Whether you work for a corporation, association, nonprofit, or government agency, PR professionals are busy! Addis Communications recently interviewed senior-level health and science communications professionals and asked them about their favorite PR hack — an app, a resource, or something they do that makes their work life a bit easier. Here’s what they said.
John Seng, Senior Counselor, Prosper Group: “I’m a big fan of Evernote, an app that keeps everything organized and in one place.”
Lisa-Joy Zgorski, Public Affairs Specialist, National Science Foundation: “Help a Reporter Out is the resource I use. I read the multiple listings each day and identify those in need of an expert source. Never has it been so important that reporting be evidenced based and incorporate real science.”
Patrick McCarthy, Director of Communications and Outreach, Ripple Effect: “I ALWAYS have the same person pitch the same publication/reporters. Doing so allows the reporter to build a virtual relationship with the staff member pitching them. As a result, the reporter’s recognition/connection with a trustworthy source has yielded more successful media campaigns.”
Kelly Mack, Public Affairs Specialist, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services/Administration for Community Living: “For basic social analytics, I like Sprout Social.”
Suzanne Ffolkes, Chief Communications Officer, The Optical Society: “I find it easier to communicate with colleagues in-person as opposed to doing so via email to get pertinent information necessary to complete assignments. So much more information can be shared through in-person communication and it improves collaboration.”
Terry Savage, Vice President, Westat Health Communications: “I take my dogs for a long walk every morning. I use the time when I’m unplugged and outdoors to think. By the time I get back home, I’ve figured out how best to craft a message, reach an audience, or solve a problem.”
Lauren Smith Dyer, Vice President of Communications, Alliance for Aging Research: “Invest in the right program or software for your needs, whether it’s a comprehensive media database like Cision or an upgraded email management and distribution platform like Pardot, to maximize efficiencies. This can be a lifesaver when you’re busy and on deadline.”
Peter Inchauteguiz, CAE, Senior Director, Strategic Marketing and Communication, American Institute of Physics: “I give my team clear direction, and then give them space and support to actually do their jobs. I don’t get wrapped up in minutia and I trust my team to do their jobs.”
Andrea Hofelich, Vice President, Communications, National Pharmaceutical Council: “I try to build some break time into my schedule that takes me away from the computer, whether it’s going to the gym or taking a walk around the block. It clears my head and gets the creative juices flowing, making me more focused when I return to my desk.”
Jaime Shimkus, Vice President, Communications, National Commission on Correctional Health Care: “I recently discovered a website called Upwork – it’s like an Airbnb or Lyft to connect clients and freelance talent. I opened an account, posted the job, and within 2 days received more than a dozen proposals, including several that are a very strong match.”
As for me, my favorite PR hack is an app called MileIQ, which keeps track of all your mileage and categorizes it as business or personal. It’s an efficient and cost-effective way to keep track of my business miles. I especially love the end-of-the-month report that is generated.”
