Valerie Holloway

One step forward two steps Black? We want to hear your experiences of what it’s like to be Black in PR and comms today. Together with PRWeek UK and Opinium, we are opening our One Step Forward Two Steps Black survey to uncover inequity where it exists, recognise successes in creating a diverse pipeline and retaining talent, and crucially - to provide a benchmark for the industry to make change. The inaugural One Step Forward Two Steps Black survey in 2020 found that almost half of Black communication professionals had never received an internal promotion, with talent having to move to a different agency or company to rise up the ranks.  Has progress been made? Are you having a more equitable experience? Are you being hired, recognised and rewarded for your contributions? We need to know so we can shape recommendations to drive change. The anonymous survey takes just 6 minutes to complete. Complete the survey here: https://lnkd.in/eM--X-Fs Kamiqua Lake (nèe Pearce) Founder of UK Black Comms Network says "As the old adage goes: what gets measured gets improved. The industry's focus continues to be on attracting Black talent into entry level roles. We want to understand what progress our industry is making on this and how organisations are rewarding Black talent within their companies."   You can read more in PR Week here: https://lnkd.in/ewPJbcE4 Special thanks to Eliza Wiredu Rhoneece Patterson Priya Minhas

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⏳ Just 4 days left to make your voice heard! We're calling on all Black PR and comms professionals to share your experiences. Together with PRWeek UK and Opinium, our One Step Forward Two Steps Black survey aims to uncover the truth about inequities, celebrate successes and set a new standard for our industry. Back in 2020, nearly half of Black communication pros told us they’d never received an internal promotion. We want to know if things have changed. Are you being hired, recognized, and rewarded fairly? Your input is crucial to shaping meaningful recommendations for change. The survey is anonymous and takes just 6 minutes to complete. 🔗 Hit the link below to participate and help us pave the way for a more equitable future in PR and comms. 📅 Remember, the survey closes this Friday, 28th June 2024. Let's make a difference together! ✊🏾 https://lnkd.in/eM--X-Fs

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Back in 2020, nearly half of Black communication professionals reported never having received an internal promotion. That's shockingly dismaying! As a 100% BME-staffed agency, we encourage every Black PR professional to join the survey. Let's see what progress (hopefully) has been made, and most importantly, affect change!

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Are your business communications digitally accessible? ⚖️ In our Includability Short with our Partner Expert, Kaye Moors Managing Director of Drum Studios, she gives us 5 Simple Tips to Make Your Social Media Posts More Accessible. 📱 Learn how to make your social media posts more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities. Enhance your brand loyalty and reach a wider audience with these easy-to-implement tips. 1. Use simple English 2. Don't include hashtags in sentences & capitalise the first letter in each word 3. Use emojis sparingly, placed at the end of sentences, and not as bullet points 4. Have sufficient colour contrast on images and include alt-text 5. Include open captions on videos and avoid animated captions Watch the full video - https://lnkd.in/eq4iawc4 Catch up on Includability Shorts - https://lnkd.in/gzgka2vA 🔗 Join Includability today for more tips and guides on how to make your business more digitally accessible, inclusive and mentally healthy. https://lnkd.in/es_jkZwa #InclusiveSocialMedia #AccessibilityMatters #EqualAccess #BrandLoyalty #InclusiveContent #AccessiblePosts #DisabilityInclusion #DigitalInclusion #AccessibleSocialMedia #InclusiveMarketing

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Are your business communications digitally accessible? ⚖️ In our Includability Short with our Partner Expert, Kaye Moors Managing Director of Drum Studios, she gives us 5 Simple Tips to Make Your Social Media Posts More Accessible. 📱 Learn how to make your social media posts more inclusive and accessible for people with disabilities. Enhance your brand loyalty and reach a wider audience with these easy-to-implement tips. 1. Use simple English 2. Don't include hashtags in sentences & capitalise the first letter in each word 3. Use emojis sparingly, placed at the end of sentences, and not as bullet points 4. Have sufficient colour contrast on images and include alt-text 5. Include open captions on videos and avoid animated captions Watch the full video - https://lnkd.in/eq4iawc4 Catch up on Includability Shorts - https://lnkd.in/gzgka2vA 🔗 Join Includability today for more tips and guides on how to make your business more digitally accessible, inclusive and mentally healthy. https://lnkd.in/es_jkZwa #InclusiveSocialMedia #AccessibilityMatters #EqualAccess #BrandLoyalty #InclusiveContent #AccessiblePosts #DisabilityInclusion #DigitalInclusion #AccessibleSocialMedia #InclusiveMarketing

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It’s #socialmobilityday. Here at CIPR Wessex, we know the PR industry is falling short in creating an inclusive environment, disproportionately attracting individuals from privileged backgrounds and perpetuating a cycle of inequality. The data reveals stark inequalities in PR, from the overrepresentation of practitioners educated at fee-paying schools to barriers in career progression for those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Change is our shared responsibility. Let's nurture diverse talent, embrace inclusive practices, and lead by example to create an equitable PR industry representative of society. #change #socialmobility #PR #publicrelations #comms

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Havas Media Manchester Launches Boost Programme 🎉 Our Chamber member, Havas Media UK, is proud to announce a transformative opportunity for underrepresented entrepreneurs in the North West of England through their Boost Business Programme. This initiative is specifically designed to empower businesses that are striving to create meaningful and positive change within their communities.   Recognising the challenges faced by less advantaged entrepreneurs, Havas Media Manchester is committing up to £150,000 in resources to help these businesses thrive. This generous support will be provided in various forms, including media value to enhance visibility, capital investment to fuel growth, expert consultancy to guide strategic decisions, access to state-of-the-art facilities, and other valuable resources tailored to the unique needs of the selected business.   The Boost Business Programme is not just about financial support; it's about fostering a partnership that equips businesses with the tools and guidance they need to scale effectively and sustainably.   Havas Media Manchester is looking for businesses that not only have a strong business model but also a clear commitment to social good. They believe that by supporting entrepreneurs who are committed to making a difference, we can collectively contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous regional economy.   If you believe that you, or someone you know, could benefit from this exceptional opportunity to take your business to the next level, we encourage you to apply. https://bit.ly/havasboost #MeaningfulDifference #HavasBoost

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PR’s ageism problem – ‘the sector is getting left behind’ How bad is the problem of ageism in PR, and how should the sector respond? Comms recruitment specialists speak frankly about an issue that risks holding the industry back. Amanda Fone, founder and chief executive of f1 Recruitment Limited highlights the issue succinctly: “Age in the workplace is the final protected characteristic to get the attention it needs, and the comms sector, with an average age of about 27 years, especially in agencies, needs to improve its ability to hire and retain multi-generational teams.” https://lnkd.in/dHpYYghm #PR #marketing #communications #recruitment #ageismintheworkplace #back2businessship

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Breaking down outdated stereotypes in PR is crucial for our industry’s growth. In a recent PRWeek article, our Associate Director and DE&I comms lead, Christina Peach discussed the need for the industry to stop clinging to a middle-class image that no longer fits, and instead focus on the real-world perspectives and experiences that individuals from different socio-economic backgrounds can bring to the work. Read more here 👇

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Executive Director Nick Blythe features in PRWeek to discuss the key areas of investment for PR companies as part of the annual PR Week Top 150 consultancies report, which BLUE has featured in for the past eight years.     Nick comments on the need for organisation to effectively position themselves on the right side of the sustainability debate, particularly in markets that are experiencing such dynamic change.    Nick said: "The specialist marine and renewable energy sectors are being driven by the drive for decarbonisation and sustainability…more and more organisations are now recognising the importance of investing in their brands to stand out, influence, protect reputation and effectively manage this change.  That’s why we’re investing in a properly integrated approach to ensure that we have as much control as possible over our clients’ brands and that they are effectively represented at every touchpoint.”    https://lnkd.in/ezPuD5TJ   #MaritimePR #RenewableEnergyPR #PRWeek #Top150 

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🗞️What does media look like in 2024 and beyond?   Our new Grayling Media trends report reveals a number of key trends and predictions, including a clear shift towards personal connections with trusted voices over mass media content.   Read Grayling’s UK CEO, Heather Blundell op-ed in City AM in the link below 👇, to discover what this means for you and your business.   🔗: https://lnkd.in/epHyRHKv   #GraylingMedia #NewMediaAge

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New consumer research from Samsung Pioneers reveals inaccessible designs are leaving millions of UK consumers out of essential products, services, and experiences. Did you know that over two-thirds (68%) of UK adults with invisible and visible disabilities have felt excluded from products or services due to accessibility issues - and 55% don’t feel mainstream brands truly cater to individual needs? To highlight these findings, we’ve partnered with the London Design Festival and Amy Francis-Smith RIBA Architect & Accessible Design Specialist, to show how inclusive design leads to a more accessible society for everyone and lifelong brand loyalty. In fact, three-quarters (76%) of consumers said they would stay loyal to brands with a strong focus on accessibility. We’re proud that the technology industry is paving the way for accessible design, with top tech innovations for people with a disability named as: ·       Virtual assistants ·       Smart home devices ·       Wearable devices for health monitoring Find out more about our commitment to inclusive design and findings here: https://lnkd.in/esfbU4cm #SamsungUK #Pioneers #DesignForAll #DEI #ProjectINKlusivity

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In London this Wednesday morning? Will you join us for breakfast? The Marketing Society invites you to join us with our friends Publicis Groupe for a thought-provoking discussion around the ‘Uncomfortable Conversation’ on the evolving landscape of diversity in communications and advertising. 28% of UK adults say they actively avoid brands that don’t embrace diversity but it’s hard to authentically represent diverse communities. Here’s the question for discussion: 𝗖𝗮𝗻 𝗧𝗼𝗸𝗲𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗺 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻? 💭 ◽ Is diversity in comms as critical for product-led sectors vs service-led? Or are there more important elements to communicate about? ◽ Is diversity in advertising now genuine or is it still just a token gesture in some sectors?  ◽ Do diverse ads boost sales or risk alienating customers? JOIN US - in a lovely comfortable setting with breakfast and great company… as well as and some expert food-for-thought from great panellists (now including extra Emma Harris). A time-efficient and enjoyable way to learn and pause to think together. Thought-provoking, useful and a brilliant way to start your day! Date: Wednesday 22 May Time: 8.30 - 10.30am Venue: London WC2A 1JA JOIN US - book your place here - https://lnkd.in/eG7yE672 #uncomfortableconversation #diversity #advertising

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Our Vice President, Strategy & Post Creative Strategist at VaynerMedia EMEA, Hannah Mearns, recognises the current demure trend as another example of women reclaiming and “feeling motivated to express their version of femininity… creating content to represent themselves, rather than letting themselves be defined by other people's ideas.” Check out the recent article on gender roles in social trends for BBC Good Food below! 👇 https://lnkd.in/eyYqcGbM

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Catch up on part five of our modern measurement series. 📈 Head of Paid Media Performance, Nick Handley and Paid Media Consultant, Sam Cooper, explore: 🤔Why it's difficult to achieve stakeholder buy-in for measurement projects 🤝Actionable tips to help engage key stakeholders 💸Solutions for those working with a smaller budget Watch the full video here: https://lnkd.in/et7XzNkw

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Is it still one step forward and two steps Black? The UK Black Comms Network together with PRWeek UK and Opinium has opened the One Step Forward Two Steps Black survey to uncover inequity where it exists, recognise successes and provide a benchmark for the industry to make change. Initially launched in 2020, the One Step Forward Two Steps Black survey found that almost half of Black PR and communication professionals had never received an internal promotion, with talent having to move to a different agency or company to rise up the ranks.   Has progress been made? The survey is open now and open to Black, PR and comes professionals working in the UK, link here: https://lnkd.in/eM--X-Fs Together our voices will drive the change we are all striving for! You can read more in PR Week here: https://lnkd.in/ewPJbcE4 Bookmark https://lnkd.in/d9yAgcu to stay updated

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Yesterday’s significant decision by B Lab to revoke the #BCorp status of Havas in light of the agency winning the global Shell account, sends out a clear message – agencies need to do better. ​ ​ The responsibility of the creative industries not to promote the world’s worst polluters is something our founder Solitaire Townsend speaks passionately about in her TED Conferences Talk, calling on all business truly dedicated to tackling the climate crisis to disclose their client rosters. ​: https://lnkd.in/exXFCPSp. ​ It's not just Havas facing scrutiny – all companies are facing a significant trust gap. Stakeholders now demand more than just financial performance; they want businesses to actively address global challenges. As the first agency to offer Client Disclosure Reporting to any business willing to share their credentials, we at Futerra we understand B Lab’s decision. ​ Client Disclosure Reporting (CDR) is more than just reporting – it’s a transformative tool that can enable positive change. Watch this space as we launch an even more robust approach, made even simpler for our clients to undertake in the coming weeks. ​ ​ Want to know more? Browse reports from the companies who have already stepped up to the plate https://lnkd.in/ebrQu5j And join our mailing list to be the first to know when our new CDR offer goes live!​ https://lnkd.in/ezTMAkPi #ClientDisclosureReporting #Havas

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Please read this article by Havas London chief creative officer Vicki Maguire about how the negative impact a working class background has on employment prospects in the UK is reflected in the social profile of those working in the advertising industry.  We know well that the same issue applies more broadly across marketing. Vicki argues for more support to help people from working class backgrounds into advertising, not least because it would create a greater understanding of a massive proportion of the people with whom advertising hopes to connect. As a state educated lad whose parents left school at 15, I strongly agree with the need for positive action to address this employment bias. However, being from a working class background is not the only way one can understand ‘common people’ (thank you Jarvis). It is possible to achieve empathy and understanding across ‘divides’ of social class, gender, race, politics, sexual orientation, etc, provided you are genuinely interested and willing to listen and to learn. Which is part of the reason I wave the flag for qualitative research. I have spent many years talking to people from a massive range of backgrounds, many of them working class, and learnt so much about ‘ordinary’ people: deep truths about the life and perspectives of people who live in a similar world to that from which I came. Vicki’s article resonates so much with me that I am moved to write one of my own, explaining how deeply insightful research can provide a transformative understanding of the ‘ordinary’ people we are talking to in marketing, even if you don’t come from that background yourself. To find out more, Follow me or look out for the forthcoming post. https://lnkd.in/dSeKqwwE #advertising #socialmobility #qualitativeresearch #edi

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