Tag: Raleigh PR

We’re hiring! Seeking an account strategist

Olivia NolesBlog, PR People, Public Relations, Raleigh PR Agency, The Clairemont Team, , , ,

Clairemont is currently seeking smart, responsible, creative and hard-working public relations practitioners. We are looking for individuals who are ready to tackle any assignment and join a highly motivated, growing team of communications professionals who share in the passion of delivering quality client service while enjoying the co-learning of a team environment for an account strategist position.

Ideal candidates work well in a collaborative environment and independently as self-starters. We are seeking high-energy PR leaders with the ability to build client plans and strategies while anticipating the needs of our accounts as well as our agency. Responsibilities include ensuring that work is delivered on time and satisfactorily, and that relevant team members are kept up to date on the status of accounts and assigned projects.

Versatile applicants who have a proven track record in pitching media, building social media strategies for businesses, writing effective media and marketing communications materials, executing successful client events and cultivating new business leads will be given first consideration.

The account strategist position responsibilities may include:

  • Ensuring that work is delivered on-time and team member are kept up to date on status of accounts and assigned projects
  • Building social media and PR strategies
  • Writing effective media and marketing communication materials
  • Pitching clients to media outlets
  • Executing successful client events
  • Cultivating new business leads

The qualifications are:

  • Bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism or communications
  • Minimum of 5 years of PR agency experience
  • Strong writing, critical thinking and time management skills
  • Has proven, solid written and verbal communication skills
  • Project management experience and strong organizational skills
  • Motivated self-starter who can handle multiple projects and deadlines at the same time
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel
  • Video editing skills are a plus
  • Ability to communicate in multiple languages is a plus
  • Located in Raleigh, NC

To apply: Send your cover letter, resume and writing samples to Dana Phelps at d@clairemontcommunications.com or apply on LinkedIn.

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SPOKEN WORD MAKING A COMEBACK

Derek BullingtonBlog, PR People, Professional Development, Public Relations, Raleigh PR Agency, , , , ,

I had the opportunity to attend the virtual 2021 NCPRSA Strategic Communications + Marcom Conference in November. It was my first time attending a NCPRSA event. Hearing new ideas, perspectives and how the industry of public relations is changing is always enjoyable. Even virtually, it is inspiring to network with fellow professionals in a collaborative learning atmosphere.

Spoken word making a comeback

The virtual, two-day program featured five sessions per day with national and regional industry executives from strategic communication, marketing and PR fields. The sessions covered a variety of topics, such as, audio being added to communications strategies, the misinformation crisis, diversifying the PR profession, the age of influencers and the use of cutting-edge visual technologies being used to tell stories.

AUDIO IS CHANGING OUR JOBS

A session that really caught my attention was “Listen, Do You Hear That? It’s Audio Changing How We Do Our Jobs” with hosts Gene and Julie Gates. This duo was named “Personality of the Year” by the National Association of Broadcasters and shared their expertise on using audio to connect with clients. They are seeing a major spike in audio entering the marketing and PR fields since the start of the pandemic and people being cooped up in their homes.

The ever-growing audio trend is made for the multitasker, and that is what we are all becoming. Now that we are mixing our home lives with work lives, more people are getting news while performing their morning routines, helping the kids get ready, cooking dinner or doing their daily chores. People are less likely to sit down and read longer articles. We are used to quick snippets of news on social media platforms, making long form articles daunting to readers.

SPOKEN WORD DRAWS IN A LARGER AUDIENCE

Spoken word helps alleviate this and draws in audiences that may not take the time to read full articles. Audio can encourage deeper engagement as there is less effort needed. You can repurpose your written content to expand on the topic and bring in a wider audience. Listeners can share their favorite content easily by listening with their significant other, friends or co-workers.

When you first hear the term audio alongside communications, marketing and PR your mind probably goes straight to podcasts, but that is not the only option. Many online newspapers and magazines are developing audio articles alongside written articles on its websites. While audio articles and podcasts may sound similar, they are completely different products. Audio articles are about convenience and delivering content in an easy way for readers. Podcasting is its own form of storytelling all together.

DON’T WORRY, WRITTEN CONTENT IS NOT DEAD

Spoken word is making a comeback, but don’t worry, written content is not dying. In fact, great written content is the foundation for audio. There is plenty of room for audio articles, podcasts and written content to co-exist. Developing a mix will build a larger and more diverse audience. If you’re looking to expand your audience, this may be a great addition to your already strong content. Spoken word was the original storytelling, and it sounds like it is making a strong comeback.

Visit some of the top PR podcasts to hear what is being done and to get some ideas!

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CLIENT, COLLEAGUE AND TRUE FRIEND

Derek BullingtonBlog, Clairemont Client News, , , , , , , ,

Chief Tracy Mosley has dedicated most of his life to the fire service. He is a 37-year veteran, following in the footsteps of his Father, William L. Mosley, who served in the volunteer fire and rescue services of Wilson County. Chief Mosley began his fire service career with Silver Lake Volunteer Fire Department as a volunteer. He then moved on to a paid career with Wilson County, serving in roles from firefighter to deputy fire chief.

The fire service and volunteering are dear to Chief Mosley as he knows the state, and the nation, are in dire need of volunteers. Approximately 75% of the state’s fire service are volunteers. As the population grows, however, volunteerism is not keeping the pace. Due to high expectations and aging demographics, the pool for those donning the gear is draining.

Dedication pays off

Clairemont has been fortunate to partner with Chief Mosley and the North Carolina Association of Fire Chiefs (NCAFC) on a two-year campaign to recruit and retain volunteer firefighters across 15 of the most at-risk agencies across the state. This is the second campaign we have partnered with Chief Mosley on over the last four years. During the campaigns, Chief Mosley has gone above and beyond his role as program coordinator with the NCAFC. He has worked tirelessly to recruit and retain volunteer firefighters across the state.

A true family man, and man of faith, Chief Mosley is the most down-to-earth, gentle soul. He always shows up for you, calls to check in on you, honestly wants to hear how you are doing and has the best sense of humor. Chief Mosley is truly dedicated to the fire service, in his hometown, across the state of North Carolina and across the nation. He sincerely wants the best for every part of the fire service. He wants those involved to love what they do and stay for years to come.

This has been evident in his work during the two campaigns. He takes time away from his full-time job to make weekly check-in calls, sacrifices time with his beloved family to lead online classes and attend conferences. Chief Mosley even drives across the state to visit the rural agencies in need of volunteers.

Campaign is a success

With Chief Mosley’s efforts, there have been 474 new recruits at the 15 agencies during the two-year period. This number is amazing! Even more amazing is when you consider this was all done during the pandemic. But the state of North Carolina is still in urgent need of volunteer firefighters. There is more work to be done, and Chief Mosley knows this.

Chief Mosley continues to serve many roles in the fire service. He is currently assistant chief with Silver Lake Fire Department, officer of NCAFC, member of IAFC and NCSFA. Not to mention, the program coordinator on the current grant that NCAFC received from FEMA.

Coming to a close

This grant may be ending but his dedication and passion will certainly continue, whether that is to continue recruiting volunteer firefighters or focusing his time on his family and faith. There is no stopping this man. He will always work to make someone’s life better, whether that person knows it or not.

I have been lucky enough to work with Chief Mosley for the past three years, at my previous job with IAFC and now here at Clairemont. He has been a client, colleague and most importantly a true friend. We would like to extend a thank you for your service, time, hard work and most importantly for sharing your passion. Closing this grant after the craziest two years and still finishing with truly impressive numbers for volunteer recruitment could not have been done without you, Chief!

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MY PUP’S IN A PANIC: 3 WAYS TO EASE THE TRANSITION BACK TO THE OFFICE

Derek BullingtonBlog, Raleigh PR Agency, The Clairemont Team, , , , , , ,

How many of you with pets returned home from your first day back in the office to torn up furniture, trash cans toppled over, scratch marks all over the baseboards or a note from a neighbor complaining of constant barking? Separation anxiety in pets is very real, but there are ways to ease the transition.

My Pup's In a Panic: 3 Ways to Ease the Transition Back to the Office

With everybody leaving the house during the day, pets are banished to gated rooms or crates. Some are lucky enough to roam through the house freely but what are they supposed to do all day? No longer do they get extended walks, random play time, cuddles on the couch and plenty of table scraps they’ve enjoyed for months.

My dog, Ellie, was no exception. She got used to having me home every day and catering to her every need and want. I could see the anxiety building up in Ellie when I would leave the house, even for short periods of time. Barking constantly when I closed the door behind me and greeting me by jumping and barking when I returned (even if I just took out the trash).

When I heard we would be returning to the office, I was very excited, and I was a little nervous as well. It had been 18 months since I had to leave Ellie for an entire day. As big of an adjustment as it would be for me, I knew it would be an even bigger one for Ellie.

My Pup's In a Panic: 3 Ways to Ease the Transition Back to the Office

3 Ways to ease the transition

Unfortunately, I did not properly prepare Ellie for my return to work. The transition should have started early so she could have adjusted. Take the time to make this transition for your pets as smooth as possible. Your dog has been your support system during these hard times, now it is your time to make sure they are comfortable and ready for the post-pandemic world.

Create a new routine

Ease the transition for your pet by creating a routine similar to your work routine. If your bedtime and wake time are going to change, start that change now. Set fixed times for different activities, including play, exercise, walks and meals. Start leaving your pet alone, no matter how hard it is for your pup, or you! Start small and work up to the 8-10 hour stretch of going to work. When you return, praise them on their good behavior and remind them that you will always come home to them.

My Pup's In a Panic: 3 Ways to Ease the Transition Back to the Office

Take the anxiety out of your departure

Another step you can take to ease the transition is to take the anxiety out of your departure. Try extending your morning walk or spend extra time playing fetch in the backyard before work. Spend quality time tiring them out so they will spend more time snoozing and less time stressing (barking) during the day! Give them something to do by leaving toys or chews. Make sure to rotate the toys to help them stay mentally active and stave off boredom.

My Pup's In a Panic: 3 Ways to Ease the Transition Back to the Office

Remember, your dog is observant. If you are stressed about leaving them, they will pick up on it, increasing their anxiety. Remain calm and patient with your departure and return.

Spend extra time with your pet

When you get home, take time for an extra walk or playtime, no matter how tired you are. If you’re going out after work, consider taking your pup with you! During the weekends, choose activities that include your dog. Go to a park, the beach or plan a picnic. You don’t have to give up your whole weekend, just enough to make your pup feel loved and included. Our pets are just one part of our life but for our dogs, we are their WHOLE life! 

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Clairemont team shares why we’re thankful this year

Clairemont InternBlog, The Clairemont Team, , ,

For the past year, family gatherings and holiday get-togethers have looked a little different. Now that celebrating in large groups is significantly safer and travel is more accessible, we are looking forward to returning to our favorite holiday traditions and seeing family and friends in person this Thanksgiving. In this post, the Clairemont team shares why we’re thankful this year! 

Dana Phelps

This year for Thanksgiving, I’m so thankful for the return of air travel to be reunited with family members who live in different states. And while pandemic fears are still looming, I’m grateful that we have more knowledge this year that will allow us to relax a bit about gathering together around a table to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal. I will not miss my sanitizer-place settings of Thanksgiving 2020!

Tracy Lathan

A big family Thanksgiving has always been a favorite tradition of mine, so last year having four of us around our dining room table just did not feel right. Not to mention it seems like the same amount of work to cook for four or 14! This year we will be heading back to the beach to celebrate with the full Lathan crew…18 of us in total. Oyster dressing, a fishing tournament, evening fires, eight cousins running around and peanut butter bourbon. Feeling extra thankful this year and looking forward to Thanksgiving 2021! 

Derek Bullington

I am very thankful for getting to spend time with my family this year. With my sister having two young children and my father being immunocompromised, we were not able to do family gatherings in 2020. I’m grateful to be able to enjoy our normal traditions. I hope we all remember how important family and loved ones are and cherish the moments we have with them.

Olivia Noles

This year I am thankful to be able to safely see both sides of my family, something that has been difficult to balance since the pandemic. I am also grateful to get back to our Thanksgiving weekend tradition of attending the NC State vs. UNC football game on Black Friday and to shop in person with local businesses this Small Business Saturday. 

Anna Beth McCormick

Being with my extended family is my favorite part of Thanksgiving. Pre-pandemic we would have nearly 60 cousins, nieces and nephews together at my aunt and uncle’s house. This year, I am excited to get back to our traditions safely and have an active day full of great food and the best company. 

We are wishing everyone safe travels and time spent with family this holiday season. What holiday traditions are you excited to return to this year? We’d love to hear about them. 

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