Public Relations 2.0: Next Practices for Economic Development Marketers

April 18, 2012
2:30 - 4:00 pm EST

http://www.iedconline.org/?p=Public_Relations

News travels faster than ever in the age of social media. It creates unprecedented opportunities for economic developers to build support for projects, programs, and funding. New communication platforms also give economic development organizations an expanded set of tools for perfecting their brand, spreading positive news, and insuring that their services are well-utilized.

Along with the benefits of social media, however, come potential pitfalls. A negative tweet, a critical article, or an unauthorized update with leaked information can easily spread without the economic developer's consent - and could lead to a reputation or project-damaging news story.

In the face of these challenges, economic developers should be prepared to capitalize on - and not be victimized by - changes in the media landscape. This webinar will help participants understand the nature of new media and use it to their full advantage.

Webinar Attendees will Learn:
• How to monitor proprietary information on social media outlets
• Ways to include social media networks for coverage of your organization or community
• New technology tools available for public relations
• Tips for dealing with both negative and positive stories

SPEAKERS:

Mr. Andrew T. Levine
President & Chief Creative Officer
Development Counsellors International
New York, NY

Andrew Levine is President of Development Counsellors International (DCI), a New York-based firm that specializes exclusively in economic development and tourism marketing. Since 1960 his firm has worked with over 350 cities, regions, state and countries helping them to attract both investors and visitors. He is the primary author of "Winning Strategies in the Economic Development Marketing" (a continuing survey of corporate executives with site selection responsibilities). He has spoken before a range of audiences including the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA), European Association of Development Agencies (EURADA), Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations (ESTO), and the World Investment Conference (WIC).

Jennifer Wakefield
Director, Public Relations
Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission
Orlando, FL

As Director of Public Relations, Jennifer Wakefield is responsible for providing strategic direction for the organization's public relations efforts; managing media relations and social media; providing communication counsel to the organization's executives and board officers; and developing various communication and marketing materials. Ms. Wakefield is recognized as a thought leader in developing social media strategies and has extensive experience in strategic communications planning, executive consulting, proactive issues management and media relations. Results of her media relations work have appeared in New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Business 2.0, CNET, BNET, CNN.com, USA Today, Delta Sky, Lufthansa Exclusive, AirTran GO, as well as regional, national, international media outlets and industry trade publications.

http://www.iedconline.org/?p=Public_Relations