Vijay Lalwani

Authenticity is key for senior executives to be influential on LinkedIn, but not every leader finds it easy to engage genuinely. 🔸In episode 342 of our For Immediate Release podcast, Shel Holtz, SCMP, and I explore how communicators can help executives craft authentic online personas and build influence and trust, focused on LinkedIn, with practical examples. I also dive into this topic in a new blog post published today, arguing that authenticity opens the door to success. Communicators must guide leaders who struggle with authenticity, identifying formats or mediums that play to their strengths. Take a read and listen to our discussion ⬇️ #Authenticity #Communication #LinkedIn #FIRPodcast https://lnkd.in/eMu9D48j

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Proud when the work aims to drive change. 📣 The past few weeks, an integrated Edelman team spanning Creative, Earned Media, Client Leaders, Community Managers, Multicultural experts, Influencer Relations, Paid Media, and more, have been working on something important. Our client partners at Ajinomoto Co., Inc. have united a powerful coalition of Asian-American and other activists, chefs, food journalists, and nutritionists. Last week, they published an open letter calling on the NEJM Group - The New England Journal of Medicine - to revisit the racist term "Chinese Restaurant Syndrome" that they coined. ❗ ❗ Background: In 1968, the journal published a letter to the editor who wrote about effects from eating at some Chinese restaurants. The author of the letter didn't use the term, but the journal gave the letter the headline, "Chinese Restaurant Syndrome." From there, the media frenzy took off, creating a narrative that demonized MSG. 💡The Facts: MSG, a naturally occurring amino acid, is classified as safe by the FDA and is essential for bringing Umami to food. However, the 1968 headline by NEJM Group led to persistent racist misconceptions that the Asian community still confronts today. ⚡ Chef's and food writers such as Calvin Eng and Kat Lieu, DPT, CLT spoke about their experiences as Asian-American chefs who use MSG and the impact the racist rhetoric has on them as individuals, and the greater AAPI community at large. Kat said, "You have an America where Chinese food is seen as unhealthy or dirty or cheap, something like fast food, or worse." For Calvin, he envisions a future where MSG is valued for its role in enhancing flavor, free from outdated stigma, "It's about education and openness...We need to shift the conversation to celebrate the quality and authenticity of the food, moving beyond old misconceptions." Thanks to Shawna Chen, Axios, Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes, IFLScience, Joy Sauce, NextShark and more for covering and highlighting this important movement. Read more: The letter: https://lnkd.in/dfCS-iH4 Forbes: https://lnkd.in/d3iytwCR Axios: https://lnkd.in/dmiY_diH IFL Science: https://lnkd.in/dx9ZV-4u NextShark: https://lnkd.in/d8Vt6mye Joy Sauce: https://lnkd.in/duYHFKje Gennifer Horowitz Amanda (Drain) Gillman Brittany Herrmann Jane Chung Caroline Tortorella Carolina Rincon Sato Shelby Montgomery Jill Lehman Conor Hogan Lexie Flood Cameron Baker Jesse Suchmann Kelsey Cohen Stephanie Walker, MPH, CHES Michael Byrnes Ariana Saunders #chineserestaurantsyndrome #aapi #knowmsg #msg #umami #history #foodhistory #nejm #asianamericanhistory #asianamerican #food #chinesefood #asianfood

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It's shocking how many PR pros overlook this: Translating press materials and media pitches into languages other than English in diverse markets. For instance, your chances of securing press coverage in Spanish-language newspapers and TV in Miami—where 72% of the population is Hispanic—are significantly higher if you correspond with journalists and provide them with everything in Spanish. Pro tip: Consider the Spanish-speaking audience when filming your b-roll video interviews too. P.S. My Spanish skills are far from fluent. Luckily, I have a bilingual team, ensuring our communications are always sent out in Spanish, with no exceptions! How do you approach multicultural communication in your strategy? Share your comments below. #PRStrategy #MediaRelations #HispanicOutreach #MulticulturalPR #Miami

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As evidenced by the dynamics of the presidential election, women continue to be held to a different, much stricter standard than men. In my book "WOKE: A Cultural Competence Guide for Communicators, I delve into why and how women continue to struggle for equality and representation. "Women’s quest for equality is the longest-running struggle in the history of the world. Men have ruled over humanity for millennia, and nowhere has their dominance been more pronounced than over the lives and bodies of women. Although women have made great strides toward equality in the last few decades, they continue to be held to a different standard than men, and society holds many unconscious and deeply rooted biases against them. Nevertheless, women continue challenging traditional gender norms, advocating for equal rights, and reshaping female empowerment narratives." https://lnkd.in/gsTAMAbc

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🔮 Prediction: The recent progress made by Castro under its new owner signals a promising future for the popular podcasting platform. My Commentary: • With the evolution of Castro under new leadership, we can anticipate exciting developments and enhancements in both user experience and podcast content • This transformation may lead to increased listenership and engagement within the podcast community, positioning Castro as a leading platform in the industry Looking ahead: • The growing momentum of Castro highlights the bright prospects for the podcasting landscape, offering innovative opportunities for creators and listeners alike • As the industry continues to evolve, platforms like Castro play a crucial role in shaping the future of podcasting and driving creativity and engagement Embrace the Podcast Revolution! 🚀 Command Your Brand

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If you follow me, you’ve seen my posts bragging about generating breakthrough media coverage. No doubt, it’s important. But just as important is counseling clients on how to dominate the discussion. How to set agendas and own dialogues. How to be the thought leader that customers, partners, reporters, analysts, investors, scholars and government officials turn to, to understand the zeitgeist of key publics and key industries. I wrote about ARM yesterday - that’s what we did with them. Challenged them to own mobile, and later data centers. To dare to be the dominant voice to set an industry agenda. That’s not a one-off. With every client served, that’s the nexus of the campaigns we lead - understand your strength and put it to work. If you want this kind counsel and the resulting dominance that comes with it, I’d love to talk.

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📣 Did you miss PR Newswire's recent webinar? Don't worry! Watch the on-demand webinar now and learn how to unlock the secrets of expanding your story's impact. Our esteemed panel of industry experts dove deep into: * Unlocking maximum media coverage * Amplifying visibility and engagement * Mastering the essential distribution tools for success Seize this opportunity to level up your #PR game! Watch now and let us propel your story to new heights. #Webinar #ProfessionalDevelopment #Networking

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25 Lessons I've learned in Comms: 1. Everyone needs prep/media training.  - Don’t let them say otherwise. 2. Don’t promise *great* coverage.  - It comes back to bite you. 3. Keep calm and carry on. - There will always be another fire. 4. Make friends with marketing.  - They have the budget. 5. Don't write by committee. - It’s messy and confusing. 6. Governance is your friend.  - A strong process makes life easier. 7. The best defense is a good offense.  - Be proactive and tell your story. 8. Reputation is everything.  - Our job: protect & promote the brand. 9. Hire for will, not just skill. - You can’t teach attitude. 10. Focus on outcomes, not activity. - Stop cutting down trees in the wrong forest. 11. Data and insights are critical.  - Measure what matters. 12. Educate, educate, educate. - Don't wait until there's a problem. 13. Link back to business strategy.  - Otherwise your plan is untethered. 14. Network, join groups, make friends.  - You’ll need each other. 15. Work at an agency and in house.  - Different worlds, both invaluable experiences. 16. A watched pot does eventually boil.  - Don’t hold on to bad news. 17. Best idea wins, always.  - Check your ego at the door. 18. Don’t take on low-value work.  - They can edit their PowerPoint. 19. Have an opinion *and* an open mind.  - Two ears, one mouth. 20. Make sure you have a plan B.  - Pivot, Pivot, Pivot. 21. Invest in your personal brand.  - You take that with you. 22. Not every bad interview is a disaster. - Tomorrow’s another day. 23. Treat your agencies like your team. - Better energy, better outcomes. 24. Make sure you're in the right rooms. - It's harder to influence from the sidelines. 25. Celebrate and share your successes.  - If you don’t, folks won't know. What did I miss?

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Navigating the complexities of technology markets can feel like wandering through a maze. Without the right guide, it’s easy to get lost. Many PR agencies might lead you in circles, trying to learn your industry as they go. You need a partner who knows the way, with a deep understanding of your sector and established media relationships. This knowledge can turn a daunting maze into a clear path forward. Seek out the experts who can guide you straight to your goals. Looking for direction? See what that might look like: https://lnkd.in/ejvu8yQE #PRStrategy #B2B #IndustryExpertise #RankinPR #TechPR

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As we discussed during our team meeting yesterday, this communications environment is very fluid and we are assessing opportunities and challenges for our clients in real time as we communicate through change. Things we are talking about include: considering this window of opportunity with media sources, refocusing messages with a laser focus on audience, and capitalizing on the non-traditional media environment to tell the story. All while strategizing for what comes next. More detail 👇 Shout out to Nicole Ryan and the Curley Company Public Affairs team for all the good counsel they are giving our clients right now. #PR #publicaffairs #mediastrategy #leadingthroughchange

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You're an executive about to interview with a top-tier reporter and publication. This is your chance for significant coverage. Ahead of the call, the PR team prepared a smart briefing email with talking points and background notes on the reporter. You didn't look at the briefing notes and left an opportunity on the table. Why? ▶️ Because research and preparation are key. ▶️ Because your PR team put information in the document based on working with this reporter several times. ▶️ Because journalists can be particular, and each outlet has its own style and POV.

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Thank you to PRNEWS for publishing my piece on lessons brands and communications leaders can learn from the recent fallout at NBC News and the pitfalls of binary thinking. "This debacle is one of many scenarios that remind us of why deliberate, well-coordinated and consistent internal communications are even more important in today’s climate where sensitive information leaks are becoming commonplace." If you're so inclined, you can read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eSjSG26d

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Reflections on the U.S. Election Results As the results came in, with Donald Trump emerging as the winner, the 2024 U.S. election has underscored both the intensity of the democratic process and the power of communication in modern campaigns. For communication and PR professionals, this election offers significant insights into messaging, perception management, and the role of media in shaping public opinion. From targeted messaging and relentless social media engagement to mastering digital platforms and addressing diverse demographics, Trump’s campaign demonstrated a keen understanding of data-driven outreach and direct communication with his base. His ability to resonate with core supporters while sparking conversations across media channels highlights the importance of clear, consistent messaging, even in polarizing times. This election also reflects the power of authenticity in public perception. Regardless of political stance, Trump’s direct, unfiltered communication style continued to attract supporters, showcasing a trend where authenticity—perceived or real—can outweigh traditional political decorum. For brands and professionals, the key takeaway here is the power of knowing your audience and speaking directly to them, staying consistent, and harnessing the potential of data and digital platforms. The election results remind us of the need to remain agile, responsive, and mindful of public sentiment. As we digest these results, let’s consider how we can apply these lessons in our own fields to engage meaningfully and authentically with our audiences. #USElectionResults #CommunicationInsights #DataDrivenMarketing #AudienceEngagement

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What happens when everyone is a media outlet? 🤔 My Weber Shandwick colleague Brad Burke challenges us to rethink how we create and consume information in 2024 in what I think is a pretty thought-provoking PRWeek article (which you can read here: https://lnkd.in/eDkszxFw), where he introduces the concept of a "media network effect." If you're in #BrandMarketing or #CorporateCommunications, this article might offer some interesting insights into our ever-evolving media landscape: - We're living in a world where everyone has a TV studio in their pocket 📱 - Platforms allow anyone to build audiences around the world 🌎 - At the same time, #AI is not just creating content, but consuming it too 🤖 Does this new reality demand a shift in our approach to leverage this "media network effect" in our communication strategies? I believe so. I personally find this fascinating, and I love the fact that it's forcing us as communicators to be more curious, strategic, and creative. With that being said, I'm curious about what my "network" thinks. Drop a comment below or message me. Let's talk about what the "media network effect" means for our work and our society going forward. #MediaLandscape #CommunicationsStrategy #AIinMarketing #BrandStrategy

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AI is creating big changes in PR and marketing. With any new technology adoption, leaders set the tone that influences its success or failure. Read my Entrepreneur article to learn more about the role leaders need to play in setting AI strategy. https://bit.ly/3vwcxEn #AI #PR #marketing

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Trust and transparency are built through consistency, not perfection. That has to start internally & your comms team has to live this core value. Why? ⤵️ PR often helps lead the charge in mobilizing the internal and external distribution of your message, so it’s helpful for communications pros to be honest with themselves on where they themselves might be the issues. Been there. We can all improve. Recognizing when you’ve skewed towards the “bad” examples from sports PR below -- and then working to quickly shift back to the fix -- is how you grow, sustain or rebuild trust. Small shifts in approach can dramatically improve team effectiveness.

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https://lnkd.in/ezc35aYC If your business had a theme song, what would it be? You know, the opening credits to your work day. The anthem you'd play when you closed "the deal" or what you'd play to get you up outta bed when you're just plain lacking. According to Tom Barltrop, the co-founder and CEO of SuperFi, his business anthem would be Bob Marley's "One Love"; guaranteed good vibes for SuperFi's mission is to instil positive change.   Tom is the first interviewee for Cherish PR's new Startup Spotlight series in which we understand what makes a great Founder. What inspires them? What challenges them and what advice would they give to others in their position? Over the coming months, Startup Spotlight will share the thoughts, advice and business anthems from some of the most exciting new founders both here in the UK and internationally. Oh and by the way, if you're asking, my anthem is Kanye. Stronger of course... What's your business anthem? #startups #founders #innovation #PR

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Mega-mergers like Omnicom and Interpublic should raise serious concerns for companies navigating sensitive public policy and PR challenges. When a single corporate conglomerate owns agencies representing BOTH SIDES of a conflict, how can you be sure your strategy stays protected? Conflicts of interest and blurred lines seem inevitable. In the high-stakes world of public affairs and PR, discretion and loyalty are non-negotiable. That’s why so many organizations turn to independent firms like Sachs Media for: ✔️ Conflict-free representation ✔️ Strict confidentiality with no shared parent company ✔️ Direct, senior-level attention without competing priorities In a world where influence is everything, your voice should never be just another account on a balance sheet. Choose partners working only for YOU.

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The @PageSociety just released its newest report Beyond Communication: CCO Leadership in Navigating New Complexity. The findings underscore the CCO as an ever-more-essential partner with the CEO in defining and activating corporate character. Read more here: https://hubs.la/Q02x4nPQ0

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