Scheduled Presentations
"Using Storytelling to Make a Pitch" - Jennifer Moore, KSMU
From the perspective of those running a newsroom, the nuggets of storytelling can make one press release stand out from another. And there are few people in our area better at the art of storytelling than Jennifer Moore, news director at KSMU. Jennifer will show you how PR and communications professionals can put storytelling skills to work to make your story unique and memorable. She’ll also talk about what journalists need and look for in terms of telling their news stories, and how public relations professionals can better think like storytellers.
"Media Training Essentials: How to Manage Media Interviews" - Anthony Hicks, Shelby Residential & Vocational Services (Memphis, Tennessee)
Whether you’re new to PR and media relations or an experienced professional, interviews with reporters can be one of the most nerve-wracking aspects of the job. But they don’t have to be the stuff of flop sweat and nightmares, if you’re properly prepared for the task at hand. As director of public relations for SRVS, Anthony brings a wealth of corporate and civic communications experience – and nearly a decade as a newspaper reporter – to Springfield to help you properly prepare to meet the press. From knowing what makes news to recognizing potential land mines, this session will add a valuable tool to your PR toolbox.
Panel Discussion: How to Make Your Voice Heard
Panelists:
Mike Brothers, Drury University;
Sonya Kullmann, Mercy; and
Emily Yeap, Missouri State University
Journalists' time and reporting space is limited, so making an impact - through the use of a unique voice, brand and message - is critical to standing out and being noticed. Hear from local professionals who have successfully carved out an identity for their organization and learn how you can put some of their techniques to work in your own work.
Panel Discussion: The State of the Media
Panelists:
Madison Hever, KOLR/KRBK-TV;
Sara Karnes, Springfield News-Leader;
Ashley Reynolds, KY3; and
Christine Temple, Springfield Business Journal
From consolidation and cross-platform partnerships to changing consumer habits and the impact of social media, the process of reporting the news has changed dramatically even in the last few years. Local media professionals will offer their insights into what it's like to make a living keeping the public informed each day, including how the industry is evolving and how we as public relations professionals fit into the equation.
PR Pitch Tank
Bring your story pitch ideas and present them to our media panelists, who have agreed to offer constructive feedback on how they can be improved and whether they would be successful in making it to print or the airwaves. It's your chance to learn in real time from those who make the decisions about coverage for your organization every day!