If you only do one thing this month...
...seize the day
January is all about New Year’s resolutions, so take the opportunity to make opportunities for you and your business while your customers are in the mindset of embracing change.
When was the last time you contacted lapsed customers? Do it. You never know what could happen…
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The PR trends to watch for in 2012
Here’s our prediction - 2012 will be the year of true integration.
People talk a lot about integrated communications, but there are few organisations truly embracing it. Those who do are the ones who will succeed, creating and delivering consistent and carefully integrated messages using a range of targeted and relevant media.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what to look out for in 2012. The rise and rise of technology won’t come as a surprise to many, but what about the return of more ‘traditional’ techniques such as printed newsletters and direct mail?
We’d love to hear your thoughts. See our top 10 trends here
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Where will you be on 8 February?
Picture the scene.
It’s February 2003. Rowan Williams is preparing to be enthroned as the 104th Archbishop of Canterbury. Russian pop duo Tatu start a four-week run at number one in the UK singles chart (not to mention ruffling a few feathers with their video). The Federal Republic of Yugoslavia is officially renamed Serbia and Montenegro, and the London Congestion Charge is launched.
Meanwhile, at York Racecourse, something very special is starting.
The first Venturefest Yorkshire took place in February 2003, bringing together 1000 entrepreneurs and people with the skills, experience and capacity to help them get their ideas off the ground.
In February this year, Venturefest Yorkshire returns for its ninth year to showcase and support the science and technology entrepreneurs who are creating the ideas that will shape and change the world.
In its nine-year history, Venturefest has welcomed more than 15,000 people to York Racecourse; given away over £320,000 in business support, seen some of its entrepreneurs take on the BBC dragons (and win!) and provided a showcase for the region’s entrepreneurial talent.
And we’ve been there since the beginning, delivering PR support that is continuing to help spread the word about Venturefest; to build awareness of the fantastic work that’s being done by science and technology entrepreneurs across Yorkshire to turn new ideas into viable and successful businesses; and to help put those entrepreneurs in touch with the people who can help make their ideas reality.
So if you know science and technology entrepreneurs looking for investment, advice and support, there’s only one place they should be on 8 February. See www.venturefestyorkshire.net for more info.
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Lights, Camera, Action
There is no doubt that video is a powerful marketing tool that helps enhance your website and promotional activities, but what are the key considerations when introducing video as part of your marketing communications?
Terry Simmons from Magnetic Buzz specialises in business video and gives us some pointers to consider:
1. Be very clear about the purpose of the video. Is it to raise brand awareness, introduce new products and services, to keep people on your website for longer or to explain a concept which is difficult using the written word?
2. The storyboard and script is the foundation of an effective video. Your videographer should help you develop a storyboard that captures the key messages to be presented and in an order that makes sense in terms of telling the story. The storyboard then forms the basis for the script which will define the pace, tone and length of the video.
3. Decide whether you want video footage, a graphically animated video or a mixture of the two. Do you want talking heads or is this best dealt with using a voice over?
4. Decide upon the formats that you need as this will dictate the video resolution. If it is purely for web then you may be able to use standard definition video – if you are going to also use the video on a large screen at an exhibition or seminar then you want high definition, high resolution video. If you are not sure then go for the highest resolution.
5. Maximise the distribution and exposure of your video – web, laptops, mobiles and emails to name but a few.
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