tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35299988728126506642024-03-17T21:03:26.703-06:00Building the Rotary BrandRobyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-54291725529425617722018-07-11T12:10:00.000-06:002018-07-13T08:21:38.770-06:0053 Posts With Tips and Ideas for Increasing Membership and Growing Your Rotary Club<br />
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;">In 2014 Past
District Governor (5360) Pat Killoran asked me to help generate media attention
around Alberta Rotarians triggering a 2.1 million dollar donation to Polio
Plus. </span></b><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="https://soundcloud.com/robyn5360/5360-dg-pat-killoran-talks-to"><span style="color: blue;">Click for Pat's NEWSTALK 770 interview</span></a>. </span></b><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="https://www.newswire.ca/news-releases/alberta-rotarians-trigger-21-million-donation-for-worldwide-polio-eradication-by-2018-514072761.html"><span style="color: blue;">Click for Lethbridge Herald Story from CNW</span></a></span></b><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Through the 2-month pro</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">cess of developing the media event, a conversation started about
writing a monthly column in the District 5360 Newsletter about branding and
marketing Rotary Clubs. That was followed by a "DUH" moment when we
realized it was a natural evolution to publish a blog. That is how Buildling
the Rotary Brand came into being. </span></b></div>
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Within this site you will find 53 posts packed full of ideas to help grow local
clubs. I have created an index that lists the titles and links to the various
posts. I have grouped them by theme which means some recent posts are grouped
with </span></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;">Due to unexpected illness I am unable to finish this post by publishing deadline. Check back next week. Otherwise, please browse the site. Thank you for understanding. </span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;">Branding Your Club</span></b><b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/02/tips-for-creating-rotary-elevator.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">Tips For Creating A Rotary Elevator Speech That Works</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;">Member Engagement, New Member
Attraction<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2014/10/11-production-tips-for-making-rotary.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">11 Tips for Producing Rotary Meetings that Attract
Younger Members</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2014/09/building-rotary-brand-making-your.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">Are Your Rotary Meetings Visitor Friendly</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2014/10/marketing-to-new-members-power-of.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">Marketing to New Members; the Power of Rotary</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 18.0pt;">How to Develop a Club Social Media
Strategy</span></b><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/03/social-media-matters-more-for-rotary.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">Is it Time for Your Rotary Club to Launch a Social Media
Program?</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">8 'Ps' Your Service Club Needs to Know for Social Media
Success!</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/06/effective-website.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">Is Your Rotary Club's Website Engaging? Is it Relevant?
Does it Offer Marketing Value?</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2014/10/harnessing-power-of-enews-written-by.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">An Easy Way to Market Rotary! Harness the Power of Emails</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2014/11/creating-linkedin-profile-for.html"><span style="color: #11cc66; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;">Creating
LinkedIn Profiles for Rotarians; Connecting With New Members</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 18.0pt;">Media Relations</span></b><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2014/10/its-all-about-stories-rotary-has-them.html"><span style="color: #11cc66; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;">Media is
All About Stories and Rotary Has Them</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">How do you Create a Rotary Media Event? It’s all in the
Details!</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 18.0pt;">Creating an Engaging Club Speaker
Program</span></b><b><span style="color: black; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/09/part-1-can-your-clubs-speakers-program.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">Part 1; Can Your Club’s Speaker’s Program be Improved</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/09/part-2-building-winning-rotary-club.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">Part 2; Building a Winning Rotary Club Speakers Program</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/12/part-3-insider-tips-for-building-strong.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">Part 3 Insider Tips for Building a Strong Rotary Club
Speaker Program; The Mechanics</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/08/uncomfortable-speaking-before-audience.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">Does Speaking to a LARGE or Small Audience Scare You
Silly? Intimidated? This post is for you!</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16.5pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2015/11/38-quotes-to-challenge-inspire-motivate.html"><span style="color: #11cc66;">38 Quotes to Challenge, Inspire, Motivate, Encourage,
Entertain and Uplift!</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-15752803349472249612018-05-30T13:31:00.010-06:002021-03-18T14:30:38.192-06:00Creating a Sponsorship Recognition Package Can Work Both Ways (Part 2)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRIRKye_iPTfdu0X1MCptBDTiAstxt2ydqM7tTcS8xeF492AEDiQSTcdg3FTbgW0TDIZ_D1-InBShJI-Y_I3-Jja7OnUaZM5Uwmu7ofUoBkZGd2__u6r6ZiPW7D7A_EGgjKl6T36Ne7Q/s1600/068.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="379" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWRIRKye_iPTfdu0X1MCptBDTiAstxt2ydqM7tTcS8xeF492AEDiQSTcdg3FTbgW0TDIZ_D1-InBShJI-Y_I3-Jja7OnUaZM5Uwmu7ofUoBkZGd2__u6r6ZiPW7D7A_EGgjKl6T36Ne7Q/w569-h379/068.JPG" width="569" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: small;">Rotary Park overlooks this dynamic city scape<br />in Calgary, Alberta</span><br />
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<b>Written by Robyn T. Braley</b></h3>
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Creating a recognition strategy for sponsorship may require creativity and imagination. Or, it can be simple and straightforward. </span></h2>
Each sponsorship is unique because each sponsor has different reasons for becoming a sponsor. In Part I, <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Unleash the Power of Sponsorship for Your Service Club</a>, I gave examples of the varied motives that drove different organizations to use sponsorship to achieve public relations, advertising philanthropic or other goals.
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Sponsorship
can be used by Rotary Clubs in two different ways. First, your club may be the
major funder of a project or event. You may be the title, or name sponsor, or a
cosponsor. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Or, your club may be developing a project or event that needs funding
partners to help make it possible. You will need to provide recognition options
to acknowledge their participation. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Why Sponsors Sponsor </span></h3>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">My friend and colleague, Brent Barootes, is a sponsorship specialist. He makes the point that there is no one way to build a sponsorship acknowledgement and recognition program. He can list 30+ reasons why sponsors sponsor.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">Brent narrows them down to 4 primary reasons that make sponsorship a viable option.</span><br />
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<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Sponsorship engages people</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Sponsorship allows you to target an audience segment</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Enhance audience experiences to build brand affinity and customer loyalty</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Drive customers to your brand </span></li>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Pretty much anything can be sponsored. In Rotary, sponsorship can help make possible fund-raising events like banquets, marathons or conferences. Sponsors might fund the expenses, donate services or make a donation large enough to be named the Title Sponsor.</span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif"> </span><br />
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<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Raise cash</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Secure products or services through barter</span></li>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">An organization that I support holds a fund-raising banquet every fall that is attended by about 700 people. A sponsor underwrites the cost of each meal.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Because of the sponsor’s annual generosity, people are generous with their gifts. Everything raised through the event goes directly to the cause the people are there to support. They also ‘feel good’ about the sponsor.<o:p></o:p></span><br /><br />
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Know the Risks</span></h3>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">I don’t want to assume sponsorship partners will ask important questions before doing a deal. Before entering a sponsorship relationship, know the risks. In public relations terms, if things go sideways, the sponsorship could cost far more than the agreed upon dollar value.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">In effect, you are positioning your organization with theirs. You are making the statement that your organization supports theirs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Do both organizations adhere to similar values and principles?</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Are there any questions about reparations?</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">What could go wrong?</span></li>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Leveraging Sponsorship Relationship</span></h3>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Each February my Rotary club bakes, assembles and delivers strawberry shortcakes. Businesses or individuals buy and have them delivered to their clients or employees. That makes the project a win-win-win proposition.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">One year we sold 7,300 cakes at $5.00 each and raised $36,500 dollars. We developed a sponsorship program that raised or saved cash by exchanging recognition for the provision of services.</span></div>
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<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Stampede Messenger – Gave a full day of access to their routing system for Rotarians to schedule deliveries on distribution day</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">TigerTel – A telephone messaging provider took phone orders and payments.</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Unimark Creative – Designed a logo, a dedicated website, provided media services and graphic design</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Valentine Volvo – Paid for sponsorship for obvious Valentine’s Day positioning reasons</span></li>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">In exchange, sponsors received a sponsor acknowledgement along with their logo on the event website, in media releases, verbal announcements at area Rotary clubs, and promotional flyers.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">We left a Rotary “Thankyou” tent card that included sponsor acknowledgments at the locations of all shortcake recipients. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Then we stepped it up a notch. Remember the rule that if you feel good about a thing that happens in the community you will feel good about the people who help make that good thing happen?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">We paid for the printing of customized flyers that had only one sponsor acknowledged. Each sponsor sent the flyers to their customers with their monthly billings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">A combined total of approximately 10,000 flyers were sent out providing additional advertising for us while letting their customers know they were doing a good thing for the community.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Rotary Clubs can also use the sponsorship theory in reverse. When clubs fund a park, a health facility, and arts or any other event, including the name Rotary among other sponsors or as the title sponsor can bring lasting recognition.</span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Further, drawing attention to the sponsorship using other methods builds the community profile and increases the exposure within targeted audiences. </span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">In Calgary, Alberta, city and area Rotary Clubs contributed significant funds to the development of <a href="https://www.challengerpark.com/">Rotary Challenger Park</a>. The park is an </span><span style="background: white;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="color: #545454;">inclusive barrier-free park for people of all abilities to enjoy sports fields, meeting rooms, basketball and tennis courts. It was created specifically as a recreation park for people with disabilities. </span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">When sporting or community events are held at the park, Rotary receives publicity every time the location is mentioned. Clubs continue to provide funding for various development projects at this highly successful event centre.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #333333;"><a href="http://www.parksfdn.com/greenway-1/">The Rotary Mattamy Greenway</a> links parks, natural areas, green spaces, river valleys and citizens. It is a 138km urban pathway system that encircles the entire City of Calgary. It passes through 55 communities and connects with 1,0000 kms of existing pathways. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #333333;">The pathways can be used to commute to work or for free recreation activities all year round.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #333333;">Our city’s oldest club, the Calgary Downtown Rotary Club, funded a park in the 1930’s which was named <a href="http://www.calgary.ca/CSPS/Parks/Pages/Locations/NE-parks/Rotary-Park.aspx">Rotary Park</a> to acknowledge the club’s role in building the park. It includes walking paths, an off-leash area for dogs, an accessible playground and a spray park.</span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #333333;">Rotary Park is located on the top of a hill directly overlooking the dramatic architecture of our downtown cityscape. On clear days, you can see the Rocky Mountains off to the west.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""helvetica" , sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #333333;">If you were a child in the 1930’s and visited the park once a year, you would have witnessed the growth the heart of the city from a small city of about 85,000 to become the third-largest city in Canada with a population around </span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">1,300,000 today.</span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #222222;">With each yearly visit, you would have been reminded of the role Rotary played in making the quiet park offering such spectacular views possible.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="background: white; color: #333333;">The Rotary Flames House is a community-based hospice located on the grounds of the Alberta Children’s Hospital. It provides care for children from birth to 18 years who have a serious illness and may not live to adulthood. Major funding was provided by area Rotary clubs and the Calgary Flames, our National Hockey League team.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Calgary and area Rotary Clubs have also funded unique programs for seniors. The Rotary-Bethany Partnership has worked together to build an indoor garden especially designed for people living with Alzheimer’s disease.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: center;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: small;">Architectural rendering of the Rotary Bethany Atrium</span></td></tr>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Called the Atrium, the gardens will be a one-of-a-kind environment. Bethany Care is an industry-leader in providing dementia care.</span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><a href="https://ouratrium.com/">The Rotary-BethanyAtrium</a> is part of a state-of-the art living centre that can accommodate about 200 residents. The Rotary principles of service and friendship are incorporated into an environment where neighbours, friends, and community leaders come together to create a caring community.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Finally, Kerby Rotary Shelter is the first purpose-built shelter in North America for older adults facing elder abuse. Elder abuse is often not talked about. The shelter provides a safe place for seniors experiencing physical, emotional and other forms of abuse.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">10 Ways to Acknowledge a Sponsorship</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 7pt;"> </span></h3>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">There is no simple way to package sponsorship acknowledgements. A package might include a 'full meal deal' of thankyou's in different forms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">On the other side, there may be little public recognition involved. A sponsor may only want a tax receipt, a letter of thanks, a plaque on a donations wall, and perhaps lunch with the influential Chair of the not-for-profit organization.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">8.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span></span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Fashion-wear featuring sponsor logos worn by event staff or given away to those attending<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="text-align: center;"><i><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="border: 1pt none; padding: 0cm;">What do you think? Do you have stories about sponsorship? Do you have tips? Did you start a conversation with someone who became a Rotarian? Your insights are welcome. Please comment below. </span></i></b></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US"><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies. He currently serves on the District 5360 Membership Committee.</i></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.com/2018/05/sponsorship-works-for-service-clubs.html">Unleash the Power of Sponsorship for Your Rotary Club</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2018/01/guerrilla-strategies-for-rotary-club.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">10 Guerrilla Strategies for Rotary Club Growth</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/11/six-step-plan-for-sustainable-rotary.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Six Step Plan for Sustainable Rotary Club Growth</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/03/8-posts-packed-full-of-tips-for.html" style="color: #888888; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; text-decoration-line: none;">8 Posts Packed Full of Tips for Growing Your Rotary Club Speakers Program</a><br />
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-10382345590744712742018-05-02T15:53:00.003-06:002021-03-18T14:29:00.386-06:00Your Service Club can Unleash the Power of Sponsorship (Part I)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegIc91a8zW4sPWbJXE3ivICeTUfEmTuzDTX8tci7df3nWDuHR6v6RfrsVae_KcchaR64BSjZx2xa-kfxRvEG8T_qdlPx86mbCZ19aTg6KQoasbqeKNbp6hgvGf7unuXDFInBI8UxCEZ1g/s1600/THIS+POST+IS+SPONSORED+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhegIc91a8zW4sPWbJXE3ivICeTUfEmTuzDTX8tci7df3nWDuHR6v6RfrsVae_KcchaR64BSjZx2xa-kfxRvEG8T_qdlPx86mbCZ19aTg6KQoasbqeKNbp6hgvGf7unuXDFInBI8UxCEZ1g/w600-h300/THIS+POST+IS+SPONSORED+2.jpg" width="600" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></h3>
<h2><span style="font-family: georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: x-large;">There are two reasons why you need to understand basic sponsorship theory. Either you are a sponsor who is funding a project or you have a project you are trying to fund through attracting sponsors.</span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: large;">Rotary and
other service clubs can find themselves in either position. Your club may have started
a project and are seeking collaborative partners to help fund it. It might be a
children’s festival, community park or an educational, health or other project.</span></h2>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">On the other
side, you may be making a sizable donation to a community project. With the gift, you have asked for an acknowledgement package that
will raise awareness and draw attention to the service work you do. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Brand Synergy</span></h3>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Before digging too deeply
into sponsorship function or structure there are two basic questions that must
be asked. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ol>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Is there brand synergy
between your company and the cause or event your are about to support?</span></li>
<li><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">What could go wrong with your
relationship and what would the consequences be? </span></li>
</ol>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif">The Big Question</span></b></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Does sponsorship work? That's a good question.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: small;"><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;">My friend, colleague and fellow Rotarian Brent Barootes has built a <a href="http://www.partnershipgroup.ca/">consulting business</a> valuating and helping organizations, including Rotary clubs, to structure sponsorships.<br /><a name='more'></a><br />Brent has written a book called, <a href="http://www.partnershipgroup.ca/">‘Reality Check-Straight Talk about Sponsorship Marketing.’</a> He also speaks at conferences about sponsorship and provides training for companies, municipalities and not-for-profit organizations throughout Canada and beyond.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></span></span></h3>
<h3 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 12pt; margin-top: 0cm; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><span style="background-color: white;">When asked whether sponsorship works, he
answered with an unequivacle,</span></span></span> </span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsH5zW49vY8FH54M9pFAS-iPAWSyDiwpCz6oks79wo-5NMhi3YKs_cr_LVNB-6NVtdErUKOrrZ1mhz86T0uPI-fr_2UiAabzBo7YidToOTb2bTOY_1mUb813_Y6HCGi9KfdmuzohhFglw/s1600/92+-+Brent+Discovery+Session.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXsH5zW49vY8FH54M9pFAS-iPAWSyDiwpCz6oks79wo-5NMhi3YKs_cr_LVNB-6NVtdErUKOrrZ1mhz86T0uPI-fr_2UiAabzBo7YidToOTb2bTOY_1mUb813_Y6HCGi9KfdmuzohhFglw/s320/92+-+Brent+Discovery+Session.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sponsorship Specialist Brent Barootes</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: large;">“Yes! And, why does sponsorship work? I could give at
least 30 reasons. I have narrowed the list down to </span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.partnershipgroup.ca/why-sponsorships-work/"><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">four key elements</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"></span></a><span style="font-size: medium;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif">.”</span></span></span></b></span></div>
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<b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="border: 1pt none; padding: 0cm;">Brent’s Top Four Picks</span></b></h3>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="border: 1pt none; padding: 0cm;">Engagement </span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">– Sponsorship engages people<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="border: 1pt none; padding: 0cm;">Targeting</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"> – Sponsorship allows you to target an
audience segment <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="border: 1pt none; padding: 0cm;">Branding</span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"> – Enhance audience experiences to build brand
affinity and customer loyalty <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="border: 1pt none; padding: 0cm;">Traffic </span></span><span style="mso-bookmark: _Hlk513024546;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">– Drive customers to your brand </span></span></div>
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<h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif">How it Works</span></b></h3>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">At the risk of being
over simplistic, this is my explanation of how sponsorship works.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>If people feel good about a good thing</b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>in the community, they
will feel good about</b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>the companies and other organizations that </b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>help to make
that good thing possible. </b></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><b>- RT Braley</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Let me put it another way. You may not particularly
like opera or blue grass music, but you believe both make valuable
contributions to the cultural fabric of your community. </span><br />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Therefore, when you see
a television, radio, newspaper or social media message promoting the event
with a liner like this, </span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="text-align: center;">“This concert is sponsored by XYZ
company” above their company logo, </span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="text-align: center;">you think it is a good thing.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">In practical terms, there may be an audience segment the sponsor wants to 'feel good' about their products, services or activities. An awareness campaign can be created to let those people know about the good thing sponsor is doing.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Further Confusion</span></b></h3>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Funding may
come from a sponsor’s advertising budget or donations budget. The
gift may be driven by a well thought out marketing campaign or public relations strategy. Or, the donation may be given simply
because it is the right thing to do.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">You ask, “Can a
philanthropic gift be structured as a sponsorship? Does it then become advertising?
Where do charitable receipts come into the mix?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Sponsorship is complex.
It is not strictly advertising but may incorporate elements that look like advertising. However, just because it looks like a duck, quacks like a duck and smells like a duck, it
doesn’t necessarily mean sponsorship is a duck.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Here is the
final kicker. The components of the acknowledgment package of one
sponsorship deal may be completely different than that of another even though
the funding amount is the same. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">Why? Successful
sponsorships are driven by meeting clients needs. The first sponsor’s needs may
be entirely different than those of the second. </span><br />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"></span><br />
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">One sponsor may require the full meal deal acknowledgement package while another may only want a tax receipt, a letter of thanks, a plaque on a donations wall, and perhaps lunch with the Chair of the not-for-profit organization. </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Why Organizations
Sponsor</span></b></h3>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Never, ever assume you know why a potential sponsor
might be attracted to your project. Sponsorship is used by large companies,
small businesses, government and not-for-profit organizations to achieve specific goals and
objectives. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Building sponsor relationships requires open
conversations to gather information through asking key questions. Your ultimate
goal is to build a win-win strategy that will achieve the goals of the sponsor
as well as your organization. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">The decision to fund a project will be dictated by a variety of reasons. Just because you need funding to stage an children’s
festival does not mean sponsors will line up holding cheques in their hands.T</span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif">he pool of potential partners may be quite small.</span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif"> </span></div>
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<h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Reasons for
Sponsorship</span></b></h3>
</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Positioning within the community or with other sponsors<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Brand building<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Promotion and sales<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Community, i</span><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="text-indent: -18pt;">nvestor, government or employee relations</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -18pt;"> </span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Access to influential people</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: -18pt;"> </span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The Owner or President likes it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For
Not-for-Profits</span></b></h3>
</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Raise funds<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Heighten brand awareness <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Positioning as a leader<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Community relations<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">What Meeting Needs
Means</span></b></h3>
</div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">For a number of years, I was the Sponsorship Manager
for our public broadcaster in the Province of Alberta. We produced programs
that were broadcast or used for educational purposes in countries around the
world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In addition to our own content, we
broadcast programs like National Geographic Specials, nature programs,
documentaries, how-to programs and other educational shows on our TV and radio services. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I quickly learned I needed to identify the unique needs
of each sponsor. Once that was accomplished, we designed an acknowledge structure
for each one (More about that in Part II) <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Sponsor’s Needs</span></b></h3>
</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Chevron wanted to be seen as contributing members of
the community<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Esso wanted to support educational programs for youth<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Canada Safeway, Alberta Treasury Branches and SunRype Juice
wanted to be</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"> seen to be supporting positive family programs <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "symbol"; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Fanny’s Fabrics wanted to make seamstresses and
homemakers aware of their products and services by sponsoring a sewing program<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<h3>
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Never Assume</span></h3>
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">I secured a grant for $50,000 from an historic foundation that had a legacy of funding worthwhile community organizations and events. With an air of arrogant confidence I started talking about all the cool things we could do to draw attention to their gift.</span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The foundation people were horrified. Why? They drew my attention to the fact that such a campaign would undoubtedly be highly successful. </span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span>
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">The campaign would raise awareness and that was the problem. Other not-for-profits would also see it bringing hundreds of funding requests from other organizations. </span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Many would not fall within the foundation's interests but would require staff time to review and formally reject the requests. </span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">They were already inundated with proposals as it was. </span><br />
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Hmmm! I hadn't thought of that! They finally settled for a standard 10 second 'thank you' credit on the front and back of the program they were helping to produce.</span><br />
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<h3>
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Drilling Down –
Beyond the Obvious</span></b></h3>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif">When I first started my </span><a href="http://unimarkcreative.com/" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">branding
business</a><span face=""arial" , sans-serif"> I did some fundraising. One of my clients was a
small town in northern Alberta that was building a museum.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">The area is dominated by oil and gas industry
activities. The way the industry is structured, a single producing well may
have dozens and even 100’s of investing partners. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">However, you may think it is owned by one company. It is
easy to assume that as you see company trucks and buildings displaying
prominent logos. Many neighbors may work for the company and are easy to spot because of company hats, jackets and coffee mugs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I have a friend who owns a small energy company. After
explaining my challenge, he invited me into a backroom to research potential donors using highly classified
maps showing the ownership breakdowns of the various wells surrounding the
town. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Gulf Oil stood out as a majority owner in many wells even though the company seemed to
have zero profile in the community. I cold-called the company and was granted a meeting with their VP of Public Relations.. </span><br />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">I knew I was onto something when I went to my first meeting in their head office in Calgary. Historic company items like vintage gas pumps and manikins dressed in early service station uniforms were showcased in the foyer and throughout the open work spaces. Recognizing their history was part of their brand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">In the end, they responded with a 5-figure donation.
Their reason? Their donations policy included supporting projects that enriched
the communities in which they worked. The museum was a perfect fit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcT0_5aFLToIlSJRuPAtiPPg4WqXxuwNw-4NjeWYGIo6fAbd8lrZyQTvrC7m8diGMV3GaNh285E7lgpOly6IRPbGjNdOdPaXoNz8VVrQIhnTDL0etKlEiyWtdaZTYBGAik9L6E3hZ6AmDv/s1600/CHAMPIONS+KNOW+2+-+Rectangle.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcT0_5aFLToIlSJRuPAtiPPg4WqXxuwNw-4NjeWYGIo6fAbd8lrZyQTvrC7m8diGMV3GaNh285E7lgpOly6IRPbGjNdOdPaXoNz8VVrQIhnTDL0etKlEiyWtdaZTYBGAik9L6E3hZ6AmDv/s320/CHAMPIONS+KNOW+2+-+Rectangle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">Being curious, I asked the VP of Public Relations why the company hadn’t
funded other community projects in that region. Gulf was a national company and I
anticipated he would say they funding requests from throughout the
country and their donations budget was only so big.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;">His answer surprised me! He explained no other funding request had ever been received from NFP organizations operating in the town. Finding
sponsors sometimes requires going beyond the obvious and thinking outside the lines of accepted fund raising practices. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><br /></span>
<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="mso-ansi-language: EN-US;"><b style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; text-align: center;"><i><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="border: 1pt none; padding: 0cm;">The End</span></i></b></span></div>
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<b style="text-align: center;"><i><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="border: 1pt none; padding: 0cm;">What do you think? Do you have stories about sponsorship? Do you have tips? Did you start a conversation with someone who became a Rotarian? Your insights are welcome. Please comment below. </span></i></b></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif" lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.2px;"><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies. He currently serves on the District 5360 Membership Committee.</i></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
<div style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">
<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2018/01/guerrilla-strategies-for-rotary-club.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">10 Guerrilla Strategies for Rotary Club Growth</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/11/six-step-plan-for-sustainable-rotary.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Six Step Plan for Sustainable Rotary Club Growth</a></h3>
<div>
<br />
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/03/8-posts-packed-full-of-tips-for.html" style="color: #888888; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; text-decoration-line: none;">8 Posts Packed Full of Tips for Growing Your Rotary Club Speakers Program</a></div>
</div>
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<br />Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-9613126455395766022018-02-28T11:59:00.002-07:002018-03-01T22:27:03.998-07:00Does Networking Scare You? Tips for Networking and Making Rotary Part of the Conversation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhly25ZRgspHii4Kxv92hecA0N-kspgYczwXMdBm34q4AceNwnDoZGLFRNHESCieFWhjHOLEZi9T94oXc-CmagrefOG-e3iGZTJjUJ_y-tFPW8weE3wvsxbuzAE3AyglMHajVCqziCh1HMg/s1600/man_and_woman_shaking_hands1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1064" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhly25ZRgspHii4Kxv92hecA0N-kspgYczwXMdBm34q4AceNwnDoZGLFRNHESCieFWhjHOLEZi9T94oXc-CmagrefOG-e3iGZTJjUJ_y-tFPW8weE3wvsxbuzAE3AyglMHajVCqziCh1HMg/s400/man_and_woman_shaking_hands1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="border: none 1.0pt; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; padding: 0cm;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="border: none 1.0pt; font-size: large; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span style="border: none 1.0pt; font-size: large; padding: 0cm;">I’ve
said it before and I’ll say it again. I’m a habitual networker. I just can’t
stop. </span><span style="font-size: large;">I network everywhere I go</span>. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">I found a new client through a conversation we had at a reception following a funeral. I didn't go to the funeral for that purpose, but I was ready when the opportunity arose. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">As Rotarians, we are known for doing amazing things
in the community. We are also famous for not tooting own horns!<span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0cm;"> </span></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; padding: 0cm;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;"><div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The advent of social media has placed new emphasis on telling stories. Rotary certainly has stories! Rotarians ...</span></div>
</span></h3>
<h3>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Save lives</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Improve lives</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Enrich lives</span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;">Change lives</span> </li>
</ul>
</h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">In previous posts, I've provided tips about how to tell your stories through traditional and social media.</span><br />
<span style="border: 1pt none; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; padding: 0cm;"></span></h3>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<b style="background-color: transparent;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/10/10-posts-tell-what-you-need-to-know-to.html" style="background-color: transparent;">Twelve Posts to Help Build Your Club's Social Media Community</a></b></div>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/get-your-story-covered-nine-posts-to.html" style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="font-size: small;">Nine Posts to Help Your Club Attract Media Attention</span></a></h3>
<h3>
<a name='more'></a><span style="border: 1pt none; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; padding: 0cm;">Relevant rotary stories are great for business networking conversations. </span><span style="border: 1pt none; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; padding: 0cm;">What if you 'slipped in' relevant Rotary stories? </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Could that plant a seed in the
mind of a potential Rotarian? </span></h3>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">On another level, mentioning Rotary will add credibility to your personal brand. I mention that I am a Rotarian in first meetings with clients. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Building Relationships</span></h3>
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">I recently edited a video
featuring Jim Adamson, a Past District Governor of Rotary District 5060. Jim leads workshops about growing clubs. The 1 hr video is called, Rotary
Membership Priority #1 Plus. His content includes great ideas about new member attraction,
member retention, and club branding.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iilK17Dvm2o&feature=youtu.be" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiArsTs61AleBx7yMYvgLrf20uptlEKWZpiOPPu84zCE5dbTUyy8h-FGksrw5378IB4qQZRlIz_9Diu3tp08D82SjmkAo5IXs9XJy3KKEPy2xMGuuOkpYI5lQ1xkhlfUrLfSPav5R1FvHam/s400/2018-03-01+%2528006%2529.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jim Adamson speaking at a District 5360 membership event.</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_489415804"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_489415805"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Front and centre throughout the video is the importance of building relationships inside and outside of your club. Professional and personal networks are the most likely places to connect and attract potential members.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iilK17Dvm2o&feature=youtu.be" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1600" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5oHM0JcA4VbrkuX6WF5NQh4kVLKVuYxVhhi_QPZ5x8SYYG73kgsMogM5TPoauxXuGJ-8b4QbYF-psRMEKkMPquchvqDQryvcV2-CB0Bjl9xSbq0Prcujw_IyYUvFnJ0FzTEgJQ1GYtVA-/s200/NEW+YOUTUBE+PRESS+PLAY.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Check out this video for ideas about growing your club.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">For business or Rotary, the purpose of networking is not
to collect a pocket full of business cards. It is to connect and begin a
conversation that will lead to forming some level of relationship.</span></div>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The Elephant in the Room</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Networking champions always have a strategy driven by discipline and focus. The more they network, the better they will become.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">For some, networking is natural and easy. For others, it is one of the most frightening exercises you can imagine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Let’s
address the elephant in the room. Some people absolutely hate networking. Now I have increased your intimidation level by suggesting you artfully and skillfully mention Rotary. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ul>
<li>You feel panicky in a strange crowd </li>
<li>You can't think of anything meaningful<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> to say </span></li>
<li>You fear being embarrassed</li>
</ul>
<br />
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Networking Builds Brands</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Put your game face on! If you
accept that your brand is what others think it is, developing your networking
skills will help make great first impressions.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">This post is Rotary specific. I've taken some of the content below from a Linkedin post I wrote in October. If you want more ideas, click on the link for that post.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/network-your-way-career-success-through-building-robyn-t-braley/" style="background-color: white; font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, "Segoe UI", Roboto, "Helvetica Neue", "Fira Sans", Ubuntu, Oxygen, "Oxygen Sans", Cantarell, "Droid Sans", "Lucida Grande", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro", Meiryo, "Hiragino Sans GB W3", "Noto Naskh Arabic", "Droid Arabic Naskh", "Geeza Pro", "Simplified Arabic", "Noto Sans Thai", Thonburi, Dokchampa, "Droid Sans Thai", "Droid Sans Fallback", ".SFNSDisplay-Regular", "Heiti SC", "Microsoft Yahei";"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Build Your Career Through Strategic Networking</span></b></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">How to Prepare</span></h3>
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: normal; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-size: small;">Meaningful conversation or even
small talk is daunting for some people. If that describes you, spend time each
week reading articles about current affairs, sports, local issues and political
or business topics.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you can only spend an hour per
week studying, do it. If you can spend more time, that is even better. It won’t
take many weeks until you accumulate a bank of knowledge that you can draw on. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-size: small;">There are two reasons why
expanding your knowledge resource bank is important.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></div>
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</div>
<ol style="font-weight: normal;">
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It
allows you to contribute and add value to conversations</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It
provides a background for asking smart questions</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It
gives you confidence</span></li>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">It gives you timely information to add relevance to conversations</span></li>
</ol>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-weight: 400;"><br /></span></div>
</h3>
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: 21.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="border: none 1.0pt; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; padding: 0cm;">Rotary Ticklers</span></b></h3>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Write a list of Rotary conversation starters. Only choose topics that would be relevant to a business conversation. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 21.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<ol>
<li>I've found that Rotary is a great place for leadership development ...</li>
<li>A speaker I heard last week at my Rotary club said ...</li>
<li>I was in Mexico last month volunteering on a service project with my Rotary Club ...</li>
<li>I travel internationally. An advantage of being a Rotarian is that I can quickly learn about local business culture by visiting a club ...</li>
<li>My Rotary club supports youth organizations like the Jr. Chamber of Commerce ...</li>
<li>Each year my Rotary Club sends students to our nations capital to learn first hand how our government works ... </li>
<li>Our club has supported several (domestic violence, addictions, immigrant) organizations ... </li>
</ol>
<br />
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: 21.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="border: none 1.0pt; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; padding: 0cm;">Business Card</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Your business card is your badge.
Take them everywhere. I carry a metal card case with my business cards in the
front and my club Rotary cards in the back. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">If printing a Rotary card, invest
in thicker paper. A $50 saving will be lost if your prospect forms a negative impression
due to a flimsy card that is cluttered with unneeded information.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Place your cards in one pocket
and organize them so you can easily pull them out facing the right way. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Take
the other person’s card, look at it, and place it in your opposite pocket.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB6tDBGGl79nV_nsb-QagJi6VycZV2Ig2mi5IvI5Cmhmu9D6htf3-yRfQ8Y2FCPoQjnOx4WIie-rO7iDQRRrfgjMZwVb_6y-PoRXiq2zTnjmCYzcxr_R3p15dqfc7qjjb1sIr6_CyzDr6s/s1600/business+card.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB6tDBGGl79nV_nsb-QagJi6VycZV2Ig2mi5IvI5Cmhmu9D6htf3-yRfQ8Y2FCPoQjnOx4WIie-rO7iDQRRrfgjMZwVb_6y-PoRXiq2zTnjmCYzcxr_R3p15dqfc7qjjb1sIr6_CyzDr6s/s320/business+card.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Organize your cards in on pocket or a specific location in your <br />
purse. Place received cards in your other pocket or<br />
another part of your purse..</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Never be in the position of
having to sort through used tissues or $10 in change to find your card. Also,
don't be the person who carries a smudged, bent card "somewhere in my wallet card." </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: normal; vertical-align: baseline;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">At a reception of 3,000 plus
people you may gather 20-30 cards. After you finish a conversation, move to the
side and write relevant notes on the back of each person's card. The cues will
remind you why you need to remember who they are. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: normal; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: 21.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-outline-level: 3; vertical-align: baseline;">
<b><span style="border: none 1.0pt; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; padding: 0cm;">Action! Take One</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">The day of the event has arrived.
You’re all set. You enter the room and feel the buzz of conversation. You
approach your first prospect.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Open the conversation by
extending your right hand. Lean in slightly and make solid eye contact as you
say the person's name. People automatically respond to this timeless
tradition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Conversely, end a conversation
the same way. You never need to feel uncomfortable ending a conversation.
Extend your right hand, express how glad you are to have met them and move to
the food or drinks bar.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span>
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<b><span style="border: none 1.0pt; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; padding: 0cm;">Follow Up</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">A company exhibited at trade shows
throughout North America. They seldom followed up most of the contacts that
were made. Followup is where the gold is.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Email the people you met the
following day if possible. Make a short relevant comment about the event. Ask
for permission to keep in contact in the future. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Next, find their LinkedIn
profile or other social media channel and send a request to friend, follow
or connect.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">If you have a regular email
program, add their name. That provides a natural way to stay in contact by
offering value through providing relevant content. They can opt-out if your
enews is not wanted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">If you sparked interest in Rotary, invite them to your next meeting.</span></div>
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<b style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="border: 1pt none; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; padding: 0cm;">What do you think? Do you have stories about good or bad networking experiences? Do you have tips? Did you start a conversation with someone who became a Rotarian? Your insights are welcome. Please comment below. </span></i></b></div>
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<b style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="border: 1pt none; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; padding: 0cm;">The End</span></i></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies. He currently serves on the District 5360 Membership Committee.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2018/01/guerrilla-strategies-for-rotary-club.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">10 Guerrilla Strategies for Rotary Club Growth</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/11/six-step-plan-for-sustainable-rotary.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Six Step Plan for Sustainable Rotary Club Growth</a></h3>
<div>
<br />
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/03/8-posts-packed-full-of-tips-for.html" style="color: #888888; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; text-decoration-line: none;">8 Posts Packed Full of Tips for Growing Your Rotary Club Speakers Program</a></div>
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</h3>
Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-44099057295255354112018-01-31T13:45:00.000-07:002018-02-14T08:43:09.439-07:00Build Your Rotary Club Through Building Healthy Relationships<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvKVtTYzn1pqi0RLadOnrrSi4Icl3zCyrQs5uzYkslGmWmN3h0DEIWv-pFukhJxwvFUwxqmJM_gJnuL6gv_YPbh6QuAO2k2EMIw3z5oXDOs5O_kkhrPYBdOWt336GXF0w2hdY2hOmqH2N/s1600/BEACH+DAY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1067" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicvKVtTYzn1pqi0RLadOnrrSi4Icl3zCyrQs5uzYkslGmWmN3h0DEIWv-pFukhJxwvFUwxqmJM_gJnuL6gv_YPbh6QuAO2k2EMIw3z5oXDOs5O_kkhrPYBdOWt336GXF0w2hdY2hOmqH2N/s400/BEACH+DAY.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Relationship building activities don't have to be hard or expensive.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;">
It goes
without saying that you can only do the same old thing in the same old way expecting a
different result for so long. In the end, the strategy will only lead to chronic disappointment.</span></h2>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">If your club
is losing members, it is time to think differently. Previous Building the Rotary Brand (BTRB) posts have put
forward ideas for improving programs, club branding, or raising
the profile of your club in your community through mainstream or social media.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Member
engagement and club growth are the ultimate goals. But, if your club does not offer relevant, vibrant
programs, service projects and social activities that motivate
members to remain members, all other strategies for growth are destined for failure. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I’ve written
43 posts in this series. All of them offer viable solutions for branding,
recruiting, mainstream media, social media marketing, meeting production and topics
relevant to club growth.</span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Realistically,
most clubs can’t implement all of the strategies. But, if you can adopt only one
idea and have success, that is worth the effort.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Like Building Lego</span></h3>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Growing a service club is like building something out of Lego. Many individual blocks must
fit together in order to make a finished product. It takes focus, dedication
and creative ideas to make it real.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">In Rotary
terms, that means there is no one way to engage members. There is no one way to
grow your club. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Rotary
engagement is dictated by cycles of life, time of life and changing passions of
life. Not all ideas, activities and projects will appeal to all members all of the time. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Some of the most engaging social activities may be some of the simplest. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">What social activities
does your club employ that your members love? Please comment at the bottom and
share your ideas with the world.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Doing things that build relationships will become central to building your club brand. If you accept that your brand is what others think it is, how would you like to be known as the club that enjoys being together and has fun changing and improving lives through service? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Branding is an organized process of thematic thinking in which all parts make a significant contribution to the whole. Everything is significant. There are no small parts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
<div style="font-size: medium;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">That means doing small things that build healthy relationships is just as important as any other thing you do. </span></div>
<div style="font-size: medium;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Low Impact Fun Stuff</span></h3>
</div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Low impact? By that I mean low or no cost events that are easy to organize and easy to attend. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">They should appeal to as many people as possible within your club. Some may be right
for larger groups while others may be ideal for groups of 10 or less.</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Each member must
pay for their own tickets, food or other requirements. No-one is saddled with the job
of collecting tickets, etc. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">If you are attending a concert, play or similar event, prescout the location to find a restaurant that is within easy walking distance. Rotarians eating food fosters good conversation.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lo Cost Activities</span></h3>
</div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I recently
spoke at a club that schedules one meeting per month in a local restaurant with
no organized agenda. It is purely social.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of my Australian
club followers organizes movie nights followed by dinner in a nearby restaurant.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My club
(Calgary West Rotary) has sold 50ish tickets to a Big Band Concert to be performed by
our city philharmonic. Groups are encouraged to meet for a meal or a drink
before the event which is in the centre of our arts district</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A Rotarian whose business has an executive box in an NHL arena invited is group of 8 to attend a game as his guests. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Visit a museum, art gallery or museum to be followed by a tea-time or and scheduled after to discuss what was experienced. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Book a dinner in a private room or a quiet group of tables at a new restaurant</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Rent a passenger van and schedule a road trip. Everyone chips in to the rental.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Organize teams for miniature golf, go carting or horseback riding </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Split the cost of taking a clowning class, yodeling class or balloon animal making where curiosity is your friend.</span></li>
</ul>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">No-Cost Activities</span></h3>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A board games
night in a member’s home. Set up a tournament. Organize a pot-luck lunch</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">An outside
games and barbecue day. at the beach, in the mountains or a favorite area park. Bring your own food.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Invite members to watch a championship game on TV. Potluck snacks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Set up a discussion of a relevant topic and use speed dating structure to move people from station to station.. Participants change seat every 5 minutes.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Organize and improvisation night. Tap the expertise of your local drama teacher to be the facilitator</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Host a Disney or scary movie night. Get a video projector to show them on a wall. Arrange chairs into a home theatre. Popcorn anyone? </span></li>
</ul>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Relationship Stingers</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Meeting Stingers are designed to add surprise</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">, entertainment and interest in a subtle way to meetings. You may also learn things you did not know about club members or their interests. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You will notice the word 'surprise' in the previous paragraph. If you repeat one of the exercises too often, it will become ordinary and loose it's engagement value. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The success lies in having control and establishing a loose structure for guide participants. Sometimes you may need to give a heads up to the people participating. Some can be called on spontaneously. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Give each participant one minute to tell their story. If you have access to a hand held cordless mic, as moderator, go to the person and hold it for them to speak into a la a TV reporter. That gives you control. </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Describe the adventure you experienced on your recent trip</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What book are you reading and what is it about</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What is the latest movie you attended and what was it about</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What is an unusual meal that your family loves</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Name that tune - our President periodically finds recognizable songs, plays a clip on his phone and challenges the group to identify it</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Name your favorite radio or TV commercial and sing all or part of it</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What parenting experience would you caution others to never use</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What historical figure do you admire and why</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What is the funniest thing that happened on a date </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The End</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What do you think? Has your club organized no-cost or low-cost activities that were engaging and fun? Please comment below. I want to hear from you!</span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies. He currently serves on the District 5360 Membership Committee.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2018/01/guerrilla-strategies-for-rotary-club.html">10 Guerrilla Strategies for Rotary Club Growth</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/11/six-step-plan-for-sustainable-rotary.html">Six Step Plan for Sustainable Rotary Club Growth</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/03/8-posts-packed-full-of-tips-for.html" style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px;">8 Posts Packed Full of Tips for Growing Your Rotary Club Speakers Program</a></div>
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<!-- Go to www.addthis.com/dashboard to customize your tools --> <script src="//s7.addthis.com/js/300/addthis_widget.js#pubid=ra-5983fe0c2393b40e" type="text/javascript"></script> Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-86496111217011278412018-01-02T23:13:00.000-07:002018-02-01T16:12:15.926-07:0010 Guerrilla Strategies for Rotary Club Growth<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BzMxA0XMUoP7_xRzG4Ihum_4fExdKHH8ujDlzjwIxJPjMx0zm0k6EKZxhkusrDkxMbQjPC6nOtfzTfgTO7WuHcoJKntGNjn6xTSmq1y612xaQFJhmXJU4hktWYNBRpySByBWSXfbubBv/s1600/GUERILLA+STRATEGIES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1067" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BzMxA0XMUoP7_xRzG4Ihum_4fExdKHH8ujDlzjwIxJPjMx0zm0k6EKZxhkusrDkxMbQjPC6nOtfzTfgTO7WuHcoJKntGNjn6xTSmq1y612xaQFJhmXJU4hktWYNBRpySByBWSXfbubBv/s400/GUERILLA+STRATEGIES.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Guerrilla marketing is more than just monkeying around! </span></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></h4>
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<h2 style="background-color: white;">
When you think about it, guerrilla strategies that support sales and marketing efforts of service clubs make a lot of sense. They are free or very inexpensive.</h2>
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<h2 style="background-color: white;">
To be clear, sales and marketing are not words often used to describe the process of prospecting new members, negotiating project or event sponsors, forming collaborative relationships or soliciting matching grants. However, each activity involves some aspect of sales and marketing.</h2>
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<span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Marketing involves sifting through a world of creative ideas and
message delivery methods in order to put your brand in front of potential customers.
It is the process of engaging and motivating them to want to know more about your
product or service.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sales is
the process of … well … closing the loop and making the sale. Elements like
price, meeting identified needs, product quality, customer experience, financing
options and delivery options come into play.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Guerrillas are Your Friends</span></span></h3>
<span style="background-color: transparent;"><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Guerrilla</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> strategies can support all of these activities. They are rooted in the idea that absolutely anything – orthodox and unorthodox - that exposes your brand to </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">potential customers is fair game.</span><br />
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<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The term, ‘Guerilla Marketing,’ was coined by marketing guru
Jay Levinson. Jay created a franchise based on the idea of using 'unconventional'
marketing tools when financial or other resources are limited or non-existent.</span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jay_Conrad_Levinson">Read Jay’s story on Wikipedia</a></span> </div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have to admit, I have a nasty memory of a Guerrilla tactic that is commonly used by the trades. Not being particularly gifted in the area of fixing things, I called a tradesman to fix my dryer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The tradesman came, bent over to look at the dryer, reached up and turned a switch that that I had overlooked. The dryer started and has worked ever since.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Implementing Guerrilla Strategy 101, he placed several stickers that profiled his contact information on various prominent pipes in our laundry area. Then, he smiled as he charged me $65.00 for the call. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Rotary Marketing Basics</span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How can guerrilla marketing strategies apply to Rotary? Let me count the
ways.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First, a qualification. If you have read the 44+ posts on
Building the Rotary Brand Blogsite you know my branding philosophy. First, there is no one way to build your brand. Second, every activity used in brand building - large or small - is integrated into the whole.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLgFJZ0PBErD9VPT2dFEb1bgewiLR7R-PAIskyQfaJrZp7KJ2-y_ltz8FSLZE9huNR9Mxg80z8nMqdiNp_jpkD-ZOrCsJ-gwUip4T1p-g4CmRYr3LuI9wrOe0ttQXKRfGvAtlyYqTSAxy/s1600/A+BRAND+WORKS+INSIDE+OUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfLgFJZ0PBErD9VPT2dFEb1bgewiLR7R-PAIskyQfaJrZp7KJ2-y_ltz8FSLZE9huNR9Mxg80z8nMqdiNp_jpkD-ZOrCsJ-gwUip4T1p-g4CmRYr3LuI9wrOe0ttQXKRfGvAtlyYqTSAxy/s400/A+BRAND+WORKS+INSIDE+OUT.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Your brand is what others think it is</span>.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But, there is more. T</span><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">here is also no single portal
through through which people enter the world of Rotary. Many are the ways. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What does all of this mean? It doesn't matter how grand or brilliant a marketing strategy may be, if potential members come to a meeting that is poorly run or lacks relevance and value. The marketing effort - guerrilla or mainstream - will have been in vane. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Four Basic Starting Points</span></h3>
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<span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Helvetica;">1.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Members seek opportunities for growth by looking outward and
not inward<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Helvetica;">2.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Members have developed a smooth, easy-to-deliver club elevator
speech with followup talking points and can recite your story in a fluid, natural manner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Helvetica;">3.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Meetings are professionally run and offer quality content that is
relevant and adds value to all in the room. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; mso-fareast-font-family: Helvetica;">4.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Guests are made to feel welcome and valued. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Top Guerrilla Tips</span></h2>
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<span style="color: #2a2c2e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You have undoubtedly come across many of these ideas before. The purpose is to stimulate thinking about what simple tool might work for your club. If you have other ideas, please share them in the comment section. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Signature Meeting</span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Plan special meeting designed to engage and impress visitors. They create excitement and broad interest. They provide a pressure point around which to launch a host of guerrilla and mainstream strategies. They provide
a reason to invite guests. </span></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/02/tips-for-packaging-high-profile.html"><span style="font-size: small;">Tips for Promoting Guest Speakers as Membership Growth Tool</span></a></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Networking</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Let's face it. Most new members of service clubs are found through personal networks. If networking takes you out of your comfort zone, click to this post for tips and ideas. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://robyntbraley.blogspot.ca/2017/10/network-your-way-to-success.html">Network Your Way to Success Through Building Strong Relationships</a></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkoRcBHULh16MCGjuABjoBKnVUyODBoC0CuzMyVpfEFrUJ7nXDpWUJKHz5rm3hfMYSzQCKyMNx3GpIComtv-QEombUSc8kZsQ75U5Xpnr0R-Ve5oVh9f8rGN8NDMJGVFVJ7DWxHIH3yZ9u/s1600/WHY+ROTARY+JAN+2018.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1067" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkoRcBHULh16MCGjuABjoBKnVUyODBoC0CuzMyVpfEFrUJ7nXDpWUJKHz5rm3hfMYSzQCKyMNx3GpIComtv-QEombUSc8kZsQ75U5Xpnr0R-Ve5oVh9f8rGN8NDMJGVFVJ7DWxHIH3yZ9u/s320/WHY+ROTARY+JAN+2018.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All photos profile Calgary West<br />
Rotarians in action around the world.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">Simple Brochure</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">You've peaked someone's interest in Rotary and now they've asked for more information. Produce a single panel, two sided brochure with information configured into a sales format. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">Including action photos of members doing local or international projects an asset. Use a card stock for durability. Fits easily into a jacket pocket or a purse.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Enews</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It's free! Collect emails from visitors, guests, speakers, suppliers and others your club is in contact with throughout the year. Send them email blasts for special meetings or events. Include a couple of points about a service project or two. Must be light and positive in tone.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/harnessing-power-of-enews-written-by.html">Harness the Power of Emails to Market Rotary!</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Thank You Card</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Design a simple yet professional
two panel card with a large 'Thank You' and your club’s branding on the front. .Leave the inside blank for writing a</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> personal note. Include your website address on the back.. Send it
to each guest, speaker or others. Why does this make an impact? Few others do it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Telephone Thank You</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I recently volunteered for my club's Salvation Army Kettle Campaign at Christmas. I was surprised and honored when the project leader called and thanked me for my participation. I felt valued and that I had done something significant. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Impact Poster</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Produce a poster using a child or family that
has benefited from your club’s support Include a logo and simple message like, “We
made a difference in this child’s live. You can to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Think Rotary!” Include website
address and contact information. Place in libraries, hotels, restaurants, Chamber of Commerce buildings and other places where professionals gather. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Organize a LinkedIn Blitz</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Challenge members to identify 10-15 professionals in your community. Ask them to send personal connect requests. When the identified people respond, along with a sentence about who you are professionally, mention in your thank you that you are a Rotarian and would like to invite them to a meeting.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Sponsor a Kid's Event</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Sponsor a kid's event where the emphasis is on entertainment. Have members attend wearing Rotary branded shirts for easy identification. Ask them to pass out your simple brochure or impact poster to parents after the event and invite them to call for more information. When you are kind to people children, people remember.</span><br />
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Club Blogsite</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Launch a club blogsite. Challenge project leaders to write a 5-600 word story about their projects. Challenge them to include photos. Promote each post through your other social media channels, enews, news releases and to potential members as examples of your club's service projects..</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/08/written-by-robyn-t.html">Writing and Formatting Tips to Increase Blogpost Engagement</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Guerrilla Photos</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Challenge club members to take many photos that tell stories about international and local projects they are involved in. Use them everywhere, and use them often. You can send links to online collections, use them in you club's meeting powerpoint, send them to local media along with a news release about the project and use them repeatedly on your social media channels. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/04/great-photos-that-tell-stories-are.html">Photos That Tell Stories Are the Currency of Social Media and Online Marketing</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Public Relations - Media</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt; font-weight: normal;">Let the media know about special speakers or projects. Rotary has the human interest stories that media are looking for. Always remember! It is the people centred difference making stories that command attention. </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/get-your-story-covered-nine-posts-to.html">How to Attract Media Attention! Nine Info Packed Posts!</a></span></h3>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Have you used guerrilla strategies? Do you have tips? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></b></h2>
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<em style="border: 0px; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.7); font-family: georgia, "source serif pro", serif; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Robyn T. Braley is a brand specialist, writer, and speaker. He is also a media commentator and Rotarian. Robyn is the President of UniMark Creative which does website design, video production, media services (editorial and advertising), and graphic design. He speaks at business conferences and also blogs about branding. </em></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br /></span></b></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @RobynTBraley </span></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-75332368009630852672017-11-01T14:09:00.001-06:002018-03-22T16:10:23.292-06:00Six Step Plan for Sustainable Rotary Club Growth<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitdgKHzPd0HzS8qxm2eB-2CHy1uBHoZT9iqfa-nDoyY_h8CKg5aezoOjuT4YnTVzFbjhdjwHvCpZBvS01UwdHY2j4IcJfN3etUhyrB0ZKZYA6WrPfjnXl6mC5X2xLr4ubqetvh70yFO3G/s1600/rocket-146968_960_720.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="709" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitdgKHzPd0HzS8qxm2eB-2CHy1uBHoZT9iqfa-nDoyY_h8CKg5aezoOjuT4YnTVzFbjhdjwHvCpZBvS01UwdHY2j4IcJfN3etUhyrB0ZKZYA6WrPfjnXl6mC5X2xLr4ubqetvh70yFO3G/s320/rocket-146968_960_720.png" width="315" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">What will rocket your club to new <br />heights in membership growth!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span><br />
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<br /><span style="font-size: x-large;">Membership growth is a primary focus for every service organization. </span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">
However, the challenge is not growth for growth sake. The challenge is to achieve sustainable growth to ensure long-term viability.</span>. </h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Rotary Club growth requires a commitment by its' members to share their passion for living out the mission of the organization with others. As we know, enthusiasm is contagious.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I know what question is on your mind. "Is
there a magic bullet that will propel my Rotary Club to unprecedented growth?"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Probably not! Sustainable growth is seldom that easy. It is a process that takes time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And, the 'sustainable' part is hardest. Put simply, if your club has an influx of new
members, will they become integrated and stay? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">New members add vitality and energy. The way they are nurtured and helped to blend into the life of your club impacts it's future. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Why is that important? Because the work Rotary does in serving others is too
important not to continue doing it through future generations. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a name='more'></a><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">An Integrated Approach</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Imagine that your club has initiated an image campaign using social and mainstream media. If attracting new members is the primary goal,
you must have a plan to engage them. In other words, a plan to 'connect,' introduce the idea of Rotary and cause them to ask for more information.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Let's say you've done that. Curiosity has been aroused and several visitors will attend your next meeting. What will they think? What will their first impression be? </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Will first impressions be positive or negative?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Are your clubs website, brochures, social media and PR professionally branded and engaging?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Do
service projects intersect with member interests and passions?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Are
your meetings, or gatherings, relevant, organized and packed with value?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Is
there an intentional and focused program to care for new and existing members?</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Think of it this way. If you were not already a Rotarian, would you join your club
based on the way you might be welcomed and made to feel valued? Would you take the next step based on your first impression? <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">My point is this. It doesn't matter how successful your mainstream or social media campaign is in profiling your club if potential members don't have a positive 'customer experience' when they visit. The 'Rotary' discussion will be over. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<h3>
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Your Ideas and
Experience Count </span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The
sun never sets on the Rotary world. The analytics for this blogsite tells me people - Rotarians and non-Rotarians - from
around the world will read this post. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Wherever you are in the world, your local culture and unique needs will shape how your club approaches growth and
sustainability. Further, each club within specific cities or regions is distinctive. While some of my suggestions may be universally applied, others may not work in your situation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Change Requires Authenticity and Positive Attitudes</span></h3>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bringing about organizational change requires open minds and the willingness to try new ideas. It begins by haveing a general agreement on what the problems are.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When I do Creative Problem Solving sessions with company teams, I ban negative thinking by taking the group through the list below. While it is meant as a fun exercise, there are always a few nervous looks at the bah-humbug people in the room.</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH1iSDv8_iYTAsv1xoKDkYiUHgcGuDSLGatsrvofQB09tUcaInG7qmTkfDuyvrtiOfm68cNyCwdND1apfzEjV2tK6SuU1uIjsVZ7naHDBMQAz5aYlM24HSpFVd7Gjtd6MQtWpP-eWXvxyM/s1600/IDEA+KILLERS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH1iSDv8_iYTAsv1xoKDkYiUHgcGuDSLGatsrvofQB09tUcaInG7qmTkfDuyvrtiOfm68cNyCwdND1apfzEjV2tK6SuU1uIjsVZ7naHDBMQAz5aYlM24HSpFVd7Gjtd6MQtWpP-eWXvxyM/s400/IDEA+KILLERS.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yKDe5AszCJuftZE8-1vqDCA6oeMyT31I3r-oNxTP6t75WDNEadfh8oTfM9oH0yO5XTlg7hXx_i27kIAU0IOLJOMiTgQzK5MhxSQR3vjGCd8UG-EE9DmbDxBUUWED1CMC8ZYNYbRinDRH/s1600/idea+killers+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yKDe5AszCJuftZE8-1vqDCA6oeMyT31I3r-oNxTP6t75WDNEadfh8oTfM9oH0yO5XTlg7hXx_i27kIAU0IOLJOMiTgQzK5MhxSQR3vjGCd8UG-EE9DmbDxBUUWED1CMC8ZYNYbRinDRH/s400/idea+killers+2017.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Focus on what you CAN do rather than on what you CAN'T!</span> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Step 1 – Creating a Culture
of Engagement</span></b></h3>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Shift
the focus of your club from looking inward to looking outward. In other words,
develop a sales and marketing culture within your membership. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">How does that work? Simply
put,</span><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>"Ask what your club can offer potential members rather
than asking what they can offer your club. In sales terms, how can you meet the
needs of potential members? What are they looking for?"</b></span></blockquote>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8EU42jmH-xPj1bJJC8LXVg9nRbEkXsCUSJXZRNtGgFOvvTFPvbqWDcTLzKdAaK0Om-7akzQ8HTzSuwqdGKzl2xTwWOrh9VDLAUc8bSHzNLVID22J9xyEvVj75Xn2sf4cjxTDZgNFhYuwC/s1600/SALES+PROCESS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8EU42jmH-xPj1bJJC8LXVg9nRbEkXsCUSJXZRNtGgFOvvTFPvbqWDcTLzKdAaK0Om-7akzQ8HTzSuwqdGKzl2xTwWOrh9VDLAUc8bSHzNLVID22J9xyEvVj75Xn2sf4cjxTDZgNFhYuwC/s400/SALES+PROCESS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s
a mental thing. If existing members aren’t actively looking for prospects, they
may never see them. When you create a culture of engagement, members begin to identify potential Rotarians among people they see every day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>More Info</b></span> </div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/marketing-to-new-members-power-of.html">Marketing to New Members; the Power of Rotary</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/09/building-rotary-brand-making-your.html" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Are Your Rotary Meetings Visitor Friendly</a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Step 2 - Increasing Community Awareness</span></b></h3>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Before launching into a membership marketing program, doing a brand audit will provide helpful information. Ask this simple question. Who are we now, and who do we want to be in the future? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What is a brand? A brand is what others - members, potential members, suppliers, media, collaborative partners - think it is! It is that simple. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What do they think about your club? What are your strengths? Your weaknesses? Are tweaks necessary? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For background, read the most popular post on the BTRB site.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Read This</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhL3_ya6giCNhvIaw6mVSza77-ifgDJQ2ff89AzjcYD-ZG7S3YOjIYG9QlN6WpdDIB2cfu-adXjTBYgerUH_FxyzyLWU57Zav9YCb4ZpOXTKIbErM-6D8MIePdDs0DiRq6_bFeO_t4Omgk/s1600/Club+Brand+Elements.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhL3_ya6giCNhvIaw6mVSza77-ifgDJQ2ff89AzjcYD-ZG7S3YOjIYG9QlN6WpdDIB2cfu-adXjTBYgerUH_FxyzyLWU57Zav9YCb4ZpOXTKIbErM-6D8MIePdDs0DiRq6_bFeO_t4Omgk/s400/Club+Brand+Elements.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">As members become active ambassadors, give them tools to work with. Prospective Rotarians become Rotarians through conversations with current Rotarians. Raising Club awareness makes those conversations easier.</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">An easy-to-use brochure that is specific to your club and organized into a sales format </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A
website that is engaging and vibrant – designed with non-Rotary online visitors
in mind</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A
professional powerpoint running before and during meetings that profiles service projects,
fellowship, upcoming speakers, past speakers and includes inspirational
sayings.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Social
media channels that offer value to visitors; not just for announcing
meetings </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">An
enews program to keep in contact with past speakers, visitors, suppliers,
collaborative partners, etc.</span></li>
</ol>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">More Info</span></h3>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/03/why-calgary-west-rotary-club-attract-25.html">How the Calgary West Rotary Club Attracted 25 New Members in 18 Months</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/10/10-posts-tell-what-you-need-to-know-to.html">12 Posts Packed with Information to Help Build Your Social Media Community</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/02/tips-for-creating-rotary-elevator.html">Tips For Creating A Rotary Elevator Speech That Works</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/get-your-story-covered-nine-posts-to.html">How to Attract the Kind of Media Attention You Really Want! 9 Info Packed Posts!</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Step 3. Meetings that
Engage and Connect</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">At
some point, a potential new member will attend a meeting for the first time. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Are your meetings visitor friendly?</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">All
the publicity, networking, or community engagement in the world won’t help grow
your club if visitors don’t feel welcome and attracted to your members and your meetings. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyB_XKaF3JtkbUG4B4Ne2mM2OJCLHejsHNK4KvNa43gG_pUDGI5A48TBKbT70piQBIRXFgg2ILXoJR06WyAWflUzGUTylzVAIryjZ7lE7sAVjd2GOBVcDRtXmTPFFQfPyEFSU7ru_ARTmu/s1600/ROTARY+RELATIONSHIPS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyB_XKaF3JtkbUG4B4Ne2mM2OJCLHejsHNK4KvNa43gG_pUDGI5A48TBKbT70piQBIRXFgg2ILXoJR06WyAWflUzGUTylzVAIryjZ7lE7sAVjd2GOBVcDRtXmTPFFQfPyEFSU7ru_ARTmu/s320/ROTARY+RELATIONSHIPS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Do meetings offer value and opportunities to grow as people, professionals and friends? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If
not, one-time visitors will not become two, three and four-time visitors who
eventually become members.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You may need to change the location, time-of-day, meal prices
and context of your meetings to make them more appealing to target groups. These elements are all part of your brand.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Do you have traditional meetings, or informal gatherings?
Millennials love ‘gathering’ and connecting though not always in the
traditional ‘meeting’ sense. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Two
years ago, I wrote 8 posts packed full of ideas that will help to improve your meeting
content and presentation. If you look on the right-hand side of your screen,
you will note posts about meetings are ranked 4 out of the top 10 in readership. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Check This</span></b></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/03/8-posts-packed-full-of-tips-for.html">8 Posts Packed Full of Tips for Growing Your Rotary Club Speakers Program</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Step
4. Service Project Alignment</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I
feel very fortunate to belong to the Calgary West Rotary Club. Our club is engaged in a wide variety of local
and world service projects. We are blessed to have members who share a passion for
making a difference.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Some believe new members become fully engaged in the mission of Rotary the day they see the
light of hope in the eyes of someone receiving much needed food, health care, education,
clothing or one of many other acts of service by Rotarians. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It's true. It happens. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">There are also situations where members were enthusiastic about humanitarian service, were committed to making a difference, but still left their club. Many felt they did not feel they received value from other club activities. Many didn't feel there was a place for them. Some felt taken advantage of as their volunteer load increased.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL5YNPce1mSmgdHG80emVLEGZJnQTcKmkedOBtJF7beMYNI_l9o5h1a5uwD3mgZ5KLs1OHgcL-AQyUan6U23B3NU0myTAG43rPv4NSJqMptHjJr2ZvkXwEfia_vnR28klwFg1ydRgwwNND/s1600/079.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL5YNPce1mSmgdHG80emVLEGZJnQTcKmkedOBtJF7beMYNI_l9o5h1a5uwD3mgZ5KLs1OHgcL-AQyUan6U23B3NU0myTAG43rPv4NSJqMptHjJr2ZvkXwEfia_vnR28klwFg1ydRgwwNND/s320/079.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Homes of Hope - Rotarians from District 5360<br /> building homes for the poorest of the poor in Mexico</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">When service projects aren't aligned with club interests, frustrations can fester. Doing the same old projects for the same old reasons may not reflect curent member interests.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">For example, if your club is growing, there is a good possibility the average member age of your club is lowering. Younger people deep into careers can't volunteer for service during weekdays. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Do
projects align with member passions and capabilities?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Does
your club fund projects just because you always have?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Do
you balance volunteer action with organization funding?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Do
you access Rotary Foundation matching grants?</span></li>
</ol>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Step
5. Develop a Member Care Program</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Most Rotary clubs have a membership committee focused on recruiting. Few clubs have a committee focused entirely on member retention. Why not ask committee members to only focus on this avenue of service? It is that important. </span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Engagement levels are governed by time of life, health concerns, family demands,
financial restraints, career changes, changing interests and other dynamics.
There is seldom a single reason why Rotarians leave or stay engaged in their club. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAvKb5ILGlhs_TwuNMmwCtxG6qCaDI0zzvZwkKeD9GNOwkBRyEwM5aQpCGr_03LOk6TF3OdeD-CSPOdpxODZEiGeTKZHut2x9D9gbiOv1FqTujKEGpzITOo68C8YFrj6k7xEDtzo0bmb3_/s1600/SOME+DO+A+LITTLE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAvKb5ILGlhs_TwuNMmwCtxG6qCaDI0zzvZwkKeD9GNOwkBRyEwM5aQpCGr_03LOk6TF3OdeD-CSPOdpxODZEiGeTKZHut2x9D9gbiOv1FqTujKEGpzITOo68C8YFrj6k7xEDtzo0bmb3_/s400/SOME+DO+A+LITTLE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Membership
Care is about walking alongside new members and not rushing them into
leadership roles before they are ready. It is giving them time to grow into their
Rotary experience.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span>
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">It is also about keeping in contact with existing members. Member Care conversations do not include requests "to do" something more within the club. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">New
members, especially in smaller clubs, are sometimes placed into roles where they
become frustrated or feel overwhelmed. They think their only option is to leave the club.</span></h3>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2lf23gfR5zE_47zYPgdh-xMFwHOZ7_TWZ9ZeRCZt4476yEYR5unLkWJefsl0QAM0gfRMfASeWBu0OkyClN4E4sRIUBP-n8Dt4SbkE1z3zw9H7ixlxgWP4vsUGpfwK-cIcLg6roTRGNQq9/s1600/5+MEMBERSHIP+CARE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2lf23gfR5zE_47zYPgdh-xMFwHOZ7_TWZ9ZeRCZt4476yEYR5unLkWJefsl0QAM0gfRMfASeWBu0OkyClN4E4sRIUBP-n8Dt4SbkE1z3zw9H7ixlxgWP4vsUGpfwK-cIcLg6roTRGNQq9/s320/5+MEMBERSHIP+CARE.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">An Organized Program of Caring</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Sales professionals know exactly what a Customer Management System. Why not introduce a CMS into your club and make methodical engagement of all members a core value of you club? Just google CMS and a number of free programs will come up. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">A
care program must not be overly aggressive, annoying or invade personal space or privacy.
However, in most cases, new and long-time members alike will welcome genuine interest,
caring and being valued.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As a quick test, answer these questions.</span> </div>
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<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Can
you account for the current status of every member on your club roster?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Is
there an organized program for connecting with every member in every quarter? </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Do
existing members go out of their way to get to know new members?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Are social activities for the sole purpose of building relationships and having fun actively promoted?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Does your club have a mentor or buddy program that is organized and accountable?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Are
new members given opportunities to tell their story in meetings – career and life
experience?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Is
there flexibility in payment of dues and other costs?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Does
your club have a leadership development program that is defined and fully transparent?</span></li>
</ol>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Make it Fun</span> </span></h3>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">A few months after writing this post I wrote an article proposing ways to have fun in ways that build relationships. Some of the content evolved through hearing Past District 5060 Governor Jim Adamson lead a seminar called Membership, Priority #1. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jim's premise is this. Rotarians stay Rotarians because of relationships. While some join expecting to dive into service projects, others join for reasons like friendship, networking or to grow as people and professionals.</span></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As relationships grow, he suggests, developing a passion for serving others through humanitarian projects or club service will also evolve. So let's start with fun and get to know each other.</span></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: large; text-align: center;">Other fun content was influenced by conversations within my Calgary West team of about 15 people. We are exploring ways to engage more of our members. </span><br />
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<h2>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Click for Great Ideas</b></span></span></h2>
</div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 22px;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2018/01/written-by-robyn-t.html">Build Your Rotary Club Through Building Healthy Relationships</a></span><br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Step 6. Sustainable Growth</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">If
you have made changes in Step 1 through 5, you will undoubtedly see positive results. The key is to adjust and adapt each year and continue the program over the long term. </span><br />
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? What has your club done to stimulate growth? What does your club do to retain </span><span style="font-size: 18px;">members</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">? Do you have tips? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></span></span></b></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies. He currently serves on the District Membership Committee.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-75084716917476821972017-10-04T14:56:00.001-06:002017-10-10T11:05:37.192-06:0012 Posts Packed with Information to Help Build Your Social Media Community<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 9pt 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAviWXpBECFm3DH_Y7GPfGsyVE9hU2aTTJiAD1KjC9mtBMP0eUbld8hp_NsV1pVBrK3Gb1xJ9UC_hbLfYG7yePO09na6CspPqUM3tHPSgY3GsPKPngESm35R1XAnyPL9RNMIeeeOm1lhZV/s1600/Collage+of+SoMed+icons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAviWXpBECFm3DH_Y7GPfGsyVE9hU2aTTJiAD1KjC9mtBMP0eUbld8hp_NsV1pVBrK3Gb1xJ9UC_hbLfYG7yePO09na6CspPqUM3tHPSgY3GsPKPngESm35R1XAnyPL9RNMIeeeOm1lhZV/s320/Collage+of+SoMed+icons.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking the mystery out of social media. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><b>Written by Robyn T. Braley</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Social media success requires hard work. Period! </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">But a methodical, organized approach will bring efficiency to your efforts. It will also eliminate the frustration that often accompanies early startups. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Make no mistake, I love social media. As a writer, speaker and Rotarian, I find it fulfilling and fun to engage with these communities. </span></span></h2>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I try to make a difference by helping others improve their ability to make a difference. Building the Rotary Brand is filled with ideas and tips for growing clubs and letting others know about the great work Rotarians do in their communities.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Rotarians, Rotary Clubs, Rotary Districts and collaborative partners from around the world are connected to the various BTRB social media sites. The analytics indicate more than 30,908 people have read posts on this blog site. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The reality is that it is easy to become discouraged when you launch your first social media channel. My purpose is to help develop a focused strategy that will help you select your content and bring predictability and ultimate success to your efforts. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The information in the posts linked below apply to all platforms. <i><b>Click on each title</b></i>.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">There are excellent tutorials available online to help launch sites like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pintrest, YouTube and others. Most of these posts will help you develop sites such as those.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've included a series on blogging as I feel it is a perfect platform for profiling Rotary stories. You can use text, video, still photos, graphs, charts, podcasts and more. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Imagine uploading one article per month. In fact, print the article titled, 'Part 4 Writing and Formatting Tips' and give it to project leaders. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ask them to write the story about their project following the protocols explained in the post. In one year you will have 12 stories about the work your club does that can be promoted using Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and other channels. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/03/social-media-matters-more-for-rotary.html">It’s Time to Launch Your Rotary Club’s Social Media Program!</a></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Social Media has brought about the greatest revolution in gathering and distributing human knowledge since the “Gutenberg Press.” </span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">If your
club has a healthy brand and is marketing focused – meaning
outward looking - then it is time to launch social media. Building a successful
social media program requires;</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1FospGo86tIy3cnoYT06Fb9G5nY_CloCPBMQyaXGomtXXGb7QbLhqWtDaqNry2coo-0WnOgUxzPW09HqYdwqAFYp1xs7bS2_Lu1bwUwp7gkubUAFbgoSbH1XUKIRA_XC4VeKzVIZ7PWgC/s1600/rocket-146968_960_720.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="709" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1FospGo86tIy3cnoYT06Fb9G5nY_CloCPBMQyaXGomtXXGb7QbLhqWtDaqNry2coo-0WnOgUxzPW09HqYdwqAFYp1xs7bS2_Lu1bwUwp7gkubUAFbgoSbH1XUKIRA_XC4VeKzVIZ7PWgC/s200/rocket-146968_960_720.png" width="196" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laaaauuuuunnnncccchhhh!</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">•<span class="apple-tab-span"> </span>Dedication</span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">•<span class="apple-tab-span"> </span>Consistency</span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">•<span class="apple-tab-span"> </span>Goals </span><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">•<span class="apple-tab-span"> </span>A plan <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html">Plunging into Social Media Requires 8 "Ps"</a></span></h3>
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 9pt 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html"> for Success!</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">"Forget Social Media. It’s just a passing fad!" </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The next time someone at your club says that, ask them to take an Aspirin,
Tylenol or Advil (fairness to all). Then suggest that they lay down and rest
until the feeling passes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">But there are 8 basics you need to know that will make your social media launch easier. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/03/why-quality-content-produces-social.html">Why Quality Content is the Key for Social Media Success. 21 Tips!</a></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Social media is made for promoting service clubs. Why? Members are writing stories everyday through service. However, when not developed properly, a social media experience can lead to
frustration.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFyyeP-y42IuRyGQm_dJO2zt8o6sAfBjYIHWXZQKf-HK2l-zqeU5amFKfFz9HrDk1o7nrOZ7v_3IIC6m4MR9-KE_OsZF_jKwb-3WdsCtoiz3NCO0vA1X7LYHS1TcMuVkp1N-MxLuyfOzU/s1600/contentmarketing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="467" data-original-width="700" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwFyyeP-y42IuRyGQm_dJO2zt8o6sAfBjYIHWXZQKf-HK2l-zqeU5amFKfFz9HrDk1o7nrOZ7v_3IIC6m4MR9-KE_OsZF_jKwb-3WdsCtoiz3NCO0vA1X7LYHS1TcMuVkp1N-MxLuyfOzU/s400/contentmarketing.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stories Rotarians write every day through the work they do provides<br />
excellent social media content.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Content is the lifeblood of social media. What is it? Content is everything you see, read,
hear or in any way experience online. The same </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">content can be used across your various platforms. It can also be used repeatedly </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It includes;</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Design<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Text<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Headings<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Spacing<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Photos<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Graphs, charts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Videos<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Podcasts<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Action buttons<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">More <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/02/how-to-reduce-time-it-takes-to-properly.html">Automation Reduces Social Media Management Time</a></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/02/how-to-reduce-time-it-takes-to-properly.html"> and Fast Tracks Community Growth</a></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You may be a Rotary Club President or sit on your board as the PR
Director. Or, you may be the youngest member of your club who has been
designated as the social media person. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Developing communities takes hard work, thought and planning. When you consider the time
it will take, chills may run down your spine! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmOyqotC062fYxTZbANnJMYzIOebxardCBwouJRk4qx-879hO4UCWBuaLNTJEXH5WFvjgbYJQT1SMyRu540m2ERM4DKd2kv0Xdkjt_l54ogu4cfz2xzSXpXh4yMlxIRO5CH_v-FpIKQxW/s1600/Calendar+of+Events+desk+red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="400" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSmOyqotC062fYxTZbANnJMYzIOebxardCBwouJRk4qx-879hO4UCWBuaLNTJEXH5WFvjgbYJQT1SMyRu540m2ERM4DKd2kv0Xdkjt_l54ogu4cfz2xzSXpXh4yMlxIRO5CH_v-FpIKQxW/s320/Calendar+of+Events+desk+red.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I'm here to tell you, it doesn’t
have to be like that. A</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">utomation will dramatically change how you think about social media. </span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Automation </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">cuts management
time by more than half<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It brings consistency and predictability to messaging <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It eliminates the need for performing repetitive tasks over, and over,
and over.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "symbol"; font-size: 10.0pt;">·<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It forces you to think through how to engage people and grow your community<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Analytics helps measure growth, habits and engagement<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/04/great-photos-that-tell-stories-are.html">Photos That Tell Stories Are the Currency of Social Media</a></span></h3>
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 9pt 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/04/great-photos-that-tell-stories-are.html"> and Online Marketing</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">You’ve heard it a gazillion times, ‘A picture is worth 1,000 words.’ Well, it’s true!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">Photos are a million-dollar aid for telling fascinating stories about life-altering projects that your service club has done. Photos are the currency of mainstream, online and social media communication.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">As an encouragement for rank amateurs, I have taken photos with a $500 point-and-click camera that newspapers and automotive magazines around the world published. They accompanied a story I placed about an innovative product.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">Now, most phones are 1,000 times better than my $500 camera. However, there are simple techniques that can make your photos more engaging and powerful in telling Rotary stories. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/05/lights-camera-action-tips-for-shooting.html">Lights, Camera, Action! Tips for Shooting Service Club Videos</a></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/05/lights-camera-action-tips-for-shooting.html"> Using Your Phone</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">News flash! Video is a highly effective way to tell your club stories. Why? It is the next best thing to being there. You can look viewers in the eye and speak directly to them. You can show them the background to your story.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv81clghUakGW3fFYyAJVZ25uvelTek94yWlN0_RvWne8yfiSBdQ6rWToh5Gf2EHusWOsbDCwnmy08oVyuq_PqPpChajjgDFrrCmf_GsSnTsF3pf0NxP7K1DiQAEqs8kCWFnxZpun4pgoY/s1600/SCREEN+SEPARATED+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="168" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv81clghUakGW3fFYyAJVZ25uvelTek94yWlN0_RvWne8yfiSBdQ6rWToh5Gf2EHusWOsbDCwnmy08oVyuq_PqPpChajjgDFrrCmf_GsSnTsF3pf0NxP7K1DiQAEqs8kCWFnxZpun4pgoY/s1600/SCREEN+SEPARATED+%25281%2529.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can shoot, edit and upload amazing videos<br />
from your phone.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Video connects at an emotional level. Sound mixes with moving visuals to create a sensory environment that stimulates viewers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Anyone with basic knowledge can shoot a short video, edit it, and upload it for the world to see. And now you can do it all with your phone!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Video can be used on most social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Blogs, Instagram and others. Video hosting platforms like YouTube or Vimeo provide additional services.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/05/is-blogging-excellent-way-to-tell.html">Part 1 - Write On! Blogging is a Great Way to Tell Stories! </a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Blogging is an excellent way to tell stories. A blog will
help to build your Rotary Club's brand by informing and shaping the opinions of
others. It will tell the stories that you want to be known for. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Blogging has cache and
mystique. With your first post you will officially become a published writer. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">That is why making a good first impression is important. You want visitors to
return to read your next post. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Like every social media platform, there are protocols and
practices that are unique to blogging. </span></div>
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 9pt 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/07/part-2-tips-for-choosing-blogsite.html">Part 2 - Blog Platforms Provide Tools to Enhance Your Stories</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">So, you and are ready to launch a
blogsite as part of your Rotary Club’s brand program. A</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">n organized and systematic approach. Choosing a
platform that is right for you is a key part of the process and requires
careful thought. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBbzW_gwUjV5om24WIRfApNZ1_h8ILxBCVcjK6VTPcJPa6nWc5bWlZ6CB3wYaNx9Re5KTwksmLF8o5xGF5N_pQrdhi8rI1zX965hx3rT3cEOMupG70QPzUjZQ8IQJoXbKV69PUytUeiex/s1600/WP%252C+WIX%252C+BGGER%252C+WEEBLY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBbzW_gwUjV5om24WIRfApNZ1_h8ILxBCVcjK6VTPcJPa6nWc5bWlZ6CB3wYaNx9Re5KTwksmLF8o5xGF5N_pQrdhi8rI1zX965hx3rT3cEOMupG70QPzUjZQ8IQJoXbKV69PUytUeiex/s320/WP%252C+WIX%252C+BGGER%252C+WEEBLY.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;">Review and compare different platforms. My advice is to choose one known for intuitive design options and a wide range of easy-to-help tools.</span><br />
<br style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif;" />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;">The best platforms offer tools such as slideshows, video or audio inclusion, interactive galleries, animations, graphics, image editors, standard blog elements, and more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>Blogsite Contenders</b></span></div>
<br />
<ol>
<li><a href="http://www.toptenreviews.com/business/internet/best-blog-platforms/wordpress-com-review/" style="color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-decoration-line: none;">WordPress</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">, Gold Award Winner</span></li>
<li><a href="http://www.toptenreviews.com/business/internet/best-blog-platforms/weebly-review/" style="color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-decoration-line: none;">Weebly</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">, Silver Award Winner</span></li>
<li><a href="http://www.toptenreviews.com/business/internet/best-blog-platforms/wix-review/" style="color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-decoration-line: none;">Wix</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">, the Bronze Award Winner</span></li>
<li><a href="http://www.toptenreviews.com/business/internet/best-blog-platforms/blogger-review/" style="color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-decoration-line: none;">Blogger</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">, Fifth Place</span></li>
</ol>
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</h3>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/08/top-10-ways-to-promote-your-rotary-blog.html">Part 3: Top 10 Ways to Promote Your Rotary Blog Posts</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">You've published a brilliant blog post that tells a
compelling story. Now what? </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The challenge is to think long term and develop a promotional strategy. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">This article discusses ways to promote your blog posts using traditional and social media. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">For example, if you have established a social media presence with channels like Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin you have ready-made tools for promoting your blog posts. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">And, there is more! As people click on your links to an engaging blog post they will likely connect or follow your other sites which grows your communities. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin: 9pt 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/08/written-by-robyn-t.html">Part 4: Writing and Formatting Tips to Increase Blogpost Engagement</a></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Writing blog content or other online applications requires
a different approach than writing traditional essays, reports or for magazine
and newspaper stories. Blog content that requires thought, discipline and crafting.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXvOYM5RuRLlkQW0IYENzdqVHxGT_02vhDl1avXWZvdT_ZBYKDzHv-jbUutn8-_KTqZukXVcXHddOm52rHEEmQn6CrYR2vCbMZR7eh0op5vKWMH582Wii0ptgYEY7eOUlrIzc9sHM-r4e/s1600/BUILDING+ROTARY+BRAND+OCT+2015+HERITAGE+%255BAutosaved%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnXvOYM5RuRLlkQW0IYENzdqVHxGT_02vhDl1avXWZvdT_ZBYKDzHv-jbUutn8-_KTqZukXVcXHddOm52rHEEmQn6CrYR2vCbMZR7eh0op5vKWMH582Wii0ptgYEY7eOUlrIzc9sHM-r4e/s320/BUILDING+ROTARY+BRAND+OCT+2015+HERITAGE+%255BAutosaved%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Follow the basic principles outlined in this news release when<br />
formatting articles for blog posts and other online use. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Some online visitors read a post in full while others
quickly scan it and only read the part they are most interested in. Different
formatting is required for online writing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Engaging headlines and subheadlines are a must</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sentences should not include more than 10 - 15 words</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Paragraphs should be 2-4 sentences as a guide</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Start each paragraph with a strong statement about the main
topic</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When possible, resist starting sentences with a clause</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Break up information with bullet points and numbers where
possible</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Bold important sentences and isolate them with white space.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Use as many photos as possible.</span> </li>
</ul>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/11/creating-linkedin-profile-for.html">Creating LinkedIn Profiles for Rotarians; Connecting With New Members</a></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">LinkedIn is the social media site for professionals. It is a powerful tool for
growing your professional network. The platform is also an excellent
opportunity for attracting new club members or connecting with Rotarians around
the world. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">New members of service clubs have traditionally been found
within personal and <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">business networks. LinkedIn fast-tracks that process. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxhR-nj_DwkTYUNyru1uSQ-UYmcCShmhlonra6wsUeBR2zRE0CFl8RjK16astl0DPEZB5vylKKMOpMH-l2SFC2jUYd7Tpr1PfkBt3lrphYA2MDGu2tmkUGj0s_OJBvd-lN575xf5QDgt9Y/s1600/12334116-linkedin-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="792" height="134" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxhR-nj_DwkTYUNyru1uSQ-UYmcCShmhlonra6wsUeBR2zRE0CFl8RjK16astl0DPEZB5vylKKMOpMH-l2SFC2jUYd7Tpr1PfkBt3lrphYA2MDGu2tmkUGj0s_OJBvd-lN575xf5QDgt9Y/s320/12334116-linkedin-logo.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h3 style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/harnessing-power-of-enews-written-by.html">An Easy Way to Market Rotary! Harness the Power of Emails</a></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I know what you are thinking. You don’t like emails! In fact, even
though it may be against your nature, you may even use THE four letter word;
HATE! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I'll wager you check your inbox more often than you realize.
There are emails from companies, associations or people you know, like and
trust. You make note of when they come into your inbox and check them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Emails are social media because you can interact and engage with them.
They are an excellent form of communicating because you can be very specific in
targeting your messages. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h2 style="color: #111111; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 12pt; position: relative;">
<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Do you publish a blog? Do you publish a blog for a service club or other not-for-profit? Do you have tips? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></b></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 22px;"><b>Other BTRB Serial Posts</b></span><br />
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<br />
<h3 style="margin: 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/03/8-posts-packed-full-of-tips-for.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-size: small;">8 Posts Packed Full of Tips for Improving Your Rotary Club Speakers Program</span></a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/get-your-story-covered-nine-posts-to.html">How to Attract the Kind of Media Attention You Really Want! 9 Info Packed Posts!</a></div>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
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<span style="color: #888888; font-size: small; text-decoration-line: none;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/75-amazing-ideas-for-random-acts-of.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">81 Amazing Acts of Kindness That Will Change Your Life and Someone Else's</a></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #888888;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/get-your-story-covered-nine-posts-to.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-size: small;">Nine Posts to Help You Attract Media Coverage</span></a></span></h3>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<span style="color: #888888;"><a href="http://globalnews.ca/video/3166788/calgary-west-rotary-club-celebrates-community-service" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-size: small;">TV Interview With Robyn Braley About Rotary</span></a></span></h3>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://www.calgarysun.com/2017/01/09/calgary-rotarians-celebrate-50-years-of-charity-work" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;"><span style="font-size: small;">Newspaper Interview with Gail Williams about Rotary</span></a></h3>
<h3 style="margin: 0px; position: relative;">
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<h3 style="margin: 0px; position: relative;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #888888;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></span></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/11-production-tips-for-making-rotary.html">11 Tips for Producing Rotary Meetings that Attract Younger Members</a></span></div>
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<!-- Go to www.addthis.com/dashboard to customize your tools --> <script src="//s7.addthis.com/js/300/addthis_widget.js#pubid=ra-5983fe0c2393b40e" type="text/javascript"></script> Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-91518154101830728552017-08-30T15:13:00.001-06:002018-11-30T12:19:01.130-07:00Writing and Formatting Tips to Increase Blogpost Engagement; Part Four<h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg23BpImLnCsLf5T3tgGKQp6za9DQvGeIwrsrezD89LieAIxQ6odAzV-RdoQ1KLbD4iKFGHm5csJw4_TIMO5zeC1J8cDm2aZkFwKDr9RycKJYfik2DRZOGsTI1nrV3fNwH9dFV6EnmPjOc/s1600/PENCIL+CHECKING+BOXES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1067" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg23BpImLnCsLf5T3tgGKQp6za9DQvGeIwrsrezD89LieAIxQ6odAzV-RdoQ1KLbD4iKFGHm5csJw4_TIMO5zeC1J8cDm2aZkFwKDr9RycKJYfik2DRZOGsTI1nrV3fNwH9dFV6EnmPjOc/s320/PENCIL+CHECKING+BOXES.jpg" width="320" /></a></h2>
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<span style="font-size: small;">
Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></h2>
<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #111111; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px 0px 1em; position: relative;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">Writing content for blog sites or other online platforms requires a different approach than writing essays, reports or articles for magazines and newspapers. C</span></span><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222;">ontent that effectively tells engaging stories builds communities requires thought, discipline and </span><span style="color: #222222;">crafting.</span></span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Some years ago online experts believed t</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">hat blog posts should never have more than 500 words. They believed that people wouldn't read longer articles. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">That has changed. While s</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">hort is always good, it must not be at the expense of meaning. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">The general rule of thumb today is to write as much content as you need to tell your story. Editing and common sense will tell you when the story is finished.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">A judge in my city writes posts that are 7,000 words long. He has a large following in the legal community who read every word of whatever legal position he is putting forward. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Know Who You Are Writing For</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">It helps to know your audience. In the judges case, legal types are </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">vociferous</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> readers who want all the details pertaining to a particular opinion. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">BTRB posts are usually 900 to 1,500 words long. When my word count reaches 1,000, I decide whether the the post should stand alone or be broken into two separate articles. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">In determining length, ask these questions. </span></div>
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<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Who is my audience?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">What are their expectations?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Do I have enough content to provide meaning?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: medium;">Is all the content relevant?</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Can I break up the content into two or more posts?</span> </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">To further complicate the discussion, a series of shorter posts will have greater ranking and SEO value than one long one. However, each story must stand alone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><b>Headlines That Scream for Attention</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">When you write a great post, you want people to read it. Strong headlines demand attention. They show up in search engine searches. Strong headlines are easy to cut and paste into social media feeds. Add a link and you have an instant message ready for Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pintrest or emails to promote your post</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">. </span><br />
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Taking time to write and rewrite your headline until you get it right will pay dividends. Are there stronger, shorter words? Will flipping the last part of the sentence for the first part </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">strengthen</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> the impact? </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">"Brilliant titles motivate readers </span></b></span><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif; font-size: large;">to check out</span></b></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">the brilliant </span></b></span><b style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">content you have written. "</span></b></span></blockquote>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZxRc_uSh7-3ed9v5K_75KTUYXhgXUnnUYUBb-_FQRzUuK8uzHbApJlja_RxDpg-oF89VSSan7-OzFWT8e39_I-duDVC59XAoH1hDEP34W4DgVyPBuyjkmpk6nS7GkkrjjxTgSLf635dg/s1600/images+%25286%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="189" data-original-width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFZxRc_uSh7-3ed9v5K_75KTUYXhgXUnnUYUBb-_FQRzUuK8uzHbApJlja_RxDpg-oF89VSSan7-OzFWT8e39_I-duDVC59XAoH1hDEP34W4DgVyPBuyjkmpk6nS7GkkrjjxTgSLf635dg/s1600/images+%25286%2529.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">All caps makes your tone come across as </span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">being cranky regardless of what you</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;">are actually trying to say</span><span style="font-size: small;">! </span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Never, ever use all-caps in a headline or email subject line. Using all-caps is equivalent of shouting online.</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Keep it Positive</span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Use a positive, </span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">engaging tone. That rule applies to all content including serious topics like polio eradication, clean water projects, </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">domestics</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> abuse or addiction recovery. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">This does not mean understating the problem or being shy about writing graphic </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">descriptions that underline </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">the seriousness of an issue. </span></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">However, keeping a </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-indent: -18pt;">positive</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;"> tone can be in the form of offering hope or proposing solutions to problems.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6GfjRhus0-lYDZbbaPQASJjvR2CWylChW-6mwRfuCNoIWKVvMm2CEAY0JmOe86p6rJ69onxXO0OHX8ElU-DRRkeA_s13yYh34l7WSjLSNlHqGKoXIh_aHIU7LvSW3iAOzYeTw_cwrRc/s1600/USE+A+POSITIVE+BLOGGING+TONE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY6GfjRhus0-lYDZbbaPQASJjvR2CWylChW-6mwRfuCNoIWKVvMm2CEAY0JmOe86p6rJ69onxXO0OHX8ElU-DRRkeA_s13yYh34l7WSjLSNlHqGKoXIh_aHIU7LvSW3iAOzYeTw_cwrRc/s400/USE+A+POSITIVE+BLOGGING+TONE.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">In my branding practice, I am periodically hired to do qualitative customer </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">surveys</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">. There are usually a few </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">difficult statistics, comments or indicators that we need to take back to the client. We never present bad news without suggesting ways to take action to address the problem. We offer a way forward.</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Finally, using a $1,000 word when a $100 or even a $10 word will do is to be generally avoided. The general rule is to </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">write at a tenth </span></span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">grade reading level. That does not mean you are dumbing down your </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">content</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">. It has to do with the way people consume online content.</span></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;"> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">People Read Posts Differently </span></h4>
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Different formatting is required for online writing because p</span></span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">eople read websites and blog posts </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-indent: -18pt;">differently</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;"> then they read magazine or newspaper pages.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Online content is </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; text-indent: -18pt;">formatted</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;"> as a single column that runs the width of your screen rather than broken into two or three columns. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Some online read an entire post while others quickly scan it and only read the part they are most interested in.</span></div>
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<ol>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Sentences should not include more than 10 - 15 words</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Paragraphs should be 2-4 sentences as a guide.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Start each paragraph with a strong statement about the main topic</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">When possible, resist starting sentences with a clause </span></li>
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>'Because of the need, the Rotary Club raised funds for a </b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>clean water project!' will become 'The Rotary Club raised funds </b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>for a clean water project because of the need.' </b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Break it Up, Baby</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Start a new section when you introduce a new idea. Write a catchy headline as a lead-in. Create sections of 2-4 paragraphs. Write sub-h</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">eadlines that will guide the eye and make it easier to absorb and remember content. Sections divide content into consumable bites.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Most newspapers or magazines don't do this due to space limitations. Articles may fill an entire page without breaks due to the cost of printing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The judicious use of space is paramount. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For them, it costs money to add an extra page. In fact, you can only add two or four pages or more. In blogging, you simply insert a page break.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Blog Post Blobs and Blurps</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I periodically come across posts that have no breaks. They blather on for ever as a blob of information simply plunked on a page. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If a post looks like it will be laborious to read, it probably will be. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdOQA4J4EfRtjUAhiYrJBt5A_UUoRIcWA3Jy3o5nlmhlk23uC6yYasuXUpL47jSygTn09IwSJB-i0kkiSthlnUiCZ9I6jPofkXWd365-CAogE92vhbU6fSgUFisszzzKrfNIM8OvaY7n3f/s1600/4+WAY+TEST.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdOQA4J4EfRtjUAhiYrJBt5A_UUoRIcWA3Jy3o5nlmhlk23uC6yYasuXUpL47jSygTn09IwSJB-i0kkiSthlnUiCZ9I6jPofkXWd365-CAogE92vhbU6fSgUFisszzzKrfNIM8OvaY7n3f/s400/4+WAY+TEST.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Make it Stand Ou</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">t </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use bullet points, arrows or numbers to break up information whenever possible. Readers respond to lists. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />The judicious use of white space serves a useful purpose. It highlights key information, draws the eye to it and 'relaxes' the content by making it appear looser. </span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Creating a graphic to profile key info will make it pop out. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use different text colors and fonts than in the main body copy to grab attention. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use relevant photos to increase engagement and information retention. Simply put, they add color and meaning.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Use digits rather than writing numbers out. The rule does not apply when a number starts a sentence. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Start a paragraph with a question. It stimulates the cognitive process of the reader which results in deeper engagement. </span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The End</span></h3>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Do you publish a blog? Do you publish a blog for a service club or other not-for-profit? Do you have tips? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></b></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 22px;"><b>Other BTRB Posts and Links</b></span></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/04/great-photos-that-tell-stories-are.html" style="color: #888888;">Photos That Tell Stories Are the Currency of Social Media and Online Marketing</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/04/great-photos-that-tell-stories-are.html" style="color: #888888;"><br /></a><span style="color: #11cc66;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/03/why-quality-content-produces-social.html" style="color: #888888;">Why You Need Quality Content for Social Media Success. 21 Content Tips!</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html" style="color: #888888;"><span style="font-size: small;">Is Your Rotary Club About to Plunge into Social Media? Read! 8 "Ps" for Success!</span></a></h3>
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<span style="color: #888888; font-size: small;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/get-your-story-covered-nine-posts-to.html" style="color: #888888;">Nine Posts to Help You Attract Media Coverage</a></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #888888; font-size: small;"><a href="http://globalnews.ca/video/3166788/calgary-west-rotary-club-celebrates-community-service" style="color: #888888;">TV Interview With Robyn Braley About Rotary</a></span></h3>
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<a href="http://www.calgarysun.com/2017/01/09/calgary-rotarians-celebrate-50-years-of-charity-work" style="color: #888888;"><span style="font-size: small;">Newspaper Interview with Gail Williams about Rotary</span></a></h3>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-52982665645219403412017-08-02T14:47:00.000-06:002017-08-24T11:58:52.919-06:00Part 3: Top 10 Ways to Promote Your Rotary Blog Posts<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-bJitxdUyDp_yIRnhiXi9cA6ecs5F_-PwfLRcxwEfbVusaEWlcq4PYTw4a9jsXDWurBgBv5oql1TxStmBdZ4SazlajYh0pwHSOwILwv6NG_z3Mf-FflA58HOy4sRet9CN70InPRXhpAYS/s1600/blog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="159" data-original-width="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-bJitxdUyDp_yIRnhiXi9cA6ecs5F_-PwfLRcxwEfbVusaEWlcq4PYTw4a9jsXDWurBgBv5oql1TxStmBdZ4SazlajYh0pwHSOwILwv6NG_z3Mf-FflA58HOy4sRet9CN70InPRXhpAYS/s1600/blog1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How to market blog posts</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></span></h3>
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So, you've published a brilliant blog post. You've told a compelling story. Now what? This post provides 10 practical tips for promoting blog posts. </h3>
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Rotary has amazing stories to tell. Blogging is an excellent way to tell them.</h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Blogging takes more time, discipline and planning than most other social media platforms. The challenge is to think long term and to develop an editorial strategy.</span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">What does that mean? In simple terms, you've written your first post. What comes next?</span></span> </h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Building the Rotary Brand (BTRB) blog posts are serve a single purpose; to help increase the exposure and community engagement levels of your local club. Including social media in your strategies is a no brainer. </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Here is the good news. Once you have established a social media presence with channels like Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin or other platforms, you have ready-made tools for promoting your blog posts. </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">But, before I ramble on, you may want to check out these recent posts. They will provide background to this article.</span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/05/is-blogging-excellent-way-to-tell.html">Part 1 - Write On! Blogging is a Great Way to Tell Stories and Build Communities! Tips</a></span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/07/part-2-tips-for-choosing-blogsite.html">Part 2 - Choosing a Blogging Platform With the Tools to Enhance Your Stories</a></span></span></h2>
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Traditional Marketing</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Promote your sites anywhere and everywhere including with your traditional marketing tools. </span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Include social media icons on all club communications materiel like business cards, letter head, brochures and other collateral. If you have a permanent club sign and have room, include the icons below your club logo. </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There are two reasons for doing this.</span></span></h2>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">To encourage others to search out your platforms and follow, friend, connect and possibly forward your content to their own social media communities.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;">To make a visual statement that your club is current, relevant and up-to-date. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"> </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Personal Emails</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Because I still operate my branding, speaking and writing businesses, I don’t include Rotary links in my emails. Don’t get me wrong. My clients all know I’m a Rotarian because of the stories I tell about service projects. </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">However, if you are retired or use a Rotary-only email account, include links to your club website and social media sites including your blogsite. Search for relevant icons and insert them with links at the bottom of your email above or below your signature. That makes it easy to for email recipients to click through and engage with your club. </span></span></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJnG_tRsnNcD8o1bmK3EKQJxuj9KlRynBxzaJLB_76_DxtTSuD5dOzsGep8b_XlD_F02zKiHoSkokhRVS1KJCKNFIegZ81ybmpPAJhejoqE_-_7dU-jhRQ6jIcZBn1NDc9zSfBX196Wuk/s1600/SCREEN+SHOT+EMAIL+SIGNATURE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJnG_tRsnNcD8o1bmK3EKQJxuj9KlRynBxzaJLB_76_DxtTSuD5dOzsGep8b_XlD_F02zKiHoSkokhRVS1KJCKNFIegZ81ybmpPAJhejoqE_-_7dU-jhRQ6jIcZBn1NDc9zSfBX196Wuk/s400/SCREEN+SHOT+EMAIL+SIGNATURE.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My email signature with SM links</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Share Buttons</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">You’ve all seen floating or embedded social media share buttons in blog posts. The purpose is obvious. </span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">These buttons enable readers to easily share your content within their social media communities and networks. When this happens, you expand your reach by exposing your content to new audiences.</span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">I feel floating icons are best. They make it easy for readers to respond emotionally to content that inspires them, provides useful information they think others will want to know, or they simply like it. Share buttons are a call to action.</span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Search within your blogsite platform like WordPress for share plugins. They make it easy.</span></span></h2>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jdrrimTk6rv2qYCx8-S0hXdpbQ8ZFj-5p1A56mP_KRXUK4ioOOW3wUq6dUrOW1XMUwC7ZGRytOTqTDG2vPamJy_OEIQNfSSKQkvaREqQ8PcEPh3O_JYUqpMLW0dN03aeUeLd1wgiayM8/s1600/tts-content-marketing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1jdrrimTk6rv2qYCx8-S0hXdpbQ8ZFj-5p1A56mP_KRXUK4ioOOW3wUq6dUrOW1XMUwC7ZGRytOTqTDG2vPamJy_OEIQNfSSKQkvaREqQ8PcEPh3O_JYUqpMLW0dN03aeUeLd1wgiayM8/s1600/tts-content-marketing.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></h2>
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Content Curation</span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">This is where the importance of content curation comes into play. Go through your post and copy key phrases or sentences. Include any quotes made by others or brilliant observations that you have written yourself. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/03/why-quality-content-produces-social.html">Why Quality Content is the Key for Social Media Success. 21 Tips!</a></span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">If your post is lengthy, create a new document (page) for each topic within your article and store them in a common folder. That makes your content easy to find to cut and paste into your social media feeds.</span></span></h2>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Text </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Graphic images</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Photos</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Videos</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: small; font-weight: normal;">Podcasts/Audio</span></li>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Adapt your message to meet the protocols for each platform that you use. Insert appropriate hash tags and links. Video and podcast files can be embedded or attached to Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and other platform messages.</span></span></h2>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizAg1bi1hviA2Tw5aUc9mpVdKu7w-3urPAXcbKXc2l3IaBpIpatwLK3owZPmW0Wfe-Mei5W6JEW6D-64tAe2qAseXQR1vaaiQ4xurA2HHyQUqhUHmhY4oYwf6DiBVYtgoC2EsiEZY0-Hxs/s1600/CONTENT+TO+CUT+AND+PASTE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizAg1bi1hviA2Tw5aUc9mpVdKu7w-3urPAXcbKXc2l3IaBpIpatwLK3owZPmW0Wfe-Mei5W6JEW6D-64tAe2qAseXQR1vaaiQ4xurA2HHyQUqhUHmhY4oYwf6DiBVYtgoC2EsiEZY0-Hxs/s400/CONTENT+TO+CUT+AND+PASTE.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These messages have been copied from this post. They are<br />
processed for Twitter promotion as tweets. Note the blog post<br />
link has been shortened using Hootsuite</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">
Images</span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Photos and graphic images substantially increase your audience engagement level. They grab attention and draw people in. Create a file with photos and graphics specific to each blog. Again, this reduces management time and simplifies automation.</span></span></h2>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Photos</span></span></h4>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Select photos that tell stories. If you must augment your picture with text to explain what is happening, you will use precious space. For example, tweets use only 140 characters including spaces.</span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">If you do not have photos or graphic images directly related to your story, use free images from an online resource. This site lists 20 such sites offering public domain, creative commons and royalty free photos.</span></span></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><a href="https://www.inc.com/john-rampton/20-sites-with-free-images-for-your-blog-or-social-media-posts.html">20 Sites for Accessing Photos</a></span></span></div>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Graphics</span><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></h4>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Canva is an amazing online service. You can create graphics using their stock photos and design elements and choose easy-to-use text overlays. </span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">All you have to do is insert your own message and save it into your graphics file. You can also upload original photos.</span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Canva is particularly great for quotes. However, it can also be creatively limiting. </span></span></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"><a href="https://www.canva.com/design/DACdAjRMybs/IwdJC486OG8uvcDeg1SKCQ/edit">Canva Graphics Creation</a></span></span></h2>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp9QV3MTFTycHscVGVjP0ACEcd-USzz30lJG94uIX1AdsWwSR9WKmM1sLdkg2_nPhs2v_XS1ywB5NAMuXbBMldY3WcMbMeWR92Vh6NZRM9kFH4-b5zG9x_md4Yv4ijx8tZQT4TahlOQTSh/s1600/Sun+Never+Sets+on+Rotary.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp9QV3MTFTycHscVGVjP0ACEcd-USzz30lJG94uIX1AdsWwSR9WKmM1sLdkg2_nPhs2v_XS1ywB5NAMuXbBMldY3WcMbMeWR92Vh6NZRM9kFH4-b5zG9x_md4Yv4ijx8tZQT4TahlOQTSh/s400/Sun+Never+Sets+on+Rotary.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Created using a free Canva photo,a graphic template<br />
and inserting original text into a text overlay</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnJiEivtLCY6dUmyve6e8NpBfRYtSDNFOpHxuDItOtsXGyHyszIFOHExrOxfNGs98o5tXiZuhFX-HciZwpAMM8PeIxd4s94CDl-EUDlQ817MjI7NhNrmEsIv36DaRt69Kpfuw-7f_yJ_D/s1600/KINDNESS+REVOLUTION.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRnJiEivtLCY6dUmyve6e8NpBfRYtSDNFOpHxuDItOtsXGyHyszIFOHExrOxfNGs98o5tXiZuhFX-HciZwpAMM8PeIxd4s94CDl-EUDlQ817MjI7NhNrmEsIv36DaRt69Kpfuw-7f_yJ_D/s400/KINDNESS+REVOLUTION.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Created using PowerPoint by following the steps below </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">One of the simplest of many ways to create original graphics is by using PowerPoint. I’ll write a post about using PowerPoint for club promotion in the future. </span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">PowerPoint features make it east to crop photos and do basic photo enhancement. Unlike with Canva, you must create text boxes and choose fonts. Choosing background colors or design textures is easy. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">The rectangle format provides more space and options for social media than the square format. However, if you are also using the slides for live presentations, the square format may be best as they become multi-functional. </span></span></h2>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Easy PowerPoint Graphics</span><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"> </span></span></h4>
<h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Open a PowerPoint file</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Click ‘Design’ and go to the right hand side to ‘format background.’ Choose a background that will best enhance your content. For example, white makes black or navy text really pop. Dark blue make white text jump off the image.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Click insert to bring in photos, logos or other PNG or JPEG files.Adjust the size for look and feel.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Click ‘file’ and go down to ‘save as’</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Click ‘save as’ </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Click the archive file at the top that you want to save it in. I suggest creating a new envelope for each new post.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Give your image a title</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Click the ‘down arrow’ on ‘save as type’</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Click JPEG</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Click save and a box will come up</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Click ‘just this one’</span></span></li>
</ol>
</h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Voila! Instant graphic for social media.</span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">
Social Media Promotion</span></h2>
<h2>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">Cut and paste your pre-selected content into your automation or platform feed.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">Include a link to your blogpost</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">Attach a photo or image</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">Send or schedule in your automation platform</span></li>
</ul>
</h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">If you are using an automation platform like Tweetdeck, Hootesuite or Buffer, repeat your message on different days and at different times of the day. Schedule some for the middle of the night. Remember, Rotary never sleeps. </span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">If you have quoted someone or have a friend who uses social media, tag them. They will probably forward your message to their communities. It’s human nature to want to be recognized for your work.</span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">For Rotary, tag various clubs, districts and Rotary International. If the content of your blog is relevant to their interests, they will probably forward your messages.</span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">
Keyword Research</span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Being strategic about the words and phrases you use can add to your exposure. They will improve the search engine ranking of your blog post. A keyword search will indicate what target audiences are searching for. </span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Explaining the complexities of search engine optimization can become geeky. Those reading this who know me understand that any explanation relating to technology must be simple enough for me to understand. Really simple!</span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Let's try this. When researching keywords, imagine you are looking over the searchers shoulder. See the screen from their perspective. </span></span></h2>
<h2>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">What do they want? </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">What are they searching for? </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">How will the content in your post help them? </span></li>
</ul>
</h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Including ranking keywords make it easier to create blog posts that are relevant and provide value.</span></span></h2>
<h2>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">Type in Free Keywords Planner.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">Type the main keyword that describes the post content (e.g., clean water, micro-credit, community service) into the search box. Click ‘Get ideas’ for the result. Now work the suggested keywords into your text near the top. </span></li>
</ol>
</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">
Build an Email List</span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Building an email list specific to your blogsite is one of the first things you should do. Your goal will be to translate casual traffic into serious subscribers. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVcehysVWnJQRcuVZYTD1aPWZh_OFzY2y5RIy8qwB0vtIZ8ldaMIllbClxkPxTqgAzGHEcOKhmR83ZoBU1teeJ9X7-TaGp3MrIZbk4XTEWmvdqYJsYWqGUqbV7Bx6aUTpRZQKM9_8hnX_G/s1600/eNews_button.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="114" data-original-width="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVcehysVWnJQRcuVZYTD1aPWZh_OFzY2y5RIy8qwB0vtIZ8ldaMIllbClxkPxTqgAzGHEcOKhmR83ZoBU1teeJ9X7-TaGp3MrIZbk4XTEWmvdqYJsYWqGUqbV7Bx6aUTpRZQKM9_8hnX_G/s1600/eNews_button.png" /></a></div>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Check out list-building software like SumoMe plugin, List Builder, Scroll Box, OptinMonster and LeadPages.</span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Include contact emails from people who have had some form of positive contact with your club. Lists could include former speakers, club visitors, former members and more. Be sure that adding such information complies with the Anti-Spam Laws of your country,</span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Click here for list ideas</span></span></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/harnessing-power-of-enews-written-by.html">An Easy Way to Marketing Rotary! Harness the Power of Emails</a></span></span></h2>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">How Can This Help</span></span></h4>
<h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal;">Once you have built your list, it will be easy to send a group email to promote future blogs. Do some research to gather information about what the best times to broadcast are. Generally, Wednesday morning at 10 am in your time zone is the best broadcast time .</span></span> </h2>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; text-align: center;">
<h3>
<span style="font-size: small;">The End</span></h3>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<br style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;" /></div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Do you publish a blog? Do you have tips? What platform do you use? What do you like about it? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></b></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 22px;"><b>Other BTRB Posts and Links</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 22px;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: 22px;"></span>
<span style="font-size: 22px;"></span><br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/05/is-blogging-excellent-way-to-tell.html" style="color: #11cc66; text-decoration-line: none;">Part 1 - Write On! Blogging is a Great Way to Tell Stories and Build Communities! Tips</a></h3>
<span style="font-size: 22px;"></span><br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/07/part-2-tips-for-choosing-blogsite.html" style="color: #11cc66; text-decoration-line: none;">Part 2 - Choosing a Blogging Platform With the Tools to Enhance Your Stories</a></h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/05/lights-camera-action-tips-for-shooting.html" style="color: #11cc66; font-size: 22px;">Lights, Camera, Action! Tips for Shooting Service Club Videos Using Your Phone</a><br />
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/05/lights-camera-action-tips-for-shooting.html" style="color: #11cc66;"><br /></a><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/04/great-photos-that-tell-stories-are.html" style="color: #888888;">Photos That Tell Stories Are the Currency of Social Media and Online Marketing</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/04/great-photos-that-tell-stories-are.html" style="color: #888888;"><br /></a><span style="color: #11cc66; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/03/why-quality-content-produces-social.html" style="color: #888888;">Why You Need Quality Content for Social Media Success. 21 Content Tips!</a></span></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/02/how-to-reduce-time-it-takes-to-properly.html" style="color: #11cc66;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">How to Reduce the Time it Takes to Properly Manage Social Media</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html" style="color: #888888;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Is Your Rotary Club About to Plunge into Social Media? Read! 8 "Ps" for Success!</span></a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/75-amazing-ideas-for-random-acts-of.html" style="color: #888888;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">81 Amazing Acts of Kindness That Will Change Your Life and Someone Else's</span></a></h3>
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<span style="color: #888888; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/get-your-story-covered-nine-posts-to.html" style="color: #888888;">Nine Posts to Help You Attract Media Coverage</a></span></h3>
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<span style="color: #888888; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://globalnews.ca/video/3166788/calgary-west-rotary-club-celebrates-community-service" style="color: #888888;">TV Interview With Robyn Braley About Rotary</a></span></h3>
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<a href="http://www.calgarysun.com/2017/01/09/calgary-rotarians-celebrate-50-years-of-charity-work" style="color: #888888; font-size: x-small;">Newspaper Interview with Gail Williams about Rotary</a></h3>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="color: #888888;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="color: #888888;">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></span><br /><br /><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/03/8-posts-packed-full-of-tips-for.html" style="color: #888888;">8 Posts Packed Full of Tips for Improving Your Rotary Club Speakers Program</a></span></h3>
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<!-- Go to www.addthis.com/dashboard to customize your tools --> <script src="//s7.addthis.com/js/300/addthis_widget.js#pubid=ra-5983fe0c2393b40e" type="text/javascript"></script> Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-4410480840382522302017-07-05T11:49:00.004-06:002017-08-03T23:06:03.669-06:00Part 2 - Choosing a Blogging Platform With the Tools to Enhance Your Stories<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 3;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XVgw5uewSIgHJxlB3EfHi_KcxfS_I8Ql9ICX_a0eJuxkUxf4piZscEkH7jtlnAJjF1IM9gpauUQ6zmAbWB1qvbtda8zzdWAWXcoQ9bSkrA_EUC3PfS3AwlX0oLqHZQufOXMzeJzMiiP5/s1600/download+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="280" height="127" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4XVgw5uewSIgHJxlB3EfHi_KcxfS_I8Ql9ICX_a0eJuxkUxf4piZscEkH7jtlnAJjF1IM9gpauUQ6zmAbWB1qvbtda8zzdWAWXcoQ9bSkrA_EUC3PfS3AwlX0oLqHZQufOXMzeJzMiiP5/s200/download+%25282%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b>Written by Robyn T. Braley</b></div>
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So, you’ve gone through the steps and are ready to launch a blogsite as part of your Rotary Club’s brand program. Blogging is an excellent way to tell stories that inform and shape the opinions of others. It is an easy way to explain what you do and what you are known for. In other words, your brand.</h3>
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Blogging takes discipline and hard work. To maximize the impact, set-up requires an organized and systematic approach. Choosing a platform that is right for you is a key part of the process and requires careful thought based on comparative analysis.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjO_gzSh-tAIqpKoCQXUPcOu1rtgy41Si9WC1U_t5Sb9Xg5JqitO807ABRwxPl-xKEJu0US5hRhDgMINeNklxwYLNLP5d1pZogkTUNPTafdhTbGVVGJ8cwlhzap3gp3_LrITlf2g_u4HI_/s1600/RIGHT+PLATFORM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjO_gzSh-tAIqpKoCQXUPcOu1rtgy41Si9WC1U_t5Sb9Xg5JqitO807ABRwxPl-xKEJu0US5hRhDgMINeNklxwYLNLP5d1pZogkTUNPTafdhTbGVVGJ8cwlhzap3gp3_LrITlf2g_u4HI_/s400/RIGHT+PLATFORM.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Before reading further, it may help to do a quick scan of 3 previous posts in this series. If you are a social media neophyte, they will introduce you to the basics.<br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html">Is Your Rotary Club About to Plunge into Social Media? Read! 8"Ps" for Success!</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/03/why-quality-content-produces-social.html">Why Quality Content is the Key for Social Media Success. 21 Tips!<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/05/is-blogging-excellent-way-to-tell.html">Part 1 - Write On! Blogging is a Great Way to Tell Stories and Build Communities!</a></span><br />
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Choosing a Blog Platform </h3>
Once you’ve sketched out an editorial plan and began creating a content library, you are ready to choose a platform. Blog platforms eliminate the need to know HTML website coding and protocols necessary for building a traditional website.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifm27NiOfOFlx26H1LMIjAw1bn7VruLcj9TE_1HLaBYZCxhYBCbXHRMDqk-78ASA3JlcUqqf4pj1tsAP25Q-Fn7t3ejEI2LO4cHoHUUDaHeKH8uqSP68hJ9ooJkXnzZal6aHuLSCXuFIjS/s1600/tool+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="211" data-original-width="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifm27NiOfOFlx26H1LMIjAw1bn7VruLcj9TE_1HLaBYZCxhYBCbXHRMDqk-78ASA3JlcUqqf4pj1tsAP25Q-Fn7t3ejEI2LO4cHoHUUDaHeKH8uqSP68hJ9ooJkXnzZal6aHuLSCXuFIjS/s1600/tool+box.jpg" /></a></div>
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Don’t get me wrong, a blog is really a website. The best platforms provide tools for making a custom site that will be as unique as it is distinctive and functional. The look and feel will immediately engage visitors and draw them into your brand.<br />
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And the biggest bonus? You won’t need to be an expert to design it and maintain it. When you choose a user-friendly platform and take a few tutorials, all you will need to launch your site is content.<br />
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Engaging Branding Is Key</h3>
Before you launch into building your blogsite, let’s review the idea of a brand. To maximize performance, it is key that the design, content and meaning be aligned with that of your club.<br />
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<b>Rotary is all about doing. And, it’s the “doing” that gives Rotarians meaning.</b></blockquote>
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The process of branding is living out an inner meaning in a way that breathes life into an organization. It provides outward evidence of an internal belief system. Your blogsite should reflect that.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html">How do I Explain my Rotary Club’s Brand</a><br />
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Why Content is Still King</h3>
A whizzy design will never overcome poor content. Building a blogsite without quality content is like putting lipstick on a pig or a mask on a cow. Neither the lipstick nor the mask will cover up the truth of what is on the inside. The pig will still be the pig and the cow will still be the cow.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgQgn0IHgl0C1D385L6nEziTegKQOBP4lJsK3Xcx9G74CxxDQoNlwraJwlBCecCDjhbhzz-SD3p6f1PR80M3c0zxAFQZBYBUURxeLRdZ7K6xdlu_lBBPvBf1jCGF7-L4rAeJcRJiUL6-6/s1600/635879618131222993102182267_Blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUgQgn0IHgl0C1D385L6nEziTegKQOBP4lJsK3Xcx9G74CxxDQoNlwraJwlBCecCDjhbhzz-SD3p6f1PR80M3c0zxAFQZBYBUURxeLRdZ7K6xdlu_lBBPvBf1jCGF7-L4rAeJcRJiUL6-6/s200/635879618131222993102182267_Blog.jpg" width="200" /></a>Without quality content, the rest of your blogging decisions will be mute. The most dynamic and dazzling Pet Food branding program will fail if the dogs refuse to eat the dog food. Putting lipstick on a pig or a mask on a cow doesn't make a pork chop into steak or vice versa.<br />
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<a href="http://robyntbraley.blogspot.ca/2013/08/re-branding-pig-and-cow.html">Branding the Pig and the Cow</a><br />
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Comparing Platforms</h3>
Review and compare different platforms. My advice is to choose one known for intuitive design options and a wide range of easy-to-help tools.<br />
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The best platforms offer a wide variety of tools such as slideshows, video or audio inclusion, interactive galleries, animations, graphics, image editors, standard blog elements, and more. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGBHgrgPAeV-92gH0T5hubrYEdBq_bHTXGY1R4-RGj97Tklox9NbccwJNM0htit0FTmw_q8RK4XU6nHXz3QpJZFgH4f7wB5BMt_9lQW68DVSY_iZ7wTgNTJOycz6YoxSDtOQql-B0E3pz/s1600/images+%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="208" data-original-width="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkGBHgrgPAeV-92gH0T5hubrYEdBq_bHTXGY1R4-RGj97Tklox9NbccwJNM0htit0FTmw_q8RK4XU6nHXz3QpJZFgH4f7wB5BMt_9lQW68DVSY_iZ7wTgNTJOycz6YoxSDtOQql-B0E3pz/s1600/images+%25281%2529.png" /></a></div>
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I suggest choosing a platform that suits your experience and abilities. There is one caveat. <br />
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While functions may seem beyond your capabilities now, once you start blogging, you will learn fast and develop a passion for it. The key is to anticipate what your needs will be down the road.<br />
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In a later post I will write about ways to market your blog. Choosing a platform that offers functions making it easy to promote your site through other social media channels is a no-brainer.<br />
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<li>Hosting incuded</li>
<li>Custom domain included</li>
<li>Mobile-friendly</li>
<li>Designs available</li>
<li>Plugins and extensions</li>
<li>User friendly</li>
<li>No advertising</li>
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Just the Facts, Ma'am</h3>
I hesitate to refer readers to a site where I don’t really know the people. But this site seems balanced in their reviews. <a href="http://www.toptenreviews.com/business/internet/best-blog-platforms/">Top Ten Reviews </a>is a company that reviews a variety of products and services.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_r0DC_8Ml4ikjZHEwJni-v0VxNay714JhetGsO5qhUdlN5chvftplcOlso5z6Wi37v9pQKEeTdFSXQTa2x3HOJ12phPSbYC-62JC9Q9Ov_pzIqgiwF5SMEMeTrtPHI01ORViLZSR_uTU/s1600/WP%252C+WIX%252C+BGGER%252C+WEEBLY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_r0DC_8Ml4ikjZHEwJni-v0VxNay714JhetGsO5qhUdlN5chvftplcOlso5z6Wi37v9pQKEeTdFSXQTa2x3HOJ12phPSbYC-62JC9Q9Ov_pzIqgiwF5SMEMeTrtPHI01ORViLZSR_uTU/s320/WP%252C+WIX%252C+BGGER%252C+WEEBLY.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Below are provided links to their reviews. However, they've also made it easy to form your own opinion. There are links to the various sites allowing you to compare their evaluation with your own research.<br />
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Top Blogsite Performers </h3>
<a href="http://www.toptenreviews.com/business/internet/best-blog-platforms/wordpress-com-review/">WordPress</a>, Gold Award Winner<br />
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<a href="http://www.toptenreviews.com/business/internet/best-blog-platforms/weebly-review/">Weebly</a>, Silver Award Winner<br />
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<a href="http://www.toptenreviews.com/business/internet/best-blog-platforms/wix-review/">Wix</a>, the Bronze Award Winner<br />
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<a href="http://www.toptenreviews.com/business/internet/best-blog-platforms/blogger-review/">Blogger</a>, Fifth Place<br />
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Domain Names</h3>
Choosing a custom domain name that is relevant to your club is a key part of branding. It will also make it SEO searchable and easy to remember.<br />
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For example, my clubs website address is www.calgarywestrotary.org. A domain name like wwww.calgarywestrotaryblog.org would leave no doubt about the affiliation.<br />
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For Rotary and other service clubs, using your country suffix like .ca or .au is not a bad idea if most of your marketing is targeted within your local community and country. However, if you plan to target a world-wide audience, .com or .org is universally recognized.<br />
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Many of the platforms offer domain name registration services and provide tutorials about how to set them up. <br />
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Once you have chosen your platform, written and editorial plan, created your first content and registered your domain name, you are ready to launch. You are officially a blogger.<br />
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The End</h3>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Do you publish a blog? Do you have tips? What platform do you use? What do you like about it? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></b></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<!-- Go to www.addthis.com/dashboard to customize your tools --> <script type="text/javascript" src="//s7.addthis.com/js/300/addthis_widget.js#pubid=ra-5983fe0c2393b40e"></script> Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-43010875570091722602017-05-31T22:54:00.002-06:002017-08-03T23:06:34.942-06:00Part 1 - Write On! Blogging is a Great Way to Tell Stories and Build Communities! Tips <div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBCUeBIF0TXL2RO5UBsvzmr6_LKa3HFbaBLR_fpscAIcRcqGhQ4wAHjbrZML00fPlVKyhQDbnKr6xcskP1scGp2vxqgEBMF6_aKwM4RfpRQbWjq1E-USS2nPE5-04Ewp4Vn38ozcQygm_P/s1600/purple-blogger-logo-icon-png-24.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="420" data-original-width="420" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBCUeBIF0TXL2RO5UBsvzmr6_LKa3HFbaBLR_fpscAIcRcqGhQ4wAHjbrZML00fPlVKyhQDbnKr6xcskP1scGp2vxqgEBMF6_aKwM4RfpRQbWjq1E-USS2nPE5-04Ewp4Vn38ozcQygm_P/s200/purple-blogger-logo-icon-png-24.png" width="200" /></a>Written by Robyn T. Braley</div>
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<h3>
Blogging is an excellent way to tell stories. A blog will help to build your Rotary Club's brand by informing and shaping the opinions of others and demonstrate what you are known for. </h3>
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<br /></div>
<h3>
Of all the social media platforms, blogging has cache and mystique. With your first post you will officially become a published writer. That is why making a good first impression is important. You want visitors to return to read your next post. </h3>
<br />
Like every social media platform, there are protocols and practices that are unique to blogging. Success requires hard work and discipline.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJlrMqzGa1T21HwGOYcZ1sQstli1qnhIK5UewPeSpOjSpOaD2ZZ8hH1lhVZYeRfJfryl79Qj1Jiq05krwgHyhU2jVdKOKFg7KASdG6f7Z-CYkv5PfSLuDdxyeOfXU5LfIlWgJ7kQk3y8VY/s1600/blog.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="313" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJlrMqzGa1T21HwGOYcZ1sQstli1qnhIK5UewPeSpOjSpOaD2ZZ8hH1lhVZYeRfJfryl79Qj1Jiq05krwgHyhU2jVdKOKFg7KASdG6f7Z-CYkv5PfSLuDdxyeOfXU5LfIlWgJ7kQk3y8VY/s200/blog.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blogging is much like<br />
piecing together a puzzle.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Your ultimate goal is to build a community of followers who will become fans of your content. Communities grow when fed a steady diet seasoned with quality content that is relevant, trustworthy, authentic and transparent.<br />
<br />
Then, there is writing style. Perfecting your craft and developing a style that is all “you” takes dedication and persistence. Writing content for blogs requires a slightly different approach than writing for print media.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>I have separated my article into two parts. In part one, I will focus on developing;<br />
<ul>
<li>Editorial policy</li>
<li>Content strategy</li>
<li>Finding your voice</li>
<li>Writing structure</li>
</ul>
<br />
Part two will discuss;<br />
<ul>
<li>Blog platforms</li>
<li>Guest contributors</li>
<li>Subheadings</li>
<li>Use of photos, graphs, charts</li>
<li>Marketing</li>
</ul>
<br />
Before introducing you to the fun part of blogging, I must point out the downer. Those darned deadlines, whether imposed by yourself or an organization. I confess! The real reason I am writing this today rather than tomorrow is to meet my Rotary District 5360’s eNewsletter deadline.<br />
<br />
I’ve had this topic in my editorial calendar for months and have been gathering resource material. However, with me being me, I probably wouldn’t get it written for a few more weeks without my deadline. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html"><b>Are you ready? Check out 8 P's for Social Media Success</b></a></div>
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<h3>
Editorial Policy </h3>
An editorial policy provides a guide for the overall management and creative development of the blog. It serves as a guide and helps you plan forward. Start by asking these simple questions.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Who is your target audience? </li>
<li>Who will create your blog’s content? </li>
<li>Who will act as publisher and/or editor? </li>
<li>What tools will you rely on to help tell your stories? Text only? Photos? Graphs? Video? Podcasts? Interview formats? </li>
<li>How often will you publish? </li>
<li>What posting frequency will be needed?</li>
</ol>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGltxwfUH42MCd5Q054xkrws6xvw10Gsl7tNwiQaMr40gsUdvUZ0qk8xVO5h1XsEUcPsv0YGH4Ub3HdcjbOCh5fmVdY5ZZ262vRqesna2Muw1qfnGg90DEBheG4OvSLqot9PirxbdS5hWJ/s1600/download.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGltxwfUH42MCd5Q054xkrws6xvw10Gsl7tNwiQaMr40gsUdvUZ0qk8xVO5h1XsEUcPsv0YGH4Ub3HdcjbOCh5fmVdY5ZZ262vRqesna2Muw1qfnGg90DEBheG4OvSLqot9PirxbdS5hWJ/s320/download.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The simplest podcast interviews <br />
only require a good mic and a phone.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Publishing once a month is reasonable while publishing once a week is work intensive. I caution you to choose a schedule that is manageable and then stick to it. In social media terms, it is better to not start at all then to have site visitors discover the last post was published 6 months ago. <br />
<br />
When you’ve answered these questions, write a descriptive paragraph that is as broad as possible. For example, if you plan to feature guest posts from club members who have just returned from a polio mission in Ethiopia, include that. If you plan to include audio interviews with guest speakers, note it.<br />
<br />
When the document is finished, you will have your editorial policy completed. Done!<br />
<br />
<h3>
Content Strategy</h3>
Creating a content strategy that will resonate, be relevant and build your community takes careful thought and deliberation. It is all about story.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/03/why-quality-content-produces-social.html">Read Why You Need Quality Content for Social Media Success</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Make your strategy as broad as possible. For example, if your club has a single service project like raising funds and volunteering for the local food bank, your content will be extremely limited without other topics.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDSUFYtVUgWenIV_OPhaYT_fWAnqimI6-0W8hogl6pD1zhkhOe7M_4bUog-n0vNAV2HwKHKotXZW9uOJfCrYJWpVOroCsvLry2s28KdVgebADrUruL2bUv0oazDZotad9K_5WFNPQprLo4/s1600/Cap+2016-04-28+14-58-04-412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="700" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDSUFYtVUgWenIV_OPhaYT_fWAnqimI6-0W8hogl6pD1zhkhOe7M_4bUog-n0vNAV2HwKHKotXZW9uOJfCrYJWpVOroCsvLry2s28KdVgebADrUruL2bUv0oazDZotad9K_5WFNPQprLo4/s320/Cap+2016-04-28+14-58-04-412.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
However, if you make it about “Local people serving communities at home and around the world,” you’ve just opened your content to a world of topic possibilities and story ideas. Your writing style and content will shape your literary voice.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
The very nature of the planning process will produce editorial consistency, continuity and flow over the long term. Your blog will take on an overall theme that will become central to your brand.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
A Name That Resonates</h3>
<br />
Now, based on this process, give your blog a name. It should reflect your theme, your voice and your content focus. My writer/speaker's blog is called Brandit and this one... well you know what it is called. Both very clearly explain the content.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="http://robyntbraley.blogspot.ca/2016/04/what-you-need-to-know-about-naming-your.html">Check out Finding a Sticky Name Visitors Will Remember</a></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
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<h3>
A Headline is Your Promise to Readers</h3>
A simple, engaging headline is the cheese that will trap your reader-mouse. When a headline gets their attention, they are compelled to click on it so satisfy their curiosity.<br />
<br />
Think about who your audience is. Write a headline that will capture their imagination.<br />
<br />
Make a promise that you will deliver through your article. Note that, as with any sales negotiation, it is better to under promise and not disappoint than to over promise and fail to deliver.<br />
<br />
The ideal blog-post headline will include keywords that help explain the article. Keywords will enable online searches to pull up your post when people google that topic.<br />
<br />
You will also cut and paste the headline to promote your post on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn or other social media platforms. It will only have a few seconds to “hook” the reader, so make it compelling.<br />
<br />
<h3>
A Cautionary Tale</h3>
This may seem obvious for Rotarians vis a vis the 4 Way Test, but do not write a headline that has no relevance to your article. If the article does not deliver on the promise made in the headline, it breaks trust with your community and destroys authenticity.<br />
<br />
But, there is more. Search engines like Google will penalize your blog's ranking if the headline and body copy are not aligned.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsLII9RPZBdx3JbC3Tp4QqrjSBewvAtuPnvTkvAAQ_Was1Dd9ezHEyiG59coXJc-nXedMI6T1n3vzUH1qw526vM70PNp0zNk3y0XsSeb5OOn_zuEX2DBWJb_4E_KpTGqea3I4fQMRKK_j/s1600/dreamworks-kid-fishing-for-clickbait.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="1600" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAsLII9RPZBdx3JbC3Tp4QqrjSBewvAtuPnvTkvAAQ_Was1Dd9ezHEyiG59coXJc-nXedMI6T1n3vzUH1qw526vM70PNp0zNk3y0XsSeb5OOn_zuEX2DBWJb_4E_KpTGqea3I4fQMRKK_j/s320/dreamworks-kid-fishing-for-clickbait.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For those uninformed about the twisted ways some online marketers think, some website designers and bloggers try this in an effort to fool search engines and generate higher traffic to their sites. Higher traffic returns advertising dollars based on volume. The practice is called creating clickbait. Don't do it.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Clarity Trumps Cleverness</h3>
Topic clarity increases reader engagement. Give the central idea away in the title of your post. Provide background knowledge that will motivate them to read on to find the answers to the question, “Why?” that you posed in the title.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQMZiEvZ9GAonEITqQrOMvHxIa9aJ4_HJtxQH-FjA7MfvdiAFz1gPAs5oQwiMMsLEib4vRDt1fU9Mo8K5RGvBPQYXBWbU0PJJNWG6Gn_Jbkkny9MUZyvrRNMxXO3RuDAF27MqELIZyV2cY/s1600/images+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="182" data-original-width="278" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQMZiEvZ9GAonEITqQrOMvHxIa9aJ4_HJtxQH-FjA7MfvdiAFz1gPAs5oQwiMMsLEib4vRDt1fU9Mo8K5RGvBPQYXBWbU0PJJNWG6Gn_Jbkkny9MUZyvrRNMxXO3RuDAF27MqELIZyV2cY/s200/images+%25282%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
In print pieces, writers often hide the main idea until the “grand reveal” is made near the end. The goal is to draw readers in and build suspense so they will continue on until “grand idea, ultimate motivator, or big reveal” is made at the end.<br />
<br />
The hope is to move them to say “Now, I get it.” or motivate them to take some kind of action at the end.<br />
<br />
Not so in blogging. Writing must be clear and concise. Get right to the point.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Nix the $100 Words</h3>
Resist the temptation to use uncommon words. They won’t make you appear smarter or more profound. They will simply cause reader’s to click out and move on to someone elses post. Don’t feel you must use a $100.00 word when a $20.00 word will do.<br />
<br />
There is the famous story taken from the ongoing conflict between William Falkner and Ernest Hemingway. Falkner criticized Hemingway for dumbing down his work. Hemingway's reply suggested he would have been a great blogger.<br />
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<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmViwcORfelX6nJ8weWPlekdoD8ZeMWmZ5DWUgE6XbF4PpcKhAsr75Pl1xb3eqxAFsu1Px02sWgnPYRY69DSuo0hmBfVZyuvPKhAvIeNlHP8ohYGwrqtdeaW1QOZzOamktjAHhkoP6hA7f/s1600/ERNEST+HEMINGWAY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="438" data-original-width="876" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmViwcORfelX6nJ8weWPlekdoD8ZeMWmZ5DWUgE6XbF4PpcKhAsr75Pl1xb3eqxAFsu1Px02sWgnPYRY69DSuo0hmBfVZyuvPKhAvIeNlHP8ohYGwrqtdeaW1QOZzOamktjAHhkoP6hA7f/s320/ERNEST+HEMINGWAY.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><br />
When tempted to use a $100 word when a $20 word would do, stop and ask, “WWHD! What Would Hemingway Do?”<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Sentences and Paragraphs</h3>
Sentences and paragraphs are structured differently for online reading than for print. In fact, many people read and absorb information differently in the online universe.<br />
<br />
Most blogs, websites and online media pages are formatted horizontally. The content will fill most of the screen of your computer or communication device. Print newsletters, newspapers and magazines are formatted into columns.<br />
<br />
Dividing paragraphs into 2-4 sentence blocks make them easier to read. You have probably seen blog posts comprised of huge blobs of information. They are difficult to wade through. Most readers move on.<br />
<br />
Writing shorter sentences helps readers to absorb information. What is too long? What is too short?<br />
<br />
As you develop your style, sentence length will become a matter of feel. Shorter is better. However, trying to rigidly adhere to a specific number of words per sentence will make your writing seem wooden and lack feeling.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
Stories Captivate and Provide Context</h3>
Tell stories. Plain and simple. Paint pictures with your words.<br />
<br />
Personalizing your content through telling relevant stories in your own words make the idea you are trying to communicate interesting and memorable. Story relevance is the key word here.<br />
<br />
<h3>
The Write Stuff</h3>
Finally, blogging, like all other writing, is a process. Allow yourself to make mistakes and then learn from them. As with any of life’s teachable moments, that is how you improve your work and yourself. Write on!<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
The End</div>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Do you publish a blog? Do you have tips? What writing advice do you offer? Formatting? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></b></h2>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 18.48px;">
<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<!-- Go to www.addthis.com/dashboard to customize your tools --> <script type="text/javascript" src="//s7.addthis.com/js/300/addthis_widget.js#pubid=ra-5983fe0c2393b40e"></script> Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-73125933312021545772017-05-03T15:15:00.001-06:002017-08-17T11:45:09.115-06:00Lights, Camera, Action! Tips for Shooting Service Club Videos Using Your Phone<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Written by Robyn T. Braley</h3>
<div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6uP7ifpDysY3UnMpoD8ncN_Daj0N3bVRAAlBsJUPYh1rHkdEOGEPC-wJI_OLsG-P0YQJkvxzkCEPDhgr9TmJDqBNw_RaRcUiC-eqAzORKZnQ5hDHje_spNSt2mGEQpNdraksePk4Gl8p/s1600/41nzYhsLuOL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA6uP7ifpDysY3UnMpoD8ncN_Daj0N3bVRAAlBsJUPYh1rHkdEOGEPC-wJI_OLsG-P0YQJkvxzkCEPDhgr9TmJDqBNw_RaRcUiC-eqAzORKZnQ5hDHje_spNSt2mGEQpNdraksePk4Gl8p/s320/41nzYhsLuOL.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<h3>
News flash! Video is a highly effective way to tell your story and build your service club’s brand. </h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Why? It is the next best thing to being there. You can look viewers in the eye and speak directly to them. You can show them the background to your story. </h3>
<br />
Video connects at an emotional level. Sound mixes with moving visuals to create a sensory environment that stimulates viewers.<br />
<br />
Anyone with basic knowledge can shoot a short video, edit it, and upload it for the world to see. All from their phone!<br />
<br />
Videos add tremendous value to your <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/03/why-quality-content-produces-social.html">social media content arsenal.</a> They are also useful for live, group or one-on-one presentations.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
The online use of videos began when they were embedded into websites in the 1990's! Later, YouTube came onto scene as a standalone social media platform. Since then, a tsunami of applications have spread as other social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and others developed video capabilities.<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpD8RyHjuINjsflQ18sjAAdS9NzC0hkYwCxRJkMwqWRTrxPRg_gDuFgkWS2LleIEP_LMOtOAFiLNfc9mzAbfTMZiFP9g4nUYk9SrhFdwOAbfCNVT58FrkHg6xBPl-b0Rc68kv7G9vorNL6/s1600/CHEAP+CAMERAS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpD8RyHjuINjsflQ18sjAAdS9NzC0hkYwCxRJkMwqWRTrxPRg_gDuFgkWS2LleIEP_LMOtOAFiLNfc9mzAbfTMZiFP9g4nUYk9SrhFdwOAbfCNVT58FrkHg6xBPl-b0Rc68kv7G9vorNL6/s320/CHEAP+CAMERAS.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
The rushing tide was fueled by the availability of inexpensive cameras followed by the rapid improvement of phone cameras, tablets and other communications devices.<br />
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<h3>
The Big Question; Why</h3>
Why does video make such good sense for Rotary and other service clubs? Pages of written information can be condensed into a script that quickly gets to the nub of your story.<br />
<br />
As we've established, video can be used for a variety of social media platforms. Incorporating key words into the script makes them search engine friendly which adds marketing value. Some search engines automatically transcribe narration tracks to further optimize your online presence.<br />
<br />
Mobility means videos can be watched on laptops, IPads, phones and other mobile devices. Exposure through YouTube, Twitter, Facebook channels that are linked to your website brings media convergence full circle. People can interact with your brand at different levels and through different entry portals.<br />
<br />
<h3>
KISS</h3>
I have spent years as a television personality and producer. I've produced videos for businesses and not-for-profit organizations. I've also TV commercials and TV shows.<br />
<br />
What does this mean? Absolutely nothing. In fact, professionals can make video production overly complicated. It doesn’t have to be that way.<br />
<br />
So, as a note to myself, KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid). I will limit myself to 1,000 words outlining simple production basics that will enable you to shoot a quality video using your phone.<br />
<br />
For more information, JGI (Just Google It). There are excellent tutorials online about shooting technique, performing, recording audio and editi.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkx1pNo8lAAw7_KOc_DHzu_-uH2E2qUe_g3phmhzrdPfKmMhzZcDlMJqeoj8iwNMSVajOeS6B7odUAcjrj9vOFpkPsMcBah1DH55xHIIgOq1jiQNl_FI0mjMY6nthmkbt_6LTRPGmb0Ac/s1600/new+best+freinds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpkx1pNo8lAAw7_KOc_DHzu_-uH2E2qUe_g3phmhzrdPfKmMhzZcDlMJqeoj8iwNMSVajOeS6B7odUAcjrj9vOFpkPsMcBah1DH55xHIIgOq1jiQNl_FI0mjMY6nthmkbt_6LTRPGmb0Ac/s400/new+best+freinds.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There are limitless online tutorials about the various<br />
aspects of video production. JGI - Just google it. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<h3>
Defining Your Purpose</h3>
What are you trying to achieve? What message are you trying to deliver?<br />
<br />
When those questions are answered, all else follows in logical order. For example, if you are shooting a series of 10 second testimonials, identifying your purpose will dictate what questions to ask to get interviews started.<br />
<br />
Answers to those questions will also dictate where to stage them. What statement does the background make?<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Provide an overview of a service project</li>
<li>Describe the project needs</li>
<li>Challenge collaborative partners to help fund it</li>
<li>Record testimonials of people who were helped by a donation</li>
<li>Profile your club as one worth joining</li>
<li>Interview a notable speaker</li>
<li>Record testimonials of members sharing the benefits of Rotary </li>
<li>Promote an upcoming fund raising event</li>
<li>Give instructions and training to volunteers</li>
<li>Communicate important information to membership</li>
<li>Video interesting field trips</li>
<li>Benchmark an historical event</li>
</ul>
<br />
<h3>
Scripting for Dummies</h3>
Brand-building is all about telling stories. Every story has a beginning, middle and end. When producing video – whether it is a 5 second background clip or a 2 minute feature – begin with the end in mind.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Write the story into a three-sentence paragraph </li>
<li>Write the first sentence at the top of a blank sheet, the second half way down, and the last one at the bottom. </li>
<li>Write short bullet points expanding each sentence </li>
</ul>
<br />
Voila! You have a script outline that also serves as a storyboard. For simple videos, you will soon be able to process outlines in your head.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Phone Videography 101 </h3>
<ul>
<li>Always hold the phone horizontally so the video can be shown full size on a monitor or TV screen</li>
<li>Your phone is hard to hold steady with one outstretched arm. Hold it with both hands locking your elbows into your body for extra stability. Squeeze until it hurts</li>
<li>If you plan to shoot a lot of video, buy a stabilizer or clamp that attaches to a traditional camera tripod. It is worth the investment!</li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJpyA20o8gOPn-iA7TmoLwfeRiMQntl4Ym4pmksO7SzArT3dM-1-CsM2WWCFGTmer5cB7l9wdHGdVSjUd7Xg8ZE9pNoHN45xGetX5U52_3V6B8bFX8PULFi9DSXKWIHp9GQ9mSIp2uTEc/s1600/phone+video+list.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJpyA20o8gOPn-iA7TmoLwfeRiMQntl4Ym4pmksO7SzArT3dM-1-CsM2WWCFGTmer5cB7l9wdHGdVSjUd7Xg8ZE9pNoHN45xGetX5U52_3V6B8bFX8PULFi9DSXKWIHp9GQ9mSIp2uTEc/s400/phone+video+list.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Creative Basics</h3>
<ul>
<li>Use basic composition rules to draw the viewer's eye to a specific part of the image. Start with is the rule of thirds (JGI)</li>
<li>Light can be a friend or enemy. If indoors, find the brightest available light. When outdoors, locate a space that is evenly lit. </li>
<li>Shade is not always a bad thing. On a brilliant day, shade may be the answer. </li>
<li>Inside or out, change your location, position and angle to find the best lighting. (JGI) Sometimes a few feet one way or the other makes all the difference.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1ia0LVr4-K96-J2dKra20jKgOFIKjzNXvoknWZE1EmpdEyf0GdwnCS2lzlkses5G6L4Xcv1WqWnEwySP9UeO9FJGEPuMarro3rYR1LQyXQ44eOQGzXrW_C1OJR6tmTg1zr22TPUcGQfh/s1600/lighting+tips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ1ia0LVr4-K96-J2dKra20jKgOFIKjzNXvoknWZE1EmpdEyf0GdwnCS2lzlkses5G6L4Xcv1WqWnEwySP9UeO9FJGEPuMarro3rYR1LQyXQ44eOQGzXrW_C1OJR6tmTg1zr22TPUcGQfh/s400/lighting+tips.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downloading a white screen for your desktop screen<br />
provides quick lighting for home or office headshot videos</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXKRWfiUWq1eNt5Nviu87BNyXfO_Zh2RtSTmBts1Q1rULhNWFDcbi5ijC0Jh8_RN9nSDJDHomj3KhE1TWCZznZwLWRAmq_QtfBuTAoGs0r5mGZwW9IDpb2apyBNj48_8B4m7G8qzNZr7P/s1600/phone+video+lighting+options.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXKRWfiUWq1eNt5Nviu87BNyXfO_Zh2RtSTmBts1Q1rULhNWFDcbi5ijC0Jh8_RN9nSDJDHomj3KhE1TWCZznZwLWRAmq_QtfBuTAoGs0r5mGZwW9IDpb2apyBNj48_8B4m7G8qzNZr7P/s400/phone+video+lighting+options.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">If shooting interviews indoors, find a private room and set up lighting in front<br />
of a white or blue photo paper backdrop. Google cheap video lighting tips.<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>Mix shorter and longer clips shot from different angles with long and closeup shots to provide variety and keep viewers engaged. </li>
<li>Shoot background “B” roll showing different elements of the story. </li>
<li>You can also import still photos with most editing programs. These can be used for cutaways while the narrator or person being interviewed is speaking. Helps tell the story.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
Voice Recording</h3>
Audio will make or break your production. Sound that is distorted, has distracting background noises or sounds like it was recorded in a giant cave is a turnoff. <br />
<br />
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If you can’t hold the phone 3-4 feet from an interview subject, buy a cheap lavaliere or shotgun mic. Polish your video aby adding a scripted narration track after the video is shot to introduce the topic or to bridge interview clips.<br />
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You can also reask the questions in a controlled space and add the new audio when you are editing. If the original track is fine quality wise, just leave use as it may have a "real, live" feeling that you might loose. <br />
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Editing Simplified</h3>
Mobile apps streamline the video-editing process and will transform your video from "ho-hum" to "WOW". Apps allow you to do basic trimming and add transitions, titles, and effects on OS and Android mobile devices.<br />
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Apple's iMovie for iPhone even allows you to produce theatrical trailers in the field. Pinnacle Studio, Videon, Magisto and Adobe's Premiere Clip app are powerful editing tools that are simple-to-use. What I mean here is that even I can use them.<br />
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That's a Wrap </h3>
Finally, upload the finished product to your social media and website. Promote it using a targeted email and social media campaign. You’ve put in a lot of work. Now make sure your target audience ‘gets the message.’<br />
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Think about it. You can shoot, edit and upload a video of club members making a difference among the poorest of the poor in developing nations the same day the action took place. Imagine the communication and story telling power that would have!<br />
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Do you have phone video advice? Do you have lighting or audio tips? What editing app do you use? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></b></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration-line: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<!-- Go to www.addthis.com/dashboard to customize your tools --> <script src="//s7.addthis.com/js/300/addthis_widget.js#pubid=ra-5983fe0c2393b40e" type="text/javascript"></script> Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-15122775141432501702017-04-05T14:45:00.022-06:002021-02-19T09:45:40.914-07:00Photos That Tell Stories Are the Currency of Social Media and Online Marketing <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<b>Written by Robyn T. Braley</b></h3></div>
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You’ve heard it a gazillion times, ‘A picture is worth 1,000 words.’ Well, it’s true!</h3>
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Photos are a million-dollar aid for telling fascinating stories about life-altering projects that your service club has made possible. Photos are the currency of mainstream, online and social media communication.</h3>
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Before going further, I must issue a disclaimer. I am not a professional photographer. I wouldn’t begin to try to explain the technical side of photography.<br />
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For my branding company's photography projects, we hire great shooters, provide creative direction and an outline of what we are looking for. Then, we get out of their way.<br />
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Amateurs Can Take Good Photos Too</h3>
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As an encouragement for rank amateurs, I have taken photos with a $500 point-and-click camera that newspapers and automotive magazines around the world published. They accompanied a story I had placed about a client’s innovative automotive product, a catalytic converter.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDcfgWldjfyGtf71Jf4P89Jovfet17e0Fxpph6pTv6PBDmtrS36aqcWeOvKHSX8G77HoCjdkCrDcv-IL2q5e4IX_dR9LSlJc13ZLpXdt7nsCccx4vvnGqTGm4s8i3XqOJ2y-2GvokXvmYT/s1600/AFS+TRUCK+WITH+CITY+SCAPE.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDcfgWldjfyGtf71Jf4P89Jovfet17e0Fxpph6pTv6PBDmtrS36aqcWeOvKHSX8G77HoCjdkCrDcv-IL2q5e4IX_dR9LSlJc13ZLpXdt7nsCccx4vvnGqTGm4s8i3XqOJ2y-2GvokXvmYT/w587-h343/AFS+TRUCK+WITH+CITY+SCAPE.jpg" width="587" /></a></div>
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The photo series was engaging. We placed a demonstration vehicle on a hill overlooking a dramatic cityscape. By pure dumb luck, there was a misty haze that made an air pollution statement. The catalytic converter had been invented to dramatically reduce emissions from diesel engines. <br />
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A creative idea trumped technical expertise.</h3>
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I’ve seen great photos taken with a cell-phone and so have you. If you have an exceptional camera and have years of photography experience, so much the better. If you are a really bad photographer, you'll get better as you shoot more photos. This post is meant to encourage you to take the time to take story photos regardless of your level of expertise.<br />
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<b>Photos speak directly to the heart and mind.</b></h3>
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Story Photos</h3>
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The team that returns from Guatemala where they built and installed wood stoves in the one room homes of the poorest of the poor can’t begin to tell the whole story without pictures. Only photos can capture the life-altering change that takes place in the lives of affected familites<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6wR1gOQaEiyYI6csSdemm1G408m9_VYY8K6Yb252fxTv1NMePzj9sT4Blk_l4lbdId2cZjN3DqUbWZn4bOwnUbQe2WFLZ1QVK6DnYmhIVjK4Kjmk21pL840344ZbXdP1yonhAbNKXBCuo/s1600/COOLING+FIRST+MEAL.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="435" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6wR1gOQaEiyYI6csSdemm1G408m9_VYY8K6Yb252fxTv1NMePzj9sT4Blk_l4lbdId2cZjN3DqUbWZn4bOwnUbQe2WFLZ1QVK6DnYmhIVjK4Kjmk21pL840344ZbXdP1yonhAbNKXBCuo/w580-h435/COOLING+FIRST+MEAL.jpg" width="580" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
Action shots of the mom and a Calgary Rotarian cooking the first meal on a newly installed stove is priceless. The mom no longer has to breathe in smoke while bending over an open cooking fire located in the middle of their kitchen/living area.<br />
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Neither does the tiny baby tied to her back. A simple stove eliminates life-threatening bronchial conditions for the mother and her child. </div>
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Photos speak directly to the heart and mind. A good photo connects emotionally with viewers when they are exposed to images that tell a story. Great photos speak to the soul. They open a window into your brand.<br />
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Pictures</h3>
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•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Inspire</div>
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•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Motivate</div>
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•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Captivate</div>
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•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Communicate</div>
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•<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Engage</div>
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A poor photo also speaks volumes. It may suggest that your club is casual in its approach to community service. Poorly composed, poorly lit, poorly staged photos that don’t tell stories make a statement that may be harmful to your club’s brand.<br />
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There are exceptions to the rule. The photo below was also shot in Guatemala by a Calgary Rotary team that had just installed the wood stove to the left.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhULePeM5Wj4dZpSKtJV_7q57CZBZTAUF_3fRkDM1egYdMI-fbUzQ5-X8i9cxahv9HRzGw2KJy8QoI4q8ekaEUzQ8hYq-9tXqYSPJks2nBdilnoVary0gEFe6C2Dq4vy_o9eo8mt3vRahyf/s1600/TERRY+SHOWING+KIDS.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhULePeM5Wj4dZpSKtJV_7q57CZBZTAUF_3fRkDM1egYdMI-fbUzQ5-X8i9cxahv9HRzGw2KJy8QoI4q8ekaEUzQ8hYq-9tXqYSPJks2nBdilnoVary0gEFe6C2Dq4vy_o9eo8mt3vRahyf/w592-h444/TERRY+SHOWING+KIDS.jpg" width="592" /></a></div>
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Technically, it is a poor image. Look closely and you will see sunspots, dust granules and lighting issues. </div>
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But the story behind the photo makes it irreplaceable. Terry Felton, the President (2017) of the Calgary West Rotary Club, is demonstrating his cell phone to the children. It is the first phone they have ever seen. </div>
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The photographer caught a magical moment when the subjects were positioned perfectly. Most important, the looks on the children’s faces are - dare I repeat it - priceless. </div>
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This picture has been used on our club website, in promotional powerpoints and even as a background image during a television interview about the work of Rotary. </div>
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<b>Click to See Project Photos Used with Media Stories</b></div>
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<a href="http://globalnews.ca/video/3166788/calgary-west-rotary-club-celebrates-community-service" style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: left; text-decoration-line: none;">TV Interview About Rotary</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.calgarysun.com/2017/01/09/calgary-rotarians-celebrate-50-years-of-charity-work" style="background-color: white; color: #888888; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; text-align: left; text-decoration-line: none;">Newspaper Interview with Gail Williams about Rotary</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP378phZajDUxJpLwQa9Ky7-yN5CLYtzTt7sREsAkITjvctOj_9QlXF0Ml9paZYOfcyAtuzsTWT3wW-hY_hveZ4V3uTOv1BhUZ4R3g7dEVpGExhRm134D7APxZpTrPk8KURotxSiNG3mgn/s1600/GAIL+AND+POLIO+PLUS.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="447" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP378phZajDUxJpLwQa9Ky7-yN5CLYtzTt7sREsAkITjvctOj_9QlXF0Ml9paZYOfcyAtuzsTWT3wW-hY_hveZ4V3uTOv1BhUZ4R3g7dEVpGExhRm134D7APxZpTrPk8KURotxSiNG3mgn/w596-h447/GAIL+AND+POLIO+PLUS.jpg" width="596" /></a></div>
<b><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>I love this slide. When I speak to Rotary Clubs or Leadership Training Assemblies about club branding, I always include it as an example of photos that tell stories. It features Rotarians doing polio vaccination around the world. </b></div></b>
<b><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b>The centre photo is of the Calgary West Club's Past President Gail Williams in action in Ethiopia. On the human side, if you look closely, you can see Gail's mouth is partially open. My family tells me I used to do this when trying to encourage reluctant grandsons to eat something they didn't want to eat. </b></div></b><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
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Creativity Please</h3>
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<br /><div style="text-align: left;">As a marketer, it pains me to see a series of photos showing a new member induction, the President and a featured speaker, Rotarians filling hampers at the Foodbank or those engaged in a clean water project in a developing nation standing shoulder to shoulder while grinning at the camera.</div>
<br /><div style="text-align: left;">When you put them in print, a PowerPoint show, a video, or on your website, they all look the same. They have little story value except for the people who know the people in the photos. With a little thought and creativity regarding setup, each photo can tell a different story.</div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif">Creative Checklist </span></h3></div><div style="text-align: left;"><ol><li>Stand back and look for different options, angles, and positions.</li><li>Look for details. Is there a story within the story or a story in the background</li><li>Never limit shooting to a single shot. Take 10-15 shots of each set-up</li><li>Always think “story.”</li><li>If a sequence, plan ‘beginning, middle and end" before starting to shoot.</li><li>For action shots, ask subjects to repeat the task if necessary.</li></ol></div>
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Photo Uses</h3>
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<li>PowerPoints</li>
<li>Websites</li>
<li>Videos</li>
<li>TV, Newspapers, Magazines </li>
<li>Print material</li>
<li>Marketing material</li>
<li>Funding proposals</li>
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Photo Tips</h3>
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Active service clubs often have a variety of projects happening at the same time that are independent of each other. A single club photographer couldn't possibly cover all of the events.<br />
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When members begin to think marketing, they develop an awareness of the story potential of their project and remember to take photos. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagjDsCH8kgoAMcZDKyrk9oyt-acobPNV9zuFOajaDovK80ghvyWKrS_nNQBTAllz8Tx6uKqyP9zim9lV_Jz9T6MQZmS7usMsYBQ5DpMLI5nLrdcm0bVRWOy_ODA2lfnf5uhcrsNt2W1yf/s1600/HOMES+OF+HOPE0.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgagjDsCH8kgoAMcZDKyrk9oyt-acobPNV9zuFOajaDovK80ghvyWKrS_nNQBTAllz8Tx6uKqyP9zim9lV_Jz9T6MQZmS7usMsYBQ5DpMLI5nLrdcm0bVRWOy_ODA2lfnf5uhcrsNt2W1yf/s320/HOMES+OF+HOPE0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Start with a written list of photo tips like those below.</b><br />
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<b>Regularly remind members to take pictures whenever they are doing service projects.</b><br />
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<b>Encourage them to try different creative options.</b><br />
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<b>Don't let up.</b></div>
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You need only be concerned by what you see in the setup screen of your phone or camera. What may look uninteresting to the naked eye may be improved by simply moving the camera up, down or from a different angle. </div>
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<b>The photo of District 5360 Rotarians building homes in Mexico for the poorest of the poor shows the organized confusion that is part of any busy construction site. If you look closely you see different genders, ages and the engagement intensity of the volunteers. </b><br />
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The beauty of digital cameras is that the cost of film is eliminated. It costs nothing to try another shot from a different perspective even if it turns out to be the wrong one. Simply press delete. </div>
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Photo Archive</h3>
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I was recently asked to do newspaper and TV interviews about the 50th anniversary of my club. I sent an emergency call out to members who had recently served in various international and local projects. Within hours I received more great photos than I could use. Voila! Instant photo archive. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xQQop5dLYBMPK13Crr-ony5_xnNREYKwECaDec4T3hcJInChbneIZ1j92hnbjDG9I5aw4tlAbXE1PPfsgHSjswf8S-l_azcabmFx8TBK62hZZS74yc__DcUyzPH91JXj3Xr1wpntj5eK/s1600/MALAWI+GIRLS+SCHOOL.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xQQop5dLYBMPK13Crr-ony5_xnNREYKwECaDec4T3hcJInChbneIZ1j92hnbjDG9I5aw4tlAbXE1PPfsgHSjswf8S-l_azcabmFx8TBK62hZZS74yc__DcUyzPH91JXj3Xr1wpntj5eK/s320/MALAWI+GIRLS+SCHOOL.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
If you are serious about growing your club brand, you will need a steady diet of photos. Particularly for social media.<br />
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I recommend creating an archive that will be managed by a member of your club’s communications team. Creating an archive will make a variety of photos readily available for a variety of uses in growing your brand.<br />
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<b>The engaging photo at right is of a girl's school in Malawi. How can you resist funding a program that brings such joy? Note the grass at the front provides room to add text.</b></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;">Just having an archive will remind members to think “marketing.” Continually adding new images from a variety of sources will ensure that up-to-date pictures are available and easily accessible. </span></h3>
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To give access by various club users, store the archive in the cloud. Ensure that you receive permission to use them from the person who shot them and the people in the photos. </div>
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To provide as many options as possible, ask for photos from each member of a team just returned from a project. For example, team members just returning from investigating micro-credit project in Asia will each have photos taken from different angles, subjects and creative approaches. When put together, they tell different parts of the same story.<br />
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Poor Quality Can't be Fixed</h3>
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It is impossible to overcome a really bad photo with amazing design, a well-written description or photoshopping. Whatever you do, it will not make the photo better. </div>
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Photoshopping is meant to make good photos better. They will be cleaner, sharper and be color corrected and more brilliant. It is not meant to “rescue” images that are out of focus, shot from the wrong angle, surrounded by clutter or poorly lit.<br />
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<b>It takes much less time to take a good photo to begin with than to fix it later. </b></div>
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Tech Talk</h3>
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Shoot photos at 300 - 600 DPI. When large file size is reduced, the quality remains crisp and clean. However, small file size cannot be enlarged without being distorted.<br />
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When you have large file sizes, you have end-use options. For example, print projects require larger file sizes than online use. I am aware of Districts that have purchased billboards as part of an awareness campaign. A 75 DPI file size won't cut it for those uses. </div>
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Set-Up Tips</h3>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Think focal point. What is the most important element in the photo </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Make sure the principal point of interest is well positioned</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Explore different set-ups, heights and angles</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">A compelling background like a building, sewing machine, workbench, crop, well or scapes like land, mountain, city, the sea will support the message</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Deliberately placing the background out of focus is a good way of preventing it from being distracting</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Use on a ladder or a stool to add energy to a static shot</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">For headshots, place the subject 2-3 feet away from a wall or backdrop. Reduces shadows </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Look behind, under, and around your subject to identify distractions and clutter </li>
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Lighting</h3>
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<li style="text-align: left;">Use natural lighting if possible </li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Eliminate squinting or negative shadows. A slight turn may do it</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Move your subject to where it (they) will be lit in the best possible way</li>
<li style="text-align: left;">Turn off the flash if it is not needed. If needed, beware of the tendency to produce harsh shadows and give flat surfaces a washed-out look</li>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Do you have photo ideas? What is your biggest photo problem? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></b></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. </i></span><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and has delivered keynotes at leadership development assemblies. </i><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. He currently serves on the District Membership Committee. </i></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-44905970360668014922017-03-01T13:29:00.000-07:002017-08-17T11:46:26.220-06:00Why Quality Content is the Key for Social Media Success. 21 Tips!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Written by Robyn T. Braley</b></div>
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Social media is the new go-to method for service club promotion. However, when not developed properly, your social media experience can lead to frustration. </h3>
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Don't get me wrong, if your club is not active on social media, time is passing. I want to help you make the leap by explaining the lifeblood of social media. Quality content is the foundation for success. </h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you are already active and have experienced success, there are ideas that will help you offer greater value to your digital communities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Social media is central to online communication and relationship building. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">At a club level, a program will help you ...</span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Increase the club's profile</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Promote club activities</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Build an online community through likes, follows and connections</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Align with collaborative partners</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Communicate with members and circles of influence </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Attract new members. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Millennials are the future of community service. It is natural to consider them as a key target group for finding new members. However, m</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ore people of every age group are social media users. In fact, there are seasoned users in every age group. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Whoa Matilda! It's Not That Simple</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Some make the assumption that using any old social media platform to announce meeting times, upcoming speakers or fund raising events will be enough to engage target groups. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Unfortunately, i</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">t's not quite that simple. To achieve your goals, social media must be done well. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It takes discipline and focus to develop quality content and an editorial strategy that will take you where you want to go. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Why is content important? Millennials have grown up online. Their lives are fully integrated with social media. It is a way of life. I'm reminded of that every time my daughters text each other at the dinner table.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWeQQ72MGKQeDNgeOZRs3i8VmWKs9ND2WFfhJ8Ukjzx_beoOYWE6_FrYD8ObULIU2dmxZOEcMT0gDA3L3-xRA7k77ZP7O1G-EQnusTpewIJRSJeO1yiUe826Go2UtFEVw6q8vHjtjJehcF/s1600/social-networking1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWeQQ72MGKQeDNgeOZRs3i8VmWKs9ND2WFfhJ8Ukjzx_beoOYWE6_FrYD8ObULIU2dmxZOEcMT0gDA3L3-xRA7k77ZP7O1G-EQnusTpewIJRSJeO1yiUe826Go2UtFEVw6q8vHjtjJehcF/s320/social-networking1.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">So, when another user invites them to join their community, </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">they make an immediate assessment based on the quality and value of the 'inviters' content. In seconds they make a judgement call about further engagement. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've looked at a poorly written bio or silly picture and rejected the invitation in seconds. A positive first impression is that important. </span><br />
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">What is Content</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Content is everything you see, read, hear or in any way experience online. It includes; </span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Design</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Text</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Headings</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Interactive forms</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Chat forums</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Punctuation</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Spacing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Photos</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Symbols</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Graphs, charts</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">SoMed Bio</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Videos</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Search Engine Optimization</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Podcasts</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Live streaming</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Action buttons</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">More </span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>What is a Content Curator</b> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How do you find or create content that will attract your target audience? Who ya gonna' call? The content curator, of course!</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXjTQZ5IPQuZ6SegJmRj8SpTmdXrrUwK0aEfFLKrAV4053Z0xm9_hnqgOgQft0T9zKWsqtU8KgfRjUFYsyLlsGJw-hmq_Pq4YTLUN3XluahRO8ro4wPSeGHa_IbJOwtPgTODIw1EwwgnK/s1600/CANON+CAMERA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfXjTQZ5IPQuZ6SegJmRj8SpTmdXrrUwK0aEfFLKrAV4053Z0xm9_hnqgOgQft0T9zKWsqtU8KgfRjUFYsyLlsGJw-hmq_Pq4YTLUN3XluahRO8ro4wPSeGHa_IbJOwtPgTODIw1EwwgnK/s1600/CANON+CAMERA.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pictures that tell stories are key</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Content curation is the process of finding or creating relevant content, gathering and organizing it into an easy-to-manage system, and then sharing it in a consistent and meaningful way. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">The final step is to use analytics to measure the effectiveness of your efforts so you can adjust your strategies. Most platforms have a free analytics component. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b>A Curator ...</b></span></div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Is a real person (probably you), not an online trolling program (sorry!)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Identifies a lazer-focuses on a target audience</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Works with a team to develop a strategy that includes goals</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Finds or creates content that adds perspective, insight or guidance</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Identifies and frames your online voice </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Is discerning and able to separate good stuff from the bad (include personally created material)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Understands the key to growth is long term commitment and consistency</span> </li>
</ol>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Content Builds Communities</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In review, your Social Media platforms must take visitors through the relationship building model. Content that makes a positive first impression leads to engagement. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-rr5GA3632sLsrPCFdWuIC_64UjrsnE9Orr6wvLoHGkAjEVLJ4gkC2RqhIDpZWsHzSDWA_XGVs96optnune8vNIaCuNq35ufXjXHZx3fMRdwF-idyfMviqN_NI_H6Yp8eQeLOCiY2T9r/s1600/iStock_000019848195XSmall-copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv-rr5GA3632sLsrPCFdWuIC_64UjrsnE9Orr6wvLoHGkAjEVLJ4gkC2RqhIDpZWsHzSDWA_XGVs96optnune8vNIaCuNq35ufXjXHZx3fMRdwF-idyfMviqN_NI_H6Yp8eQeLOCiY2T9r/s320/iStock_000019848195XSmall-copy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Visitors want content that is transparent, authentic and will add value to a visitors online experience. In other words, it should answer the question, "Why should they care?"</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Know</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Like</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Trust</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Engage</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 22px;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Is Your Rotary Club About to Plunge into Social Media? Read! 8 "Ps" for Success!</span></a></span><br />
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
Simplify the Process</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I hope I haven't discouraged you by implying that the work required to do social media properly is onerous. As my daughter would say, let's back the bus up. These ideas will settle your nerves.</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Find someone - family, friends, team members, consultants - who will help you with the basics</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Choose one platform and master that (more about that in later posts)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Write a short profile of your targeted audience </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Begin with what you know and the resources you have at your finger tips</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Shape your online voice. Frame your stories</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Think bright, light, attractive, entertaining and engaging</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">When in doubt, JGT (just google that). It's all online with easy-to-follow written and video tutorials</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Time Savers</span> </h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">There are tremendous online tools at your disposal. For example, there are easy-to-us automation tools to help you organize and share your content.</span><br />
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/02/how-to-reduce-time-it-takes-to-properly.html">How to Reduce the Time it Takes to Properly Manage Social Media</a></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Editorial calendars force you to plan your content distribution. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Remember, brand-building requires consistency, continuity and predictability. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Following a plan will help you achieve that. Seeing past, present and future content laid out in your dashboard tells you all you need to know. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">J</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">ust google editorial calendars. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXT_jkztBz3xaqZCeV8cj4twe7DynjftkFSK7Zw2lr9Zs80Pi9uAKDDFnQ9nZSAOLyUfRfS-ap-7vxKz1eeNP70_D4KvLi6ttUsHzU5DABj0DpJkQpTxVlfEWBYEPTsfIAklYIJ9zw9jzR/s1600/41nzYhsLuOL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXT_jkztBz3xaqZCeV8cj4twe7DynjftkFSK7Zw2lr9Zs80Pi9uAKDDFnQ9nZSAOLyUfRfS-ap-7vxKz1eeNP70_D4KvLi6ttUsHzU5DABj0DpJkQpTxVlfEWBYEPTsfIAklYIJ9zw9jzR/s320/41nzYhsLuOL.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Use a stand for quality phone videos</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Quick Tips</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In this section are ideas for developing content for service clubs. It takes time and effort, but it doesn't have to be laborious. </span><br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Take photos of real people doing real things. They tell stories</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Do a 5 minute Interview with a speaker after a meeting using your phone. Clean it up using free editing programs like Audacity, Garage Band or Windows Media Player for an instant podcast</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Create attractive images to profile messages <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbRFcGpYjGE">Click here for Shareable Images</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Shoot several photos of the same action, item or people. Pick the best one. Try different heights and distances. It's what the pros do </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Write a 500 - 700ish word account of a project and launch a blogsite. Include pictures. Link to it from other social media platforms </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Share positive quotes like these. <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/11/37-quotes-to-challenge-inspire-motivate.html">Golden Quotes</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ask a member to write a 500 word Rotary or life moment for a blog post. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Shoot a video using your phone. Use free software on your phone or free programs like Windows Movie Maker or Filmora. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Creative block? Ask questions like, "How or why do we do this?"</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Download action photos of clean water, polio or other activities from the Rotary International social media resources</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Share fun facts that are relevant</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Repurpose old stories from newsletters</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Quote guest speakers </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Follow people who's content you trust. Share relevant items</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Subscribe to a low cost photo bank selling royalty photos </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Share meaningful content about an organization you are supporting. Include likes to their website</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Link to online videos of people who need help</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Create a silly or serious survey. Share the results</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Share a solution to a common personal problem</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Interview a recipient of a scholarship, student backpack, warm jacket or other gift that made a difference in their lives. </span></li>
</ol>
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<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Do you have creative content ideas? What is your biggest content problem? I want to hear from you. Please comment below. </span></b></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies.</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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Other BTRB Posts and Links</h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2017/02/how-to-reduce-time-it-takes-to-properly.html">How to Reduce the Time it Takes to Properly Manage Social Media</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html">Is Your Rotary Club About to Plunge into Social Media? Read! 8 "Ps" for Success!</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/get-your-story-covered-nine-posts-to.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 13.2px; text-decoration: none;">Nine Posts to Help You Attract Media Coverage</a></h3>
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<a href="http://globalnews.ca/video/3166788/calgary-west-rotary-club-celebrates-community-service" style="color: #888888; font-size: 13.2px; text-decoration: none;">TV Interview With Robyn Braley About Rotary</a></h3>
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<a href="http://www.calgarysun.com/2017/01/09/calgary-rotarians-celebrate-50-years-of-charity-work" style="color: #888888; font-size: 13.2px; text-decoration: none;">Newspaper Interview with Gail Williams about Rotary</a></h3>
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<span style="color: #888888; font-size: x-small; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></span><br />
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/03/8-posts-packed-full-of-tips-for.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 13.2px; text-decoration: none;">8 Posts Packed Full of Tips for Improving Your Rotary Club Speakers Program</a></h3>
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<!-- Go to www.addthis.com/dashboard to customize your tools --> <script src="//s7.addthis.com/js/300/addthis_widget.js#pubid=ra-5983fe0c2393b40e" type="text/javascript"></script> Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-35177741216383632322017-02-01T13:03:00.001-07:002017-08-17T11:46:51.007-06:00Reduce Management Time and Increase Social Media Communities Using Automation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You know your club should do it. But, you've
been putting it off for many years.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">You have a personal Facebook page and know
social media can be addictive. Yes Virginia, even a time waster. </span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But here you are. You may be a Rotary club
President or sit on your club’s board as the PR Director. Or, you may be the
youngest member of your club who has been designated the social media person.
You’ve been tasked to look into it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">As you think about the time required
to launch and manage a social media program for your Club, chills may run down
your spine! I'm here to tell you, it doesn’t have to be like that.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">What You Need to Know</span></span></h3>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Before going further, let’s ask this question. "Why does my club need
social media as part of it's </span><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">brand program</a><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">?" Let me explain it this way.</span></div>
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<strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">According to one source,</span></strong><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;"> </span></span><em><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-style: normal;">60% of the buying decision process</span></em><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;"> </span></i></b></span><strong><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-weight: normal;">is completed before a sales rep is ever contacted or a consumer goes into a business to make a purchase. The potential customer – new member, NFP partner, event
sponsor – has checked out the product, company or new product online.</span></strong><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My kids never buy anything before
thoroughly checking it out. I’ve been with them in stores when
they’ve used their phone to compare what they are looking at with a competitor’s product<b>.</b></span><span class="apple-converted-space" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.5pt;"> </span></b></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">My son-in-law is a master at comparative shopping. </span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b>
<b><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"What you say
and how you say it – with messaging, photos, videos, podcasts, design -
matters. First impressions are everything. First encounters are the first step towards engagement. "</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222;">In April, 2015 I wrote, ‘</span><span style="color: windowtext;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/04/6-ps-to-guide-your-rotary-clubs-plunge.html">Is Your Rotary Club About to Plunge into Social Media? 8 "Ps"for Success!’</a> It has become the third most read post in the BTRB series. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I encourage you to read it before continuing on with this story. It will
bring perspective and put automation into context. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Using social media to build your club brand only makes sense. After all,
it’s free, isn’t it? </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Not so fast! The engine that drives social
media is content. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Creating quality content that is relevant
and adds value to relationships with existing or potential Rotarians takes
careful thought, planning and discipline.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">That takes time. Your volunteer time. And your time
is not cheap. If you want to do it right, it takes time. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Uber Benefits</span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It is easy to say that automation will dramatically change how you think about social media. </span></span><br />
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<li><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Automation saves time by </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">cutting management time by more than half</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Brings consistency and predictability<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> to messaging </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">E<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">liminates the
need for performing repetitive tasks over, and over, and over and over</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Forces you to think through how you engage people as you build your community</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Analytics helps measure audience growth and engagement</span></li>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Content Creation</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In later posts, I will provide tips for
developing quality content. If you are new to social
media, let me provide a simple example.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Posting content about your club, Rotary International or community partners is an excellent way to keep your social media accounts
active. It also helps position your club as an excellent source for useful
information.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">However, effective social media content is
not just a series of messages reminding members of meeting times or who the
upcoming speaker will be. I challenge you to think outward. Create content
that will provide <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/marketing-to-new-members-power-of.html">value to a larger audience.</a> Within that group, there may be
potential new members. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Social Media Basics</span></span></h3>
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<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Know</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Like</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Trust</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Engage</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Implementing this model is a way to nurture relationships with your social media visitors. They begin getting to
know you through your branding and the content they see. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Over time visitors will begin
to like what they see and choose to friend, follow or connect with you.
When they receive relevant content into their feeds they begin recognize you as a
dependable source for value based content. Some form of engagement will follow.</span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">"The goal is to convert visitors into
lifetime members of your social media community. As the relationship develops,
they may even consider becoming a Rotarian." </span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Automation speeds up this process! </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It takes time to make meaningful contacts
and then to build relationships that translate into consistent growth of your
social media community. </span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How Social Media Automation Works</span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Automation enables you to strategically
broadcast your content without hands-on management. Here is a model.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Imagine you have a fund raising event coming up for a cause that has broad community support. You’ve developed a page on your club’s website dedicated to the event which provides background and up-to-date information about it and why it’s important.</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">In 2014 I posted, <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/harnessing-power-of-enews-written-by.html">‘What is an Easy Way to Market Rotary? Harness The Power of eNews.’</a> </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">It shows how easy it is to develop a meaningful distribution list from data you already have. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You will find the list of potential enews recipients is very helpful. Be careful to comply with whatever spam law your country has. </span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now promote it using your club's outward focused enews program. By "outward" I mean it should not include “insider” information that your weekly member's only circular has unless it is relevant. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Write an enews that provides updated on your
event and links to your web page. Also link to the website of the organization
who’s cause you are supporting. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Use a service like <a href="https://mailchimp.com/?awid=730937886&awag=36373106057&awad=138072497015&awkw=mailchimp.&pid=GAW&source=website&gclid=CPL2jvGO8tECFQO2wAodoMYM5A&gclsrc=aw.ds&dclid=CPDpq_GO8tECFUZxAQodMIwEGQ">MailChimp</a> or <a href="https://www.constantcontact.com/ca/index.jsp?utm_id=GOO-116242&cc=GOO-116242&pn=search&gclid=CLLy9JGP8tECFcu2wAodMSICOw&ef_id=WJOEnAAAAEPuACfz:20170202191228:s">ConstantContact</a> to schedule the circulation at an optimal time. I must confess, on more
than one occasion, </span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I have often published a company – and even a BRTB post
- at 1:00 am and slept in the next morning while our enews was being circulated automatically early
the next morning.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; line-height: 115%;">Using your automation service, auto-schedule a number of Club Twitter, Facebook, Pintrest and LinkedIn
messages that will promote the event to different audiences. Links to your website will increase traffic. </span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 115%;"><br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--></span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h3>
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Inside Information </span></span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Most automation systems provide analytic
features that allow you to track engagement and measure the impact of your
efforts. If you are easily creeped out, skip the next paragraph.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; line-height: 115%;">Your
analytics report shows which recipients opened it, who clicked
through to what pages, and where they were geographically located when they
opened it. </span><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 115%;">You will find graphs and charts that compare
previous releases to this one along with other data. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Why is this
important? Simply put, a past speaker or visitor who repeatedly opens your
circulars is showing obvious interest in Rotary.</span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If they forward or retweet your message into their private community, that </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">could signal that they may be open to
becoming a member.</span></div>
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Organized for Engagement</span></b></span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">By organizing your content distribution and workflow, you will attract
more people in a shorter time period. That brings a higher return on the
investment of time. (or money for paid services).</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One of my daughters handles the social media for her department in a
large organization. She designates a half day per month to create content and
schedule messages. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Periodically she monitors the various channels in order to
respond to direct messages or to engage with timely conversations.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">Some platforms like Twitter or Facebook provide automation features for there channels only. Some also provide analytics information. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">If you operate just one channel, that may be the simplest way to automate your activity.</span></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></b><br />
<br /></div>
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Hootsuite</span></span></h3>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">If you only operate three social media channels (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Pintrest), Hootsuite is free.
However, the Pro version allows you to manage many more from one dashboard. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">It is low-cost and provides many additional features and
benefits. It is a great way to simplify the sometimes complex task of releasing
great content to different audiences.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://hootsuite.com/"><span style="color: #8a7ca1; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Hootsuite</span></a></span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"> is my favorite management
system because it can operate multiple channels. You can schedule releases for
a specific day, time and frequency. Messages can be scheduled for next week or
a few months down the line.</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">You can also target audiences in different time zones. For example, I
live in Calgary, Alberta which is in the Mountain Standard Time zone.<br />
<br />
If I want to engage people in Toronto or New York, I schedule my content for a
7:00 am MST release which catches easterners in their offices at 9:00 am EST.
That is a prime time for people to check their SM feeds.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">For Europeans, I schedule releases at 1:00 am MST. The beauty of
Social media is that someone is always awake somewhere in the world ready to
engage with your content. </span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">As we like to say, the sun never sets on Rotary.<br />
</span><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><br />
</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">The BTRB audience
includes followers from all over the USA, Australia, South Africa, the U.K., India, Germany, Canada and other parts of the world.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Hootsuite analytics allow you to measure the effectiveness of your
social media activity and easily share the results. It provides new insights,
identifies social influencers, and allows you to determine what content
resonates with your audience.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 18.0pt; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">In researching information for this
post, I found a great article written by Katie Wilson of Aspire
Internet Design. These are four benefits taken from her post, <a href="http://aspireid.com/social-media/7-benefits-using-hootsuite-manage-companys-social-media/"><span style="color: #8a7ca1;">7 Benefits of Using Hootsuite to Manage
Your Company’s Social Media.</span></a> <span style="color: #222222;">Check
out the entire post.</span></span><span lang="EN-US" style="mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: #222222;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: 0cm;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="border: none 1.0pt; color: #222222; padding: 0cm;">Monitor
Multiple Social Media Streams in One Place</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: 0cm;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="border: none 1.0pt; color: #222222; padding: 0cm;">Schedule
Posts in Advance</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: 0cm;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="border: none 1.0pt; color: #222222; padding: 0cm;">Easily View Analytics Data</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 3.0pt; margin-left: 36.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt; text-indent: 0cm;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="border: none 1.0pt; color: #222222; padding: 0cm;">Social Media Listening</span><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h3 style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Buffer</span></span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 12.0pt; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;">Buffer fans have
called it their Social media assistant. Some refer to it as the Siri of
social media. With my company, we have used it to automate client social media
accounts that are not part of our <a href="http://unimarkcreative.com/"><span style="color: #8a7ca1;">Unimark</span></a> brand family.</span><b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Buffer
differs from Hootsuite in how posts are scheduled. When messages are added to
your Buffer queue, they are released automatically but </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">spaced out to be broadcast at optimal times.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Rather than having to pick the date and time for each post, they are
pre-set. At any time you can adjust scheduling or add new content to your queue.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Affectionados say
Buffer is like a magic box that you can use at anytime to fill with great
Tweets, Facebook stories or LinkedIn updates. Drop them in and you don’t have
to worry about when they will be posted.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-CA;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Like
Hootsuite, Buffer has a free service along with a low-cost professional version
if you need more tools.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<h2 style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: center;">
<b style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;">What do you think? Have you used one of these
platforms? Do you use another system? I want to hear from you. Please comment
below. </span></b></h2>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; line-height: 18.48px;">
<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, professional speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. </i></span><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">He often speaks at Rotary clubs, conferences and leadership development assemblies.</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-85063703610660580252016-11-30T15:10:00.022-07:002023-02-14T16:27:33.348-07:0081 Amazing Acts of Kindness; Change Your Life and Someone Else's<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnhr75CjL5ASVWu1THFCu5D8XQHLuCyR2aG31ZbFefRPf6Bu_E1Gsz684HFq4wqqHqDA5nNRIh3H4dqCC_mcwoyLHo6SfvYqxYPEuLvLBK2pzFa6VjXQy29-HJdpjF30XXPN8A1oj_gfg/s1600/Random-Acts-of-Kindness-at-work.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNnhr75CjL5ASVWu1THFCu5D8XQHLuCyR2aG31ZbFefRPf6Bu_E1Gsz684HFq4wqqHqDA5nNRIh3H4dqCC_mcwoyLHo6SfvYqxYPEuLvLBK2pzFa6VjXQy29-HJdpjF30XXPN8A1oj_gfg/w508-h270/Random-Acts-of-Kindness-at-work.jpg" width="508" /></a></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We shouldn’t need to be prompted to show kindness
to those we meet every day. However, it is easy to become so absorbed into the
fast pace of life that we don’t see the needs of others, even when they are an
arm's length away. </span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">As Rotarians, our motto is Service Above Self. Every day we
live out the ideal of acts of kindness </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">through the humanitarian work we do</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> in our communities and around the world.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I heard a story about a senior executive of a service</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> organization w</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">ho would periodically dress like a homeless person and lie on the sidewalk near the doorway of locations where he was scheduled to speak. It was revealing how many stepped
over him before someone knelt to ask if he needed help. He made his
point! </span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Simple Message</span></b></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The message of the
Random Acts of Kindness Movement is simple. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #333333; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Develop the habit of doing planned
or unplanned acts of kindness with no expectation of return.</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">
Some acts may be anonymous while others are public.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">So, you ask, “Why am I writing a Random Acts of
Kindness post for a blog site about branding?” </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><br /></span>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Your brand is what others think it is. </span></h3>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">If you or
your club members are known as people who do good things for the community, fellow
citizens will have good thoughts about Rotary.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">But, there is more. Kindness inspires kindness.
When the idea of being kind takes hold, a culture of kindness can develop. It only takes a few to model kindness and start a movement. </span><br /><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Harold and Teddy</span></h3><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">In my hometown of Didsbury, Alberta, Harold and Teddy were two adults with mental ages of about 7 and 3 respectively. Their caregiver built a wagon with a large box anchored on an axel between two bicycle wheels. It was easy to pull during winter or summer. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The duo went from house to house collecting pop bottles. When their wagon was full, they took the bottles to the back of Campbell's Food Store. I worked there after school and on the weekends. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We had a routine that we followed as we counted them and turned them in for cash. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Each Sunday Harold and Teddy donated their weekly earnings to a third-world missions project sponsored by their church. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">At first, they were a curiosity, but before long, they developed regular routes. People saved bottles and looked forward to their weekly visits. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Soon the entire town people </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">became their extended family. People looked out for them, encouraged them, and </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">occasionally</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> offered hot chocolate or a cold drink depending on the season. A </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">culture</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> of kindness gave Harold and Teddy purpose and pride in accomplishment.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">No one is Immune</span></h3>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Seemingly
insignificant acts of kindness can make a world of difference in the life of
someone who is feeling discouraged, hopeless or all alone. An unexpected smile
or a nod can bring a new perspective and cause the recipient to think
differently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Acts of kindness can benefit anyone and everyone.
As we know, the poorest of the poor are not the only ones who are poverty-stricken. There
are those who are the richest of the rich that live in poverty of spirit and soul.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">People of every station in life can feel lonely. Have you
ever stood in a noisy business reception of 200 – 300 strangers and felt all alone?
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I have. Then one of the strangers came, shook my hand, introduced
himself or herself and started a conversation. I soon forgot about my pity party.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Taking
Action </span></b></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Sometimes we fail to step forward even when the
need for an intervention of kindness is obvious. The following story may be an urban
legend, but I choose to believe it is true. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A young couple was in a packed family restaurant with their
special needs child. The boy was acting up and causing a noisy disturbance. He
was out of control.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The frowns and scowls on the faces of other guests made
their feelings of disapproval obvious. The child’s parents were rattled, embarrassed and
didn’t seem to know what to do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">At a critical moment, a waitress brought over a note
and gave it to them with an understanding smile. It read,<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">“God only
gives special children to special people.”</span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The parents read the note and were visibly moved.
They relaxed, ignored the insensitive diners and calmed their child. When they
asked for their bill, the waitress revealed it had been paid in full by the guest
who had sent the note. The person, she explained, wished to remain anonymous.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Wow! What an insightful gift. What a remarkable act
of kindness. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A Friend
in Need</span></b></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">An acquaintance of mine, known here as Bill, was
forced into bankruptcy due to a major deal that went bad. It was a devastating, soul-sucking, crushing experience. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The bottom was reached on the day the receiver seized
personal and company vehicles along with other assets. Strangers went through
his company office seizing everything of value. At the end of the day, the locks were changed
on the doors and it was over.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">A common friend, who we will call Larry, heard about what
was happening and dropped by unannounced to take Bill for lunch. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">As numb as he felt that day, Bill later credited
Larry’s simple act of kindness as the moment his inner healing began. It gave him a glimmer of hope for the future. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">But, Larry didn’t stop there. The next day the
newly bankrupt Bill looked out of his kitchen window and saw a strange car
parked in the driveway. A closer examination revealed a note under the wiper
blade.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">The note explained that the keys were in the
ignition. The instructions were simple. “Please use the car and bring it back
when you no longer need it.” It was one of Larry’s company cars.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Inclusive and Accepting</span></b></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">As I write this, I am sitting in the food court of
a busy shopping mall in Calgary, Alberta. Across from me are seated 3 couples
who are obvious friends engaged in animated conversation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">One of the gentlemen is in a wheelchair. He cannot
control his head movements and makes constant facial contortions. He shows other signs
of his disability.</span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Some might people mighty feel uncomfortable due to his actions. Further, t</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">he gentleman appears to be totally detached and
oblivious to the discussion. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">But I can tell by watching the body language of those in the group that they know he is listening intently and is very much present. They include him in the conversation even though he can’t fully participate. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">What a gift of a social experience, unconditional acceptance
and inclusion. A gift of love!</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Held the Door Open</span></h3>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">In 1968, I attended a music conference in Memphis,
Tennessee, along with a group of friends from Alberta. One morning, I was about to enter a JC Pennys department store when 4 middle aged ladies were exiting.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I did what I was taught every Alberta gentleman should
do. I held the door open for them and waited for them to pass through. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">They stopped in their tracks nervously looking at me and then at each other. I smiled and </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">motioned until they hesitantly walked through the door.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">You see, the problem was that I was white and they were black. They were highly suspicious of my intentions. Did I intend to embarrass them? Would I make some racist comment? </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I didn’t
realize the social implications of my simple act of kindness until many years later during the Black Lives Matter movement. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<h3>
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Do the
Right Thing </span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Too often we fail to acknowledge the person in the
wheelchair or the young adult with a mental or other disability. We pass by as if we don't see the homeless person.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I have produced videos, staged fundraising radiothons, and generated media stories about client organizations that serve the homeless. I have learned through interviewing their clients that many were homeless because of addictions, illnesses of all kinds, and abandonment or job loss. In other words, a homeless person could easily be you, or could be me. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Making eye contact, smiling and commenting about
the weather can be an enriching life moment for both parties. You can make a
world of difference by simply acknowledging their humanity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></b></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Eighty-One Ideas for Random Acts of Kindness</span></b></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Never do an act of kindness just because you
feel you must. Wrong! </span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Let your compassion and inner joy be the motivation. Show kindness because it is the right thing to do. Do it consistently and it will soon become a habit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">So, relax! Take a breath and prepare to be amazed by the
great experience you are about to embrace. As you will discover, you receive
just by giving. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Buy
a family pack of movie tickets for a new release. Drop them in the mailbox of the family who needs them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Offer to take disabled veterans or seniors to
medical appointments or the grocery store. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Visit a shut-in neighbour. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Write
positive messages on post-it notes and place them where people you care about
will see them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">5.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Register
for organ transplants. Give the ultimate gift of life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">6.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Engage
in a conversation with someone you might not otherwise speak to. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">7.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Invite
someone to dinner – especially during the holidays - when it is difficult for some people to be alone. </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">8.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Use
your social media channels to let the world know a community organization has
done something remarkable.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Make a Gift to a Micro-finance Agency. A little can do a lot!</span></h3>
<div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">9.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Take
muffins and cut-up fruit or arrange for pizza delivery to your next volunteer
committee meeting. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">10.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Compliment
a parent on how well-behaved their child is while the child is listening. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">11.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Cook
a meal or do a load of laundry for a friend who just had a baby, has an operation
or is going through a difficult time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">12.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Invite
a new neighbour, employee or student to your house for a meal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">13.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Don’t
interrupt when someone else is speaking. Listen intentionally. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">14.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Send
a written note of appreciation to a past teacher, coach or mentor who made a difference in your life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">15.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Buy
additional music of a favourite artist and gives them away. The friend wins, the
artist wins and you win.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">16.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Volunteer
as a big brother, sister or student mentor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">17.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Volunteer
your talents as a writer, photographer, social media expert, electrician, carpenter,
auto technician, designer, accountant or any other skill.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">18.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Help
an immigrant learns your country's language. You will impact their life forever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">19.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Volunteer
to read to kids at your local school or community program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">20.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Give
away free stuff on bargain websites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">21.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Find
an old set of shelves and start a free community library. Take a book, leave a
book.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">22.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Pick
up litter and put it in the trash.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">23.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Write
something nice on the Facebook updates of someone who constantly posts. They are
probably lonely.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Donate new toys to a domestic shelter. Victims often flee with their children </span></h3><h3 style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">and few belongings.</span></h3>
<div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">24.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Compliment
your coworker, boss or teammate who may not receive many compliments. Be
specific.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">25.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Make
eye contact, smile and talk to a homeless person.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">26.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Deliver
flowers to the receptionist at your place of business.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">27.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Buy a coffee for 3-4 people in the line behind you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">28.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Visit
seniors at a nursing home. Ask who needs company. Many never have
visitors. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">29.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Find
a pianist, practice 10 easy-to-sing old-time songs and organize a sing-along
at a nursing home. You don’t need to be good. You just need to be there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">30.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Find
something nice to say about someone who may not be loveable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">31.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Babysit
for a single mom or an overwhelmed young couple for free.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">32.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Tell
a friend to be ready and take them for a surprise lunch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">33.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Learn
the names of your caretakers, security guards and other service team members. Call
them by name when you meet.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Set aside empty bottles for the next drive your community youth group does.</span></h3>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">34.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Bring
a security guard a cup of coffee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">35.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Frame
a friend’s favourite lyric or quote and give it to them with a thoughtful note.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">36.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Pay
for a dessert and send it to another table.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">37.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Help
your elderly neighbour take out the trash or mow their lawn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">38.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Wash
a seniors’ or single mom’s car.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">39.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Pet
sit a neighbour’s dog or cat for free.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">40.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Organize
a day and a crew to do yardwork or bulk cooking for seniors who live in your
neighbourhood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">41.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Contact
a children’s hospital and volunteer to send funny get-well cards to kids who
need them the most. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">42.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Record
audio or video of friends saying positive, encouraging and funny things about a
sick friend. Use free software to edit the comments together. Send an MP3 file. They’ll listen to it over and over. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span><h3 style="text-align: left;"><br />Donate to a clean water organization that works in developing nations.<br /> Save a life, save a village!</h3><div><br /></div></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">43.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">During
a hot summer day, give cold bottles of water or popsicles to your mail carrier,
landscaper and garbage persons. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">44.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">When
it’s freezing, make it hot chocolate for crossing guards, police officers and
others who must work outside.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">45.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Cook
an extra portion of dinner (or dessert) and deliver it to someone who needs it.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">46.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Take
flowers to the nursing station on the floor where a sick friend is hospitalized.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">47.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Drop by your local fire hall or police station
with homemade cookies or a box of muffins and donuts. Include a simple note
saying, “Thanks for all you do.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">48.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Do the same thing for your community school –
even if you don’t have kids who go there. Call to find out staff numbers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">49.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="background: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Write a thank you note to someone who made a difference for you personally or in your community. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">50.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Send
thanks to military members through military Facebook pages.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">51.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Take
pictures of friends volunteering or doing acts of kindness. Frame them and give
them a note of thanks.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Alert authorities about a child or pet locked in a parked car.</span></h3>
<div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">52.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Organize
friends to flash mob people in a park with pieces of cake or muffins. Detail a
cleanup crew.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">53.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Organize
2-3 friends to write 40-50 “Thank you for being a good member of our community”
notes. Stand at a busy intersection and hand them out. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">54.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Drop
by an animal shelter and pay the adoption fees for several animals to be placed
with families looking for a pet. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">55.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Buy
cheap kids’ books or puzzles and give them to the children of neighbours, family
or friends. (with parents’ permission)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">56.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Pay
the parking fee for 2-3 people behind you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">57.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Organize
4-5 people. Buy 50 – 75 brown lunch bags. Make simple sandwiches, add a piece
of fruit, some candy and a juice box. Add a note saying “You are appreciated”
and flash mob the homeless in your area.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">58.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Reach
out to someone you haven’t connected with for a long time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">59.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Volunteer
at a local shelter, food bank or youth recreation program.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">60.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Buy
flowers and go door to door in your office, apartment building or the local mall
and give one to the first people you meet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">61.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Pack
grocery bags with unperishable food. Go to your local college or university and
give the bags to students passing by. Include a motivational message.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">62.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Buy
10 prepaid phone cards and give to the homeless.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">63.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Give
blood.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">64.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Say
you are sorry to someone you need to say it to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">65.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Show
kindness to other drivers on the freeway. Really! You can do it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">66.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Make
eye contact and ask your restaurant server, grocery store cashier or parking
attendant how their day is going.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">In cold climates, organize a sock, hat and mitten drive for homeless shelters.</span></h3>
<div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">67.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Make
eye contact and say hello to caretakers in the mall. You will be remembered as
no one else does it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">68.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Leave
a generous tip.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">69.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Adopt
a nearby park and regularly police it for garbage. Inspect playground
equipment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">70.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Help
new neighbours unpack, then assemble their beds. They will love you forever.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">71.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Tell
a young salesperson when they do a good job even if you don’t buy their
product. Be specific.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">72.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Buy
juice, cookies, chocolate bars, raffle tickets, etc. when the neighbour kids are
selling them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">73.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Challenge
your community to declare a Random Acts of Kindness Day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">74.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Write
a post about random acts of kindness. It will make your day!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: Arial;">75.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Do
something nice for yourself. You deserve it<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
What's Your Big RAK Idea?</h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
We want to hear from you. What is your favourite Random Act of Kindness? What did someone do for you? Please tell us. </div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, writer and keynote speaker. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. Robyn has placed hundreds of stories about Rotary with traditional and new media. </i></span></div>
<div style="font-size: 13.2px;">
<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;"><br /></i></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 13.2px;"><span style="font-size: 13.2px;"></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@unimarkcreative.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @RobynTBraley</span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 13.85pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Blogsite: <a href="http://www.branditwithrobyn.com/">www.branditwithrobyn.com </a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; background: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 13.85pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;"><span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-10964402970118792552016-11-29T22:20:00.004-07:002017-08-17T11:47:50.998-06:00How to Attract the Kind of Media Attention You Really Want! 9 Info Packed Posts! <div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 9.0pt; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxFA9tEfDT7Gi3JFcN63MnBk0qOtKDE1L0kHxKpq65wN4ZNxmMLvZmX-ltCsBvQPF2NP51gyS8e0JMLOxFqnaX_wBYtIDv9uxMz_SZ7XnqWUg11yr3D-jE_VkSgJdjcyYBBy69dtIJLoV/s1600/typewriter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyxFA9tEfDT7Gi3JFcN63MnBk0qOtKDE1L0kHxKpq65wN4ZNxmMLvZmX-ltCsBvQPF2NP51gyS8e0JMLOxFqnaX_wBYtIDv9uxMz_SZ7XnqWUg11yr3D-jE_VkSgJdjcyYBBy69dtIJLoV/s1600/typewriter.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Attracting Traditional and <br />
Social Media Coverage</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: #222222;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #222222;"><b style="font-size: 16px;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</b></span></div>
</div>
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<h3>
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><b>Attracting media coverage for your Rotary club's story requires ... well ... errr ... ummm ... a great story! I can't be any more direct than that.</b></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<h3>
<b style="color: #222222; font-size: 16px;">Once you have the story, you must know how to package and pitch it.</b></h3>
<div>
<b style="color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"><br /></b></div>
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Following are 9 posts that will help you attract mainstream and social media coverage. More than that, these practices, protocols and insider secrets may even help you increase the media coverage of your story or event. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span><span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">If you are experienced working with media, you may want to cherry pick posts according to interest. However, if you are a media newby, </span></span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 16px;">reading the posts in the order they are listed will help you create a successful media plan for your story. </span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><b> </b></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html">Pitching a News Story Requires a Well Crafted Media
Release. Why? Tips!</a></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">The purpose of a release is to capture the attention of media editors,
producers, journalists and bloggers. You have seconds to do it. But, there is
more! It must also accommodate online distribution. <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html">More</a></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"></span></b></div>
<a name='more'></a><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/identify-more-than-one-angle-to-your.html">Identify More Than One Story Angle and Increase
Media Coverage</a></span></span></b><br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-outline-level: 2;">
<span style="color: #111111; font-size: 12.0pt;">It’s about the angle. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 10.0pt;">Every day the
Media is inundated by story possibilities. You need unique, unusual and
creative ideas to cut through the clutter. <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/identify-more-than-one-angle-to-your.html">More</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/why-media-kits-play-key-role-in.html"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Why Media Kits Play a Key Role in Engaging Media.</span></a></span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">Why do you need a media kit? To answer this question, let me ask
another. “How do you tell the story of Rotary on single page?” The short answer
is, you can’t. A media kit separates key information into digestible chunks
that can be scanned in a few seconds. <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/why-media-kits-play-key-role-in.html">More</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html"><span style="font-weight: normal;">How to Create a Rotary Media Event. It’s all in the
Details!</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">In April, 2014, we used traditional and digital media to let the world
know that Alberta Rotarians had triggered $2.1 million dollars in funding for
polio eradication. Our District 5360 Conference was used to stage an event
which produced world-wide circulation. <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html">More</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/five-types-of-media-exposure-you-need.html"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Six Types of Media Exposure You Need to Know About</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 9.0pt; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">Successful media campaigns don't just happen. They are well planned and
executed. I have outlined 6 ways to receive media exposure you may not have
thought about. <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/five-types-of-media-exposure-you-need.html">More</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/tips-for-building-relevance-and-value.html"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Tips for Building a Quality Media List for Your
Service Club</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US">There are different names for it. Pitching
the story. Selling the story. Placing the story or getting media coverage! Whatever
you call it, you need a quality media contact list. <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/tips-for-building-relevance-and-value.html">More</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/10/the-big-day-what-you-need-to-know-to.html"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Make Your Media Event the Best it can Be</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Today your club may be presenting a Citizen
of the Year Award to a community leader. It is 15 minutes before the start
time. You see the first media pulling up in their news cruisers and satellite
trucks. What do you do now? <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/10/the-big-day-what-you-need-to-know-to.html">More</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 9.0pt; mso-outline-level: 3;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/put-social-together-with-media-for_21.html"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Combine 'Social' with 'Media' for Greater Impact
Around Your Big Event</span></a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">If radio, TV or newspapers run a story about
your project or event, it will quickly be posted online and promoted through
their social media channels. L</span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">aunching your own social media campaign will
increase your exposure even further. <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/11/put-social-together-with-media-for_21.html">More</a><br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--></span><b><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/how-will-my-attitude-of-gratitude.html">An Attitude of Service Can Impact Your Rotary Media
Event</a></span></span></b></div>
<h2>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-size: small;">News stories can be impacted by how you
treat the media who cover your story. No media is too big or too small to cover
your story. Treat them all with respect as they are a conduit to your audience.
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/how-will-my-attitude-of-gratitude.html">More</a></span></span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US"><i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a brand specialist, keynote speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. Robyn has placed hundreds of traditional and new media stories about Rotary and other organizations. </i></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></span></div>
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<!-- Go to www.addthis.com/dashboard to customize your tools --> <script src="//s7.addthis.com/js/300/addthis_widget.js#pubid=ra-5983fe0c2393b40e" type="text/javascript"></script> Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-50146262867180147732016-11-29T21:19:00.001-07:002016-11-29T22:02:40.861-07:00Identify More Than One Story Angle and Increase Media Coverage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTho2POI2kvQ8muy4GIUHECLL_l7HoNsO3On2rYeZsrmBIA580N7qCOfT5H9LDnj92TfJZGuziJn9Uhy60Zd3O8-leyyGfvTIyp3odWUMItn56bp4cnGtIREON75ENfix9b1_YELcl8R4e/s1600/ANGLES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTho2POI2kvQ8muy4GIUHECLL_l7HoNsO3On2rYeZsrmBIA580N7qCOfT5H9LDnj92TfJZGuziJn9Uhy60Zd3O8-leyyGfvTIyp3odWUMItn56bp4cnGtIREON75ENfix9b1_YELcl8R4e/s320/ANGLES.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></b><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">It’s about the angle. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">It
doesn't matter how comprehensive and accurate your media contact list is if you
don't have the basics of your story pitch down pat. </span></span></h2>
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<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
Every day the Media is inundated by story possibilities. You need unique,
unusual and creative ideas to cut through the clutter. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">An
editor, producer, reporter or show host will take 4-5 seconds to decide whether
to consider your pitch or to trash it. <o:p></o:p>If
you don’t have a strong angle, or hook, the decision will be easy for them.
With a quick click your story will be deleted as they move on to the next story
idea. </span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">How do you determine the strongest angle? Ask this simple but
pointed question.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: center;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">“What difference will it
make?” </span></i></b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br />
The answer will be your angle. It must be crafted to grab their attention.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p>
</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">It will help
form the subject line of your<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html">news
release</a>. </span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Make it Stand
Out<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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An active service club has a wide range of projects that are ideal for
generating media coverage. These are just a few programs my club supports now
or have supported in the past. Your club will have similar stories to tell. <span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>Education</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Building schools in Guatemala <span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Scholarships
for disadvantaged <span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding
local lunch programs<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Local and
international school partnerships<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Funded
Simon the Safety Bear, a furry mascot. Helps police teach traffic safety to
kids<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Homelessness</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding purchase of kitchen equipment for a
shelter<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding and volunteering to serve meals at a
shelter <span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 18.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
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<b>Micro-credit</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding programs in Africa, Dominican
Republic and Nepal<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Volunteering
to promote the cause locally and internationally<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Clean
water<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l4 level1 lfo2; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding and volunteering to install filters
in<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 18.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 18.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<b>Health initiatives</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding Alzheimer treatment programs<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding
addictions programs<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding
art program in a cancer centre<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding
and volunteering for polio vaccination missions in Africa and India<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding
the purchase and refurbishing used ambulances for Mexico<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding and promoting organ transplant
awareness<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<b>Women’s issues</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding domestic violence programs<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding
organizations rescuing child sex slaves<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding and volunteering for teen pregnancy
programs<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 18.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<br /></div>
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<b>Sports</b><b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding playground equipment<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding
creation of Rotary Challenger Park for people with disabilities<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo5; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "wingdings";">Ø<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Funding soccer program for Syrian refugee
children<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; margin-left: 18.0pt; margin-right: 0cm; margin-top: 0cm; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
Many
More…<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Broaden
Your Base</span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Examine
your story from every perspective. O.K.! From every angle. You may discover a
number of potential sidebar angles within the bigger story.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Examine your story from every perspective.
O.K.! From every angle. You may discover a number of potential sidebar stories
within the bigger story. What journalist would be interested in that story?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>Changing the World</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Let’s create a
realistic example using a micro-credit project. Your club may have provided
seed funding and organized volunteers to go to a developing nation to work with
a local micro-credit project. Story angles that could spin out of the project
may include these.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4AERf0qToZzBFV-CJJhGcH5MaMAsd1u02s_ars3Ol-k2TLxfPlKnDxg6MiqrpjT_cTJ2ZPIXIK-FMbxS6PKtCDVvbM9cSIq8NHkVqxhCh_rhroQfs-ioDFXI87T9vOE3i3kHWsHEKCn4/s1600/Micro+Credit+Angles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4AERf0qToZzBFV-CJJhGcH5MaMAsd1u02s_ars3Ol-k2TLxfPlKnDxg6MiqrpjT_cTJ2ZPIXIK-FMbxS6PKtCDVvbM9cSIq8NHkVqxhCh_rhroQfs-ioDFXI87T9vOE3i3kHWsHEKCn4/s320/Micro+Credit+Angles.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a marketing specialist, keynote speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. Robyn has placed hundreds of traditional and new media stories about Rotary and other organizations. </i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Relevant Posts in this Series - Read in Reverse Order - More to Come</span></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/five-types-of-media-exposure-you-need.html" style="color: #888888; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;">Six Types of Media Exposure you Need to Know About</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/why-media-kits-play-key-role-in.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Why Media Kits Play a Key Role in Engaging Media. Tips</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pitching a News Story Requires a Well Crafted Media Release. Why? Tips!</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/its-all-about-stories-rotary-has-them.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Media is All About Stories and Rotary Has Them</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Creating a Rotary Media Event</a></h2>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span>Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-46597252781924656602016-11-02T14:15:00.004-06:002016-11-04T07:12:22.255-06:00Combine 'Social' with 'Media' for Greater Impact Around Your Big Event<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjy7rLM9cIKjRfUhNOA2F7829JDm0ftsxXJUJATi7gJH_4ei54NmdYKWRCVK3kkhQalIbI1kk3f3MVNyohmXfXgDC5vLDgbxXNpGEqil5cpHPAUCejRsdUQ49ExAge2aooKWwdNdQOeyG/s1600/social-media.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizjy7rLM9cIKjRfUhNOA2F7829JDm0ftsxXJUJATi7gJH_4ei54NmdYKWRCVK3kkhQalIbI1kk3f3MVNyohmXfXgDC5vLDgbxXNpGEqil5cpHPAUCejRsdUQ49ExAge2aooKWwdNdQOeyG/s400/social-media.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></h2>
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This is the last post in our series about how to build a media
campaign for Rotary Clubs and other community organizations. In this final article, I wrap up the series with ideas for integrating your
own social media campaign into your strategy. This will be a natural transition to our next series about developing a custom social media program for your club.</h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">As a quick review, throughout this series I have used the term media convergence.</span><span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> Social media (SM) is totally integrated with mainstream
media.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;">What is Convergence?</span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">If radio, TV or newspapers
run a story about your project or event, it will quickly be posted online and promoted through their social media channels. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;">With TV and newspaper, new technology allows reporters to do a quick field edit have their story online before the reporter gets back to the office.</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Radio interviews are packaged as podcasts</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">TV
clips are uploaded to Vimeo or YouTube or embedded in the media website</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">Daily newspapers send a
videographer and upload video clips to their websites</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">All may livestream coverage from your event</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: x-small;">All promote their coverage on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or other platform</span></li>
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Turning the Table</h3>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">So, what am I talking about in this post? Enhancing media activity by launching your own social media component within your overall strategy. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: x-small;">At conferences I was speaking at, I started to notice 3-4 people at a table at the back of the hall typing furiously on their laptops as early as 2011. Some detective work revealed they were busy uploading speaker quotes, observations and photos to the conference promotor's social media campaign. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">As traffic began to build throughout the event, much of their time was spent retweeting and responding to comments. </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">The goal is to generate so much traffic that the event will trend across the country. I've seen it happen. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;">What is Your Event?</span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;">In our post </span><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/tips-for-building-relevance-and-value.html" style="font-size: 12pt;">Tips for Building a Quality Media List for Your Service Club</a><span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;">,
I included a section about how to identify story angles. If you don’t
have an event scheduled, the list will trigger ideas about coming speaker topics or other activities at your club that would
be ideal for attracting major media attention.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12pt;">Setting the Scene</span></h3>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">For our purpose, let's imagine a made-up meeting about Micro-Credit. At the meeting,
two Mom’s from Guatemala will tell their story about how Micro-Finance changed
their lives, the lives of their families and their entire village. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">In my story, as the women succeeded in their micro-businesses, they were
able to buy more nutritious food and could afford to pay for proper schooling
for their kids. Eventually, as their resources grew, they were able to buy
their own home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">There is more! For 10 years members from your club traveled to the
ladies’ village where they helped out with micro-credit startup projects. Once the
programs were established, the Rotarians developed a clean water project and then helped
build a school so the children wouldn’t have to walk through the dangerous
jungle to the next village. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">Also at the meeting will also be the President of the NGO Micro-credit organization that your club has partnered with. The person is accompanying the ladies on a speaker tour of partnering organizations. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">Recruiting a Team</span></h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">If your club does not have an active Facebook or Twitter account, set up dedicated accounts. Ask a couple of club members to volunteer to be your content curators. This be an opportunity to involve community volunteers to help out. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">I also suggest including a photographer who is good at taking live-action shots. </span><br />
<ul>
<li>The best writer (experienced doing SM) will manage the channels</li>
<li>The production assistant (PA) will record the event using a program like Audacity</li>
<li>They PA will download, size, and send to the SM manager live-action photos taken by the photographer </li>
<li>The PA will quick-edit video shot throughout the event on their phone</li>
<li>The photographer will shoot throughout the event periodically downloading photos to the team.</li>
</ul>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">Content Curation</span></h3>
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;">In preparation for the event, ask your social media team to do some research about micro-credit in general, the health benefits of clean water projects and about the partnering NGO. Also secure photos your club's members have taken when in Guatemala. </span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Pre-write informative</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> tweets or facebook posts. Organize your photos so they will be easy to find in the heat of the action. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Hash-Tags and Tags</span></span></h3>
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">When your event happens, media activity will happen quickly. Research a list of keywords for hash tagging like #microcredit or #cleanwater or #womenshealth ir #Guatemala. A list keywords will provide a variety of terms to work with.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Create a list of social media addresses like; </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">@ Potential media who may attend</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">@ The partnering NGO</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">@ Other clubs who support you</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">@ Individuals who are champions of your projects</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">@ Your town or city </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">@ The venue you meet at</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">@ Government organizations or foundation that may have matched funds </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Why is this important? Your goal is to stimulate retweets, liking and other social media endorsements. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><br /></span></span>
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Social Media Possibilities</h3>
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<span style="font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;">This is a stream of social media consciousness providng a sketch of what might happen around your event. </span></h3>
<ul>
<li>2-3 days before your event began posting and tweeting content about your event. Caution; content should go beyond simple promotional messages. Talk about 'why' this is important.</li>
<li>Include keywords and tag various address from the list above</li>
<li>The day of the event, start broadcasting about an hour before your event </li>
<li>Have the photographer shoot as people come </li>
<li>Take photos of media doing interviews before or after the event</li>
<li>Edit audio and video clips and upload</li>
<li>After the event, using your phone, interview the ladies, the NGO president and key members of your club. Edit and disseminate<span style="color: #222222; font-size: 16px;"> on Facebook or Twitter</span></li>
<li>Modify content and continue broadcasting for several days after the event is over </li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Leading Questions; What do You Think?</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">What event related social media experiences have you had with your not-for-profit organization? I’d like to hear your opinions and ideas. Please share your ideas. I'll respond!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a marketing specialist, keynote speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. Robyn has placed hundreds of traditional and new media stories about Rotary and other organizations. </i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Relevant Posts in this Series </span></h2>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/10/the-big-day-what-you-need-to-know-to.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Big Day; What You Need to Know to Make Your Media Event the Best it can Be</span></a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/how-will-my-attitude-of-gratitude.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">How an Attitude of Service can Impact Your Rotary Media Event</span></a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/tips-for-building-relevance-and-value.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Tips for Building a Quality Media List for Your Service Club</span></a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/five-types-of-media-exposure-you-need.html" style="color: #888888; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Six Types of Media Exposure you Need to Know About</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/why-media-kits-play-key-role-in.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Why Media Kits Play a Key Role in Engaging Media. Tips</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pitching a News Story Requires a Well Crafted Media Release. Why? Tips!</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/its-all-about-stories-rotary-has-them.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Media is All About Stories and Rotary Has Them</span></a></h3>
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<span style="color: #888888; font-size: x-small; text-decoration: none;">C<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">reating a Rotary Media Event</a></span></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-53683225565301992762016-10-06T08:56:00.017-06:002021-04-29T10:31:45.095-06:00The Big Day; What You Need to Know to Make Your Media Event the Best it can Be<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">A media scrum may be part of your event.</span></td></tr>
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<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">We began our media series by suggesting ideas for story angles that would attract the media. In review, one media draw may be </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">a high profile speaker. Another could be the presentation of a large cheque to a community not-for-profit agency. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Media might be interested in a story about the a team from your club that just returned from
a developing nation where they personally delivered a small fleet of refurbished ambulances. </span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Presenting a Citizen of the Year Award to a
community leader is a natural. Or, the Rotary clubs in your area may
be the host club for your District Conference that has a myriad of interesting
keynotes and breakout sessions.</span></div>
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<b>A Play by Play Account</b><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">This post shares details of an event produced by the Calgary West Rotary Club. All photos were shot at a Progressive Conservative Party of Alberta leadership forum we hosted. At the time, the club had 80 active members.</span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The event drew a turn away crowd of 150 and a media gallery of 60+ reporters. The candidates, Ric MCiver, Jim Prentice and Thomas Lukaszuk were vying for the party leadership. </span><br />
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<b>A Stern Warning to the Premier</b><br />
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Politics are politics where ever you live. During a debate in another part of our province the night before the candidates had become heated and angry voices were involved.<br />
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As an aside, I will never forget the production meeting we had with the candidates, their Public Relations Advisors and Rotarians participating in the program. Our President, Tony Knight, with a stern voice advised the candidates to resist any semblance of the hostilities present the night before.<br />
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In other words, he lectured the incoming Premier and 2 Cabinet Ministers to have good behavior as Rotary promotes peace and good will throughout the world. They heeded his advice - and the PR people told me it was one of the best debates of the entire campaign. <br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><b>How We Got Here/ Review these Posts</b></span></div>
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<br /><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Key elements of a <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">well crafted news release</a></li><li>Components of <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">an effective media kit</a></li><li>Creating a <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">quality media distribution list</a></li><li><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Treat media fairly and professionally</a></li></ol>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">A week before the event we sent out a tickler to give the media a heads
up. We also sent or dropped off media kits which provided background to the
story and to further pique media their interest.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">That morning we sent an updated the news release under the
heading TODAY and distributed it by email around 8:30 AM. We also phoned targeted
media to make sure they got it and to personally invite them to attend.<o:p></o:p></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw7k8lnlChGx1sExA6P1Xw-1BE4jibOJd1h3k5wAKcnO2I7xBi5ucFvt5WSFjaT6LheJ4Dd2rZ9V7_vG-mB_tktam72oyoJNecwivIXxSQTr8xZM2FeDkDpkh-5vl-qW5gUf324niRUxXr/s1600/CANDIDATES.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw7k8lnlChGx1sExA6P1Xw-1BE4jibOJd1h3k5wAKcnO2I7xBi5ucFvt5WSFjaT6LheJ4Dd2rZ9V7_vG-mB_tktam72oyoJNecwivIXxSQTr8xZM2FeDkDpkh-5vl-qW5gUf324niRUxXr/w541-h271/CANDIDATES.jpg" width="541" /></a></div></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Thirty minutes before the start time a TV satellite truck arrived to broadcast live from the event. Other media arrived in their news cruisers and more satellite trucks. We were ready to go.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Global TV goes live just <br />
before the event starts.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">What You Need to Know</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Reporters are on tight timelines. They want to get in, get their story,
and then get out and on to the next story or back to their office or station to
write or edit their piece to meet their deadline. They will love you to death
if you are well organized and efficient in giving them what they need. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Meet them at the Door</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">If you are expecting a large number, have an assistant stationed by the
entry door ready to greet them and take them to you. Then, you provide a quick
overview and ask them what they need by way of interviews or photos. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Designated Spokespeople</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">It goes without saying that you will have identified key spokespeople and
prepared them a couple of days before the event. Ask them to sit close by and be
ready if a reporter wants to speak to them. You never want to have to waste
time by having to send a runner to find them. Ever!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">If a keynote speaker is the main story, let the media know they will be
available for interviews after the event. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></h3><h3><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Media Kits</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Media kits and news releases periodically get lost amidst the Tsunami of
daily information that is sent to the media every day. Have extra kits
available. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Some reporters or photographers may have only received a brief text from
their editor assigning the event. They may have little background.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Media Gallery</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">O.K., I’m exaggerating when referring to our political event. By media gallery, I mean the space at the back of
the room where TV camera people can set up their tripods. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Glibness aside, if you have an event with an audience of 500 or
more, you should rent a small stage 2-3 feet high. It will allow TV
cameras to shoot over the heads of the audience. You may want to set it up in
the middle of the crowd. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">You will also need a long narrow table and chairs for print, blog or
radio journalists. Fill only one side allowing them to face the action. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;">“B” Roll</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">TV videographers will want to shoot “B” roll. What is “B” roll?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Let me explain it this way. Let’s imagine you are watching your story on
the 6:00 pm TV news. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">You watch as the news anchor introduces the story. The video cuts to images of
people coming into your venue, others seated and waiting for the event to start or perhaps the
building sign or other relevant shots that provide context. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">“B” roll is often used when a speaker on stage is filmed speaking. In
the final edit, while he or she is speaking, the editor may cut to wide shots of
the audience and close-ups of individuals listening intently. That is “B” roll
or background shots. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Free Range</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">As stated in an earlier post, my company usually gives photographers and
videographers free range depending on the story. We allow them to go on stage to
shoot cool shots of the speaker with the audience in the background or to go into
the audience or to explore other creative ideas for shots. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The bottom line? The more interesting the content, the better the story will be. It is always a good day when a feature is picked up in other cities due to the strength of the story </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">supported by interesting images.</span></div><h2 style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: medium; font-weight: normal; text-align: start;">
</div>
</span></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large; line-height: 107%;">Interviews</span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Most interviews will happen after your event. At that time, journalists may do an interview
with people milling about in the background or go into a quiet hall or outside
to use the building sign as background. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">If you expect a large media turnout, book a nearby empty room. Some
journalists may ask for 1 on 1 time after the scrum. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Media Scrum</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">What is a scrum? The term is taken from rugby where the team members of two
teams go shoulder to shoulder to push each other out of the way in order to get
the ball. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">In media terms, a scrum is when 2 to 60+ media gather round the
spokesperson and start firing questions. They follow professional protocol and
tend not to shout over each other while the wait for their turn to ask a
question. You don’t need to manage it except to signal the end is near. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">As reporters arrive, tell media you will scrum after the event and they
will know exactly what you mean. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Photo Backgrounds</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Your purpose in staging the event is to profile your organization and its
connection to the main story in the best possible way. Suggest background ideas like an interesting wall, two arm chairs face-to-face in a corner or your organization's trade show booth. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">For our event, we rented a full-length backdrop made of heavy black drapes. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">From bitter experience, I can say that fern leaves behind a person’s head will look like they are growing out of their ears or like the ancient headdress of some mystic cult. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Direct Box</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">If you are staging an event where media want to record audio, you will
need to provide a direct box. A direct box feeds the audio mix from the
event sound system into a multi-outlet box. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Why is this necessary? First, to provide the best possible sound. Second, media may want to
broadcast live or live stream the event. Quality matters. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">WiFi Connections</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Make sure the WiFi connections at your venue can accommodate extra
traffic. At a minimum, print reporters may want to write and file stories as
the event proceeds. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Hire Pros</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Service organizations traditionally fill event roles with volunteer
labor. But, staging</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> a media is all about creating good impressions. If there is any
danger of pops, crackles, squeals, blackouts, freezes or other technology
disasters, contract in a professional media production company.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjge9xZw9R5ga8elBXJwNe4mQm1jEC6UuCNu7DlManDqhYrB7S7c2CyycooBwdIVmAWrOQmFGScNKtN3bqvkVaMwMPWGp5rh_EdCRvgeNrd7bVYnIx1fpP-ebQxn5sgJi1LNaPZZACvyyBF/s1600/30%2525+3895.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjge9xZw9R5ga8elBXJwNe4mQm1jEC6UuCNu7DlManDqhYrB7S7c2CyycooBwdIVmAWrOQmFGScNKtN3bqvkVaMwMPWGp5rh_EdCRvgeNrd7bVYnIx1fpP-ebQxn5sgJi1LNaPZZACvyyBF/s200/30%2525+3895.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">They will provide sound systems, quality microphones (as many as needed),
cables, direct boxes, high capacity audio mixers, video/powerpoint equipment and other support.
Most of all, they will provide an operator who produces events for a living. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Why is this important? Media events happen quickly and the technology must work
flawlessly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">In my media training seminars, I tell what happened at the forum. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr1lBLmb3sekwSW6LVsAwyia2yhezABAK0r8DqFN912lfuhiPIuKvxS_7VQy9_8GXaIgMsada9DFPk8kCzl3ml2GX-p4COB0bOXIxsgT5Cf1gZx0fIzRht4Cssd30amAiCtL53SUYQnloj/s1600/30%2525+3796.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr1lBLmb3sekwSW6LVsAwyia2yhezABAK0r8DqFN912lfuhiPIuKvxS_7VQy9_8GXaIgMsada9DFPk8kCzl3ml2GX-p4COB0bOXIxsgT5Cf1gZx0fIzRht4Cssd30amAiCtL53SUYQnloj/w595-h454/30%2525+3796.jpg" width="595" /></a><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div><div class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;"><br /></span></div>We were about to start the meeting when 3 last minute reporters arrived
needing connections. Their media outlets planned to live stream the event to 100s of
thousands of viewers and listeners. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Our direct box was full. A miracle happened and our technician magically made it
happen. We started the meeting and the media coverage was huge. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">The Outcome</span></h3>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">Our story dominated the 24 hour news cycle thanks to the talents of a
problem solving technician. Each candidate's Comunication Director told us afterwards that our event was the
best of the campaign. That felt good!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-CA;">The side benefit is that every time I see the politicians who
participated, they remember our team, the event and they also remember
Rotary!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">Leading Questions; What do You Think?</span></h3>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;">What experiences have you had with your not-for-profit organization organization? I’d like to hear your opinions and ideas. Please comment below. I'll respond!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a marketing specialist, keynote speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. Robyn has placed hundreds of traditional and new media stories about Rotary and other organizations. </i></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif"><b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif" style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span face=""arial" , sans-serif" style="font-size: x-small;">Relevant Posts in this Series </span></h2>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/how-will-my-attitude-of-gratitude.html">How an Attitude of Service can Impact Your Rotary Media Event</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/tips-for-building-relevance-and-value.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Tips for Building a Quality Media List for Your Service Club</a></h3>
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/five-types-of-media-exposure-you-need.html" style="color: #888888; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;">Six Types of Media Exposure you Need to Know About</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/why-media-kits-play-key-role-in.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Why Media Kits Play a Key Role in Engaging Media. Tips</a></div>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pitching a News Story Requires a Well Crafted Media Release. Why? Tips!</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></div>
</h3>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/its-all-about-stories-rotary-has-them.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Media is All About Stories and Rotary Has Them</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Creating a Rotary Media Event</a></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-50757126231380480622016-10-05T12:58:00.002-06:002017-08-17T11:48:39.957-06:00Tribute to Dr. Marmie Hess; Rotarian, Humanitarian and Philanthropist<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: medium;">Guest Post Written by Steve Allan*</span></b> </div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;">Forward</span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Marmie Hess was a Rotarian. She was also an Officer of the Order of Canada and a proud Albertan. She received Honorary Doctorates from three Alberta Universities. Most of all, Marmie was a great humanitarian and philanthropist who cared deeply about her community.</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></h2>
<h2>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: medium;">She received many accolades that many close to her weren't even aware of because Marmie didn't talk about them. She was a humble person who thousands simply called friend.</span></span></h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFnXS2Piwfxqp2TFzeq4v1noQAdO0UV8wT2anIB2-Jjm2LG1F8ul_wcj-T_M3THdtMrMVo6Bld_lEcZkeKzVfZ0nl8-s_q8vRevk52vcsktQPvjCV0kxsjXA3FAFX6JHHmQnRP-KS1TLGR/s1600/ISF+left+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFnXS2Piwfxqp2TFzeq4v1noQAdO0UV8wT2anIB2-Jjm2LG1F8ul_wcj-T_M3THdtMrMVo6Bld_lEcZkeKzVfZ0nl8-s_q8vRevk52vcsktQPvjCV0kxsjXA3FAFX6JHHmQnRP-KS1TLGR/s200/ISF+left+02.jpg" width="136" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Marmie Hess</td></tr>
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It may seem out of place to find a personal tribute on a blogsite about branding. But Rotary is all about people working together to make a difference. That, in a nutshell, is the heart of the Rotary brand.<br />
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This is the story about a lady who lived her life guided by a clear set of values and principles. That was the heart of her personal brand.<br />
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She recently died at the age of 100. Steve Allan, the Past District Governor of Rotary District 5360 gave a moving tribute at the celebration of Marmie’s life.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-L7NShm_vxo6enfYA2Flqg2K5PCD7Kfd0e8kjcFJ1qy37Slhkby6oHYv_UdXe5yStshL2M9DtGV_K3BT-tIbgQSOvrF1Q_GfWK6Bxkhm1T5nsX3HYA2qEYAm1eveM5sSF9y1YrQkD6na/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEim-L7NShm_vxo6enfYA2Flqg2K5PCD7Kfd0e8kjcFJ1qy37Slhkby6oHYv_UdXe5yStshL2M9DtGV_K3BT-tIbgQSOvrF1Q_GfWK6Bxkhm1T5nsX3HYA2qEYAm1eveM5sSF9y1YrQkD6na/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marmie celebrating her 100th <br />
birthday with Past President Tony<br />
Knight of the Calgary West<br />
Rotary Club</td></tr>
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<i><b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Dr. Margaret (Marmie) Perkins Hess; </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">O.C., A.O.E., LL.D (Hon.), B.A., D.F.A. (Hon.), F.R.C.G.S., U.E. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Community leader, internationally recognized art historian and lecturer, businesswoman and rancher </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">May 3, 1</span></b></i><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "arial"; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><b>916 - September 2, 2016</b></span></i><br />
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All too often we meet extraordinary people and fail to realize the full extent of their influence. They touch thousands of lives because of their support for the community. One such person was Dr. Marmie Hess.<br />
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To those who knew her, she was just ‘Marmie.’ When you sat with her, you quickly discovered that she could talk about the weather and make a profound observation that would make an everyday conversation become extraordinary and interesting.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9pNKPZmGrPbeRe-E7KBZe1eoTD8HTL9hq6YnbKrWbvcCfSmVglMqGLi-w2W3uA3gcxUKXs6HLxoVb0RkLoXmGkmJOcUOgVMRTOITmgzW-zkvmBkf0It988r5820zxPNELfjAExvZZ7T5/s1600/068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO9pNKPZmGrPbeRe-E7KBZe1eoTD8HTL9hq6YnbKrWbvcCfSmVglMqGLi-w2W3uA3gcxUKXs6HLxoVb0RkLoXmGkmJOcUOgVMRTOITmgzW-zkvmBkf0It988r5820zxPNELfjAExvZZ7T5/s200/068.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">City of Calgary</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I was marketing chair for a city wide project that was charged with filling our cities 20,000 seat hockey arena 4 nights in a row. I recruited a great committee of 9 people who were all professionals involved in some aspect of marketing.<br />
<br />
They were so good at what they did that I could rarely get them all into the same room at the same time. One was off to China on a month long music tour while another took two months off to finish a masters degree in Toronto.<br />
<br />
A third member regularly flew between Calgary, Los Angeles and Montreal on business. Another was shooting a TV documentary. If you have served as a volunteer leader, I’m sure you’ve been there!<br />
<br />
In the midst of the project roll out, I attended a Rotary committee meeting that included Marmie. Three of us sat chatting while waiting for 2 others. A snide comment was made that some Rotarians are notoriously late or completely forget about committee meetings altogether.<br />
<br />
Without dropping a beat, Marmie said this:<br />
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<br />
The rest of us looked at each other for a moment … and then promptly started the meeting without further comment. The missing duo eventually joined us!<br />
<br />
WOW! That observation caused me to think differently about the non-Rotary project. She was right! Each of my committee members did at least one substantial thing that contributed significantly to the whole.<br />
<br />
The event drew 80,000+ people and was a resounding success. As Steve Allen explains below, that kind of everyday insight was typical of Marmie. - Robyn Braley, BTRB Publisher.<br />
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">
A Tribute to Marmie Hess</span></h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Written by Steve Allan*</b></div>
<div>
<b></b><br />
<b></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tJyQA5g7gFOcJRN-orQGpCHTxeSVbpH0YzrQqt7FDiw6zKonouFtEON5avO7BZMtXwBmpYeHqoKk9-RfMWO3s7jlFhoetkt9mV_s_WdLca4xKIYcbrlbFKM-wPcwmZcF-U_ebVkzziqU/s1600/Steve+Allan+JJP_CTC_5S7R1424.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8tJyQA5g7gFOcJRN-orQGpCHTxeSVbpH0YzrQqt7FDiw6zKonouFtEON5avO7BZMtXwBmpYeHqoKk9-RfMWO3s7jlFhoetkt9mV_s_WdLca4xKIYcbrlbFKM-wPcwmZcF-U_ebVkzziqU/s200/Steve+Allan+JJP_CTC_5S7R1424.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Steve Allan FCPA, <br />
FCA, ICD.D*</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I am truly humbled and honored to have been asked to pay tribute to an amazing woman who was an incredible citizen of our city, province and country.<br />
<br />
This morning’s turnout is, in itself, a tribute to the wonderful legacy of a person who, at 100 years of age, outlived most of her contemporaries.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Remarkable Lady</h3>
Most people only knew Marmie through a single facet of her life. Some related to Marmie because of her passion for art or education or her involvement in Rotary, the Calgary Stampede, the Glenbow Museum or the world class Calgary Zoo.<br />
<br />
However you were connected to Marmie, I think it’s safe to say that prior to reading her obituary, none of us had a full appreciation for the depth and breadth of her reach into our community. I suspect that each of us are aware of things that have been left out!<br />
<br />
<h3>
A Life Connected</h3>
My connection to Marmie spans my entire life. Marmie and my grandfather were neighbors.<br />
<br />
The family home where Marmie grew up was across the street from my grandfather’s home. His house was built in 1910 on the corner of Durham Avenue and 8th Street in Calgary, Alberta.<br />
<br />
In addition to knowing my grandfather, Marmie knew my mother and her siblings.<br />
<br />
I remember our first conversation occurred when I was in my late teens or early twenties. We talked about my grandfather who owned a bookstore and ‘lending library’ in the early 1900’s.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCU13xKLdrrq9BW5y6lW8WWfSrA_Y14TuLG6YnmkeoDenTC56CkLS40RPV8RbaRs7RkItw0nmm0XKVEokpQ2LRKdPjsa8mRtDWQKJqnCKakBhPUOd5AcNSFWaq-s1ZbVfH1tmPicbJA298/s1600/Folder+photo+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCU13xKLdrrq9BW5y6lW8WWfSrA_Y14TuLG6YnmkeoDenTC56CkLS40RPV8RbaRs7RkItw0nmm0XKVEokpQ2LRKdPjsa8mRtDWQKJqnCKakBhPUOd5AcNSFWaq-s1ZbVfH1tmPicbJA298/s320/Folder+photo+01.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marmie had a life-long love for horses. <br />
Marmie and her father circa 1940</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Over time he collected an impressive collection of books, many of which Marmie later acquired. I understand the books are now part of the Hess Collection at the University of Calgary.<br />
<br />
Over the years, Marmie and I had many conversations about my grandfather’s collections, his bookstore , the library, and his role as a leader in early Calgary.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Leadership Influence</h3>
Our relationship grew closer when I assumed a leadership role as the President of the Calgary Stampede, then as District Governor of Rotary District 5360, and more recently as a Governor with the University of Calgary.<br />
<br />
I always enjoyed hearing stories about her own involvement with these organizations. She was proud of them and what they and many others did in the community.<br />
<br />
Our conversations helped me appreciate how deeply Marmie cared about our community. She was committed to the idea that, as individuals and organizations, we must be deliberate and intentional about upholding the values she believed made our community strong and unique.<br />
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A few years ago the Stampede commissioned a research study to identify and articulate the values that characterize our city.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<h3>
A Life Well Lived</h3>
Now, in retrospect, we probably did not need to do any research. We could have simply written a description of Marmie because she personified those values; she lived and breathed those values; they were second nature to her.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLi0UuXokjDktdffSouK85hRRw_BBqOmZT7TWF38p86JxEPuDFXiWlcmPz2ANLxpaUXHYLHVNF85tyeYC73Kcnp_kqzTF9Jbb-U4xhm6C-oWM2uL_BLMuVkl1Ht8FoyFgzBUC6iIWxnZmf/s1600/HESS%252C+Margaret+-+Watermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLi0UuXokjDktdffSouK85hRRw_BBqOmZT7TWF38p86JxEPuDFXiWlcmPz2ANLxpaUXHYLHVNF85tyeYC73Kcnp_kqzTF9Jbb-U4xhm6C-oWM2uL_BLMuVkl1Ht8FoyFgzBUC6iIWxnZmf/s320/HESS%252C+Margaret+-+Watermark.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The view from Marmie's ranch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Many of you attended Marmie’s 100th birthday celebration at the Downtown Rotary Club on May 3rd.<br />
<br />
In her totally unselfish — and I might add stubborn — way, she insisted that the celebration not be about her, but rather, our community and the work of the organizations she supported over the years.<br />
<br />
Despite her admonishment — and while it was a great celebration of community — it was also a wonderful recognition of an amazing woman who played an enormous role in strengthening our community by being true to the values I just outlined.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Always a Leader</h3>
As you are all aware, Marmie had an incredible mind, even at the age of 100. She was laser-like in her focus and could pose a question or make a comment that would literally stop you in your tracks and get you thinking.<br />
<br />
I knew this firsthand since my role in the Stampede, Rotary and the University had me interacting with Marmie in her capacity as a supporter of those same organizations.<br />
<br />
As we talked, her habit was to ask piercing questions. But, they were always good questions. <br />
<br />
I knew her intention was not to trip me up. Rather, she wanted to ensure that the organization I was associated with and that she supported was focused on the right things – not only for the good of the organization but, more importantly, for the community.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Youth and Education</h3>
The objective of her support was always threefold:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>To give young people a hand up in realizing a personal goal</li>
<li>To encourage young people to develop their character through lifelong learning.</li>
<li>To inspire other donors to step up and provide similar support</li>
</ul>
<br />
When Marmie and I talked about the young people she was supporting through her contributions to the Stampede Band Scholarships or to the kids we were helping through the Rotary Stay in School Awards program, she always wanted to know about the impact our programs were having on their character.<br />
<br />
No matter what field of endeavor they pursued, Marmie was most interested in ensuring we were doing our utmost to develop leaders whose lives reflected the values she held so dear.<br />
<br />
As a lifelong learner herself, Marmie led by example and always did her best to show her personal support for the young people in our programs.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Western Ideal</h3>
I was particularly moved earlier this summer when she participated on stage, at the age of 100, at the Stampede Grandstand show before 20,000 people when the youth scholarship recipients were being honoured.<br />
<br />
It was a cool evening and it was late! But she was there, no matter the personal discomfort, because it was important to her. That was Marmie.<br />
<br />
As was stated in her obituary and completely consistent with the values I spoke of earlier, one of Marmie’s favorite sayings was:<br />
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<br />
<br />
Marmie rode long and she rode well. Extremely well! As a result, she will always be remembered as a woman of the highest standards.<br />
<br />
She has left behind a wonderful legacy, and, I might say, a call to action. We would do well to reflect on the life she led and the values she held so dear.<br />
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We would do well to continue to build on the same foundation with the same determination, tenacity and passion that characterized Marmie Hess.<br />
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In Marmie’s memory, the Calgary Stampede Show Band will play two of her favorite pieces — ‘Magnificent Seven’ and ‘Calgary and that Spells Calgary.’<br />
<br />
The song ‘Calgary’ was special to Marmie because it was written in 1926 by Harry Hutchcroft who worked for Marmie’s father as a night foreman.<br />
<br />
Marmie believed the words of the song transcended time; ringing true of the pioneers of Calgary’s earliest days. Just like her Father and Harry and my grandfather, and still true of the people of Calgary today. <span style="font-size: x-small;">- The End</span><br />
<br />
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Steve Allen is Chair of Calgary Economic Development, the Calgary Stampede Foundation and McMahon Stadium Society, Board Vice-Chair of the Neyaskweyahk Trust of the Ermineskin Cree Nation, a Governor of the University of Calgary. Steve served as Chair of the Canadian Tourism Commission (now known as Destination Canada) for seven years. He also served as Co-Chair of the Calgary Poverty Reduction Initiative and chaired the Committee to Refresh Calgary’s Economic Strategy. He is Past President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Alberta and has volunteered for the Institute (now CPA Alberta) throughout his career. </span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Steve has been a committed member of the Rotary Club of Calgary since 1980 and served as Club President in 1994-95. He served as Governor of Rotary District #5360 in 2009-10. </span></i>
<!-- Go to www.addthis.com/dashboard to customize your tools --> <script src="//s7.addthis.com/js/300/addthis_widget.js#pubid=ra-5983fe0c2393b40e" type="text/javascript"></script> Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-22420205262896956922016-08-30T20:36:00.003-06:002016-11-29T21:20:29.649-07:00How an Attitude of Service can Impact Your Rotary Media Event<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbds2DXeCPl1RLbHWyMXNJoLTXPPCkV5S41YeiYeVRV4ss_aMyyXP8jwQkfVvfPhzuezLjFrcUQinWrtpdHmRzrG4uQGK92zZaBPi4HRMiGIYTMHutOe5iwgM3nWk44Pd9Md5MVNuqNtL/s1600/Import-or-Capture-Videos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnbds2DXeCPl1RLbHWyMXNJoLTXPPCkV5S41YeiYeVRV4ss_aMyyXP8jwQkfVvfPhzuezLjFrcUQinWrtpdHmRzrG4uQGK92zZaBPi4HRMiGIYTMHutOe5iwgM3nWk44Pd9Md5MVNuqNtL/s320/Import-or-Capture-Videos.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How you treat the media will impact your story</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Part 1 An Attitude of Gratitude</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You have organized a great media event to announce an exciting new program that will benefit the entire community. </span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">You crafted a
killer news release and carefully assembled a media kit packed full of relevant information. </span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">You’ve contacted the
media by email, social media and telephone. You dropped off or mailed media kits that answered all the questions. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Spokes-people are on stand-by.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Now you wait on pins and needles hoping - even praying - journalists will
come through the door to cover your event.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Most reporters love covering not-for-profit stories. They
recognize that they can have a role in making a difference in your community by
helping to get the word out about projects and events that will change lives. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">However, news happens quickly. Assignments can change on a dime as I can attest from personal experience. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Media can be on their
way to cover your story only to be diverted to the scene of a small plane crash, a
car crash or to where a body has been discovered under suspicious circumstances. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I remember the time a professional sports team in our city traded a popular player. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Another time a TV crew arrived ready to cover our event. A second cruiser from a competing station rolled up, stopped, and then left when they saw that 'the other guys' had beaten them to the punch.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">It can get worse. You may have attracted a large media turnout only to have the story killed or it's size reduced due to an explosion, a political scandal or natural disaster happening. </span><br />
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">That is just how the business works. The content of a newscast or entire newspaper is subject to change right up to airtime or the print deadline. </span><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Media do not “owe” you or your organization anything. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Successful media strategies are the result of hard work and careful planning. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">However, putting all the 'maybes' aside, a good story will generate media coverage. In this post, I want to discuss how to treat them when they come. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Attitude
of Gratitude</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">News stories can also be affected by how you treat the media who cover your story. Bob Hartley, Stanley Cup winning coach of the NHL
Colorado Avalanche and Coach of the Year Award winner while with the Calgary
Flames, explains his attitude towards the media this way.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLxZyPuezr5rsrtTr1NJyZoXiyjw3umAOKx5shFy0H22Sca0WcNCRoOUjHw_6Xc5URKFSsmTrX2FRPHZh_6zYrYqgusZX45aLQnIew-T1LcJGzcn18RY3c9NFbK_EXhBZ6onPIGAX17S2/s1600/BOB+HARLEY+SITTING+IN+STANDS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSLxZyPuezr5rsrtTr1NJyZoXiyjw3umAOKx5shFy0H22Sca0WcNCRoOUjHw_6Xc5URKFSsmTrX2FRPHZh_6zYrYqgusZX45aLQnIew-T1LcJGzcn18RY3c9NFbK_EXhBZ6onPIGAX17S2/s320/BOB+HARLEY+SITTING+IN+STANDS.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NHL Stanley Cup winning coach Bob Hartley</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He recognizes that hockey fans are the reason
professional athletes get to do what they do. They pay for tickets, buy branded
hats and jersies, and watch or listen to media coverage of games which drives up the ratings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Bob views the media as a conduit to the fans. That is
why he is always available even after a tough loss or being unexpectedly fired.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For him, no media is too big or too small. No
journalist is too young or inexperienced. In his mind, each deserves equal time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">He respects each reporter provides a way to speak directly to a segment
of the people who make the life of professional hockey players and coaches possible.
The fans!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Isn’t that refreshing for a professional sports
personality? No tantrums. No need to bleep offensive language. No surly one-word
answers. No interviews cut short because he didn't like the questions! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For Bob, the media is a way to build relationships with ordinary fans. His attitude is part of his personal brand. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Bob’s
Lessons for NFPs</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The first lesson from Bob is to treat the media as
your collaborative partner. You need them to help get the message out, and they
need you to provide a quality story. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Digging deeper, the media is not your enemy. Understanding
what their needs are, and then meeting them will help land the story. It’s a
basic customer service philosophy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The media knows my company, Unimark Creative, for three
brand principles. I carry them over to Rotary media events. We deliver three
things;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">1.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Stories based on truth<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">2.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Stories offering value and interest to their audiences<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">3.<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Fair, equal treatment of all media<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Some Media Relations professionals don’t rigorously
adhere to number 3. What that means is that we provide each journalist with the
same story and give each the same equal opportunity to each one. We don’t favor
any single media.</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Mainstream TV</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Youtube channels</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Cable TV</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Commercial radio</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Public radio</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Student radio</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Podcasts</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Daily newspapers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Weekly newspapers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Online news media</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Bloggers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px;">Ethnic media</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">If a particular journalist asks for more information
or a different spokes-person to interview, we respond accordingly. If a photographer or videographer asks for access to a remote area to capture a unique shot, we make it happen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Being professional
also means we don’t share their idea for a different story angle with their
competitors.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Media
Friendly</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We recently produced a not-for-profit media event at a major convention. The city hosting the event has 7 radio stations, 2 network
affiliate television services, a daily newspaper and several weekly newspapers. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">We organized a news
conference around a major funding announcement that was to be made following a
keynote address. The project had universal appeal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">When the journalists arrived, we welcomed each one and
stated that we were media friendly. We asked them who they wanted to interview,
gave them options, and had those to be interviewed on standby. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Our team made things happen as quickly as possible. Most
wanted to speak to the keynote speaker. Others wanted a local angle and
asked to speak a local leader who lived in the city. <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/tips-for-building-relevance-and-value.html">Click for story angle ideas</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">During the keynote session, TV cameramen and newspaper
photographers were told they had carte blanche to go onto the stage to shoot close-ups
of speakers in action. TV cameramen were told they could go into the crowd to
shoot “B” roll. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who,
me?</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I noticed some of the media acted surprised and somewhat
cool towards us. My first thought was that they resented us because we came from the big
city with our big city ways. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I discovered it wasn’t that at all! After the event
was finished, a reporter thanked me for all we had done to help them. Another
reporter came over and joined the conversation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They explained they had never heard a PR person use
the words “media friendly” before. That had made them suspicious. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The outcome was a story that received wide
distribution on TV, radio, newspaper, magazines and social media. The daily newspaper
gave us front page coverage for the two days of the conference. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">By going out of our way to service the media, we received exceptional coverage. The story gathered legs and </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">traveled</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> to other media around the world.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Two weeks after the conference the newspaper also ran
a two page spread on their social/community events page. Our photographer shot
engaging images that the photo editor loved. But, I’ll save that story for a
future post about photography.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Part 2 – Service Basics</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">My next post will provide a nuts and bolts overview of
the needs of media and how you can be prepared to meet them on the day of your event. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; margin: 0px; position: relative;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Leading Questions; What do You Think?</span></h3>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">What experiences have you had generating media coverage for your service club or not-for-profit organization? I’d like to hear your opinions and ideas. Please comment below. I'll respond!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a marketing specialist, keynote speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. Robyn has placed hundreds of traditional and new media stories about Rotary and other organizations. </i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: small;">Relevant Posts in this Series - Read in Reverse Order - More to Come</span></h2>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/08/tips-for-building-relevance-and-value.html">Tips for Building a Quality Media List for Your Service Club</a></h3>
</div>
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<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/five-types-of-media-exposure-you-need.html" style="color: #888888; font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;">Six Types of Media Exposure you Need to Know About</a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/why-media-kits-play-key-role-in.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Why Media Kits Play a Key Role in Engaging Media. Tips</a></div>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pitching a News Story Requires a Well Crafted Media Release. Why? Tips!</a></div>
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<div>
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></div>
</h3>
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative;">
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/its-all-about-stories-rotary-has-them.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Media is All About Stories and Rotary Has Them</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Creating a Rotary Media Event</a></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-17605434400927729132016-08-03T11:55:00.004-06:002016-11-29T20:49:21.536-07:00Tips for Building a Quality Media List for Your Service Club<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7v9KLqDCl4IUe2oogpXrfEBaG1SG8vFNAzOMQNh4r67XRmGUusBCYXd6xgtJbL0ZfHZj5HneWDflL37XlDiKSFrjOH5oEl36ZRFxTJDix0hR6RQj4R8j_nAKC7pIq6i4_v5xwtkduXoD/s1600/MEDIA+COLLAGE.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb7v9KLqDCl4IUe2oogpXrfEBaG1SG8vFNAzOMQNh4r67XRmGUusBCYXd6xgtJbL0ZfHZj5HneWDflL37XlDiKSFrjOH5oEl36ZRFxTJDix0hR6RQj4R8j_nAKC7pIq6i4_v5xwtkduXoD/s320/MEDIA+COLLAGE.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just a few of the stories we've placed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Written by Robyn T. Braley</span><br />
<h3>
There are different names for it. Pitching the story. Selling the story. Placing the story or getting media coverage!</h3>
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<h3>
Whatever you call it, your goal is to generate media coverage for your cause, event, notable speaker or any other story related to the work of serving your community.</h3>
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<a name='more'></a><b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Broaden Your Base</span></b><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Examine your story from every perspective. O.K.! From every
angle. You may discover a number of potential sidebar stories within the bigger story. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Why is this important? The process of creating your contact list will make you aware of a wider range of story potential. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Your goal is to generate as much coverage as
possible. Widening the pool will widen the coverage.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"></span>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: "Times New Roman"; letter-spacing: normal; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: 2; padding: 6px; text-align: center; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoXPx0Ufr_6EkNfj1H2OchEcKkLF1lmH5Xiru6Ts69hBHlLtfNq890NI12pqqQvpBgU2xXlD2983CcQNvDEH2ZBCY4SQPY-zjFrE5LwESywXhG2ZEes0ZcLVz-52vfMWLNM8Sqm1aTpDS/s1600/Savagear_Big_Fish_Trekrog_S%25C3%25B8lv_1-p.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcoXPx0Ufr_6EkNfj1H2OchEcKkLF1lmH5Xiru6Ts69hBHlLtfNq890NI12pqqQvpBgU2xXlD2983CcQNvDEH2ZBCY4SQPY-zjFrE5LwESywXhG2ZEes0ZcLVz-52vfMWLNM8Sqm1aTpDS/s200/Savagear_Big_Fish_Trekrog_S%25C3%25B8lv_1-p.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 16px; padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;">
Ya gotta' have a strong hook! A Grabber!</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<h3>
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Who Do You Include on Your List?</span></b></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Good question. The short answer? Any media outlet or journalist who might tell
your story. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 12.0pt;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Television – All news, local news and talk
shows<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 12.0pt;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Radio – Talk radio, all news, and hourly newscasts on various
radio formats<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 12.0pt;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Podcasts – Online radio broadcasters and
topical series<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 12.0pt;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Daily newspapers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 12.0pt;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Magazines – news, trade, lifestyle <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 12.0pt;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Blogs – regularly published<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: 18.0pt; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -18.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 12.0pt;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Weekly newspapers and newsletters<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "courier new"; font-size: 12.0pt;">o<span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Online newspapers – like Huffington Post<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span></b></div>
<h3>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ZPNYTPiT-m7RTNswxskBjdRt3dzXh1GyjTVUiTlNf64DACvDMe7xfxKqUOL_zLdOoE-yQunnSWlmw6ziIbMKEXH2QOhCLrTxY1iZUgbj3VNkJay3_LLjZswWX3iXAd1HHLRHzwnPf7ca/s1600/PENCIL+CHECKING+BOXES.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ZPNYTPiT-m7RTNswxskBjdRt3dzXh1GyjTVUiTlNf64DACvDMe7xfxKqUOL_zLdOoE-yQunnSWlmw6ziIbMKEXH2QOhCLrTxY1iZUgbj3VNkJay3_LLjZswWX3iXAd1HHLRHzwnPf7ca/s200/PENCIL+CHECKING+BOXES.jpg" width="200" /></a><b style="text-align: center;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Putting it all Together</span></b></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Developing a contact list takes time, effort
and creative thinking. </span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Ask the question, “Is this </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">story relevant to the audience of the media you intend to pitch it to?” </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Be intentional as you read,
listen or watch the news. Note the type of stories being covered and by whom. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Also note any political or
social leanings. One media may be more open to your pitch if they have run similar stories in the past. Or, they may say they’ve already covered the topic. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As you compile your list, use a program like Excel to organize
email addresses, social media contact info, telephone numbers, job titles and
snail mail addresses. Set it up so you can run mailing labels, group email
addresses and have easy access to direct phone numbers for pitching and
followup. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3>
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Media Directories</span></b></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Search for media directories in your public library. If you
have a library card, you will have access to online information. Due to connected data banks, you may have access to contact information in cities across the
country. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Some directories list all active media. Others may be narrowed to a particular type. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">A brief description is provided of media formats and audience size along with the names of editors, reporters,
columnists, producers, and other editorial staff. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Some areas have a coordinating not-for-profit organization
that acts as a facilitator by providing various services and supports to other
agencies. They often compile an annual media directory that is available for a
small fee. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3>
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Just so You Know </span></b></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Media directories can be
purchased. They are a valuable tool for public relations agencies,
communication firms and multi-national companies who place stories nationally and internationally. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">They have large staffs who place stories and track them every day. For most not-for-profits, buying a directory may be overkill. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">On the downside, media directories can quickly become
out-of-date due to changing media landscapes and personnel changes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If your project merits the investment, hire a local media relations
specialist to manage your campaign. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3>
<b><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Media Websites</span></b></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Most major media list their key contacts on their website. You can cut and paste email
addresses, telephone numbers and social media information into your spread sheet.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Be Media Savvy</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">One of the best places to
find contact information is in newspapers, magazines or blogs themselves. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Note the stories, sections and the reporter who
wrote stories about topics similar to yours. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">At the end of each story, you will find contact information. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Many libraries have reading rooms with newpapers and magazines from around the world. You can expand your contact list throughout the region, the nation and
perhaps the world. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Listen to TV, radio or
relevant podcasts. Record the names of the hosts. Contact information is
usually included at the end of each broadcast.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65Iq08US8zuD7m6GViLxv88YXt3LCnLeeTbtTkNsffQ-0SGRe84AZRGCHme3SKBelfsdHE7Xp5LCz8_M1m3wZmjvX89QNLj5xLj9lFy08DFOsYLWnFH04TRV9wggfpnHIZYuUFCHFBNxJ/s1600/linkedin-icon-logo-vector.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj65Iq08US8zuD7m6GViLxv88YXt3LCnLeeTbtTkNsffQ-0SGRe84AZRGCHme3SKBelfsdHE7Xp5LCz8_M1m3wZmjvX89QNLj5xLj9lFy08DFOsYLWnFH04TRV9wggfpnHIZYuUFCHFBNxJ/s200/linkedin-icon-logo-vector.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<h3>
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">LinkedIn</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">A <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/11/creating-linkedin-profile-for.html">LinkedIn profile</a> is a must have social media platform for professionals. Following protocols, you can quickly connect with highly segmented communities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Most media are on LinkedIn
and can be contacted through the system. At a minimum, you can learn about
their interests and experience from their profile. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">As a communications specialist, I am connected to a large number of media professionals through my account. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3>
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Other Social Media</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Journalists are pitched
stories everyday Twitter or Facebook. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<h3>
<b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Google Search</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">I have found direct business and media contact information using google. Type in the name, the media they are with, and contact information. Press enter and see what's there.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnkUwGSV_v8H9ptgJ1njvjAAT4IyHAo_tUNfp99XqdwRhd62N1zWrpMzBYEKw1AndkeKBJ8ZM0JAqhaA2otlRGIYdUaYVmeoWVD8nNShDLXnfHfZ6jVI1f6eldz8SjUoVkxWUbTVfC2ng/s1600/contact.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnkUwGSV_v8H9ptgJ1njvjAAT4IyHAo_tUNfp99XqdwRhd62N1zWrpMzBYEKw1AndkeKBJ8ZM0JAqhaA2otlRGIYdUaYVmeoWVD8nNShDLXnfHfZ6jVI1f6eldz8SjUoVkxWUbTVfC2ng/s320/contact.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b><br /></b></span></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Cold Calling</b></span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">What? Cold calling? Is that
still around? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Yes, Matilda. When all else fails, cold-call local media and ask for the assignment editor (TV), the city desk (newspaper), news director (radio) the editor (magazines, weekly newspapers), the publisher (blogsites) or the producer (talk radio, TV talk shows). Ask for contact information.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Leading Questions; What do You Think? </span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">What experiences have you had generating media coverage for your service club or not-for-profit organization? I’d like to hear your opinions and ideas. Please comment below. I'll respond!<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a marketing specialist, keynote speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. Robyn has placed hundreds of traditional and new media stories about Rotary and other organizations. </i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 13.85pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 13.85pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
</div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; margin: 0px; position: relative;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Relevant Posts in this Series - Read in Reverse Order - More to Come</span></h3>
<div>
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/five-types-of-media-exposure-you-need.html" style="font-family: arial, tahoma, helvetica, freesans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px;">Six Types of Media Exposure you Need to Know About</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/why-media-kits-play-key-role-in.html" style="color: #888888; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Why Media Kits Play a Key Role in Engaging Media. Tips</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pitching a News Story Requires a Well Crafted Media Release. Why? Tips!</a></div>
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<div>
<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/its-all-about-stories-rotary-has-them.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Media is All About Stories and Rotary Has Them</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Creating a Rotary Media Event</a></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3529998872812650664.post-86848869919727428762016-06-30T20:10:00.001-06:002016-07-04T13:21:56.414-06:00Six Types of Media Exposure you Need to Know About <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrDktFW0_KzcNq7cSk6m8_2M19PBgKAPAu7OLhHn_FM-MtroDNt3FJz9sUX4jOFLHErzJFndTnYRrtUpp0KCBb3PNblaaCxJA7joqVvXnzBPhFbQHBge6ZhxW04t8elMFcd_cPqjTNsoq/s1600/radio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBrDktFW0_KzcNq7cSk6m8_2M19PBgKAPAu7OLhHn_FM-MtroDNt3FJz9sUX4jOFLHErzJFndTnYRrtUpp0KCBb3PNblaaCxJA7joqVvXnzBPhFbQHBge6ZhxW04t8elMFcd_cPqjTNsoq/s320/radio.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Story coverage takes thought and planning.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Media is inundated by
requests from worthwhile not-for-profit organizations which all need - and
deserve - publicity. </span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">Each one comes requesting news coverage, sponsorship, and "free" advertising.</span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">But, successful media
campaigns don't just happen. They are well planned and executed. Excellent </span><a href="https://www.rotary.org/myrotary/en/learning-reference/learn-topic/public-relations" style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;">Public
Relations</a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> resources are downloadable from the Rotary International website. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">In this post, I
provide further background to information published there. I have outlined 6 ways to receive media exposure</span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjFw2h5cRYofqAqlIfJARbFJBWlPg-xp5I6LyypElthLEQsnhsHmJ7OHgZy8ssdzOjaVTw2j_7JTBkQzOJnhki2D8uDSKdjeqn58YTDre7_3H2QZeGxKoS6kfIOZT03wU2veKhL0XKBtCN/s1600/Collage+of+SoMed+icons.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjFw2h5cRYofqAqlIfJARbFJBWlPg-xp5I6LyypElthLEQsnhsHmJ7OHgZy8ssdzOjaVTw2j_7JTBkQzOJnhki2D8uDSKdjeqn58YTDre7_3H2QZeGxKoS6kfIOZT03wU2veKhL0XKBtCN/s200/Collage+of+SoMed+icons.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Media convergence' old and new!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Let Me Be Clear</span></h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">But, first, a clarification. When I use the term
“media,” I include both social and traditional. In the age of media
convergence, one is totally integrated with the other. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">How does it work? If
radio, TV or newspapers run a story about your project or event, it is usually posted
online. It is then promoted through the their social media
channels. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"></span></div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Radio interviews are
packaged as podcasts; TV clips are uploaded to Vimeo or YouTube. Many daily
newspapers send a videographer to an event and then upload videos to their websites. With TV and newspaper, a quick field edit can have the story online before they get back to the office.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">The entire content of
each newspaper edition is usually posted on their website and available to readers long
before the print version arrives on their doorstep. Most do online updates as soon as they are written.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Building Loyalty</span></h3>
</div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Media audience loyalty is strengthened
through online conversations. On every media website, you will find social
media icons prompting readers, viewers or listeners to engage. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">You can also instantly send story links through your personal social networks. You can often make pro or con comments before the story goes to air or print using traditional channels. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">In this post, I explain
the 6 different way that media may profile your story. The goal is to create synergy and energy around your media event by placing it with 2, 3, 4, 5 or 100 different media! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Media 101 – The Audience
is the Thing</span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">A successful campaign begins with an understanding of
media needs. Hence, media 101. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDmEBSEVWtJme75n_f2cT6XE9D7XPYsTtZ1ZfF55fERzbFJRPpkp9gLHyc3OQclk-u5ewnc7sXYf2-pSBDwxkDNl_cu3q00JECsSbwu-r5RrJSeW5Z2cfKK850Eq0zYEPjFTKrDDCxi6-/s1600/ear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDmEBSEVWtJme75n_f2cT6XE9D7XPYsTtZ1ZfF55fERzbFJRPpkp9gLHyc3OQclk-u5ewnc7sXYf2-pSBDwxkDNl_cu3q00JECsSbwu-r5RrJSeW5Z2cfKK850Eq0zYEPjFTKrDDCxi6-/s200/ear.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Commercial radio,
television, and newspapers are in the business of delivering an audience to
advertisers. The operative word here is “business.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Audiences, or numbers of readers, are increased through providing timely news and information. The bigger the audience, the more they can charge
for advertising. Simple business formula.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbcQwE2Wc_DdMqebzSdKuQXqnu0z4cqPXFXc8ZHEMGhDZTIdCL5yDHQPvK6w_0_7-pyMKpEvrJw967nepGdzG5nrUcRf8uyfj9ospV4M9Tuww0VoWhn_mxZOlmgkIS2JLH-tHOo-A6ERY/s1600/radio1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpbcQwE2Wc_DdMqebzSdKuQXqnu0z4cqPXFXc8ZHEMGhDZTIdCL5yDHQPvK6w_0_7-pyMKpEvrJw967nepGdzG5nrUcRf8uyfj9ospV4M9Tuww0VoWhn_mxZOlmgkIS2JLH-tHOo-A6ERY/s200/radio1.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">On the other hand, while public
broadcasters in Canada </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.google.ca/?ion=1&espv=2#q=canadian+broadcasting+corporation"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">(CBC)</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">, Great Britain </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.bbc.com/"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">(BBC)</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">, the USA </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.npr.org/"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">(NPR)</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"> </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.pbs.org/"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">(PBS)</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">, Australia </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.abc.net.au/"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">(ABC)</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"> and other countries are also interested in the size of
their audience, they have an equal interest in story depth and background. Most are funded by government or a hybrid of public support
and some form of advertising.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">It’s all in About Story</span></h3>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="https://www.rotary.org/en"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Rotary</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">, along with </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.kiwanis.org/"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Kiwanis</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">, </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.lionsclubs.org/EN/index.php"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Lions</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">, </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.optimist.org/"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Optimist</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"> and other
service clubs have amazing stories about local and international projects. Each
story tells about making some kind of difference in people’s lives and in the
community. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">However, the media
receives literally hundreds and even thousands of “good news” stories every
day. Understanding how to package your story and present it to the media will
increase the possibility of coverage. Check these earlier posts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/its-all-about-stories-rotary-has-them.html"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Media is about stories; Rotary, and other service
clubs, have them</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">How we created an Internatinoal Rotary media event</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Pitching a media story requires a well crafted media
release</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/why-media-kits-play-key-role-in.html"><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Why media kits play a key role in media engagement</span></a></span><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3 style="mso-outline-level: 2; page-break-after: avoid;">
<b><span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Six Options</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Depending on your
market size, there are six distinct ways to generate profile. In larger
markets, each area may be operated as a separate department. With others, these functions may flow through
one office. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Editorial story coverage</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Station, newspaper or magazine sponsorship</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Community event announcements</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Paid Advertising</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Photography</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; text-indent: -18pt;">Media social channels</span></li>
</ol>
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">How Media Stories Work</span></h3>
</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">People respond to news. When a story works - it really works! Media exposure provides credibility as people believe what they hear and read in the news. People actively seek news and are absorbed into it which increases retention levels. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Through</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> the years I have
placed Rotary stories with all forms of media and in a variety of topical
sections. For example, more than once we hired a professional photographer to take photos at
fund raising galas for newspaper society pages. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The professionally shot photos often meant 2 full pages were dedicated to our events. On one occasion, two competing publications featured an event on the same weekend. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">With several other stories,
we hit a sweet spot and they were picked up nationally. Some went
global.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUbF1ypRvKHtFR_m0uxZkc2sQO0JdqWRDqCctl9IkYNUKOskkbWKts9HwpFRMRtxj6CcdccVuHlBbx7iRVIVwcD24vbUWTdfpqzaBrRMbEh7G1ItIxgPB2O512tCNHrf9SHik1v9BttGS/s1600/KarlHerzog_ByronSmith.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheUbF1ypRvKHtFR_m0uxZkc2sQO0JdqWRDqCctl9IkYNUKOskkbWKts9HwpFRMRtxj6CcdccVuHlBbx7iRVIVwcD24vbUWTdfpqzaBrRMbEh7G1ItIxgPB2O512tCNHrf9SHik1v9BttGS/s320/KarlHerzog_ByronSmith.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Karl with Everest summiter Byron Smith</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Rotary Everest Trek 2012</span></h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">One of our Calgary West
Rotary club members, Karl Herzog, led 38 Rotarians and friends to the base camp
at Mt. Everest. Part of the project included raising funds for a school project for
poverty-stricken Sherpa children.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;">"Media coverage played a key role in raising $145,000 for kids who
needed it."</span></b><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<b><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="margin: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">It began when we placed the story with The Calgary Herald. Two
days later Karl received a call from his brother in Ottawa telling him he had
seen his picture and story that morning in the Ottawa Citizen. After
investigating, I discovered the story had developed “legs” and ran in
newspapers across Canada.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPH5ZkfB6ryo9qJBTnvuuKs_wX45_3nw_3E8z3_hCM_0tLJ9-Jjqr2IAwxeJazNOUYpKyvn2sM5gt4dM4QDuwoYV0iwBXiT1xCeJxI9aNMJ9ceKe6v75stQfQQ1vD8We0llOFDBg5krr7v/s1600/Brent_Barootes.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPH5ZkfB6ryo9qJBTnvuuKs_wX45_3nw_3E8z3_hCM_0tLJ9-Jjqr2IAwxeJazNOUYpKyvn2sM5gt4dM4QDuwoYV0iwBXiT1xCeJxI9aNMJ9ceKe6v75stQfQQ1vD8We0llOFDBg5krr7v/s200/Brent_Barootes.png" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brent Barootes</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">One of Canada’s
national newspapers, </span><a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/giving/teen-who-built-a-school-in-nepal-is-more-than-just-that-fundraiser-girl/article4182815/" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">The
Globe & Mail</a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">, also did a story. Another fellow Rotarian, sponsorship specialist Brent
Barootes, was on business in Halifax, almost 5,000 km across the country.</span></div>
</div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">The day the Globe
story was published Brent was doing a make-up at a Halifax club. A Rotarian had read it that morning and members of his club found it quite
intriguing that, live and in person, was a guy from the club profiled in the
story. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">A decision was made
right then and there and Brent returned with a cheque from Halifax
Rotarians for the Nepal project. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">A Great Photo</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Annddd…. Karl is at it
again. He has organized a new Rotary Everest Trek for 2017. The </span><a href="http://calgaryherald.com/news/local-news/calgary-west-rotary-club-begins-new-fundraising-effort-for-nepal-plans-treks-to-mount-everest-base-camp" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Calgary
Herald</a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">, NEWSTALK 770 and </span><a href="http://www.metronews.ca/news/calgary/2016/03/28/calgary-rotarians-plan-return-trip-to-everest-base-camp.html" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;">Metro
News</a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> covered one of the organizational meetings held in March 2016. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPyvwk3cIZUDmkmLwp5VPEnomJRuUGCM7mPFOTv-oU9jGbJa5ECAEihngKXqJuLHRgQVmDglbAxm3MrzI7PT9hlzuGzlWVguMuGIfFaD4H8W16hrzmLLqpgXwDzy8JGEeREG_zX5GhNk2/s1600/05-29-cal-everettreksubmitted.jpg.size.xxlarge.promo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPyvwk3cIZUDmkmLwp5VPEnomJRuUGCM7mPFOTv-oU9jGbJa5ECAEihngKXqJuLHRgQVmDglbAxm3MrzI7PT9hlzuGzlWVguMuGIfFaD4H8W16hrzmLLqpgXwDzy8JGEeREG_zX5GhNk2/s320/05-29-cal-everettreksubmitted.jpg.size.xxlarge.promo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2012 Rotary Everest Trekker Holly Milne-Ives</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Note that accompanying the Metro story is a photo of 2012 Treker Holly Milne-Ives who pretends to touch the top of a Himalayan peak. The photo was supplied by Karl Herzog. A future blog post will discuss taking quality photos that tell stories for media and club use. </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">If you are interested in funding or joining, </span><a href="mailto:robyn@unimarkcreative.com" style="font-family: arial, sans-serif;" target="_blank">contact me</a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">. I'll pass your info on to Karl.</span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"></span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
</div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">News Coverage</span></h2>
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<br /></div>
<h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Television</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">In television, your
story may be aired on evening or late night newscasts which have the biggest
audiences. Many stations also have morning and noon news shows. On a good day,
a story may cycle through all of those programs. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_Bqu6YylLQJ7Mki6J_YaNLrgWI02Ip-XFk3R3UXZIUR7f_JbJovUj9FEpDjHjR9o9VpTdoyUZsPbV3PM3tmEMwYZ2KJdKcfgI6G9lfxvVozONumvMPAPwSvzfGMLYz8ZpAmbCFE9JdUe/s1600/interview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_Bqu6YylLQJ7Mki6J_YaNLrgWI02Ip-XFk3R3UXZIUR7f_JbJovUj9FEpDjHjR9o9VpTdoyUZsPbV3PM3tmEMwYZ2KJdKcfgI6G9lfxvVozONumvMPAPwSvzfGMLYz8ZpAmbCFE9JdUe/s320/interview.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TV Talk Shows are a great way to tell your story.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Although not as common
as they once were, many TV stations also produce a community variety show which
features a range of topics. As these shows are usually live or taped in their entirety, your story will often receive more time and not be subject to editing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Radio</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Most music or specialty
program stations broadcast hourly news, although some have eliminated their
news departments. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Talk radio and
publically funded stations usually have hourly news programs with extended versions at 8:00 am, 12:00 pm, 6:00 pm and 10:00 or 11:00 pm. Many broadcast short reports
every half hour and some every 15 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Talk, all-news and
public radio are always looking for quality content for information programming outside of news editions.
Often interviews are repackaged and rebroadcast the same day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">When I do radio interviews
about various marketing topics, the clip is often run throughout the day and sometimes
rotated through weekends. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Newspaper</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Most community based
stories are published in the local news or city section. With larger daily
newspapers, there is often an editor of various sections like world news,
environment, health, lifestyle, education, entertainment, business, sports and
others.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
<b>"Never ignore the power of local or weekly newspapers. In some communities, they have a larger and more loyal readership than area dailies.</b><br />
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Magazines</span></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">The trick with
magazines is to realize that most have an editorial lead time of 1-3 months
unless they are a weekly news feature. Magazines shy away from time sensitive
stories and look for background, opinion or informational pieces. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<h2>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">Media Sponsorship</span></h2>
</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Here
is the thing! Media need to promote themselves to their audiences. What is one
way of doing that? To be seen supporting worthwhile community events that their
audience cares about. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5I7djcJ-JlipMcXic0OAi26Dz5dDyZWCjJmJYBv0U0E7kaqDc_Ed27siqc-wDSED5B05OePP4hlelOcSmAb_8BDwYjhBUAHdRo206EQa_vZbm_SVQ6Rl4HAD65CMiL-Pyk3F3ZOYqbvnD/s1600/Become_a_Sponsor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="101" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5I7djcJ-JlipMcXic0OAi26Dz5dDyZWCjJmJYBv0U0E7kaqDc_Ed27siqc-wDSED5B05OePP4hlelOcSmAb_8BDwYjhBUAHdRo206EQa_vZbm_SVQ6Rl4HAD65CMiL-Pyk3F3ZOYqbvnD/s320/Become_a_Sponsor.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Media sponsorships are a Win-Win relatinship</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Why?
The marketing philosophy is this;<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><b>"If
people feel good about good things that happen in the community, they will feel
good about the people who help make those good things possible." </b></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">They may not
like Opera, Country Music or Jazz, but generally think each music
genre enriches the community. They don't have to like it to appreciate the value. If the see a newspaper, TV, radio or online banner add listing media as a sponsor along with various other companies, it gives them a "warm" feeling.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Give Them What They Want</span></h3>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The
key to attracting sponsorship is to have an event that meets the media’s needs.
Number one, it should attract a sizable and/or notable crowd. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">The
media part of a sponsorship relationship usually starts with ads on air and online. They may look or sound
like a paid ad, but are slightly different. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Sometimes the package will include
a news story but not always. News coverage decisions are always made by the editorial side. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<h3>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Provide Value</span></h3>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">In
return, media will ask for recognition on all posters, websites and at your
event. Sometimes they will ask to park a community cruiser in front of the
venue and have banners set up in the foyer or around your event. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">If your event is open to the public or even an exclusive audience, set aside a number of tickets for the media to give away as prizes. The additional mentions add to the exposure of your event.</span><br />
<br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Run sponsor acknowledgements in a powerpoint show. The more value you can give, the greater the possibility of future sponsorship.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">If
the event requires an M.C., ask if a personality would be available. That will make you look good by having a "star" on the premises. It makes the media look good by aligning itself with a worthwhile cause.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="break-after: avoid; text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Community Announcements</span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">One way to get the word
out is through community events announcements. They usually give only the basic
facts of who, what, where, when and why. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">They are usually 7 - 10 seconds long in broadcasting, or listed in a Coming Events section in newspapers. </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Announcements are usually listed on the
media’s website as well.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">PSA's</span></h3>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">I include Public
Service Announcements (PSA) within this category. PSA’s are 30 second TV or
Radio ads that run at no charge throughout programming wherever there is room. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">As they only run when there are empty avails, PSA's are often useful only for long term image building. <o:p></o:p></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">They are only available to not-for-profit organizations.</span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">What is an avail? The
simple explanation is this. Radio and TV ads are scheduled in software managed clusters. </span><br />
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-GB" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-size: 14.0pt;">If the station is not sold out, there are gaps in some clusters. That is where
PSA’s are places. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Paid
Advertising</span></h2>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">There
are no guarantees with news, sponsorships or community events announcements. Paid
advertising may be the option if you have a tight time line and need to turn out
a crowd. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Even
here, there are options for a NFP. First, most media give a discount. Some will
give one ad for every one you buy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">My
club received a $2,500 marketing grant from a foundation. That was leveraged
into $5,000 worth of radio ads with our NFP bonus. </span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">We wrote and produced this ad to promote our annual Calgary West Rotary Club Strawberry Shortcakes campaign. It sounds
like. <a href="https://soundcloud.com/stream" target="_blank">Click to listen</a></span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Photography</span></h2>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Remember the power of a photo? Sometimes the media are not interested in a major story. However, if there is the potential for an interesting photo, they may just send a photographer. In newspaper, the basics of your event will be included in the cutline below the photo.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">TV may send a videographer to shoot footage around an event. On air, a news anchor or program host will read the first paragraph of your news release as the clip is shown. This serves as a reminder about why the lead paragraph of a <a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html" target="_blank">news release must be well crafted</a>. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMyU6SDRfdbZrx0JqenlRwIqtShiM9cE8vtyPgdJwGyNQpAHYwAsScLs9Y42Le-Li3xrFbcyA2NbvasCBQ1kHysm4F55WIMXR6JTCjWROgzG-X48eNA38ha4VwiINYCPlQIOpUWYT7Ej7/s1600/habitat05_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTMyU6SDRfdbZrx0JqenlRwIqtShiM9cE8vtyPgdJwGyNQpAHYwAsScLs9Y42Le-Li3xrFbcyA2NbvasCBQ1kHysm4F55WIMXR6JTCjWROgzG-X48eNA38ha4VwiINYCPlQIOpUWYT7Ej7/s1600/habitat05_8.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Past President Chris Davis does TV interview.</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">My club has supported <a href="http://www.habitat.org/how" target="_blank">Habitat for Humanity</a> for many years. During one house build, we created major media coverage by three TV stations, several radio stations and two newspapers. </span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">One of the local newspapers is connected to the National Post, a national daily in Canada. The Post ran a color photo of our President, Chris Davis, pounding a nail into a wall frame while wearing a white hard hat displaying a Rotary logo. Since that time I always include photo editors in media distributions, whether for Rotary or my company's clients. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Media
Social Channels</span></h2>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">As
outlined above, media use their social media channels to promote stories.
However, some offer community events announcement coverage even if the event
isn’t given formal news coverage.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xy1UDvol6Rm5TGO8r8z1-0GQg69XdKsBuxJHJMYVtCuJXPPXrolCu-wIriqP52rZtro8Ex9HV63_UZ6pdR-FTSM9-PgmWHRM7eV4KhDCQ3FbjGi5lRmJrr3wXrdB5OGRGzs3ixjIz2UV/s1600/bigstock-Flat-responsive-web-design-con-74967457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8xy1UDvol6Rm5TGO8r8z1-0GQg69XdKsBuxJHJMYVtCuJXPPXrolCu-wIriqP52rZtro8Ex9HV63_UZ6pdR-FTSM9-PgmWHRM7eV4KhDCQ3FbjGi5lRmJrr3wXrdB5OGRGzs3ixjIz2UV/s320/bigstock-Flat-responsive-web-design-con-74967457.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Viewers can read the story anywhere.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I’ll
end with this story. I wrote an opinion piece about a political issue for our local newspaper. They
published it online an hour after I submitted it.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Within
minutes, I received an email from a former Rotarian that I hadn't seen for many years. He had read the
article, but the newspaper had spelled my name wrong. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">I
contacted the paper which immediately corrected the mistake. Fixed!</span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">Leading Questions</span></h3>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif;">What have you done to attract media coverage for your service project or club? Was there anything unique that you did to make your event standout? Please comment and retweet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i style="font-size: 13.2px; line-height: 18.48px;">Robyn Braley is a marketing specialist, keynote speaker and writer. He is also a Rotarian who is passionate about Building the Rotary Brand. He has led two teams that received the Rotary International PR Award. He has also served as the PR Chair for District 5360. Robyn has placed hundreds of traditional and new media stories about Rotary and other organizations. </i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">Contact Robyn</span></b><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: black;">Email: </span><a href="mailto:robyn@robyntbraley.com" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">robyn@robyntbraley.com</a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pub/robyn-t-braley-brand-specialist-media-producer/13/b68/702?trk=seokp_posts_primary_cluster_res_author_name" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;">Connect on <span style="color: black;">LinkedIn</span></a> Follow on <span style="color: black;">Twitter</span>: @rtbraley_rotary </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt;">Relevant Posts in this Series</span></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/06/why-media-kits-play-key-role-in.html" target="_blank">Why Media Kits Play a Key Role in Engaging Media. Tips</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2016/05/pitching-news-story-requires-well.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Pitching a News Story Requires a Well Crafted Media Release. Why? Tips!</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2015/01/how-do-i-explain-my-rotary-clubs-brand.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">How Do I Explain My Rotary Clubs' Brand?</a></div>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/its-all-about-stories-rotary-has-them.html" style="color: #888888; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Media is All About Stories and Rotary Has Them</a></h3>
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<a href="http://buildingtherotarybrand.blogspot.ca/2014/10/a-rotary-media-event-its-all-in-details.html" style="color: #888888; font-size: 22px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Creating a Rotary Media Event</a></div>
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Robyn T. Braleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00573306705853505696noreply@blogger.com0