. A chance to head down to
- [Why Digg--not Reddit--is a must-read for PR pros](https://arikhanson.com/why-digg-not-reddit-is-a-must-read-for-pr-pros/) - Reddit. The front page of the Internet. That's the motto, right? That's what Reddit fanatics claim, isn't it? That might be fine-and-dandy for the digital elite. But for today's PR counselor, I say the front page of the internet is none other than Digg (and this article seems to agree). Yeah, that Digg. The Digg
- [14 answers to the "what do I say on Twitter?" question from your CEO](https://arikhanson.com/14-answers-to-the-what-do-i-say-on-twitter-question-from-your-ceo/) - One question I continue to hear from some of my larger clients, or friends/colleagues that work with larger companies: Should my CEO be on Twitter? Typically, it's usually the PR/social person encouraging the CEO to start a profile on Twitter, but increasingly I'm hearing of the opposite scenario--CEOs asking the PR person if they should
- [Why I'm joining the MIMA board of directors](https://arikhanson.com/why-im-joining-the-mima-board-of-directors/) - I've got a bit of news to share today: I'm joining the Minnesota Interactive Marketing Association (MIMA) board of directors. I couldn't be more excited to join a board that includes people like Jeff Sauer (whom I've gotten to know better lately), Lauren Melcher, Josh Braaten, Danny Olson, Lindsi Gish (whom I owe a great
- [Why I'm done with RFPs (for now)](https://arikhanson.com/why-im-done-with-rfps-for-now/) - I'm so mad at myself. I swore I was done with RFPs. Then, I got sucked back in. Sucked back in by the prospect of a fairly interesting gig recently. But, like many of the RFPs I've been a part of in the past, this one was destined for the same result. "Thanks, but no
- [Is your personal social network the new media rolodex?](https://arikhanson.com/is-your-personal-social-network-the-new-media-rolodex/) - David Griner gave a great presentation at last week's Solo PR Summit about the blurring of lines between earned and paid media for solo PR pros. Within that prezo, an interesting topic came up: the power of personal online networks when it comes to today's solo PR pro. For the purpose of this post we'll
- [How to stay ahead of the social media onslaught--in 30 minutes a day or less](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-stay-ahead-of-the-social-media-onslaught-in-30-minutes-a-day-or-less/) - Last week at the Solo PR Summit in Atlanta, I had the opportunity to present TWICE to a group of 80-100 solo PR counselors from around the country. The first topic I presented on: Facebook advertising. The second: Keeping up with social media. This isn't a topic that's specific to solo PRs by any stretch.
- [The 7 commandments of the Solo PR Summit](https://arikhanson.com/the-7-commandments-of-the-solo-pr-summit/) - dThis week I had the distinct pleasure of presenting at the second annual Solo PR Summit, a conference put on by Kellye Crane in Atlanta that focuses on all issues relevant to solo PR counselors. I actually presented twice this year--once on Facebook advertising (find my presentation here), and once on keeping up with social
- [Buffer: Customer Service and Heroes](https://arikhanson.com/buffer-customer-service-and-heroes/) - Corina Manea is one of the many wonderful people I've met through this blog over the years. And the best part? She's from Spain! Yet another example of technology connecting like-minded people from across the world. Corina has thoughtfully commented on my blog many times in the last couple years, so I thought I'd give
- [Pitching reporters using social media: What do the journalists say?](https://arikhanson.com/pitching-reporters-using-social-media-what-do-the-journalists-say/) - Whenever I see the phrase "pitching journalists on social media" I cringe. Why? Because it's not about "pitching" the reporter on Twitter. It's about starting a relationship with that journalist that will lead to the actual pitch--when the time is right. That's the way I see it, at least. But, everyone has a different perspective
- [Case study: Walmart's PR team and how they use Twitter](https://arikhanson.com/case-study-walmarts-pr-team-and-how-they-use-twitter/) - A few months ago, I did some research for a client that involved digging into corporate PR accounts and finding those who were using them in interesting or effective (in my view, at least) ways. A while later, I took some of that research (with the client's OK) and made this post featuring the Delta,
- [11 things I learned after blogging every day for one month](https://arikhanson.com/11-things-i-learned-after-blogging-every-day-for-one-month/) - Last month, I made a vow: I was going to blog once a day for every business day in January. I'm proud to say, I achieved my goal. 22 business days in January. 22 blog posts. Big deal, you say. People do this all the time, Arik. Maybe so. But most of those people are
- [7 real-time marketing examples brands can emulate during the "Big Game"](https://arikhanson.com/7-real-time-marketing-examples-brands-can-emulate-during-the-big-game/) - As the "Big Game" approaches on Sunday, there's been a lot of talk about real-time marketing gone bad. Heck, we saw it on full display last Sunday during the Grammys, didn't we? (see below--thank you Arby's) But, I don't hear a lot of chatter about real-time marketing DONE RIGHT. Admittedly, it's tougher to find, but
- [The 2014 Digital Marketing Staffing Survey](https://arikhanson.com/the-2014-digital-staffing-survey/) - One of the ad-hoc roles I play in addition to solo consultant, Dad, Husband and beer snob (my favorite) is that of recruiter. Thanks to my HAPPO work a few years ago, and an innate interest in networking, I'm often cast in the role of connector. Some people come to me looking for help in
- [Open salaries: Good idea for PR firms?](https://arikhanson.com/open-salaries-good-idea-for-pr-firms/) - Last December, Buffer (I'm a big fan) caused quite a stir with this post where it talked about it's culture of transparency and it's decision to post ALL employee salaries on the web for everyone to see. Quite a decision, right? I can't remember too many companies doing this kind of thing in recent memory.
- [21 real-time marketing Super Bowl prop bets](https://arikhanson.com/21-real-time-marketing-super-bowl-prop-bets/) - As the "Big Game" approaches this weekend, there's one thing I always like to check. No, not the money line. The prop bets. My favorites from this year's crop include: "Will Knoshown Moreno cry during the National Anthem?" "Will Michael Crabtree mention Richard Sherman in a tweet during the game?" (God I hope not) "Will
- [Will social media really kill journalism?](https://arikhanson.com/will-social-media-really-kill-journalism/) - Late last year Cision conducted a survey with 3,000 journalists worldwide about how their impressions of social media (and PR) have changed in recent years. The complete survey is worth a quick look--check it out here. But, what I thought was particularly interesting about the survey was the surprisingly high number of journalists who thought
- [How to: Manage up in your PR job](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-manage-up-in-your-pr-job/) - I've been out of the corporate/agency lifestyle now for four-plus years. Technically, I work for myself. I am my own boss. But, I still have to manage up. Every day I am managing client expectations and "managing up". So, even though I'm not longer an "employee", I still have a boss. Multiple bosses in fact--they
- [6 tips to building a better social media team in 2014](https://arikhanson.com/6-tips-to-building-a-better-social-media-team-in-2014/) - A few weeks ago a client asked me the following question: If we were to start building out a social media team here, how would we go about doing that? Good question, right. No easy or simple answers though. But, good direction and guidance? That, I can provide. While my client and I talked through
- [Who do PR awards really belong to: Agencies or clients?](https://arikhanson.com/who-do-pr-awards-really-belong-to-agencies-or-clients/) - It's that time of year--yes, it's awards season! Not just for the entertainment industry--but for the PR and marketing industry. PR Daily just announced its awards. Here in Minnesota, it's PRSA Classics time. I really wish MIMA had some kind of awards program here locally (different post). In the past, I've been fortunate enough to
- [Maybe paying tribute to MLK on Twitter really did work for brands](https://arikhanson.com/maybe-paying-tribute-to-mlk-on-twitter-really-did-work-for-brands/) - Brands capitalizing on holidays. It's been happening now since Oreo posted the now-famous--and brilliant--visual highlighting its support of Gay Pride. But, I think many people (present company included) think brands are making a big mistake trying to piggyback on holidays--even the made-up holidays like "National Ice Cream Day." Sure, some brands go a bit over-the-top
- [The hidden risk of social media marketing: Managing old Facebook admins](https://arikhanson.com/the-hidden-risk-of-social-media-marketing-managing-old-facebook-admins/) - For years, we heard brands throw up barriers around why they didn't want to participate in social media marketing. One of the biggest reasons? Managing risk. While that barrier has largely eroded, one hidden risk continues. And it's one I don't hear a whole lot of people talking about. The risk of the lingering Facebook
- [Professional organization ARRT destroys 5 common Facebook myths](https://arikhanson.com/professional-organization-arrt-destroys-5-common-facebook-myths/) - It's always extremely rewarding when one of your former clients excels in the area in which you coached them. In this case, the former client is the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. And, they continue to succeed in the area where I helped coach them a few years ago: Using Facebook as a tool to
- [Does Scandal's Olivia Pope represent the PR industry well?](https://arikhanson.com/does-scandals-olivia-pope-represent-the-pr-industry-well/) - Confession: I'm not a huge Scandal fan. Not yet, at least. In fact, I just started watching the show recently, after I was a bit disappointed by the pilot episode. But, a season in now, I'm almost hooked. I can see why. It has sex. Drama. Politics. And, for us professional PR counselors, a little
- [Do you really need a cover letter with that resume?](https://arikhanson.com/do-you-really-need-a-cover-letter-with-that-resume/) - A few weeks ago, friend and fellow HAPPO champ, Nikki Little from Identity PR, asked the following question: "In your opinion, how important is it to submit a cover letter when applying for a job, particularly if only a resume is requested? I see pros/cons to submitting and not submitting one." It's not a new
- [How to: Optimize your LinkedIn profile (using some new LinkedIn features)](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-optimize-your-linkedin-profile-using-some-new-linkedin-features/) - For me, the month of January is all about setting the foundation for a new, new business funnel in 2014. I'm taking some key steps to get this foundation in a better place than it was in 2013. I'm reworking my web site (for many different reasons). I'm re-thinking my blogging strategy. I'm setting up
- [How brands can make money--fast--using Jelly](https://arikhanson.com/how-brands-can-make-money-fast-using-jelly/) - Finally, the social app that changes everything. The app that will completely transform the way businesses engage and interact with their customer bases. And, a tool that will help your company make real money--fast--in the weeks and months ahead. Yes, I'm talking about Jelly, folks. The cool, hip new app from the guy who brought
- [23 #FirstWorldPRproblems](https://arikhanson.com/23-firstworldprproblems/) - We've all see the hash tag on Twitter: #firstworldproblems. My Starbucks was too hot. My iPhone isn't fast enough. My drone-delivered book didn't get to my house within the allotted 30 minutes (OK, so that's a tweet from 2018--I'm trying to create a light-hearted tone here so stay with me!). It's a long list of
- [18 social media career moves in Minnesota in 2013](https://arikhanson.com/18-social-media-career-moves-in-minnesota-in-2013/) - Last year, I published a list of 18 people right here in the Twin Cities who made big career moves in the social media realm. Great list--great people. In fact, I'm happy to say many of these people are still in their same roles--and thriving. So, today I thought I'd look back at 2013 and
- [Is an MBA worth it for PR professionals?](https://arikhanson.com/is-an-mba-worth-it-for-pr-professionals/) - For years, we've had the "is an APR worth it" conversations within the PR industry. But, the "is an MBA worth it" conversation for PRs? Not so much. Lately, it seems a number of my friends have been seeking out their MBAs. And while I will never say getting more education is a bad idea,
- [Is Snapchat really the next big social media platform?](https://arikhanson.com/is-snapchat-really-the-next-big-social-media-platform/) - Snapchat. I've had it crammed down my throat for the last year-plus that this social media network is the NBT (next big thing for you rookies ;) in social media. I've had snap stats shoved down my throat (400 million snaps per day, whatever that means). I've had Snapchat's founder, Evan Spiegel, and his entitled
- [Why Facebook may be the MOST cost-effective marketing option for small businesses](https://arikhanson.com/why-facebook-may-be-the-most-cost-effective-marketing-option-for-small-businesses/) - Many of you reading this blog probably saw this post by Ignite Media's Jim Tobin a few weeks ago. The big stat: Facebook engagement has dropped by as much as 44% in some cases. Ouch. And, as a result, all sorts of people are calling for the end of the world. More specifically, lots of
- [Do you suffer from professional FOMO?](https://arikhanson.com/do-you-suffer-from-professional-fomo/) - One of my favorite local talk show hosts was chatting about an interesting topic last week: FOMO. Yeah don't worry, I hadn't heard of it either. At least not in acronym form. Turns out, "FOMO" stands for "fear of missing out." OK, now *that* I've heard of. This particular discussion was lightly chiding folks who
- [Why 'what's next' in social media won't be in social media](https://arikhanson.com/why-whats-next-in-social-media-wont-be-in-social-media/) - It's the question we all get from managers, colleagues and clients: What's next in social media? What's the next Facebook? What's the new, hot tool coming down the pike? What's NEXT? What if I were to tell you what's next in social media may have nothing to do with social media at all. Hear me
- [My blogging experiment: One post a day in January](https://arikhanson.com/my-blogging-experiment-one-post-a-day-in-january/) - Starting tomorrow, Jan. 1, 2014, I'm starting an experiment. I'm going to attempt to blog every business day in the month of January. Aggressive? For me, yes. Every post will come from me--no guest posts. No submitted posts. All content written or curated by me. Why the experiment? I'm curious to see how blogging more
- [Target vs. Buffer: Crisis communications lessons from two different approaches](https://arikhanson.com/target-vs-buffer-crisis-communications-lessons-from-two-different-approaches/) - On Dec. 18, news broke that Target witnessed unauthorized access to payment card data across its U.S. stores. Security expert and blogger, Brian Krebs, broke the news on his blog. Since then, it's been a full-blown reputation and operations crisis for Target--over the holidays and arguably the retailer's most important shopping period of the year. If
- [Brands: Whatever happened to solving the customer's problem?](https://arikhanson.com/brands-whatever-happened-to-solving-the-customers-problem/) - Last week, I was out shopping for a new phone at a retailer here in the Twin Cities (to be clear, it actually wasn't Verizon--I just liked the photo below for this post). As I entered the store, I was welcomed relatively quickly. Check. I was then greeted by a salesperson warmly. Check. The salesperson
- [Buzzfeed's coverage of Justine Sacco story: An ethical issue?](https://arikhanson.com/buzzfeeds-coverage-of-justine-sacco-story-an-ethical-issue/) - In case you missed it, the internet was home to a strange scene last Friday. IAC PR director, Justine Sacco posted an offensive tweet (which has since been deleted, along with her Twitter account) and was then turned over to what many have described as "lynch mob" mentality on Twitter and other social media sites.
- [How to buy a perfect client holiday gift](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-buy-a-perfect-client-holiday-gift/) - Every year, the question comes up: What should I get my clients as a holiday gift? And each year, I struggle with it. I know agencies struggle with it, too. There seem to be a few different schools of thought: * Give the gift of giving. You'll see many agencies and consultants do this--give the
- [10 people I admire (that probably don't know it)](https://arikhanson.com/10-people-i-admire-that-probably-dont-know-it/) - When you ask people who they admire, the usual suspects enter the picture pretty quickly. Mom or Dad. A brother or sister. A grandparent. A coach. A former teacher, perhaps. What most of those people have in common centers around two elements: blood relation, or someone in an authority position. If you were to ask
- [The most popular Communications Conversations posts of 2013](https://arikhanson.com/the-most-popular-communications-conversations-posts-of-2013/) - As I reflect back on 2013, one thing I now love to do (thanks to Adam Singer--I'm stealing his idea) is look back at my Google Analytics and sift through the most-read posts of the year. But, I'm going to take it one step further and give you some insight and "best guesses" into WHY
- [Instagram Direct: What does it mean for brands?](https://arikhanson.com/instagram-direct-what-does-it-mean-for-brands/) - Yesterday, Instagram unveiled a new feature for its popular mobile app: Instagram Direct. You can read all about it on the Instagram blog. For many users, this will simply be a more efficient way to share photos with specific friends. But for brands, this new feature opens up a few doors--and presents a few new
- [6 small businesses using Facebook more creatively than many big businesses](https://arikhanson.com/6-small-businesses-using-facebook-more-creatively-than-many-big-businesses/) - Facebook marketing case studies. They're a dime a dozen across the web these days. So, why am I writing *another* one and adding to the noise? Many of the case study posts I've seen focus on midsized or larger businesses--in other words, businesses with marketing teams and bigger marketing budgets (read: more resources). What about
- [Guest post: What’s next is in the past](https://arikhanson.com/guest-post-whats-next-is-in-the-past/) - The following post is from friend and colleague, Kasey Skala, who's a digital communications manager by day over at Great Clips. Kasey and I actually disagree on a regular basis--on social media marketing, on sports takes, on the greatness of coffee (the guy doesn't drink hot liquids!). But, there's one thing we can agree on--the
- [8 things you probably didn't know about me](https://arikhanson.com/8-things-you-probably-didnt-know-about-me/) - You know that "8 things you probably didn't know about me" meme that was going around Facebook a while back? I never got tagged. I feel gipped. I feel left out. I feel all alone. OK, not really. But I did kinda want to participate, so I thought I'd share eight things you didn't know
- [5 brands using PR-specific Twitter accounts--and what they're doing well](https://arikhanson.com/5-brands-using-pr-specific-twitter-accounts-and-what-theyre-doing-well/) - Does your company/client need a PR-specific Twitter account? It's probably a question reserved for only the larger companies--but it's been a question PR teams have had to wrestle with the last few years (some may still be wrestling with it). The answer--obviously--is different for every brand. But today, I thought I'd highlight some of the
- [8 best cups of coffee in Minneapolis for the PR pro](https://arikhanson.com/8-best-cups-of-coffee-in-minneapolis-for-the-pr-pro/) - Last week, I asked the question: What's the best cup of coffee in Minneapolis? Very controversial, right? But, I mean, inquiring minds want to know. *PR* minds want to know. After all, we're HEAVY consumers of the liquid crack cocaine. But seriously though, what's the best cup of coffee in Minneapolis? Here's what a few
- [Coke says the corporate web site is dead. I say hogwash.](https://arikhanson.com/coke-says-the-corporate-web-site-is-dead-i-say-hogwash/) - You may have seen this post (or some variation of it) floating around the web last week. Apparently, Coke says the corporate web site is dead. I say hogwash. Yeah, I said it. I disagreed with mighty Coke. But, I have what I believe to be some fairly solid reasons. Hear me out. Not everyone
- [Miracle on the gridiron: LEGO Jerry Kill inspires Golden Gophers](https://arikhanson.com/miracle-on-the-gridiron-lego-jerry-kill-inspires-golden-gophers/) - Taking a little break from the PR/marketing talk today. Indulge me, if you will. For those Minnesotan readers, unless you've been living under a rock, you know all about arguably the biggest Golden Gopher football game of an entire generation--heck TWO generations. Yep, you could make a pretty good case that Saturday's Gopher/Bucky matchup is
- [PR Tool Review: 7 ways to get the most out of Muckrack](https://arikhanson.com/pr-tool-review-7-ways-to-get-the-most-out-of-muckrack/) - A few weeks ago, I started researching a tool called Muckrack for a client project. The good folks at Muckrack gave me a three-month trial to play around with the tool. Since I don't use a lot of paid tools in my practice, I wasn't all that familiar with Muckrack. But, in talking with a
- [News releases or blog posts: What is the future of media relations?](https://arikhanson.com/news-releases-or-blog-posts-what-is-the-future-of-media-relations/) - In starting work with a new start-up client recently, the question came up: Do we really need news releases? Couldn't we just share news on our blog instead? Isn't that more efficient and effective--especially for a smaller business? It's a good question and one all small, mid-sized and large businesses should be considering. And the
- [The PR consultant dress code strategy](https://arikhanson.com/the-pr-consultant-dress-code-strategy/) - A lot of people ask me: What do you wear when you work from home during the day? I gotta tell you, this part of the job does not suck. I frequently wear shorts or sweat pants for the majority of my time working at home (cue the Seinfeld music--Costanza!!!). But, I will also tell
- [Repeat after me: Bloggers are NOT mainstream media](https://arikhanson.com/repeat-after-me-bloggers-are-not-mainstream-media/) - Now, I don't get pitched that much. I'm not a lifestyle blogger, after all. But, I do get a few emails from time to time--"pitches", if you will. But the pitches I typically get are far less sexy than those my colleagues on the lifestyle side typically receive (I did some blogger research with my
- [PR isn't about "content"--it's about ideas](https://arikhanson.com/pr-isnt-about-content-its-about-ideas/) - Think back to the early 2000s. Was ANYONE talking about "content?" Anyone at all? Not really. Nowadays you can't go five minutes at a conference or event without hearing someone talk about the important nature of your "content." Your web content. Your social content. Content, content, content! When did PR become about "content"? Isn't it
- [PR hiring managers: Please read this post](https://arikhanson.com/pr-hiring-managers-please-read-this-post/) - Last week a friend of mine sent me a concerning email--but one I've seen far too often over the years. He has been interviewing with various companies around town for positions--and not having a lot of luck as of late. That's understandable--even in an improved market, it can take a few months (sometimes up to
- [Hash tags: They key to success for brands on Instagram?](https://arikhanson.com/hash-tags-they-key-to-success-for-brands-on-instagram/) - We all have that friend. Oh, you know the one. The friend who posts pics to Instagram and uses about 57 hash tags in the post. It can be funny at times. At other times, it can be downright annoying. But why would any brand contemplate taking such a strategy? Because it might actually work.
- [What I've learned in the first four years of ACH Communications](https://arikhanson.com/what-ive-learned-in-the-first-four-years-of-ach-communications/) - Four years ago last month, I made the leap from "working for the man" to "working for myself" when I started ACH Communications. It's been quite a ride--and, to be honest, four years went awfully quick. But, I think that's a good sign, right? Time goes quickly when you're enjoying yourself--and that couldn't be more
- [5 out-of-the-box ideas that will boost your team's creativity](https://arikhanson.com/5-out-of-the-box-ideas-that-will-boost-your-teams-creativity/) - Last week, I participated in a panel discussion on creativity for the Minnesota PRSA chapter. We discussed creativity from a variety of angles: * How do we define creativity? * How do we sell creative ideas to clients? * And how do we boost creativity for ourselves and our teams? It's that third point I want
- [How to manage a crisis in the digital age: Buffer's weekend hack](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-manage-a-crisis-in-the-digital-age-buffers-weekend-hack/) - Over the weekend, you may have seen the tweets/posts about a number of people's Buffer accounts getting hacked. Here's just one example of the many tweets I started seeing around noon on Saturday: Big problem, right? Would Buffer respond over the weekend? How quickly would they be able to fix the hack? And how loudly
- [Where do you turn for reputable news in 2013?](https://arikhanson.com/where-do-you-turn-for-reputable-news-in-2013/) - Friend and colleague, LuAnn Gluwacz brought up an interesting question on Facebook a couple weeks ago: If you were to cite REAL news these days, what would you consider the best source? The answers varied---greatly. Take a peek. And I had to cut off the list for the sake of this screen grab. There were
- [Insider Conversations: Comings and Goings in Twin Cities PR and digital marketing - 10/21](https://arikhanson.com/insider-conversations-comings-and-goings-in-twin-cities-pr-and-digital-marketing-1021/) - Each quarter, I share a short list of comings and goings and other PR/digital marketing industry news right here in Minneapolis/St. Paul (sorry out-of-towners). Let's take a look at what's been going on in MSP the last few months: Melissa Berggren, formerly of Allina Health accepted a leadership position with WCG's new office here in
- [Ghost: The next big blog platform?](https://arikhanson.com/ghost-the-next-big-blog-platform/) - By now, you've undoubtedly heard of Medium, the new blog platform that's gaining momentum, developed by one of the founders of Twitter. One of Medium's big claims: To make blogging easier. And boy, does it ever. But, the downside of that is that you lose "control" of your content. In other words, Medium owns it--not
- [Three common faults of the social media job description](https://arikhanson.com/three-common-faults-of-the-social-media-job-description/) - Writing a social media job description can be tough. It's still a relatively new discipline. It's continuously evolving. And, it can be tough to define. So, it's hard to fault folks for writing ludicrous social job descriptions. Yet, there they are. In droves. Every day, online. In my inbox. On professional organization's web sites. I
- [Acquire these 3 digital skills and recruiters will come calling](https://arikhanson.com/acquire-these-3-digital-skills-and-recruiters-will-come-calling/) - Last weekend, I was asked to speak at the annual PRSSA Leadership Rally. This is a group of student leaders that PRSA assembles every year to help with strategy, direction and management of their PRSSA chapters. I've been a part of this event a number of times--it's a great event for these kids. In fact,
- [PR stereotypes: Fact or fiction?](https://arikhanson.com/pr-stereotypes-fact-or-fiction/) - Like many industries, PRs are a highly stereotyped bunch. Remember Lizzie Grubman or MTV's PoweR Girls? What about Samantha Jones on Sex in the City? Many continue to think of PR folks as either glorified party planners or publicists for celebs. What's more, ask 10 people what PR people do and you're likely to get
- [Meet my new part-time home-away-from home: CoCo Uptown](https://arikhanson.com/meet-my-new-part-time-home-away-from-home-coco-uptown/) - For the first few years of my solo PR life, I spent a lot of time working out of coffee shops and other common spaces. I also spent a fair amount of time at client spaces. I also joined CoCo Minneapolis when it opened a couple years ago. This past year-plus, I spent an inordinate amount
- [Is college students' refusal to use email killing the next generation of PR writers?](https://arikhanson.com/is-college-students-refusal-to-use-email-killing-the-next-generation-of-pr-writers/) - Last week, I came across an interesting article in the Minneapolis Star Tribune about college students and their refusal to use email. The article essentially talked about the trend of college students not using email, professors' frustrations with said trend, and what it's meant for students in a variety of situations. We've seen this movie
- [PR Rock Stars: Budweiser's Lisa Weser](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-budweisers-lisa-weser/) - Truth be told, I can't really remember how I connected with Lisa Weser. She's one of those folks I've met on the Twitters over the years. She's also one of those people I believe I'd be pretty good friends with if she were local here in Minneapolis (fellow PR folks, fellow beer geeks). But, alas,
- [Is short-form Instagram video the future of news distribution?](https://arikhanson.com/is-short-form-instagram-video-the-future-of-news-distribution/) - A couple weeks ago, I read an article over at the Nieman Journalism Lab site about a relatively new news site named "NowThis News." Just what we need--another online news site, right? This one's a little different though, according to the Nieman post, in that it focuses heavily on short-burst videos. I'm talking REAL short.
- [What does the week of an solo PR counselor look like?](https://arikhanson.com/what-does-the-week-of-an-solo-pr-counselor-look-like/) - One question I'm frequently asked by friends, colleagues and students: What's a typical day look like for you, as an independent consultant? My typical answer: There is no typical day. Not by a long shot. But, I usually go on to detail out my prior day just to give them a feel for how wide-ranging
- [How to max out your PR speaking opportunities](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-max-out-your-pr-speaking-opportunities/) - You did it. You scored that killer industry speaking gig. You're going to present before 150 financial planners about PR. You're working up your deck. All set to go. The presentation goes great. The attendees love you. You knocked it out of the proverbial park. There's a line of people waiting to talk to you
- [The downsides of PR travel no one wants to talk about](https://arikhanson.com/the-downside-of-pr-travel-no-one-wants-to-talk-about/) - Spend any time on Facebook or Twitter following those in the industry and you'll see plenty of it. Call it the "glorification of business travel." Or, simply put, the #humblebrag version of business travel. What I mean by this: Those talking about their massive business travel schedules, bemoaning the fact that they have to do
- [Where did all the good (individual) PR blogs go?](https://arikhanson.com/where-did-all-the-good-individual-pr-blogs-go/) - When I started blogging in 2008, there were a number of PR folks who blogged that I followed religiously. They were the voices of our industry on the web (for me, at least). They blogged regularly. And they inspired me to be better--both as a blogger and as a PR counselor. Among my regular reads
- [The who's who of who's running social media for America's top companies](https://arikhanson.com/the-whos-who-of-whos-running-social-media-for-americas-top-companies/) - It's been a good 4-5 years since social media blew up the digital world. In those last 4-5 years, many large companies across the country have committed resources to social--and many have staffed appropriately. Community managers. Social strategists. Directors of Social. New positions have been created. And companies are now clamoring for good, digital talent.
- [#StribBizLive: New way to pitch news to the Minneapolis Star Tribune?](https://arikhanson.com/stribbizlive-new-way-to-pitch-news-to-the-minneapolis-star-tribune/) - Today the Minneapolis Star Tribune unveiled a different way for the media outlet to report on--and break--news online: #StribBizLive. It's not really a groundbreaking concept--a media outlet breaking and sharing news (as it happens) on Twitter. That's been happening for years. But, it is new for the Star Tribune--at least when it comes to reporting
- [LinkedIn opens up accounts for high school students--will they participate?](https://arikhanson.com/linkedin-opens-up-accounts-for-high-school-students-will-they-participate/) - Today, for the very first time, LinkedIn has opened its doors to high school students. More specifically, here in the states, kids over the age of 14. These kids will now have the opportunity to start their own LinkedIn profile. Interact with professionals on LinkedIn Groups. Upload presentations and blog posts. Create status updates. The
- [Why I'm re-invigorated about this year's #mnblogcon](https://arikhanson.com/why-im-re-invigorated-about-this-years-mnblogcon/) - On Oct. 12 we'll hold our fourth MN Blogger Conference. It's an event I started with friend, client and colleague, Missy Berggren in 2010. The last two years, to be honest, Missy and the committee took on the lion's share of the work. Sure, I was involved. I shared opinions. I headed up sponsorships. Introduced
- [PR Rock Stars: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan's Dave Murray](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-blue-cross-blue-shield-of-michigans-dave-murray/) - Over the years, I've done a decent amount of work in the health care field. I've worked with Fairview, Allina Health, UCare and a host of other health care companies over the years. So, that also means I've done my homework when it comes to companies who are raising the bar in terms of marketing
- [How to use social media to find that first PR job](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-use-social-media-to-find-that-first-pr-job/) - Since I speak to a lot of student groups I thought I'd discuss a topic that comes up pretty regularly today with that crowd: How to use social media effectively to help you find that first job. The primary issue for recent grads is they know HOW to use social media for personal use--to chat
- [Why it still pays to subscribe the the daily local paper](https://arikhanson.com/why-it-still-pays-to-subscribe-the-the-daily-local-paper/) - A bit less than a year ago, we started subscribing to the daily newspaper once again. It had been a while for me, personally. It wasn't so much that I had given up on daily news--it was just that: 1) I read the paper at work, or, 2) I just didn't have time (two little
- [PR Rock Stars: WCG's Chuck Hemann](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-wcgs-chuck-hemann/) - I met Chuck Hemann about five years ago while he was working at a small firm in Cleveland named Dix & Eaton. I got to know Chuck through our common interests in PR and sports (he's an Alabama fan, I'm a Gopher fan--you do the math on who comes out better on that equation). We
- [Laura Fitzpatrick's Day With Google Glass](https://arikhanson.com/laura-fitzpatricks-day-with-google-glass/) - The following is a guest post from Laura Fitzpatrick, junior strategist at OLSON, about her experience wearing Google Glass during a recent weekend. Laura was one of the select number of folks who were awarded a pair of Glass (is that how you say it?) earlier this summer. This is her story. It’s been a
- [Should daily newspapers be publishing satire?](https://arikhanson.com/should-daily-newspapers-be-publishing-satire/) - Yesterday, the Minneapolis Star Tribune ran an essay from a guest columnist on the top of the front page of its Variety section. The title: "A Millennial's perspective on the Boomerang Generation." The article went on to provide a perspective from the author about the "benefits" of living with her baby boomer mom. I won't
- [5 PR lessons embedded in Katy Perry songs](https://arikhanson.com/5-pr-lessons-embedded-in-katy-perry-songs/) - Over the years, I've written about a lot of crazy comparisons. PR lessons I learned from Saved by the Bell. What the characters of Friday Night Lights taught me about PR. And what I learned from Justin Bieber (which suddenly, doesn't sound so good given recent events). Today I'm taking that to a new level.
- [PR Rock Stars: Mansfield ISD's Richie Escovedo](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-mansfield-isds-richie-escovedo/) - I can't remember how or when I first really "met" Richie Escovedo, but I do know he seems like someone I'd be good friends with if we lived in the same town. We share a love of sports (unfortunately his favorite teams include the names "Cowboys" and "Rangers"), we both have young families, and we
- [5 strategies to help your execs to better understand digital marketing](https://arikhanson.com/5-strategies-to-help-your-execs-to-better-understand-digital-marketing/) - A post by fellow communicator and blogger Shel Holtz concerned me last week. Its premise? In Shel's words: "The uneven adoption of social media is, by and large, a failure of organizational leadership." As usual, Shel backed that claim up with a slew of findings including: * According to a study by the Rock Center for
- [Bloggers: Don't waste your time writing for Medium (but do read it)](https://arikhanson.com/bloggers-dont-waste-your-time-with-medium-but-do-read-it/) - Last month, Ev Williams (you remember him, founded a little thing called Twitter) unveiled to us his most recent project: Medium. Billed as "a better place to read and write things that matter" Medium is, for all intents and purposes, another blogging platform (this Nieman post breaks it down nicely). Yeah, it does seem like
- [How I spend my days in PR](https://arikhanson.com/how-i-spend-my-days-in-pr/) - Last week, I received the following email from a student at my alma mater at Winona State University: Hey Arik, I had you as a guest speaker at Winona State a little over a year ago, and I just wanted to tell you that I am now majoring in public relation because of your presentation.
- [Are "best workplace" lists really worth the time for PR folks?](https://arikhanson.com/are-best-workplace-lists-really-worth-the-time-for-pr-folks/) - Each year, you start to see the lists in the spring. Best places to work. Top workplaces. You know the lists. If you work in corporate communications (as I did for many years), you know this whole process starts much earlier in the year. Should we submit? Is it worth the time? Which lists do
- [Is AirPR the future of public relations for small businesses?](https://arikhanson.com/is-airpr-the-future-of-public-relations-for-small-businesses/) - A couple weeks ago I stumbled upon an interesting--and new--concept in the world of PR. A self-service PR web site designed to give small to mid-sized business owners access to the top PR counselors in the industry. That was a mouthful wasn't it? And, it seems to good to be true, doesn't it? That's kinda
- [8 questions--and answers--about my PR career experience](https://arikhanson.com/8-questions-and-answers-about-my-pr-career-experience/) - Last week, I helped organize and sat on a panel of "experienced graduates" at a Winona St. University alumni event in Minneapolis. The intent was to help recent WSU grads learn the importance of networking in their job search and career paths--but also just to connect the more "experienced" WSU alum with those recent grads,
- [PR Rock Stars: Space 150's Lisa Grimm](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-space-150s-lisa-grimm/) - I can't remember exactly when or how I met Lisa Grimm. But one thing's for certain: She left quite an impression. And I'm sure the hundreds of other industry folks she's met over the years here in the Twin Cities--and across the country--would say the same thing. Whether it's her "unique vocabulary" (I'm constantly jabbing
- [How to look for a new job--when you already have a job](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-look-for-a-new-job-when-you-already-have-a-job/) - It's a common problem, but one many infrequently discuss: How do you search for a job when you already have one? I know for me, it was a big issue. I was a job hopper before job hopping was en vogue (millennials: you can thank me later ;). And with every job hop came the
- [The #1 reason brands should start using Instagram (and it's not the reason you might think)](https://arikhanson.com/the-1-reason-brands-should-start-using-instagram-and-its-not-the-reason-you-might-think/) - It's not about community. It's not about followers. Heck, it's not even about sharing the images to Facebook (which is a lot prettier now that Facebook owns Instagram). Nope, the key reason for brands to start (note: only 44--9 percent) of Fortune 500 companies have an Instagram account according to a recent UMass/Dartmouth study) with
- [The lie of the LinkedIn endorsement and recommendation](https://arikhanson.com/the-lie-of-the-linkedin-endorsement-and-recommendation/) - When was the last time you looked at your LinkedIn profile? If you're like some, it was probably a while ago. In fact, some people really only look at (or update) their profile when they're looking for a job. Sad reality. But, most likely true (based on what I've seen and heard from others). Me?
- [7 public speaking lessons from my favorite Ignite Minneapolis speakers](https://arikhanson.com/7-public-speaking-lessons-from-my-favorite-ignite-minneapolis-speakers/) - A few weeks ago, I missed my favorite local event here in Minneapolis/St. Paul: Ignite. I know many other markets have Ignite events around the country, but here in MSP, the event is always a great time. Not so much because I learn a ton (although I usually do learn a thing or two), but
- [5 Facebook Insights upgrades worth a closer look](https://arikhanson.com/5-facebook-insights-upgrades-worth-a-closer-look/) - In case you missed it, earlier this week Facebook rolled out its new update to Insights. It's been a long time coming, too, as Facebook has been slow to update Insights--at least in meaningful ways. But this update comes a lot closer to being useful than many of the previous updates. And it's about time
- [400 unread emails in your inbox: Does that make you important or inept?](https://arikhanson.com/400-unread-emails-in-your-inbox-does-that-make-you-important-or-inept/) - It's a common refrain in our industry, right? I have (insert extremely high number here) unread emails--I'm not sure how I'm going to get through them all. Sure, this statement frequently comes after a vacation of some sort. To be expected, right? But, going back to my days on the corporate side, this often comes
- [Does the famed social media community management unicorn really exist?](https://arikhanson.com/does-the-famed-social-media-community-management-unicorn-really-exist/) - A couple weeks ago I spoke to a group of aspiring community managers at the Social Lights training program. During that talk, I spoke a lot about how the skills and abilities of community managers continues to evolve--and how the social media community manager "unicorn" still does not exist. At least not in great numbers. There
- [Youtility: 6 quotes that sum up Jay Baer's new book](https://arikhanson.com/youtility-6-quotes-that-sum-up-jay-baers-new-book/) - I'm not a huge fan of the social media book craze. They're a dime a dozen. Go check out the marketing section at Barnes & Noble sometime. There are literally hundreds of books telling you all you need to know about digital marketing from content strategy to SEO to how to "do" Facebook. And most
- [8 digital strategies to tell your CSR story more effectively](https://arikhanson.com/8-digital-strategies-to-tell-your-csr-story-more-effectively-627/) - Why is storytelling so vital to corporate CSR efforts? That was the topic I spoke about to a room full of community relations directors, non-profit leaders and communicators earlier this week in downtown Minneapolis at Ameriprise. But, before we get to my ideas, some stats. According to a Net Impact survey, 53% of workers said
- [Likable content: How to create social media content that gets clicks](https://arikhanson.com/likable-content-how-to-create-social-media-content-that-gets-clicks/) - Last night, I presented to a room full of aspiring community managers at a unique training program based here in the Twin Cities sponsored and run by a small agency named The Social Lights. The agency is run by two, young recent University of St. Thomas grads--Martha McCarthy and Emily Pritchard (more on this in
- [Then and Now: 16 digital marketers whose careers have skyrocketed since 2008](https://arikhanson.com/then-and-now-16-digital-marketers-whose-careers-have-skyrocketed-since-2008/) - Almost four years ago I started my own business. It's been about five years since I started blogging. A lot has happened in those last five years. Things I never would have expected (including keynoting a conference, co-founding a successful local conference, and working with a number of Fortune 500 companies). But, compared to the
- [10 business cases for CEOs to use social media](https://arikhanson.com/10-business-cases-for-ceos-to-use-social-media/) - "Embracing social media isn’t just a bit of fun, it is a vital way to communicate, keep your ear to the ground and improve your business." -- Sir Richard Branson That quote embodies what very few large company CEO believe to be true. That's right, after a bit of research for a speaking engagement yesterday,
- [Are craft breweries doing enough to market themselves differently?](https://arikhanson.com/are-craft-breweries-doing-enough-to-market-themselves-differently/) - Last week, I attended a great event at a craft brewery here in Minneapolis named 612Brew (hosted by Minnesota PRSA). I had a great time catching up with a number of friends and colleagues--and we even heard from the brewers themselves as well as the publisher of a relatively new craft beer publication. During the
- [What Facebook hashtags will mean for marketers (eventually)](https://arikhanson.com/what-facebook-hashtags-will-mean-for-marketers-eventually/) - The short answer: Nothing. Yet. That's because the darn things aren't even rolling out to all users for a while (see Facebook's formal announcement last week). But, that time will come eventually. And when it does, there will be substantial implications for marketers and brands. For now, it's mostly a user experience issue. Users can
- [9 (recent and current) PR interns destined for greatness](https://arikhanson.com/9-recent-and-current-pr-interns-destined-for-greatness/) - It's that time of year. Interns have recently begun their stints with employers across the country. As they begin their journey into PR, some will flourish. And others will fall off. In the end, an internship is a great way for an employer to get to know an employee--and vice versa. Since the interns of
- [PR Rock Stars: Christina Milanowski](https://arikhanson.com/pr-rock-stars-christina-milanowski/) - Minnesota PRSA 2012 Young Professional Award winner. New (relatively) social media director at Maccabee PR in Minneapolis. Master's degree pursuer. What is Christina Milanowski NOT doing these days? That's the question. And, I aim to find out the answers. My PR Rock Stars interview today focuses on a young PR pro here in the Twin
- [Do brands really need to demonstrate sympathy during national crisis?](https://arikhanson.com/do-brands-really-need-to-demonstrate-sympathy-during-national-crisis/) - This past weekend, while I was on vacation, a story by Katie Humphrey ran in the local Minneapolis Star Tribune about the angst many people face about tweeting or posting on social networks during a tragedy. Katie interviewed me on the topic as well as friends Lisa Grimm and Karl Pearson-Cater. Largely, the article was
- [Is the new LinkedIn Today on your list of daily reads?](https://arikhanson.com/is-the-new-linkedin-today-on-your-list-of-daily-reads/) - Widely regarded as THE network for business professionals, LinkedIn is one of those networks most people are "on" but few actively participate. But, that may all be changing with LinkedIn's recent beefing up of its publishing platform. And, "beefing up" may be an understatement. For many, LinkedIn is the social network they only visit when
- [My 40 best Instagram shots (#40BestIGPics)](https://arikhanson.com/my-40-best-instagram-shots-40bestigpics/) - As many of you know, Instagram is one of my favorite apps and social networks. I use it a lot--mostly because I take most of my kids' pics there (I also document our trips that way now). But also because I love photography, even though I'm very much an amateur. Since I've been using Instagram
- [Jello FML social media campaign: Brilliant or bone-headed?](https://arikhanson.com/jello-fml-social-media-campaign-brilliant-or-bone-headed/) - Just yesterday, Jello (yes, THAT Jell0) launched a campaign titled (wait for it): FML. Not THAT FML. In this case, Jello's campaign is dubbed "Fun My Life" and it's obviously having a little fun with the #FML hash tag and acronym that's become so popular among texts, Twitter and everything in between (if you've never
- [What if Don Draper was a PR pro?](https://arikhanson.com/what-if-don-draper-was-a-pr-pro/) - The latest TV drama my wife and I are engrossed in? Mad Men. I know, I know, where have you been, Arik? We're a little slow to the pop culture scene, at times. But, we're hooked now (currently just starting season 5). Mad Men is a great show. I love the period references, clothing and
- [Facebook gifts: Does it have a future for brands?](https://arikhanson.com/facebook-gifts-does-it-have-a-future-for-brands/) - By now, you've seen the button on Facebook. Give a gift. It pops up when you see a story posted by a friend who might be celebrating an anniversary, a graduation or a new baby. It also, obviously, pops up when it's someone's birthday. In theory, Facebook Gifts gives you an easy way to send
- [Should companies give up promoting holidays on Facebook?](https://arikhanson.com/should-companies-give-up-promoting-holidays-on-facebook/) - It all started with this. Simple. Brilliant. And just a great move. Then they moved on to much more obscure holidays. And, even more obscure holidays. OK, so a few other brands might have beat Oreo to the punch of promoting holidays on Facebook in somewhat interesting ways. But, it was Oreo that brought
- [Emoticons for brands: New trend or too spammy?](https://arikhanson.com/emoticons-for-brands-new-trend-or-too-spammy/) - Are you a serial emoticon-er? I'll be honest, I've been known to include a smiley face or two in my tweets and Facebook posts. It's a sign of humor. A signal to my recipient(s) that I may be stating something a little tongue in cheek. Emoticons have become part of the universal lexicon online. Whether
- [How I grew my blog readership 659% in just 3 years (and how you can, too)](https://arikhanson.com/how-i-grew-my-blog-readership-659-in-just-3-years-and-how-you-can-too/) - I started blogging in December 2008. At the time I was working for Fairview, the second-largest health care system in Minnesota. At the time, I wasn't working in digital marketing--I was in a more traditional corporate communications role. But, I was experimenting with blogging. And, I loved to write. Blogging was a natural fit for
- [LinkedIn beefs up platform: But will you spend more time there?](https://arikhanson.com/linkedin-beefs-up-platform-but-will-you-spend-more-time-there/) - Quietly (very quietly) LinkedIn has been beefing up its platform lately. Sure, you read all about the numerous changes Facebook makes to its platform. Or, the advertising tools Twitter is now opening up. But, LinkedIn repeatedly adds new features and functionality to its site that improve the user experience. Of course, not everyone agrees. My
- [Why do we lock our top talent up in meetings all day?](https://arikhanson.com/why-do-we-lock-our-top-talent-up-in-meetings-all-day/) - When I worked on the corporate side, I sat in my fair share of meetings. On average, probably about 3-4 hours a day--half my day. But, that was nothing compared to my boss and my bosses boss. They routinely spent their entire day (probably save an hour here or there) in a room talking to
- [Why "Lean In" is a great read for women AND men (PR pros)](https://arikhanson.com/why-lean-in-is-a-great-read-for-women-and-men-pr-pros/) - Last week, my wife and I started a two-person book club (the things you do in the name of marriage). Up first: Sheryl Sandberg’s Lean In. It’s tough to go 24 hours these days without hearing someone reference the book. Obviously, Sandberg’s a big voice—and personality—in the social world given her role at Facebook. But,
- [6 elements of the digital newsroom of tomorrow](https://arikhanson.com/6-elements-of-the-digital-newsroom-of-tomorrow/) - If you've worked in PR long enough, you've probably helped a client or employer revamp (or create) an online newsroom. It's one of the staples of our profession. And, you've probably read a post or two about the basic elements that should go into that newsroom. All of that is good. Except the concept of
- [What you can learn about starting your next new job from the Target CMO](https://arikhanson.com/what-you-can-learn-about-starting-your-next-new-job-from-the-target-cmo/) - In the Sunday edition of the Minneapolis Star Tribune, I read an article about Target's new CMO, Jeff Jones, and what he's doing to make his mark for the retail giant. The article was really focused on Jones--and what moves he's taken to move the brand forward during his first year. But, when I read
- [The real reason nobody's reading hard copy newspapers](https://arikhanson.com/the-real-reason-nobodys-reading-hard-copy-newspapers/) - Last week, I made a big decision for our family: We were going to subscribe to the daily Minneapolis Star Tribune. The hard copy edition. Yeah, I know. That seems odd for someone like me, right? But I still have a few traditions I like to hang on to--one of them is reading a hard
- [Join us for the second-ever Minnesota HAPPO Hour on May 2](https://arikhanson.com/join-us-for-the-second-ever-minnesota-happo-hour-on-may-2/) - Two years ago we held our first-ever live, "HAPPO Hour" series of events across the country. 10-plus markets held live HAPPO networking events on the same day in February, 2011. And now this year, we're doing it again. We're holding events in a few places across the country, including San Diego. Here in Minnesota, I'm
- [18 traits of the new digital American family](https://arikhanson.com/18-traits-of-the-new-digital-american-family/) - My wife and I have taken to watching Mad Men recently. We're only on season 2 and still catching up, but watching ad men and families in the 50s and 60s has really been pretty interesting. The clothes. The culture. The booze. Oh, the booze. But, it also got me thinking about something else: We
- [How companies are using Instagram as a recruiting tool](https://arikhanson.com/how-companies-are-using-instagram-as-a-recruiting-tool/) - Over the last couple years, there have been many posts written about companies using Instagram as a marketing tool to raise brand awareness, drive leads, even increase in-store or online sales. But there haven't been a lot of posts talking about how companies are using Instagram to recruit and retain employees. But that's exactly what
- [Dear fellow PR/marketing/social media consultants: We need to do better](https://arikhanson.com/dear-fellow-prmarketingsocial-media-consultants-we-need-to-do-better/) - Last week, Ragan published a study around the current state of social media teams and client expectations around social, in a general sense. I know we need to take surveys like this worth a grain of salt. But, as I looked at the stats, one thought kept popping in my head: We, as PR/marketing/social media
- [The most valuable skills I learned in college weren't in a classroom](https://arikhanson.com/the-most-valuable-skills-i-learned-in-college-werent-in-a-classroom/) - This week, I made my bi-annual pilgrimage to Winona, Minn., to my alma mater. I head down there twice a year to speak to classes about the PR industry--trends, skills, the job search, my experience, etc. It's always one of my favorite days of the year. I get to make the drive down and enjoy
- [Is Oreo really the brilliant marketers everyone thinks they are?](https://arikhanson.com/is-oreo-really-the-brilliant-marketers-everyone-thinks-they-are/) - Oreo. Say the brand name in a room for of marketers these days and you'll quickly hear words like "OMG-- love", "real-time marketing experts" and "brilliant marketers." And I've been one of those people singing their praises in the past. I love some of the content marketing Oreo has done on Facebook, specifically. But, this
- [Why Vine is dying on the...well...vine](https://arikhanson.com/why-vine-is-dying-on-the-well-vine/) - Earlier this year when Twitter unveiled its new video-sharing, GIF-like-producing app, Vine, I was a little skeptical. But, I seemed to be in the minority amongst my cohorts in the marketing field. People were posting Vines everywhere. Celebrities like Jimmy Fallon were in the on act early on (but he hasn't posted a single Vine since
- [What do the best corporate blogs do well?](https://arikhanson.com/what-do-the-best-corporate-blogs-do-well/) - Earlier this week, friend, colleague and fellow blogger Aaron Pearson asked me to speak to his class at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis. The topic? Corporate blogging. Something I know a thing or two about based on my personal experiences with this blog and the lessons I've put to good use for my
- [5 reasons why the solo consultant lifestyle isn't all it's cracked up to be](https://arikhanson.com/5-reasons-why-the-solo-consultant-lifestyle-isnt-all-its-cracked-up-to-be/) - Before I begin, I want to say this: I LOVE my job as a solo consultant. It's everything I thought it would be--and much, much more. It's fulfilling. It gives me creative liberty. It gives me the flexible schedule I need. Financially, it's been great (and I'll leave it at that). And, I just couldn't
- [6 Facebook enhancements you may have missed since Jan. 1](https://arikhanson.com/6-facebook-enhancements-you-may-have-missed-since-jan-1/) - We're just three months into the New Year, but in case you haven't noticed Facebook has made a TON of enhancements and added a number of features to its existing platforms and services. It's a full-time job keeping up with Facebook, really. If you don't subscribe to either AllFacebook or Inside Facebook, I'd recommend doing
- [5 ideas to make the Minnesota Classics even better](https://arikhanson.com/5-ideas-to-make-the-minnesota-classics-even-better/) - Last week, my great state celebrated its annual version of the Silver Anvil PRSA Awards--the Minnesota Classics. It's a great event--I've been many times over the years. In fact, it's widely regarded as THE PR industry event of the year. Not only do you have the opportunity to watch as colleagues are recognized for their
- [Google Glass: Why it won't go mainstream until 2023](https://arikhanson.com/google-glass-why-it-wont-go-mainstream-until-2023/) - As most of you know by now, Google will unveil one of its more interesting products in recently memory later this year (or in 2014) in Google Glass. The concept: Glasses that enable you to take photos, create video, browse the web and perform a bunch of other to-dos with a simple voice command. It's
- [Spam's "Sir-Can-A-Lot" social media campaign: Brilliant Oreo copycat or creative blunder?](https://arikhanson.com/spams-sir-can-a-lot-social-media-campaign-brilliant-oreo-copycat-or-creative-blunder/) - On Sunday, David Phelps of the Star Tribune wrote a post about Hormel and its relatively new social media campaign built around the fictional, animated character Sir Can-A-Lot. The big idea is somewhere between what Old Spice did with its real-time video campaign a couple years ago and Oreo's recent "real-time marketing" efforts. According to
- [How to amplify your content via Facebook page post ads](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-amplify-your-content-via-facebook-page-post-ads/) - When I say "Facebook advertising", for many the straight-forward marketplace ads you see on the right-hand side of the site come to mind for many. And, for many in the PR world, "Facebook advertising" is a dirty word. Heck, anything around "advertising" has been a historically dirty word for our profession. But that's all changing
- [Millennials: Are you sure you want that corner office job?](https://arikhanson.com/millennials-are-you-sure-you-want-that-corner-office-job/) - One thing that's undeniable about millennials: They're a ferocious bunch. You will be hard-pressed to meet a millennial in this industry who isn't angling for that corner office job at the tender age of 25. They know what they want--and they work hard to get there. And I applaude that. There's absolutely nothing wrong with
- [8 reasons Feedly will make you forget all about Google Reader](https://arikhanson.com/8-reasons-feedly-will-make-you-forget-all-about-google-reader/) - In case you missed it: Huge news from the Internet last week--Google Reader is shutting down! (insert scream here). As of July 1, 2013, Google Reader will be no more. This move by Google has angered thousands across the Internet, with the exception of at least one person: Me. Because I transitioned to Feedly--a much
- [Why do so few men go into PR?](https://arikhanson.com/why-do-so-few-men-go-into-pr/) - I haven't worked on the client/agency side of PR now for almost four years. But, when I was, I was typically one of a handful (and in a few cases the ONLY) guy on my PR team. I'm hardly alone. According to studies, nearly 85 percent of our industry is comprised of women. 85 percent.
- [4 reasons brands are "doing it wrong" when it comes to Pinterest](https://arikhanson.com/4-reasons-brands-are-doing-it-wrong-when-it-comes-to-pinterest/) - Wait. Before you click off this post, this isn't your typical Pinterest strategy post. Not like the thousands before. No, this is a post directed squarely at the thousands of brands that have jumped on the Pinterest bandwagon. I'm here to tell you you're "doing it wrong" (for you Gen Xers, that's my "Mr. Mom"
- [The Gen X social media talent gap--and what it means for corporate America](https://arikhanson.com/the-gen-x-social-media-talent-gap-and-what-it-means-for-corporate-america/) - I've noticd an alarming trend lately--there seems to be significant amount of good YOUNG social media talent (22-30 year-olds), but very little strong social/digital talent between the ages of 30-45. Good news for me, I guess--I'm 40 and fall right in the Gen X sweet spot. I have 18-plus years of experience in the corporate
- [4 social media conferences for big brand folks to attend in 2013](https://arikhanson.com/4-social-media-conferences-for-big-brand-folks-to-attend-in-2013/) - A couple weeks ago, a client of mine (Fortune 500 company) that works in the digital realm asked the following: "Wondering what conferences I should attend this year--any ideas?" Easy question, right? But sadly the answers aren't as easy. With a complete overload of "social media" and digitally-based events, it's not surprising corporate folks have
- [Minneapolis agency launches its own media brand: Trend or mirage? - 2/26](https://arikhanson.com/minneapolis-agency-launches-its-own-media-brand-trend-or-mirage-226/) - Not sure how many people noticed, but local integrated marketing agency, Fast Horse, unveiled a new media brand in mid-February called Modern Midwest. You heard me: An integrated marketing agency (previously a PR agency) launched a MEDIA brand. Surprised? I wasn't. Fast Horse has always been a little ahead of the curve and bent on
- [How Great Clips uses Twitter advertising to drive awareness, business](https://arikhanson.com/how-great-clips-uses-twitter-advertising-to-drive-awareness-business/) - When it comes to social advertising, most of the chatter online is around Facebook. Why? Because Facebook ads are accessible and affordable to damn near everyone. Heck, you can run a promoted post for $5! But, advertising on Twitter? That's a whole different ballgame. Rates are higher. And the perception is only the big brands
- [What the demise of Posterous means for the future of blogging](https://arikhanson.com/what-the-demise-of-posterous-means-for-the-future-of-blogging/) - In case you missed it last week Posterous announced it was closing up shop as of April 30 to "focus 100% of our efforts on Twitter" (the company that bought Posterous last year). Not a big surprise for those paying attention. After Twitter bought Posterous last year, it seemed there was a decent chance they
- [Creating value by integrating traditional and digital PR](https://arikhanson.com/creating-value-by-integrating-traditional-and-digital-pr/) - This week I'm in Atlanta for the first-ever Solo PR Summit--organized by friend and fellow solo PR, Kellye Crane. After a great first day, I'm bracing for day two which incudes presentations from folks like Mark Schaefer, Tom Martin, Kami Huyse and Kevin Dugan. Yeah, it's like that. Solo PR style, y'all. Yesterday, my friend
- [HAPPO series: How to find a PR mentor](https://arikhanson.com/happo-series-how-to-find-a-pr-mentor/) - One of my goals for 2013: Find a business mentor who can provide insights into running a business, new business strategies, financial advice and a host of other ideas. I've always been someone who wants to be surrounded by people smarter than me. And when you work for yourself, well, that's kinda tough :) But,
- [5 blogger best practices...from bloggers themselves](https://arikhanson.com/5-blogger-best-practices-from-bloggers-themselves/) - If you work in PR or social media, chances are, by now, you've had a chance to participate in a blogger outreach campaign on behalf of a client or your employer. But, despite this surge, we still need work when it comes to understanding how to successfully orchestrate a blogger outreach campaign. Big time. It's
- [Is LinkedIn slowly eroding its own platform?](https://arikhanson.com/is-linkedin-slowly-eroding-its-own-platform/) - Earlier this week, LinkedIn users started receiving emails like this: Feels pretty good, right? I'm in the top 1 percent! Others received emails stating they were in the top 5 percent. 10 percent, even. All in an effort to recognize the platforms more engaged and prolific users. As this Mashable post points out, it's an
- [5 trends community managers should keep an eye on in 2013](https://arikhanson.com/5-trends-community-managers-should-keep-an-eye-on-in-2013/) - In January, Social Fresh surveyed more than 1,000 partners for its annual Community Manager Report. It's the third year Social Fresh has compiled the report. Some of the findings proved to be interesting (community managers trend female--in a male-dominated industry), while others really weren't all that surprising (only 1 in 5 community managers is on
- [Community Manager Profiles: Vistaprint's Jeff Esposito](https://arikhanson.com/community-manager-profiles-vistaprints-jeff-esposito/) - If you work in community management, you've probably heard of Jeff Esposito by now. Either that, or you're sick of his Baltimore Ravens chest-thumping which has become borderline unbearable according to multiple sources as of late :) In all seriousness, Jeff is the community manager many aspire to be--smart, savvy, hard-working and ethical. In this
- [So, God made a PR pro](https://arikhanson.com/so-god-made-a-pr-pro/) - You saw the Dodge Ram ad in Sunday's Super Bowl, right? If you haven't, take a peek at Edward Boches' review. Well, here's my take on the PR version--minus the wonderful Paul Harvey voice and the fantastic images mined by the Richards Group (and here's the original Ram spot): On the eighth
- [Did hash tags really work for brands with Super Bowl commercials?](https://arikhanson.com/did-hash-tags-really-work-for-brands-with-super-bowl-commercials/) - If you were one of the 108-plus million people to watch the Super Bowl yesterday, you probably also noticed an interesting trend among many of the ads. They featured a hash tag. That's right, according to people who were really paying attention, HALF of all advertisers that aired commercials during the Super Bowl included Twitter
- [How to: Write Foursquare tips on behalf of brands with multiple locations](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-write-foursquare-tips-on-behalf-of-brands-with-multiple-locations/) - Ghostwriting blog posts, Facebook updates and tweets. I would have thought we'd covered this ground already, but so many brands opt to go this route. Why? Because it's sometimes easier to "outsource" the content development work, freeing up corporate folks to spend more time in internal meetings and brainstorming sessions (lucky them, right?). Besides, if
- [4 reasons Bulldog Reporter completely missed the boat with its "Mommy Blogger Contact Guide"](https://arikhanson.com/4-reasons-bulldog-reporter-completely-missed-the-boat-with-its-mommy-blogger-contact-guide/) - Holy Hannah. You're going to love this one, if you didn't hear about it already yesterday. I was pointed to a little kerfuffle between Bulldog Reporter and mommy bloggers yesterday from a friend and colleague. Apparently, Bulldog Reporter thought it would be a good idea to sell mommy blogger contact information to PR folks across the
- [The next generation of PR pros: 24 young PR pros to watch](https://arikhanson.com/the-next-generation-of-pr-pros-24-young-pr-pros-to-watch/) - I don't know if you've noticed lately, but the PR industry has been under a bit of fire. PR folks can't keep up. PR lacks creativity. PR is too focused on media relations. Well, I'm calling hooey on that (yeah, I just said hooey--deal with it). But, not for some of the reasons you might
- [Community manager profiles: Walgreens' Samantha Ogborn](https://arikhanson.com/community-manager-profiles-walgreens-samantha-ogborn/) - A few years ago, a young woman came on my radar. Her name: Samantha Ogborn. At the time, Samantha was working for a small agency in Chicago. She was just starting her career--but you could tell there was potential there. A little over a year ago, Samantha took a job at Walgreens. And since, she's
- [5 worthy Q&A alternatives to LinkedIn Answers](https://arikhanson.com/5-worthy-qa-alternatives-to-linkedin-answers/) - In case you missed the news last week (easy to do), LinkedIn will be sunsetting LinkedIn Answers on Jan. 31, 2013. Might not seem like a big deal, but for some, LinkedIn Answers was a valuable professional resource used to find answers, resources and even vendor partners. So yeah, I think some folks are sad to
- [Are disposable media platforms like Snapchat and Poke the future of social media?](https://arikhanson.com/are-disposable-media-platforms-like-snapchat-and-poke-the-future-of-social-media/) - Disposable social media--it's "all the rage" (as my wife likes to say) among teens these days. Media outlets are claiming teens are turning to tools like Snapchat and Poke to share lewd messages--"sexting", apparently, is running rampant across our world. But, beyond the buzzwords, what is disposable social media all about? And why is it
- [14 Google+ Communities for PR pros to join](https://arikhanson.com/14-google-communities-for-pr-pros-to-join/) - Google+. Some call it the wasteland of social media. But, the recent introduction of Google+ Communities has breathed some life into the social network of late. I still say the numbers are a little inflated (I think most would agree), but Google+ remains a solid niche network for the right industry/audience. And, now with Google+
- [Who's in your Social Media Hall of Fame?](https://arikhanson.com/whos-in-your-social-media-hall-of-fame/) - Last week, Major League Baseball chose its new class for the 2013 Hall of Fame. Well, actually, they chose not to elect anyone to the Hall this year, but that's a whole different story (how Jack Morris is not in the Hall of Fame is a mystery to me). That got me thinking: Who would
- [Do consultant/agency social footprints matter to clients?](https://arikhanson.com/do-consultantagency-social-footprints-matter-to-clients/) - Interesting discussion with a friend the other day who's been a long-time agency pro, but is now on the client side. The topic? Do consultants need a significant social footprint to get hired and do great work on behalf of clients? In other words, do you need 500+ connections on LinkedIn, 4,000 followers on Twitter
- [AP sponsored tweet model: New trend for media companies?](https://arikhanson.com/ap-sponsored-tweet-model-new-trend-for-media-companies/) - In case you missed it, the Associated Press launched its first "sponsored tweet" as part of the popular CES event earlier this week. What's the big deal, you say? Sponsored tweets happen every day. Yes, but not by a national news organization. According to this Nieman post, a few media outlets have explored this kind
- [18 big social media career moves in Minnesota in 2012](https://arikhanson.com/18-top-social-media-career-moves-in-minnesota/) - A couple weeks ago, Jason Keath of Social Fresh fame had a great post--The top 21 social media career moves of 2012. On the list were folks like Adam Kmiec, Chuck Hemann, Christopher Penn and Shannon Paul. People who made big moves last year. Great list. Great idea. So great, in fact, that I thought
- [Top 10 posts on Communications Conversations in 2012](https://arikhanson.com/top-10-posts-on-communications-conversations-in-2012/) - Adam Singer had a great post on Google+ last week giving everyone a nice shortcut for bloggers for listing out your top 10 posts from the last year. I've always been a big fan of Adam's numerous strategies for taking existing assets and "repurposing" them. In effect, getting more "bang for his blogging buck" (like
- [13 REAL Chrome extensions community managers will find useful](https://arikhanson.com/13-real-chrome-extensions-community-managers-will-find-useful/) - A couple weeks ago I came across this post on the popular Social Media Today site. "The top 10 Chrome extensions for community managers" was the name of the post. After reading the post, I thought it rung a little hollow. Partly because the extensions the author was suggesting were fairly obvious (the Facebook extension?
- [HAPPO Questions: How do I find a new job when I don't want my employer to know?](https://arikhanson.com/happo-questions-how-do-i-find-a-new-job-when-i-dont-want-my-employer-to-know/) - Starting a new series today: HAPPO Questions. In my work with HAPPO over the last few years, there have been several questions that have come up that it seems like I keep answering. So, I thought I'd start outlining my answers to these common questions here on the blog so I have something to refer
- [How to create a holiday "out of office" message that will be remembered](https://arikhanson.com/how-to-create-a-holiday-out-of-office-message-that-will-be-remembered/) - In about a week, most of us will take a break for the holidays. Might be a day. Might be a week. But, most of us will be out of the office for at least ONE day in December. And that means you'll have to set the dreaded "out of office" message on your email.

## Pages

- [Home](https://arikhanson.com/) - Social media expert for mid-sized and large companies - Feel supremely confident about the way your company shows up in social. My only job is to support large and mid-sized organizations in social media marketing
- [SOCIAL//IRL - Practical social media training for real-world professionals](https://arikhanson.com/social-irl-practical-social-media-training-for-real-world-professionals/) - Social media shouldn’t feel like a constant game of catch-up. But for many marketers and communicators, it does. Algorithms change. Formats shift. Leadership expectations rise. And somehow, you’re still expected to produce results — with limited time, limited resources and very little margin for error. SOCIAL//IRL is a practical, no-fluff professional development experience designed to
- [Learn How](https://arikhanson.com/learn-how/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#ededed” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_5,2_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”9px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text admin_label=”Text” _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_align=”center” header_2_text_color=”#283890″ header_2_font_size=”30px” header_2_letter_spacing=”3px” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||15px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″] DISCOVER 10 SOCIAL MEDIA TRENDS FOR 2024 [/et_pb_text][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.19.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_align=”center” header_2_text_color=”#283890″ header_2_font_size=”30px” header_2_letter_spacing=”3px” custom_margin=”0px||0px||false|false” custom_padding=”0px||15px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″] Thank you for your interest in signing up
- [Fractional Social Media Leadership](https://arikhanson.com/fractional-social-media-leadership/) - Did you just lose your social media manager and you’re looking for help until you can hire a new one? Or, maybe you’re social media director is taking maternity/paternity leave for a few months and you need to plug a hole? Or, perhaps you’re just looking for a senior-level social brain to help your existing
- [Podcast](https://arikhanson.com/podcast/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||30px||true|” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_2,1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_2″ _builder_version=”4.16″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.17.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_text_color=”#283890″ header_2_text_color=”#23aae0″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″] The Hanson & Hunt Podcast a podcast for social media marketers and communicators Arik is the co-founder of the Hanson & Hunt Podcast, a monthly discussion about the latest trends and issues in digital
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- [Trend Reports](https://arikhanson.com/trend-reports/) - [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#283890″ custom_padding=”10px|0px|10px|0px|true|false” bottom_divider_repeat=”0.5x” bottom_divider_flip=”horizontal” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_row make_equal=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_enable_color=”off” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_css_main_element=”width: 80%;||display: flex;||justify-content: space-between;||align-content: space-around;||align-items: center;||flex-wrap: wrap;” custom_width_px=”80px”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_css_main_element=”margin-bottom: 0!important;” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _dynamic_attributes=”content” text_font=”||||||||” link_font=”||||||||” ul_font=”||||||||” ol_font=”||||||||” quote_font=”||||||||” header_font=”|600||on|||||” header_text_color=”#ffffff” header_font_size=”44px” header_line_height=”1.2em” custom_margin=”||0px|” custom_padding=”8px||8px||true” header_font_size_tablet=”” header_font_size_phone=”35px” header_font_size_last_edited=”on|phone”]@ET-DC@eyJkeW5hbWljIjp0cnVlLCJjb250ZW50IjoicG9zdF90aXRsZSIsInNldHRpbmdzIjp7ImJlZm9yZSI6IjxoMT4iLCJhZnRlciI6IjwvaDE+In19@[/et_pb_text][/et_pb_column][/et_pb_row][/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”30px||30px||true|”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″
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## Timeline

- [2014](https://arikhanson.com/timeline/2014/) - Launches Hanson & Hunt podcast. The Hanson & Hunt Podcast, which I co-host with Kevin Hunt, social media marketer at General Mills, is also one of the longest running in Minnesota and the industry with more than 150 episodes.
- [2016](https://arikhanson.com/timeline/2016/) - Senior-level comms mastermind begins. Arik founded and currently runs a marketing and communications “mastermind group” comprised of more than 30 digital marketing, social and communications leaders at Minnesota’s largest companies.
- [2019](https://arikhanson.com/timeline/2019/) - Arik starts as adjunct professor. I accepted a role as an adjunct professor at the University of St. Thomas where I’ve been teaching a class in digital and social media marketing since 2019.
- [2021](https://arikhanson.com/timeline/2021/) - Arik begins teaching a class in digital and social media marketing as an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota.
- [2012](https://arikhanson.com/timeline/2012/) - Talking Points e-newsletter begins. My wildly popular e-newsletter started delivering insights, trends and information to folks in 2012. Today, it’s sent to more than 1,700 subscribers each week.
- [2008](https://arikhanson.com/timeline/2008-2/) - Launches social media & PR blog. My blog is the longest running social media blog in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area—and one of the most well-read and referenced in the country.
- [2020](https://arikhanson.com/timeline/2020/) - Arik celebrates 10 years of consulting success. Over the last 10 years Arik has worked with more than 75 clients—many of the biggest brands in Minnesota including General Mills, Toro, Dairy Queen and Sleep Number.

## Shortcodes

- [Horizontal Timeline](https://arikhanson.com/?wptl_scbd=horizontal-timeline)

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- [Corporate Blogging|Events](https://arikhanson.com/category/corporate-bloggingevents/)
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- [Lists|PR Rock Stars](https://arikhanson.com/category/listspr-rock-stars/)
- [Case Studies|Guest Posts](https://arikhanson.com/category/case-studiesguest-posts/)
- [Other|PR|PR Rock Stars](https://arikhanson.com/category/otherprpr-rock-stars/)
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- [Blogging|Case Studies|Content Strategy](https://arikhanson.com/category/bloggingcase-studiescontent-strategy/)
- [Lists|Online marketing strategy|Technology](https://arikhanson.com/category/listsonline-marketing-strategytechnology/)
- [Events|Lists|PR](https://arikhanson.com/category/eventslistspr/)
- [Lists|Technology](https://arikhanson.com/category/liststechnology/)
- [Content Strategy|Technology](https://arikhanson.com/category/content-strategytechnology/)
- [Blogging|HAPPO|PR](https://arikhanson.com/category/blogginghappopr/)
- [Case Studies|Content Strategy](https://arikhanson.com/category/case-studiescontent-strategy/)
- [PR|Technology](https://arikhanson.com/category/prtechnology/)
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- [Lists|Social Media Tools](https://arikhanson.com/category/listssocial-media-tools/)
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- [Other|Social Media Tools](https://arikhanson.com/category/othersocial-media-tools/)
- [Content Strategy|Online marketing strategy](https://arikhanson.com/category/content-strategyonline-marketing-strategy/)
- [HAPPO|Lists|PR](https://arikhanson.com/category/happolistspr/)
- [Online marketing strategy|Trends](https://arikhanson.com/category/online-marketing-strategytrends/)
- [Case Studies|Social media management|Social Media Tools](https://arikhanson.com/category/case-studiessocial-media-managementsocial-media-tools/)
- [PR|Social Media Tools](https://arikhanson.com/category/prsocial-media-tools/)
- [Blogging|Trends](https://arikhanson.com/category/bloggingtrends/)
- [PR|Trends](https://arikhanson.com/category/prtrends/)
- [Technology|Trends](https://arikhanson.com/category/technologytrends/)
- [Blogging|Case Studies](https://arikhanson.com/category/bloggingcase-studies/)
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- [Case Studies|Content Strategy|Online marketing strategy](https://arikhanson.com/category/case-studiescontent-strategyonline-marketing-strategy/)
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- [Blogging|Online marketing strategy|Social Media Tools](https://arikhanson.com/category/bloggingonline-marketing-strategysocial-media-tools/)
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- [Other|Speaking](https://arikhanson.com/category/otherspeaking/)
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- [Featured|How To|Other|Trends](https://arikhanson.com/category/featuredhow-toothertrends/)
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- [Lists|PR](https://arikhanson.com/category/listspr/)
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- [Other|Popular Culture & PR|Trends](https://arikhanson.com/category/otherpopular-culture-prtrends/)
- [Social Media Tools|Tools](https://arikhanson.com/category/social-media-toolstools/)
- [Corporate Communications|Employee Communications|Trends](https://arikhanson.com/category/corporate-communicationsemployee-communicationstrends/)
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- [Content Strategy|Trends](https://arikhanson.com/category/content-strategytrends/)
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- [How To|Online marketing strategy](https://arikhanson.com/category/how-toonline-marketing-strategy/)
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- [Influencers](https://arikhanson.com/category/influencers/)
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- [CMS|wordpress|WordPress as web site|WordPress content management system](https://arikhanson.com/tag/cmswordpresswordpress-as-web-sitewordpress-content-management-system/)
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- [Facebook Comment platform|Facebook Comment plug-in|Facebook comments|Pioneer Press](https://arikhanson.com/tag/facebook-comment-platformfacebook-comment-plug-infacebook-commentspioneer-press/)
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- [blog strategy|blogging|blogging strategy|corporate blog strategy|corporate blogging|corporate blogging strategy|social media strategy](https://arikhanson.com/tag/blog-strategybloggingblogging-strategycorporate-blog-strategycorporate-bloggingcorporate-blogging-strategysocial-media-strategy/)
- [#photoeveryhour|instagram](https://arikhanson.com/tag/photoeveryhourinstagram/)
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- [Joan Stewart|media relations|media relations best practices|media relations tips](https://arikhanson.com/tag/joan-stewartmedia-relationsmedia-relations-best-practicesmedia-relations-tips/)
- [crying in PR|crying in the workplace|workplace behavior](https://arikhanson.com/tag/crying-in-prcrying-in-the-workplaceworkplace-behavior/)
- [Minnesota bloggers|Minnesota top bloggers|MN Bloggers Conference|mnblogcon](https://arikhanson.com/tag/minnesota-bloggersminnesota-top-bloggersmn-bloggers-conferencemnblogcon/)
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- [business public relations|entrepeneurs|freelance PR|independent PR|public relations business|small business best practices|solo pr|solo pr pro](https://arikhanson.com/tag/business-public-relationsentrepeneursfreelance-prindependent-prpublic-relations-businesssmall-business-best-practicessolo-prsolo-pr-pro/)
- [best Minnesota blogs|Minneapolis bloggers|minnesota blogger conference|Minnesota bloggers|minnesota bloggers conference|MN Blogger Conference|mnblogcon|Twin Cities bloggers](https://arikhanson.com/tag/best-minnesota-blogsminneapolis-bloggersminnesota-blogger-conferenceminnesota-bloggersminnesota-bloggers-conferencemn-blogger-conferencemnblogcontwin-cities-bloggers/)
- [infographic|social media infographic|social media infographics|social media statistics](https://arikhanson.com/tag/infographicsocial-media-infographicsocial-media-infographicssocial-media-statistics/)
- [gmail|gmail SPAM|gmall hacked|google](https://arikhanson.com/tag/gmailgmail-spamgmall-hackedgoogle/)
- [Lauren Melcher|MIMA|MIMA Summit|PR rock stars|Weber Shandwick](https://arikhanson.com/tag/lauren-melchermimamima-summitpr-rock-starsweber-shandwick/)
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- [blogger outreach|blogger outreach best practices|blogger relations|blogger relations best practices|ragu blogger outreach|ragu blogger relations|ragu case study|ragu crisis|ragu social media](https://arikhanson.com/tag/blogger-outreachblogger-outreach-best-practicesblogger-relationsblogger-relations-best-practicesragu-blogger-outreachragu-blogger-relationsragu-case-studyragu-crisisragu-social-media/)
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- [best infographics 2011|creating infographics|great infographics|infographcis|infographic examples|infographic outreach|pitching infographics](https://arikhanson.com/tag/best-infographics-2011creating-infographicsgreat-infographicsinfographcisinfographic-examplesinfographic-outreachpitching-infographics/)
- [blogging|brand journalism|content marketing|corporate blogging|event planning|PR event planning](https://arikhanson.com/tag/bloggingbrand-journalismcontent-marketingcorporate-bloggingevent-planningpr-event-planning/)
- [Bridget Monroe|Bridget Nelson Monroe|Minnesota PR|PR rock stars](https://arikhanson.com/tag/bridget-monroebridget-nelson-monroeminnesota-prpr-rock-stars/)
- [blogging|content strategy|content syndiation|corporate blogging|repurposing blog content|repurposing blog posts|using blog posts as media pitches](https://arikhanson.com/tag/bloggingcontent-strategycontent-syndiationcorporate-bloggingrepurposing-blog-contentrepurposing-blog-postsusing-blog-posts-as-media-pitches/)
- [emoticon|emoticons at work|workplace email|workplace etiquette](https://arikhanson.com/tag/emoticonemoticons-at-workworkplace-emailworkplace-etiquette/)
- [Blog World|BlogWorld|BlogWorld Expo|social media conferences|social media events](https://arikhanson.com/tag/blog-worldblogworldblogworld-exposocial-media-conferencessocial-media-events/)
- [Beth Ward|Future PR pro|Gini Dietrich|Jorg Pierach|Lisa Simon|PR job search|PR jobs|rachel kay|Rebecca Martin](https://arikhanson.com/tag/beth-wardfuture-pr-progini-dietrichjorg-pierachlisa-simonpr-job-searchpr-jobsrachel-kayrebecca-martin/)
- [cirque du soleil|pr best practices|pr lessons|social media best practices|social media lessons](https://arikhanson.com/tag/cirque-du-soleilpr-best-practicespr-lessonssocial-media-best-practicessocial-media-lessons/)
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- [happo|help a pr pro out|PR advice|PR career advice|pr tips](https://arikhanson.com/tag/happohelp-a-pr-pro-outpr-advicepr-career-advicepr-tips/)
- [blogger outreach|blogger outreach best practices|blogger relations|blogger relations best practices|influencer outreach|influencer relations](https://arikhanson.com/tag/blogger-outreachblogger-outreach-best-practicesblogger-relationsblogger-relations-best-practicesinfluencer-outreachinfluencer-relations/)
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- [ACH|ACH Communications|APR|arik hanson|biggest PR accomplishment|biggest professional accomplishment|Communications Conversations|happo|McGladrey|McGladrey Advantage|pr blogs](https://arikhanson.com/tag/achach-communicationsaprarik-hansonbiggest-pr-accomplishmentbiggest-professional-accomplishmentcommunications-conversationshappomcgladreymcgladrey-advantagepr-blogs/)
- [happo|help a pr pro out|PR people|PR rock stars|Valerie Merahn Simon|Valerie Simon](https://arikhanson.com/tag/happohelp-a-pr-pro-outpr-peoplepr-rock-starsvalerie-merahn-simonvalerie-simon/)
- [New York Times documentary|New York Times movie|Page One movie|Page One: Inside the New York Times](https://arikhanson.com/tag/new-york-times-documentarynew-york-times-moviepage-one-moviepage-one-inside-the-new-york-times/)
- [QR code case studies|QR code marketing|QR code marketing ideas|QR codes|QR codes and marketing|QR codes mobile](https://arikhanson.com/tag/qr-code-case-studiesqr-code-marketingqr-code-marketing-ideasqr-codesqr-codes-and-marketingqr-codes-mobile/)
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- [growing social media platforms|growing social media sites|new social media tools|Pinterest|Pinterest insights|Pinterest top users|top social media tools 2011](https://arikhanson.com/tag/growing-social-media-platformsgrowing-social-media-sitesnew-social-media-toolspinterestpinterest-insightspinterest-top-userstop-social-media-tools-2011/)
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- [Albert Maruggi|Fast Horse|Fast Horse agency|Fast Horse blog|Mike Keliher|Minnesota Twins](https://arikhanson.com/tag/albert-maruggifast-horsefast-horse-agencyfast-horse-blogmike-keliherminnesota-twins/)
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- [Breaking Bad|Breaking Bad Facebook|Breaking Bad quotes|Breaking Bad social media|Facebook IPO](https://arikhanson.com/tag/breaking-badbreaking-bad-facebookbreaking-bad-quotesbreaking-bad-social-mediafacebook-ipo/)
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- [Communications Conversations|guest posts](https://arikhanson.com/tag/communications-conversationsguest-posts/)
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- [Communications Conversations podcast|Grant Spanier|Patrick Rhone|PR podcast|social media podcast](https://arikhanson.com/tag/communications-conversations-podcastgrant-spanierpatrick-rhonepr-podcastsocial-media-podcast/)
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- [Jessica Malnik|mobile marketing|mobile PR|mobile trends](https://arikhanson.com/tag/jessica-malnikmobile-marketingmobile-prmobile-trends/)
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- [Fifty Shades of Gray|Fifty Shades of Grey|Laura Bower|social media best practices|social media lessons|The Tombras Group](https://arikhanson.com/tag/fifty-shades-of-grayfifty-shades-of-greylaura-bowersocial-media-best-practicessocial-media-lessonsthe-tombras-group/)
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- [pinterest data|pinterest social media strategy|pinterest stats|pinterest strategy](https://arikhanson.com/tag/pinterest-datapinterest-social-media-strategypinterest-statspinterest-strategy/)
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- [Facebook|facebook apps|facebook community management|facebook marketing strategy|Facebook strategy|Pinterest|pinterest apps|pinterest community management|pinterest marketing strategy](https://arikhanson.com/tag/facebookfacebook-appsfacebook-community-managementfacebook-marketing-strategyfacebook-strategypinterestpinterest-appspinterest-community-managementpinterest-marketing-strategy/)
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- [Mark Cuban|MySpace|MySpace for business|MySpace Mark Cuban|MySpace marketing](https://arikhanson.com/tag/mark-cubanmyspacemyspace-for-businessmyspace-mark-cubanmyspace-marketing/)
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- [advertising in blogging|blogging|blogging for business|blogging for money](https://arikhanson.com/tag/advertising-in-bloggingbloggingblogging-for-businessblogging-for-money/)
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- [happo|help a pr pro out|PR|PR definition|what is PR](https://arikhanson.com/tag/happohelp-a-pr-pro-outprpr-definitionwhat-is-pr/)
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- [media trends|satire daily newspaper|satire media](https://arikhanson.com/tag/media-trendssatire-daily-newspapersatire-media/)
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- [digital job descriptions|digital jobs|digital marketing job descriptions|digital marketing jobs|social media job descriptions|social media jobs](https://arikhanson.com/tag/digital-job-descriptionsdigital-jobsdigital-marketing-job-descriptionsdigital-marketing-jobssocial-media-job-descriptionssocial-media-jobs/)
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- [happo|PR dress code](https://arikhanson.com/tag/happopr-dress-code/)
- [ACH Communications|arik hanson|Arik Hanson ACH Communications|Arik Hanson PR|Arik Hanson social media](https://arikhanson.com/tag/ach-communicationsarik-hansonarik-hanson-ach-communicationsarik-hanson-prarik-hanson-social-media/)
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- [instagram best practices|instagram hash tags|instagram strategy](https://arikhanson.com/tag/instagram-best-practicesinstagram-hash-tagsinstagram-strategy/)
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- [blogger outreach|blogger outreach best practices|blogger outreach tips|blogger relations|blogger relations best practices|blogger relations tips](https://arikhanson.com/tag/blogger-outreachblogger-outreach-best-practicesblogger-outreach-tipsblogger-relationsblogger-relations-best-practicesblogger-relations-tips/)
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- [building a social media team|how to build a social media team|social media hiring|social media talent](https://arikhanson.com/tag/building-a-social-media-teamhow-to-build-a-social-media-teamsocial-media-hiringsocial-media-talent/)
- [blogging best practices|digital PR strategy|digital strategy|media relations best practices|PR strategy](https://arikhanson.com/tag/blogging-best-practicesdigital-pr-strategydigital-strategymedia-relations-best-practicespr-strategy/)
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- [customer experience|customer service](https://arikhanson.com/tag/customer-experiencecustomer-service/)
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- [digital marketing trends|snapchat trends|social media marketing trends|social media trends](https://arikhanson.com/tag/digital-marketing-trendssnapchat-trendssocial-media-marketing-trendssocial-media-trends/)
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- [happo|help a pr pro out|how to manage up|managing up PR](https://arikhanson.com/tag/happohelp-a-pr-pro-outhow-to-manage-upmanaging-up-pr/)
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- [OOTD|outfit of the day PR](https://arikhanson.com/tag/ootdoutfit-of-the-day-pr/)
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- [marketing podcast|PR podcast|social media podcast|talking points podcast](https://arikhanson.com/tag/marketing-podcastpr-podcastsocial-media-podcasttalking-points-podcast/)
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- [how to impress a client|impress client|impress PR client](https://arikhanson.com/tag/how-to-impress-a-clientimpress-clientimpress-pr-client/)
- [My Husband's Tumor|Nora Purmort|Nora Purmort Life Time Fitness](https://arikhanson.com/tag/my-husbands-tumornora-purmortnora-purmort-life-time-fitness/)
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- [email best practices|email communication|inbox zero](https://arikhanson.com/tag/email-best-practicesemail-communicationinbox-zero/)
- [barbie case study|barbie social media|content strategy case study|entrepeneur barbie|social media case study](https://arikhanson.com/tag/barbie-case-studybarbie-social-mediacontent-strategy-case-studyentrepeneur-barbiesocial-media-case-study/)
- [long-form content|snackable content|talking points podcast](https://arikhanson.com/tag/long-form-contentsnackable-contenttalking-points-podcast/)
- [brand journalism case studies|brand journalism case study|content strategy case studies|content strategy case study|microsoft stories|microsoft stories case study](https://arikhanson.com/tag/brand-journalism-case-studiesbrand-journalism-case-studycontent-strategy-case-studiescontent-strategy-case-studymicrosoft-storiesmicrosoft-stories-case-study/)
- [MIMA Summit|minneapolis interactive|Minneapolis interactive events|Minnesota interactive events|rise of the machines](https://arikhanson.com/tag/mima-summitminneapolis-interactiveminneapolis-interactive-eventsminnesota-interactive-eventsrise-of-the-machines/)
- [gen x marketing|gen x marketing trends|millennial marketing trends|millennials marketing](https://arikhanson.com/tag/gen-x-marketinggen-x-marketing-trendsmillennial-marketing-trendsmillennials-marketing/)
- [content creation|content creation strategies|content curation|content ideas|content strategy](https://arikhanson.com/tag/content-creationcontent-creation-strategiescontent-curationcontent-ideascontent-strategy/)
- [chris boudreaux|susan emerick|talking points podcast](https://arikhanson.com/tag/chris-boudreauxsusan-emericktalking-points-podcast/)
- [content marketing|content strategy|wordsmith|wordsmith content|wordsmith content marketing|wordsmith robot](https://arikhanson.com/tag/content-marketingcontent-strategywordsmithwordsmith-contentwordsmith-content-marketingwordsmith-robot/)
- [Scott Monty|SHIFT Communications|talking points podcast](https://arikhanson.com/tag/scott-montyshift-communicationstalking-points-podcast/)
- [ello|new social media apps|new social media tools|social media technology|social media tools](https://arikhanson.com/tag/ellonew-social-media-appsnew-social-media-toolssocial-media-technologysocial-media-tools/)
- [corporate communications trends|employee communications trends](https://arikhanson.com/tag/corporate-communications-trendsemployee-communications-trends/)
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- [social media photography|social media visuals|social photography|visual social|visual tone|visuals social](https://arikhanson.com/tag/social-media-photographysocial-media-visualssocial-photographyvisual-socialvisual-tonevisuals-social/)
- [content case studies|content strategy best practices|content strategy tips|social content best practices|social content case study|social content tips](https://arikhanson.com/tag/content-case-studiescontent-strategy-best-practicescontent-strategy-tipssocial-content-best-practicessocial-content-case-studysocial-content-tips/)
- [digital trends|social media trends](https://arikhanson.com/tag/digital-trendssocial-media-trends/)
- [halloween social media case study|instagram case study|instagram social media case study|social media case study|target instagram](https://arikhanson.com/tag/halloween-social-media-case-studyinstagram-case-studyinstagram-social-media-case-studysocial-media-case-studytarget-instagram/)
- [adfed|iabc|MIMA|professional organizations|PRSA](https://arikhanson.com/tag/adfediabcmimaprofessional-organizationsprsa/)
- [media trends|newspaper is dead|newspaper trends|newspapers failing](https://arikhanson.com/tag/media-trendsnewspaper-is-deadnewspaper-trendsnewspapers-failing/)
- [ACH Communications|arik hanson](https://arikhanson.com/tag/ach-communicationsarik-hanson/)
- [Greg Swan|PR podcast|social media podcast|talking points podcast|weber shandwick greg swan](https://arikhanson.com/tag/greg-swanpr-podcastsocial-media-podcasttalking-points-podcastweber-shandwick-greg-swan/)
- [instagram creative|instagram holiday|instagram holiday brand idea|instagram marketing](https://arikhanson.com/tag/instagram-creativeinstagram-holidayinstagram-holiday-brand-ideainstagram-marketing/)
- [Dan Brandt|danielle schumann|david pendery|gregg litman|Minneapolis PR|Minnesota PR|sarah panus|St. Paul PR|twin cities PR](https://arikhanson.com/tag/dan-brandtdanielle-schumanndavid-penderygregg-litmanminneapolis-prminnesota-prsarah-panusst-paul-prtwin-cities-pr/)
- [Minneapolis PR jobs|Minneapolis social media jobs|Minnesota PR jobs](https://arikhanson.com/tag/minneapolis-pr-jobsminneapolis-social-media-jobsminnesota-pr-jobs/)
- [brand journalism|brand journalism cisco|brand journalism coca-cola|brand journalism intel|brand journalism verizon|content strategy](https://arikhanson.com/tag/brand-journalismbrand-journalism-ciscobrand-journalism-coca-colabrand-journalism-intelbrand-journalism-verizoncontent-strategy/)
- [2015 digital marketing predictions|2015 social media predictions](https://arikhanson.com/tag/2015-digital-marketing-predictions2015-social-media-predictions/)
- [changes in PR|pr trends|reporters and PR](https://arikhanson.com/tag/changes-in-prpr-trendsreporters-and-pr/)
- [Minneapolis PR jobs|Minnesota PR jobs|PR job search](https://arikhanson.com/tag/minneapolis-pr-jobsminnesota-pr-jobspr-job-search/)
- [aaron miller general mills|aaron miller target|Beehive PR|craig key|cydney strommen|Fast Horse agency|lauren fischer medtronic|Mike Keliher|Nicki Gibbs|scott broberg|space150 agency](https://arikhanson.com/tag/aaron-miller-general-millsaaron-miller-targetbeehive-prcraig-keycydney-strommenfast-horse-agencylauren-fischer-medtronicmike-kelihernicki-gibbsscott-brobergspace150-agency/)
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- [David Jungers|erin vande steeg|Mall of America|mall of america social media|talking points podcast](https://arikhanson.com/tag/david-jungerserin-vande-steegmall-of-americamall-of-america-social-mediatalking-points-podcast/)
- [facebook advertising strategy|Facebook strategy|social media strategy](https://arikhanson.com/tag/facebook-advertising-strategyfacebook-strategysocial-media-strategy/)
- [arik hanson blogging|arik hanson minneapolis blogging|blogging best practices](https://arikhanson.com/tag/arik-hanson-bloggingarik-hanson-minneapolis-bloggingblogging-best-practices/)
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- [Bellmont PR|brad spychalski|bryan vincent|danny olson|debbie friez](https://arikhanson.com/tag/bellmont-prbrad-spychalskibryan-vincentdanny-olsondebbie-friez/)
- [social hiring trends|social media hiring trends](https://arikhanson.com/tag/social-hiring-trendssocial-media-hiring-trends/)
- [corporate communications best practices|employee communications best practcies|internal communications best practices](https://arikhanson.com/tag/corporate-communications-best-practicesemployee-communications-best-practciesinternal-communications-best-practices/)
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- [Advertising copywriting|pr trends|PR writing|social media writing](https://arikhanson.com/tag/advertising-copywritingpr-trendspr-writingsocial-media-writing/)
- [Minneapolis PR|minneapolis social media|twin cities PR|Twin Cities social media](https://arikhanson.com/tag/minneapolis-prminneapolis-social-mediatwin-cities-prtwin-cities-social-media/)
- [winona state alumni|winona state mass communications|winona state mass communications department](https://arikhanson.com/tag/winona-state-alumniwinona-state-mass-communicationswinona-state-mass-communications-department/)
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- [best social network for job search|facebook job searching|linkedin job search](https://arikhanson.com/tag/best-social-network-for-job-searchfacebook-job-searchinglinkedin-job-search/)
- [pr trends|PR trends 2015|public relations trends|public relations trends 2015](https://arikhanson.com/tag/pr-trendspr-trends-2015public-relations-trendspublic-relations-trends-2015/)
- [millennial recruiting|millennials advertising|millennials PR](https://arikhanson.com/tag/millennial-recruitingmillennials-advertisingmillennials-pr/)
- [Minneapolis PR|twin cities PR](https://arikhanson.com/tag/minneapolis-prtwin-cities-pr/)
- [MIMA|Minnesota Adfed|minnesota associations|Minnesota professional memberships|MN AMA|MN PRSA](https://arikhanson.com/tag/mimaminnesota-adfedminnesota-associationsminnesota-professional-membershipsmn-amamn-prsa/)
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- [corporate communications best practices|employee communications best practices](https://arikhanson.com/tag/corporate-communications-best-practicesemployee-communications-best-practices/)
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- [blogging best practices|PR blogging|social media blogs](https://arikhanson.com/tag/blogging-best-practicespr-bloggingsocial-media-blogs/)
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- [bryan vincent|bryan vincent UHG|bryan vincent united health group|talking points podcast](https://arikhanson.com/tag/bryan-vincentbryan-vincent-uhgbryan-vincent-united-health-grouptalking-points-podcast/)
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- [instagram ads best practices|instagram ads examples](https://arikhanson.com/tag/instagram-ads-best-practicesinstagram-ads-examples/)
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- [#optoutside|black friday case study|black friday social media|REI case study|social media case study](https://arikhanson.com/tag/optoutsideblack-friday-case-studyblack-friday-social-mediarei-case-studysocial-media-case-study/)
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