Students: Join Us at #140conf for Free

Hopefully by now you've started to hear the buzz about #140conf Detroit. The recent fall weather in D-town has been a reminder that Oct. 20 is just around the corner, and things are definitely gearing up for what's sure to be a great event.

The conference schedule was released earlier this week, and as you can tell we've got an amazing lineup of speakers. We were really impressed by the number and quality of speaker proposals received, and ideally we'd include them all!

But the big news I've got is for all the students out there. The man behind #140conf, Jeff Pulver, has a tradition of providing students access to many of the events he's associated with. As such, he's offering FREE general admission tickets to the first 250 students who register.

As a recent graduate, I can definitely relate to being cash-strapped in college--but that's why this is such an amazing opportunity. Many conferences offer student discounts or rates, but oftentimes it still involves an out-of-pocket investment on the student's part. At #140conf, student tickets are 100 percent FREE.

Students will have a great opportunity to hear from both emerging and established professionals from a variety of industries. It's also a chance to meet some of the movers and shakers in Detroit and beyond--a big bonus for those of you looking for jobs or internships.

The tickets are first come, first served--so what are you waiting for? Visit http://detroit2010.140conf.com/students for all the details. And everyone else shouldn't delay either; the early bird discount ticket rate expires this Friday!

P.S. If you're sure you won't be able to join us for whatever reason, the event will be live streamed (details coming soon).

Mark Your Calendar For #140conf Detroit

It isn't often you meet a guy like Jeff Pulver. Jeff is a lot of things, but he describes himself as a "technology anthropologist." Whether or not you know exactly what that means, I can tell you Jeff is one guy you should definitely get to know.

Jeff is the mastermind behind the 140 Characters Conference (#140conf), a conference dedicated to "Exploring the State of Now" and the impact real-time web has had on our world. After taking his conference to cities such as Los Angeles, NYC and even London, Jeff is bringing his #140conf to Detroit--and he says there's no better place on earth to do an event than right here in D-town.

The #140conf will come to The Fillmore in the heart of Detroit on October 20, and will feature brief talks from a variety of people across all industries who will share their stories about the social web. #140conf is not just about Twitter and is probably unlike any conference you've been to. The #140conf is about connecting with others, and about how real-time web impacts each and every one of us.

But don't be fooled, this conference is not just for Detroiters. We're inviting people from around the world to join us. And since its the first #140conf in the Midwest, we're definitely calling on our friends in Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin and beyond to join in our efforts to make #140conf Detroit the best yet.

So mark your calendars for Oct. 20 because this is going to be big. We've got a lot of things in the works for #140conf Detroit including a pre-conference roadtrip, a day of community service and much much more. Stay tuned for more details, but in the meantime check out the #140conf Detroit website for more information. Also, if you've got an interesting story to share or know someone who does, we invite you to check out our speaking proposal form. Speaker submissions are due August 6.

And if you do have the pleasure of meeting Jeff Pulver, don't be surprised if he goes for a hug instead of a handshake--it's a genuine reflection of his passion for people.

Surviving the Real World

Well, as of Friday afternoon, I officially survived my first full week as a full-time employee at Franco Public Relations Group. I would describe it as busy, overwhelming and somewhat hectic, but most of all I'd say it was amazing.

Although my first week consisted of a lot of administrative tasks that go along with starting a new job and learning the ropes, my favorite part was that I got to jump right into my work. My first day I was pitching producers of a major Detroit news station. My fourth day I coordinated an interview for a regional magazine that had been an evasive placement for a particular client in the past. I've been assigned to a number of diverse clients, each unique in their own ways, and I couldn't be happier.

Sure, getting used to waking up at 7 a.m. everyday and getting home after 6 p.m. has been an adjustment. Even though I was used to the schedule of a spoiled college student (my earliest class was 11 a.m.), I'm finding it easier to wake up each and every day. Last week, I even woke up before my alarm went off (eek!).

For those who are getting ready to make their own transitions into full-time ventures, here's a few pieces of advice:

1. Don't be afraid to jump right in. It's important to remember your employer picked you for a reason--because they have confidence in your abilities. Give your opinion when it's appropriate, demonstrate drive and effort, and show that you fit in as a valued member of the team. Sure, you need to respect principles of teamwork and the guidelines you're given for assignments, but always know that you're capable of doing the job you were brought there to do, so why waste any time getting started?

2. Take notes and ask questions. I felt like I was on information overload for my first few days. From getting caught up on client accounts to learning how to use the copy/fax machine, the amount of information you'll be getting might seem overwhelming and it's easy to get confused. That's why it's important to write everything down as you go through it, and ask for clarification when needed. Remember that everyone had to start somewhere, so most people will be more than willing to help you out because they've been there too.

3. Don't expect to adjust overnight. For most people, starting your first full-time job is going to be a major adjustment--and I don't just mean getting up early. There are things about your day that you'll need time to get used to, like where your workout fits in at or whether to pack your lunch the night before or morning of work. In my own case, a difficult adjustment has been being one of only a few friends who isn't enjoying a low-commitment summer. I know as time goes on, more and more of my friends will join me in the world of full-time employment, but for now I'll struggle with being teased for looking forward to "blue jean Fridays."

Do you remember starting your first full-time job? What other advice would you add?

Book Review: "Yes! You Can Land a Job"

First off, let me admit--this post is long overdue. Last March I attended the Women & Leadership in the Workplace luncheon, an event put on by the Michigan Business & Professional Association. Although I was there in support of former Central Michigan University Interim President Kathy Wilbur (who was being recognized), I had the opportunity to meet several female leaders from a variety of industries and organizations.

One such woman I met was Therese Marie Boldt. Therese has made her success by being a professional career coach. She founded her own company, Meet Therese, and also serves as the Morning News Career Coach for Fox 2 Detroit. Therese was at the luncheon to promote her book and was kind enough to give me a free copy of it, being the eager job-seeking-soon-to-be-college-graduate that I was.

Therese's book, "Yes! You Can Land a Job (Even) in a Crummy Economy" was a very refreshing read. She provides a lot of valuable information and I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who is currently looking for work. At approximately 200 pages, it is a quick and easy read--especially since the chapters are broken up into sections of five to 10 pages each.

The book is designed to help the reader establish goals, values and a vision for his or her employment. There are tips on how to search for a job, how to market yourself, what to say during an interview, how to present yourself (in person and on paper) and much much more. I liked that the chapters were infused with personal anecdotes from Therese that gave real-world examples for me to relate to. Although I did find that some of the tips were things I already knew (from past professional development and career workshops), I still found the information to be valuable and applicable to my life.

And best of all, Therese speaks the truth. You really can land a job, even in this economy--even in Michigan. I (unknowingly) used many of the tips Therese talked about in my own job search, and am excited to be starting my first job at Franco Public Relations next week--just one month after graduating from college.

So if you're a recent college grad or even someone looking to make your next career move, I'd recommend picking up Therese's book. At $14.95, you can't go wrong.

You can follow Therese on Twitter at @ThereseMarie, or, visit her website at www.meettherese.com.

*I received a complimentary copy of Therese's book, "Yes! You Can Land a Job." The words and opinions contained in this post are my own.

Starting My Career

With graduation just a few short weeks away, I've definitely been feeling the crunch. I can't believe my four years at Central Michigan University are coming to an end. I have to say the feeling is bittersweet. On one hand, I know I am going to miss CMU and all the friends and memories I've made. However, I am definitely ready to enter the next phase of my life and launch my career.

On that note, I am very excited to announce I will be joining the team at Franco Public Relations Group this June.

As a former Franco intern, I'm happy to have the chance to return to a wonderful place to work--and I'm not just saying that. Last year Franco was named one of the "Coolest Places to Work in Tough Times" by Crain's Detroit Business.

I would really like to thank every single person that helped me along the way. If you're reading this, there is a good chance I probably called, emailed, messaged, Tweeted or contacted you in some other way asking for advice. Words can't express how much I value the support and guidance I received from everyone. I'd love to thank you individually, but honestly there are just too many to name! I don't know what I would have done without such a strong support system.

I am very grateful to have such a wonderful opportunity lined up, and I have to admit it is a huge weight off my shoulders. As the last few weeks of my college career come to an end, I definitely have to say getting a job is the best graduation gift I could ask for!

Students: Going on Vacay? Don't Forget to Set Up Notifications

I, like many college students, have the luxury of being able to take a (mostly) worry-free, week-long vacation this spring break. I'll be cruising through the Caribbean with my roommate and her family, hoping we don't come across any tidal waves.

But it's important to remember that many students have responsibilities, whether it be schoolwork, extra curricular activities, a job or something else. The times of being able to disappear from society for a few days are pretty much gone for most students, despite not having full-time jobs.

So it is important to give proper notification if you are going on spring break or will be out of touch for an extended period of time. Some ways to do this are:

• Leave notification on your cell phone or main phone number's voicemail message. This way, anyone who tries to reach you will not think you are just ignoring their call.
  
• Set up an automatic e-mail vacation responder. Most email servers have this capability, which will automatically reply to any emails you receive with a message you create.
• Post the notification to your appropriate social networks.
  

For all of these options, remember to only give the basic/necessary information which is: you are on vacation, are unable to immediately respond and the date you will return. You don't want to give not-so-professional details about your spring break, such as "I'm going to Panama City Beach to get crazy for a week! See ya!!" Keep your messages professional and to the point.

The purpose of this is to ensure that anyone who tries to contact you while you are away is aware that you are out of touch. In our society of instant communication, any response that takes more than a day (or even a few hours) can leave some people scratching their heads. You don't want your contacts guessing about why you aren't responding, which can lead to assumptions and possibly some unfortunate outcomes.

Not all students will need to use all, or even any, of these tips, but as the old saying goes...it's always better to be safe than sorry.

What other pointers can you add?

HAPPO: #HireHernandez

Hello everyone and happy #HAPPO Day! For those of you who don't know, #HAPPO is a grassroots effort led by Arik Hanson and Valerie Simon that brings together job-seekers and employers in the PR industry. Basically, PR pros looking for jobs prepare creative blog posts that are shared via Twitter during #HAPPO, which is Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. to 2p.m. EST. During this time, employers will also be sharing information on position openings, while others can Tweet their support along the way.

The following post is my pitch for #HAPPO, or Help a PR Pro Out Day. To track information about my job search, use Twitter hashtag #HireHernandez. You can connect with me on Twitter at @AngelaHernandez.




Quick Facts

Below are some quick highlights about me. For more details and information, please visit www.angelamhernandez.com.

Name:
Angela Marie Hernandez

Age:
21 ripe years of age

Current Location:
Mt. Pleasant, Mich. (willing to relocate)

Education:
Three short months away from a B.A.A. in Integrative Public Relations with a minor in Leadership Studies

GPA: 3.94/4.0

Public Relations Experience & Internships:

• Central Michigan University College of Communication and Fine Arts
  
• Franco Public Relations Group
  
• Central Michigan University College of Business Administration
• Central Michigan University Public Relations and Marketing
• The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village
• The Detroit Lions
• The Guidance Center
• PR Central

Why You Should Hire Me:

• I have had a variety of internship experiences (agency, non-profit, tourism, higher education and more) and am ready for the next step in my career.
• I would describe myself as highly motivated, driven and dedicated.
• I have experience in writing, pitching, media relations, graphic design, media monitoring, media lists, media kits, research, social media, campaigns and much more.
• Writing is my passion and I consider myself to be an AP Style/grammar Nazi.
  
• I am always eager to learn and am not afraid of a challenge.
• I'm ready to join your team!

Thanks so much for visiting my blog and I hope we can connect. Please feel free to e-mail me at hernandez.angelamarie@gmail.com.

Pitching Tips From a Tribune Editor

Over the weekend I attended a PRSSA regional activity at DePaul University in Chicago. The conference, "Get in the Loop Chi," featured agency tours, workshops, speakers and much more.

One of my favorite sessions from the conference was presented by Linda Bergstrom, lifestyle editor at The Chicago Tribune. The workshop, "Perfect Pitch: What You Need to Know About Media Relations," was both informative and entertaining.

I've been to pitching workshops before, but this one was unlike any other. Bergstrom started the workshop off by opening up her email inbox on the projector for all to see. A cloud of unopened email pitches from PR pros covered the screen. To amuse us, she read a few aloud.

Pitches starting with the generic, "Dear Editor" were abundant. Emails about upcoming concerts, art shows and other misguided information irrelevant to Bergstrom were not in short supply. One email seemed never-ending as it lacked any paragraph structure, and another clearly used exaggeration to make a client appear more sophisticated.

Bergstrom even brought along a stack of snail mail and gave each audience member a piece. While a small few were actually relevant, most was spam or addressed to the wrong person. One mailing actually included Bergstrom's title from upwards of 15 years ago.

Bergstrom, whose session mirrored lessons from the Bad Pitch Blog, did offer some advice to the budding PR pros in the audience. While some of her tips may seem obvious, you'd be surprised at how often editors like Bergstrom encounter them.

1. Have an attention-grabbing subject line. Your subject line should give a basic overview of what can be expected in the email without being too lengthy. If it doesn't sound interesting from the subject line, chances are the journalist is going to delete it. To save on words and allow for more detail, Bergstrom suggests leaving "Media Alert" out of the subject line as she believes the nature of the email is already implied.

2. Always include contact information and make it easy to find. Don't make a journalist search for your phone number. Contact information should be clearly provided at either the top or the bottom of a pitch every time, not buried somewhere in the story or included somewhere else.

3. Don't simply ask, "Did you get my email?" Most journalists get more pitches in a day than they can count. If you do a follow-up call, don't just ask them if they got your email--that question will only irritate the reporter and most likely will result in a dial tone on your end. Instead, say your name, organization and a quick overview of what the email was about before asking if they are interested in more information.

4. Know the editor's timeline. For pre-event coverage, Bergstrom suggests sending information six weeks in advance. While this may vary depending on the size of the media outlet, timing is everything. What good is a release if it's sent after story assignments have already been given? Unless it is something truly compelling, late information will not be covered.

5. Don't be the boy who cried wolf. As simple as it sounds, don't send information that is not newsworthy. If you have to send something that you feel is lacking, find a way to make it newsworthy. If you send elaborate pitches and releases for every little thing, it is likely that journalists will not be interested when you actually do have something worth covering.

Those are just a few of the many lessons on pitching from Bergstrom's session. Pitching is an art and is not something that comes easy. It takes practice and experience in order to do well, and even then there are no guarantees.

What pitching tips can you add?