The Boston 100

 

The Importance of a High School Resume

High school resumes can help your application stand out when you apply to college.

With over 20 million students applying to college each year, it’s hard to stand out among the crowd. Many applicants have similar test scores and grades, so what can help you be unique?

Attach a resume to your application. A resume highlights significant achievement and extracurriculars in an organized manner. Many high school students may think resumes are only for entering the workforce after college, but this isn’t the case anymore. A resume shows who you are as a person and where you spend time outside the classroom.

This site has resume templates and tips to help you get started!

— Beth Koeller, Hopkinton High School

 

Podcasts: Changing the Game

Apple's plans to make analytics available for podcasts could be a game-changer.

In today’s digital marketing age, analytics are everything.

And soon, the power of analytics to shape and rank content is coming to podcasts – already a medium with millions of listeners. Until now, podcasts have had few metrics, but when Apple launches podcast analytics later this year, marketers will gain valuable insights into how a podcast’s audience is engaging, such as:

– when and where people listen;

– if and when they stop listening;

– and whether they stay tuned for ads.

Analytics should make podcasts more appealing to marketers, in turn increasing financial support for podcasts – a win for marketers, producers and listeners.

– Kyle Parks, The Tampa Bay 100

 

Facebook’s Find Wi-Fi Feature Goes Global

Users must first turn on the "Find Wi-Fi" tool before browsing the closest hotspots. (Photo courtesy of Business Insider)

Facebook recently announced its feature designed to help mobile users find free accessible Wi-Fi networks. “Find Wi-Fi” will be available for users worldwide on iOS and Android devices.

The feature, first tested last year, will display a map for users showing the closest businesses with accessible Wi-Fi as well as details about the business. The tool is meant for users who are traveling or are in areas with limited cellular data, and also serves as another way for users to discover local businesses.

“Find Wi-Fi” will be located under the “More” tab on Facebook’s mobile app.

– Haley Haas, The Atlanta 100

 

How to Stay on Track at Work This Summer

How to be productive during the summer
Staying organized is the best way to combat the distractions of summer.

With July 4th celebrations just behind us, summer is in full swing! While productivity in the workplace can sometimes drop during the days of warmer weather, here are two ways to stay on track this season:

  1. Consistently communicate and remind your team when you will be on vacation to ensure meetings, calls and key activities are scheduled accordingly. Even if it’s been on the calendar for months, vacation dates can easily be overlooked.
  2. Take advantage of your lunch hour by going for a walk or eating outside. There’s nothing better than a little sunshine to get you through the afternoon!

– Gina Semensi, The Boston 100

 

The Rules of Hashtags

Rules for hashtags
Hashtags can be utilized as a tool to join trending conversations and reach a broader audience.

Hashtags have been around since the beginning of time in the social media world. Created in 2007 by Chris Messina, they are used to categorize information. Providing an easy link back to your brand’s website, hashtags provide useful insights on your company’s brand growth via social media.

Here is how to effectively use hashtags:

• The rule of thumb is to only use 1-3 hashtags per post.

• Don’t piggyback off trending topics and events by using relevant hashtags to sell your brand.

• Avoid using hashtags on random words in your social content that will serve no purpose to your brand.

– Haley Haas, The Atlanta 100

 

Don’t Let Your Website Get Stale if You Want to Engage

Update your website regularly
Continue to update your website to attract more business.

If you haven’t updated your website in years, you may be losing valuable leads for your business.

Web design trends change annually, and investing in a new site can be costly but worthwhile. There are cost-effective changes that you can make to be more current and influence your potential customers. High-quality original photography can speak volumes about your relevance and build trust. The popularity of video is still on the rise, and studies have shown video increases engagement.

Your budget may not allow a redesign annually, but you can keep your site competitive with strong copy and visuals.

– Chuck Norman, The North Carolina 100

 

Innovative Communications

New tools enhance communications
Embracing new digital tools can enhance your company's communication strategies.

In any job, it’s important to make sure you have the right tools on hand to effectively share your message with co-workers, clients or the public. Take your company communication to the next level (beyond the traditional PowerPoint presentation) with these innovative, user-friendly programs:

• Uberflip: Transforms your PDFs into an interactive online magazine.

• Visme: Creates infographics by using a library of customizable templates and icons.

• GoAnimate: Builds animated videos in minutes, allowing you to choose your own soundtrack, cast of characters and more.

Pro tip: Track tool metrics to monitor how your audience is interacting with your content.

— Devon Chestnut, APR, CPRC, Communications Manager, Cox Communications

 

Repurpose, Repurpose, Repurpose

Repurposing content can save time and resources when you are in a content rut.

Repurposing content is taking content previously used for one purpose and reusing it for another. It’s a useful strategy that allows you to reach a broader audience and diversify your content while maintaining consistent messaging. Try these repurposing strategies:

Create a social post out of an underperforming newsletter to address your audience directly, possibly catching the eye of a follower who dismissed your previously sent newsletter.

Repurpose old photos for new creative graphics to use on social media, a blog or eNewsletter.

Repurpose videos by cutting them into short videos to create an innovative mini-series to post on Facebook.

To learn more tips, visit here.

– Haley Haas, The Atlanta 100

 

5 Tips for Managing Multiple Social Media Accounts

How do you manage multiple social media accounts while keeping your sanity?

Juggling a ton of different Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages can drive an account manager crazy. I currently manage six Facebook, five Instagram and four Twitter accounts. To save time, I established methods to effectively administrator each account. Here are five tips to help you multi-manage:

1. Stay organized and establish a workflow

2. Use posting tools to save time

3. Schedule

4. Monitor activity on one dashboard

5. Have a photo library

It’s possible to be the social media guru behind the curtain without getting overwhelmed. Remember these tips, use your resources, and you can do it all.

— Leah Brown, The North Carolina 100

NC

 

Work With Clients Who Share Your Vision

It's important to work with clients who share your ideals.

As a business owner, you should create a mission statement that you can firmly stand behind. Once you’ve articulated what you and your team believe in, align your company with clients who share the same vision.

Just like marriage and friendship, a shared set of values is a significant driver in successful relationships. It allows for easier communication and a better understanding of goals. When you understand and identify with how your client thinks, driving those business results will become easier.

By seeking clients with similar vision, you’re showing your commitment to those ideals, contributing to client retention and growth.

– Natalie Ghidotti, The Arkansas 100

 

Nonprofit Spotlight – the DJ Dream Fund

DJ Henry's tragic death has been the fuel for his family to create a foundation providing opportunities for kids and young adults. (Photo courtesy of the Henry family)

Founded in 2011, the DJ Henry Dream Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the memory of Danroy “DJ” Henry.

On Oct. 17, 2010, DJ’s life was tragically cut short. In an effort to turn tragedy into triumph, the Henry family began helping young people work toward success.

Their goal is to share DJ’s love of sports by providing financial resources, enabling children and young adults to say “YES” to healthy lifestyles through athletics, wellness and arts programs. They’ve assisted more than 7,000 children and serve over 60 communities throughout New England.

To be a “Yes Maker,” click here.

– Tara Frier, The Boston 100

 

How to Deal With Your Annoying Co-Worker

There are plenty of ways to deal with an annoying co-worker. Be professional and polite, but be direct.

You may have co-workers you don’t get along with on a good day. That, combined with our lack of sunshine-filled Spring days, seems to make everyone’s tempers a little short in New England. We found an article from Business Insider explaining how to deal with an annoying co-worker, through good weather or bad.

  • Remain calm – Getting angry will escalate problems
  • Be direct and discreet – Talk to them personally, without others present
  • Don’t fight fire with fire – Don’t combat an issue with more unhealthy behavior
  • Take a walk – Cool off. Think of a solution or let it go

– Josh Sarnowitz, The Boston 100

 

Belichick Foundation Championship Chat Recap

ESPN's Paul Carcaterra, Coach Belichick and Paul Rabil pose for a picture at The Belichick Foundation's Championship Chat. (Photo courtesy of Russ Mezikofsky Photography)

The Bill Belichick Foundation recently hosted a unique Championship Chat event at John Hancock in Boston, coinciding with the NCAA Lacrosse Championships held at Gillette Stadium.

The evening consisted of a cocktail reception and panel discussion on playing, coaching and preparing for championships — before a Q&A session between the guests and Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick and six-time collegiate, professional and international lacrosse champion Paul Rabil.

Belichick, Rabil and event moderator ESPN’s Paul Carcaterra welcomed over 150 guests from the Boston area and beyond, raising over $110,000 for athletic communities in need and children with learning disabilities.

– Drew Inglesi, The Bill Belichick Foundation

 

2017 Speak for Thyself Award, Thursday, June 8

Goodwin Group PR CEO Tara Frier was named 2017 Speak for Thyself Award winner.

I’m thrilled to be named as one of the 2017 recipients of the Alden Kindred Speak Award to be held on Thursday, June 8, at the Duxbury Maritime Academy.

The Speak Award honors women who, in the spirit of Pilgrim Priscilla Mullins Alden, have prompted extraordinary outcomes by speaking up on behalf of themselves or others. Candidates were selected for outstanding civic contributions and have been instrumental in changing the lives they touch for the better. I’m proud to share the stage with Cara Belvin of empowerHER, Deb Samuels of Crossroads for Kids and Duxbury High School’s Siobhan Tierney.

– Tara Goodwin Frier, Goodwin Group PR

 

Q&A with Boston Film Producer, Sam Slater, PART II

Tom Brady hanging out with Sam and Jessica Slater.

Five years from now, what does the film industry in Boston look like?

With a little luck and help from Governor Baker, the local business and jobs will be thriving.

What does your ultimate day off look like?

My perfect day off involves sweatpants, my couch, and Netflix … doing market research of course!

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of my philanthropy work. Through the Lenny Zakim Fund and Ellie fund we’re able to help Massachusetts residents, across dozens of causes, receive care they need. I’m honored to be receiving Ellie Fund’s Hope Award this year.

– JoJo Gutfarb, The Boston 100 & Sam Slater, Burn Later Productions

 

Reframing to Persuade

Frame your argument thoughtfully if you want people to pay attention.

Convincing someone to see things your way is more complex than you might think. In fact, neuroscientists and social psychologists have long asserted that people alter facts to align with their preconceived beliefs.

According to George Lakoff, retired UC Berkeley professor of cognitive science and linguistics, if you want to create messages to persuade, you have to understand other worldviews, and facts and rational debate have less value than you’d think. We can use this when seeking to persuade.

Arguing from our worldview can cause others to dig in and defend their position. Seek understanding, then frame your argument accordingly.

– Lisa Cutter, The Colorado 100

 

 

Battle of the Bots: How ‘Instafrauds’ Are Disrupting Trust

#Instafraud trended last month following an uproar over fake accounts.

The rise of ‘instafrauds’, Instagram users that use bots to boost their followers, is becoming an increased area of concern for the integrity of organically established influencers.

The problem continually arises when brands are attracted to the big shiny follower numbers and neglect to see a user’s relevance and engagement rates, paving the way for instafrauds to make money from a false following, and in return leave the brand connecting poorly to its audience.

Finally though, it seems Instagram is making efforts to battle the bots, closing down ‘Instagress’ recently – but there still remains a lot of unravelling to do.

– Rachel Evans, The Dubai 100

 

Nonprofit Spotlight: The Jett Foundation

JettRide teams participate in the annual cycling event to raise funds and awareness to fight Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

The Jett Foundation aims to increase worldwide awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) by raising funds for programs, education, research and advocacy to fund treatments, realize a cure and ensure all affected by Duchenne have the opportunity to enjoy a full life.

In 2001, Christine and Stephen McSherry started the Jett Foundation after receiving devastating news their then five-year-old son Jett had DMD, the most common and lethal childhood genetic disorder in the world, affecting one in every 3,500 male births.

For over 15 years, Christine has been a tireless advocate to find a cure. Donate here.

– Tara Frier, Goodwin Group PR

 

Q&A with Boston Film Producer, Sam Slater Part I

Boston film producer Sam Slater talks with the Boston 100 about the film industry and the city of Boston.

How did you begin in the film industry?

I got involved in film when I realized I had a good creative sense and didn’t want to learn golf. Instead my efforts went into a new business and career.

What’s the best part about living in Boston and working in this industry?

I live in the city I love with friends and family… and build up lots of frequent flier miles.

What’s your go-to Boston restaurant?

Tough to deny the exceptional sushi, creativity and ambiance at UNI. Ostra’s up there too! The menu is incredible and everything is worth ordering.

– JoJo Gutfarb, The Boston 100 & Sam Slater, Burn Later Productions

 

Facebook’s Related Articles Feature

Facebook believes using this feature will offer users additional resources to see the complete picture of a story or topic.

Facebook’s latest efforts to minimize the population of fake content integrates a feature that many users have already been using – Related Articles.

Launched in 2013, the Related Articles feature helps users discover new articles they may find interesting about a particular topic. The company is now testing the feature as a key tool for users to test the validity of shared content.

Before users click on an article shared in their News Feed, additional articles – including ones written by third-party fact-checkers – will appear below the shared content to offer additional information and alternative perspectives on the same topic.

– Haley Haas, The Atlanta 100

 

The Social Generations

Research your brand's audience demographics before investing in social media.

As marketers continue to champion social media as viable brand boosters and engagement platforms, it’s important to know how generations interact with each channel and at what level.

According to The Q1 2017 Sprout Social Index, seven in 10 Gen Xers will likely purchase something from a brand they follow online. Thirty percent of millennials engage with a brand at least once a month, and 60 percent of boomers are looking for promotions on social.

Although Facebook is the most popular with every generation, your public relations and marketing strategy should be steeped in research for maximum engagement and conversions.

– Chuck Norman, The North Carolina 100

 

Customize YOUR Next Event!

You can customize every piece of your event to associate with your branding. Think outside the box and your event will surely stand out from the rest!

When it comes to planning events, creative customization can be as simple as integrating a company’s brand or product into the equation. We were recently tasked by Gillette to highlight their new razors at an event in their offices. Utilizing the product look and feel, the space became all about Venus.

Corinthian’s top customization tips:

1. Focus on the unique elements about your company and think about how to create it dimensionally.

2. Bring the color and shape of your branding into all aspects of your event.

3. Brainstorm with your team! All ideas are welcome and you’re sure to develop something amazing.

– Mary Douglas, Corinthian Events

 

The Right Media Hit Isn’t Always the Most Comfortable

Take each media hit and evaluate its effectiveness. Although not all of them will be your ideal hit, most still help to build lasting relationships with the media.

My company has been in business for 15 years and with that tenure we’ve garnered some great media hits – People Magazine, the Today show, Sports Illustrated, etc. What I’ve realized is that in some cases clients push back on certain opportunities because they believe the topic or outlet doesn’t highlight their product or service directly.

Although this might be true, we have to think big picture. The reason the client is being chosen is because they are seen as an expert. By doing such interviews, it’s likely the media contact will seek your opinion over others’ for future media opportunities.

– Tara Frier, Goodwin Group PR

 

The Last of the Dinosaurs

Although we don't always hear about local quarries, there are a few out there with lasting roots, providing services and supplies across the country.

Plymouth Quarries was incorporated in 1915 in Hingham, Massachusetts, when multiple companies merged. They had been quarrying on the property since 1811 and remain one of the few quarries left in Massachusetts.

Owned and operated by the Bristol family, Plymouth’s Weymouth Granite remains a staple in New England and beyond, and has contributed to building parts of Boston College, Yale, University Of Michigan Law, and countless buildings and churches around the country. Being in business for over 100 years, we’re a leading distributor of masonry and hardscape materials in Massachusetts, and a resource for design and education in the state.

– Dean Marsico, Plymouth Quarries

 

The Business of Community Involvement

Engaging with your community is beneficial to your business.

One of the best things you can do for your brand is to actively volunteer in your community. Regular community participation yields benefits in multiple ways by improving brand awareness, better engaging employees, showcasing corporate social responsibility, building beneficial partnerships and finding new business opportunities.

Whether it is volunteering at a homeless shelter or donating your business’ time and resources to the local food bank, you’re helping strengthen the community. Strong communities generate loyalty, and your business should be in that loyalty mix. Most importantly, you’ll know the joy of helping those in need, which is something everyone should experience.

– Natalie Ghidotti, Ghidotti Communications

 

Summer Intern Advice

Colleges offer various resources for students looking for an internship. From the search process to resume building, most campuses have career centers designed to advance students into professions.

As the intern coordinator for Goodwin Group PR, I’ve interviewed several dozen candidates all vying for 2-3 spots each semester. I recall that some were total standouts from the rest of the pack. Below are my top tips to help you land that coveted internship.

• Proofread your resume – if you have spelling and grammar mistakes, you’re setting yourself up for failure.

• Always prepare questions to ask during an interview – be informed about the company and its clients and ask relevant questions.

• Take notes – jot down important information. That will prompt additional and more thoughtful questions to keep the interview flowing.

– Josh Sarnowitz, The Boston 100

 

Bathroom Debate Far From Over

OSHA released a guide on restroom access for transgender employees in 2015 — one of many recent moves to protect the transgender workforce.

Earlier this month, the U.S. Supreme Court announced it would not hear arguments in GG v. Gloucester County School Board, which involves a transgender male high school student who was banned from using the men’s restroom.

In the absence of a High Court ruling, “bathroom bills” are popping up across the country along with more expansive state laws that prohibit transgender discrimination.

Given this, employers should be mindful when implementing bathroom usage policies. Employers may also want to consider other best practices for managing transgender employees, such as amending anti-discrimination policies, implementing a transition plan and educating workers.

– Steve Bernstein, Fisher Phillips

 

Communications Is the Conduit to Rebuild Trust

Three out of four respondents agree a company can take actions to both increase profits, and improve economic and social conditions in the community where it operates.

Trust in business can be difficult to come by, and per the 2017 Edelman Trust Barometer, the general population’s trust in business, government, NGOs and media has rapidly declined recently.

Trust in business dropped in 18 countries and credibility of leadership roles dropped to an all-time low of 37 percent.

To maintain trust with clients, businesses must keep consistent, reliable, open communications. By directly addressing issues you can instill trust and loyalty in your audience that you have their best interests at heart.

When it comes to public relations, upholding the principles of ethics is a key trust builder.

– Jane Dvorak, SLJ 100 Communications

 

Working From Home … Efficiently!

Working from home has its perks, but don't let your comfortable surroundings get in the way of productivity.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly 25% of all employed Americans do some or all their work from home.

It has its bonuses: low overhead, no commute, flexible schedule and reduced daycare costs. However, at-home employees can get distracted by household tasks, procrastinate and lack creative collaborations.

Tips for at-home efficiency:

• Develop and follow a timed schedule

• Schedule household tasks on breaks

• Pack a lunch so you don’t overindulge

• Schedule conference calls regularly with co-workers/clients/vendors

• Create a real office space

Follow these directives and you’ll optimize your workload from the comfort of home.

– Margrette Mondillo, Goodwin Group PR

 

5 Tips For Pitching Reporters

Pitching newsworthy information to the right people will drastically improve the amount of coverage you receive.

Pitching reporters can be challenging, unless you present catchy and worthwhile information. These are tips to consider:

Know the reporter’s beat – Reporters and editors hate when they receive topics they don’t cover.

Keep pitches short – Most media personnel read pitches on the fly.

Build a Relationship – Coffee meetings are a great way to get to know your contacts.

Visuals – Send images, graphics or videos that enhance your message.

Subject Lines – Keep them short and catchy and use stats when available.

Bonus – Only follow up once if you haven’t heard back. You could ruin the relationship if you push too hard.

– JoJo Gutfarb, Goodwin Group PR