Seasoned social media veterans and those interested in learning about the latest and greatest social media trends are invited to attend SE Wisconsin PRSA’s presentation New Social Media Platforms: Should you be (P)interested? The luncheon will be held March 21 at 11:30 a.m. at the Pfister Hotel.
Presenters include Dennis Jenders, Vice President, Digital + Communications Strategy at Laughlin Constable, Katie Klein-Murphy, Social Media Strategist at Boelter + Lincoln, Carol Voss, PR & Marketing Director at Independence First and Tim Cigelske, Senior Communications Specialist at Marquette University.
Click here to register by March 19.
I recently caught up with Tim Cigelske for a quick question and answer session about his life and what you might expect to learn about his presentation.
Tell me a little about yourself.
I’m married (to Jess) with an almost 2-year-old daughter (Clara) and a beagle (Bella). I work at Marquette where I handle the main university social media accounts. On the side I sell used T-shirts at Teecycle.org and blog about beer and running — yes, both together — at DRAFTMag.com. I’ve been running and drinking beer every day for 528 consecutive days.
What is your favorite aspect of working in social media?
The constant innovation is mind-blowing. It feels like you get the chance to be on the cutting edge of history and get to help author one of the first chapters of these technologies. But it’s not all fun and games — the challenge is then how do you harness new media to deliver your message in a creative, lasting and meaningful way.
How do you identify a new social media platform as having PR potential?
In a nutshell, it has to meet three criteria: 1) It has to show significant growth and growth potential — not just a fly-by-night platform. 2) Our audience has to be there and want us to be there. 3) It has to be doing something new or innovative. If those criteria are met, we devise a plan of how we fit in and deliver what our audience wants.
Let’s focus on Pinterest. Why should PR pros take note of this platform in particular?
Let’s start with the fact that it’s the fastest growing website in history. That’s good reason to take notice. Beyond those numbers, its ability to generate traffic back to your website at an increasing rate makes it worthwhile. How could you NOT want to help people showcase their favorite things about your brand on their Pinterest boards?
What key takeaways will attendees gather from the presentation on March 21?
I know that social media fatigue is a real thing, and people often don’t want to hear about the new new thing because they’re content with the status quo. But a little education goes a long way. Those who don’t know about the powerful next wave of social media tools are missing out on opportunities to beat their competition — or they’ll get beaten by their competition. So come and learn how Facebook, Timeline, Pinterest, Tumblr and other platforms can help your clients or businesses win.
