Tom Geiser

This article from Columbia Journalism Review is fascinating, and an argument for the importance of a reputation management communication plan. There are volumes authored by PR pros advising against ignoring reporters inquiries, yet this article documents how frequently it happens. Throughout my career, I can count on one hand the number of times I have made a calculated decision not to respond to a media request, and 99.9% of the time it was after multiple engagements with a reporter who repeatedly misrepresented or distorted information (even if not intentionally). I suspect, more often than not, reporters get ghosted because the brand is caught off guard. They haven't planned how they will respond in a reputation crisis. Or haven't socialized the planned response with stakeholders. If the PR team is haggling with executives and lawyers on what to say or how to say it when the reporters' questions start rolling in, the opportunity to frame the narrative is quickly lost. Thanks for sharing the article Jennifer Johnson Avril! https://lnkd.in/gYmTA9CW

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LIBERAL MEDIA PROS DISAPPOINT IN THIS TIME OF CRISIS As a communications professional, I find it so hypocritical for media professionals to criticize Biden's debate performance, while these "media pros", (having plenty of time to prepare their talking points to prepared questions), are unable to present the stark contrast between Democrats and Republicans. Project 2025 should make this a cake-walk for those who want to preserve democracy.... Yet, these media professionals lead their comments with things like "they want to end the Dept. of Education." While that is true, it is far from gasp worthy or motivational. If you are a trained media professional, use your opportunity to be on national TV to alert the public to the real dangers of the plans in Project 2025! IT'S SHOCKING that the Project 2025 plan says they will immediately deploy the military for domestic law enforcement by invoking the Insurrection Act of 1807, to "systematically prepare to march into office and bring a new army, aligned, trained, and essentially weaponized conservatives ready to do battle "against the deep state." IT'S SHOCKING that Project 2025 wants to criminalize pornography! IT'S SHOCKING that they plan to eliminate: the DOJ, the Dept of Homeland Security and FBI! IT'S SHOCKING that they plan to end affirmative action and DEI programs! IT'S SHOCKING that they plan to end abortion and even contraception nationally. IT'S SHOCKING that they want to reclassify tens of thousands of merit-based federal civil servant jobs as political appointees to replace them with "loyal conservatives" In short, the Project 2025 plan is a plan of revenge and control....disguising a white nationalist agenda as "Christian"....but leaving out any sense of caring, love, kindness or protection of individuals from their plans...which is supposed to be the basis of Christianity. If you can't deliver this SHOCKING information...maybe it is you who needs to be replaced. Let's get it together people. DETERMINE WHAT THE MAIN POINTS ARE THAT THE PUBLIC NEEDS TO KNOW...AND DELIVER THAT MESSAGE CLEARLY AND CONCISELY!

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This may be an unpopular opinion in certain publishing circles, but even with a new book launch on the horizon, do not—I repeat, DO NOT—create a new website solely focused on your book. Based on the majority of authors I speak with who share goals from achieving bestseller status to elevating their speaking or expert profile through the book, adding this newest “offering” through your already established brand website is the best decision you can make to support these goals and so much more! Your website is more than just a place to learn more about the content of your new book, your pre-order incentives, and your buying options (although all are very important to feature!). It’s a digital business card, a central hub for readers, the media, event organizers, and potential collaborators. It’s your digital doorstep that not only drives attention to your book but also entices visitors to want to learn more about the other elements of your “brand ecosystem.” Here are some tips for really making it shine: ➥ More than just promoting a single book, your website should introduce the world to you: the speaker, the consultant, the coach, the advocate—show the world you are far more than just an author. This builds a sustainable brand that supports not just one launch but an ongoing career and expert platform. ➥ At least three months out, set up direct links to pre-order your book from favorite retailers like Amazon or Bookshop.org. Offering options, along with select pre-order incentives, makes it as easy and enticing as possible for someone to support you in this pre-launch stage. ➥ Make it easy for media visiting your site by featuring downloadable high-res images of your book cover, your preferred headshot and speaker reel, and a list of your past media appearances to bolster credibility. ➥ A dedicated section for testimonials can significantly boost the appeal of both your expertise and the book, showcasing endorsements from both industry insiders and well-known names who have either read the book, hired you to speak, or worked with you within their organizations. ➥ Clearly link out to your social platforms to keep the conversation flowing and build community around your book and brand. ➥ Position yourself as a thought leader by including insightful articles, case studies, or white papers that reflect your book’s themes and your overall expertise. A regular blog or newsletter can be great channels through which to share this type of content. ➥ Want an example of an outstanding expert brand website? Take a page from Joe Mull M.Ed, CSP, who is a past Smith client: https://www.joemull.com/. Think of your website as a dynamic introduction to your world—it’s about engaging visitors, building connections, and setting the stage for all your future endeavors. Remember, launching your book is just the beginning. Your website is the launchpad for your expert brand to soar. #Marketing #WebsiteDesign #Author #BookLaunch #Publishing

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T-minus...not very many hours until Election Day. Are you ready? ***Those in the PR/Comms industries: How are you handling Election Day for your brand/org, your employees, and most of all...yourself?*** [Me: We have the editorial calendar planned this week with flexibility for important election-related pieces if they come in. I'm working on several election-unrelated pieces. Taking time out to vote on Tuesday. Taking walk breaks/cat cuddling breaks Tuesday and Wednesday. Buying MORE candy. Already decided on ordering out for dinner Tuesday night with husband. ] Take care. Be gentle with yourself and others. Eat as much candy as you want.

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This year's U.S. Book Show was buzzing with energy and insight, making it clear that the pulse of the publishing world is stronger than ever. As we are always in the mindset of “sharing is caring,” here is some knowledge the Smith team and I gained from the event: 🎙️ Panel Insights:  From our industry friends at Amplify Publishing Group and Forefront Books to new connections like Mia Orlandella from Penguin Random House, the discussions were rich and varied. A standout moment was the Young Publishing Forum, where the focus was on "emerging publishers" rather than "young" ones, emphasizing the rapid professional growth in this field and the value of mentorship and community. 🤖 AI and Publishing:  During the CEO roundtable, AI’s role in publishing was a major topic. It was fascinating to hear perspectives on AI as an "intelligent assistant"—a tool that augments rather than replaces the human creativity, empathy, and intuition essential to forward-looking innovation. 📈 Trend Shifts in Book Selling:  The dynamics of book distribution are flipping. It’s no longer just about what bookstores will accept from publishers, but strategically thinking about which books are pushed to major retailers like Barnes & Noble, Inc. or newer platforms like Bookshop.org. This strategic distribution reflects a deeper niche targeting approach. 📘 Digital and Libraries Evolving Together:  Discussions around digital book buying, especially in educational sectors, highlighted the evolving role of libraries. They're not just physical spaces but are adapting to digital demands with tools like social media and virtual book clubs, enhancing access and engagement. We left feeling a profound sense of community and dedication across the board, from protecting authors' interests to celebrating the human touch in our tech-driven world. The Publishers Weekly U.S. Book Show wasn't just about books; it was a testament to the passionate individuals behind them, restoring our faith in humanity one page at a time. If you want to take a deep dive into more knowledge and actionable takeaways from the event, Olivia Whitlock McCoy and I recorded a special episode of the Smith Publicity, Inc. All Things Book Marketing Podcast. Check out our insightful episode here: https://bit.ly/3KlxSUD. #Marketing #Publishing #Author #Books #Leadership

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Is journalism being affected by AI? In a year marked by tumult and transformation, the journalism landscape continues to evolve. As newsrooms struggle with the reality of shrinking staff and budgets, they’re also navigating the tricky terrain of generative AI. The technology has the potential to streamline workflows and enhance efficiency, and when asked about plans for AI usage in our latest survey, about 28% of journalists reported using the technology and another 20% plan to explore it. Despite the adoption, nearly 60% of newsrooms report they have no AI policy - and concerns of disinformation continue to loom. Do you plan to explore generative AI, like Chat GPT or DALL-E, in your workflow? Gregory Galant, co-founder and CEO of Muck Rack discussed the findings of Muck Rack’s 2024 State of Journalism report in a really interesting article for us. Have a read here: https://lnkd.in/gq7DpWnz 

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Considering what's happening in the markets, it's unsurprising that so many friends in the media are engaging financial planners to get some thoughts and opinions for their stories. It's so gratifying that so many of them are using FPA MediaSource to get that perspective from FPA members! In just the past 24 hours, the system has sent 22 queries to #CFPpro members of FPA, including The Wall Street Journal, CBS News, Barron's, Investopedia, InvestmentNews, ThinkAdvisor, CNBC, MarketWatch, Fortune, and many others. If you're not taking part, you're missing out! https://lnkd.in/eMJeNS-F Financial Planning Association (FPA) #financialplanning #media

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Are you getting the right message to the right people at the right time? Unless you are continually solving people’s problems and delivering beneficial information, people are not going to engage with your content. Learn more about delivering relevant content: https://lnkd.in/dUHMre9s #ContentMarketing #RankinPR #B2B #CEO #BusinessGrowth

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Do you often have to stop in your writing to carefully consider how to correctly spell the past tense version of the verb ‘to lead’? This one trips quite a few people up. There’s frequent confusion – although only one correct usage. Get the low-down in this week’s Top Tip: https://bit.ly/3RIVl6s #SmallBusiness #Copywriting #Consultants #WordsMatter #BetterBusinessWriting

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Not getting responses from journalists? Try pitching stories about these topics: 💡 Lessons learned from failure 💡 Industry viewpoints that are surprising or controversial 💡 Data only you can provide Do that and journalists will start to care about what you have to say.

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If I were teaching a course on communications, this would be on the syllabus. Why? Because the analysis: ✅ Accurately identifies a vision and strategy  ✅ Hones in on messaging ✅ Includes specific tactics that apply to both new and traditional media ✅ Applies to politics, corporations, individuals, or nonprofits Politics aside, read this if you want to understand the key elements of a strong comms plan. https://lnkd.in/evSecn_w   #communications #strategy #commsplanning #publicrealtions #socialmedia

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The press release is not dead, it's just evolved. When I first started in #communications, nobody ever questioned the purpose of the press release. It was just assumed that every big announcement would lead with an informative press release designed to start a dialogue with journalists and control the narrative. As the world increasingly moved online over the last decade or two, folks have debated the relevance and usefulness of this steady companion. After all, it's much quicker and easier to both distribute and find information on the interwebs. As such, many #PR folks declared the press release passé. But there's so much more to the press release than simply making an announcement, and if you neglect it, you're missing out on heaps of opportunities. Like the opportunity to support your SEO efforts, generate backlinks, and drive referral traffic. Or to use it as a jumping-off point for a comprehensive content campaign that spans blogs, newsletters, social media, contributed content, email marketing, ads, events, and customer stories. Or to support your friends in sales to help them engage customers and leads. Or to drive awareness, build credibility, and support conversations with current and prospective partners and investors. Or even to support HR with their employee recruitment and retention strategy. Don't neglect the trusty press release. When designed and leveraged well, it truly is a jill of all trades.

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Once the initial flurry of your book launch settles, the journey doesn’t end—it evolves. In the critical year following your book’s release, maintaining visibility and connectivity through your author platform is crucial. Here's a step-by-step guide to strategically managing your author presence in the year after your book hits the shelves: 1️⃣ Update Your Messaging: ■ Shift your promotional language from "preorder now" to "available now." ■ Highlight new formats, like the release of an audiobook, to keep your offerings fresh. 2️⃣ Website Optimization: ■ Ensure your website remains author-focused, not just book-centric. ■ Display your book noticeably on your homepage, perhaps through a pop-up or next to your bio, to keep it in the spotlight without overwhelming your other content. ■ Continue to use your site for lead generation: prominently feature your business offerings, workshops, or speaking topics. 3️⃣ Integrate with Personal Branding: ■ Seamlessly integrate your book into your larger personal brand. ■ If you are also a speaker or consultant, use your book to complement these roles, ensuring it adds value to your broader professional identity. 4️⃣Social Media and Professional Updates: ■ Regularly refresh your social media and professional profiles to reflect your book's journey—from launch to continued availability. ■ Share updates about new reviews, media mentions, or relevant news to keep the audience engaged. ■ Use the themes from your book to give your expertise on trending topics. 5️⃣ Transitioning Focus: ■ If it's been a year and there's no immediate sequel or new book, begin to subtly shift the focus. ■ Reduce the intensity of direct sales pitches while keeping the book accessible and visible on your platforms, accommodating new visitors who may discover your site. Maintaining an active and strategic post-launch presence ensures that your book continues to reach new audiences and generate opportunities long after the initial launch buzz fades. This approach not only maximizes your current book’s potential but also lays a robust foundation for future projects. How has your journey evolved since launching your book? I’d love to hear your strategies! #marketing #leadership #author #publishing #booklaunch

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