The Importance of Compassion in Communications
Communicators have the power to inform, influence and lead the way with words. What we say and how we say it matters. Sometimes, we forget to be as caring as possible with those words. PR professionals need to acclimate to the rising temperatures of today’s public sentiment.
Rebranding Latino Leadership in PR
My goal is to help tell the Hispanic/Latino story for the PR profession. Through this monthly column, I’m thankful that Strategies & Tactics has given me the opportunity to provide useful, relatable information that could help open the door for Hispanic/Latino PR pros and provide advice on how to tap into Hispanic communities.
Technology and Spanish Translations
PR pros are facing a language conundrum as the United States becomes more Hispanic in numbers. Counties that historically did not have a significant Hispanic population saw huge growth according to the most recent Census. In fact, 517 counties of this makeup reported their Hispanic population grew by 50% or more in the last decade. Consider the undercount the Hispanic or Latino population the Census Bureau also reported. It’s time we all prepare to communicate better with Hispanic communities.
3 Ways to Avoid Cultural Crises
There’s a big difference between knowing and doing. How many of us PR professionals have advised a client or leader just to have that gold nugget of advice ignored? The gap between hearing and actually listening is wide. The gap between knowing something and taking action is often wider.
Seeing Is Believing for Latino Candidates
You’ve probably heard a lot about the Great Resignation by now. Perhaps you were one of many workers in the United States who decided to switch jobs or even career paths. If you’re new to public relations, then welcome!
Be Courageous When Communicating
Communicating when the stakes are high or the subject is uncomfortable can be a challenge for PR practitioners. It seems like tactfully sharing hard truths or facilitating sensitive conversations is somewhat a specialty. All PR professionals should become skilled in navigating tricky topics and conversations to be true advisers. Even crisis communication experts may have to overcome fear or anxious feelings that arise before communicating. We may not have that thick skin yet, but we can work to develop it.
Spanish Media Myths and Truths
I began my PR career at a Hispanic boutique agency. I didn’t know the difference between “general market” and Hispanic market media as a new grad, but soon learned about the divide. At a Hispanic or multicultural agency, you’re going to focus on the unique cultural attributes and communication preferences of a niche audience.
Help Tell Latino Stories
Think back to your American history class days. Which races were reflected in the textbook? The hard truth is that they probably weren’t Hispanic. Latinos are not even categorized as a race by the U.S. government. We’re an ethnic version of white. Is there a more symbolic way to explain how the Latino story is missing its rightful place in American stories?
Respect Educational Diversity
When is the last time you thought about the education level of your stakeholders? As PR professionals, we may think more about visual indicators of diversity than how people differ in ways we can’t see. The level of education people have can affect all aspects of their life. Have you considered tailoring your PR strategies in relation to educational diversity?
Cultural Competency Is a Must for All
In November, I was happy to attend PRSA’s ICON 2022 conference in Grapevine, Texas. The three-day event offered many rewarding experiences, but some situations there surprised me. I was excited to speak to hundreds of students and professionals at ICON 2022 about my new book, “Smart Talk: Public Relations Essentials All Pros Should Know.” As a communicator and agency owner, I am invested in PRSA. My team and I prepared for months for this milestone moment.
Book Sneak Peek: PR, DEI & Touchy Terminology
In Chapter 6, “Use Tailoring to Serve Multicultural Needs,” I dive deep into cultural strategy and why communicators should understand how to tailor their communication approaches for a multitude of audiences.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion PR Expert Releases First Book
Melissa Vela-Williamson provides valuable insights for those starting their PR career