The 1960s are seen as a hinge point in American history from both those who welcomed the change and those who feared it. But that decade proved to be a tectonic shift socially, culturally and politically – tackling issues from civil rights, immigration, feminism, the Vietnam War and environmentalism.

Similar to the 60s, as we ushered in 2020, we began seeing fundamental shifts and a call to arms on many fronts. From sustainability, gun control, feminism (#MeToo), immigration, gay rights, an international pandemic, race relations (Black Lives Matter) and criminal justice reform. While these two eras are different, they are forever linked in the magnitude of change they impose.

All it takes is a pandemic to identify which companies have smart, nimble PR and social teams in place. As Kelsey Pritchard, Head of PR and Social, explains in this month’s episode, it’s imperative for brands to balance preparation with flexibility. Because, while it’s important to have a plan and communication objectives in place, it’s equally as important to be ready and willing to react to current events and conversations happening in the world around you. Especially now. So tune in as she shares tips, insights and examples of dos and don’ts, as well as some of the most memorable PR blunders throughout history. 

King Arthur Flour recently showed up on AdAge’s list of “America’s Hottest Brands 2020” which highlights brands that are thriving during tough times.

This got me thinking. It’s just flour, right? Isn’t all flour the same? How brand loyal to a commodity can consumers really be? Well, after further investigation, King Arthur makes it hard for you to turn a blind eye. King Arthur has a consistent, authentic voice. One that represents its employee-owned heritage. Every communication from King Arthur comes across as it would at the dinner table. It’s not salesy and full of marketing fluff. It’s honest, sometimes humorous and informative. 

Now might be the time to launch that podcast you’ve been daydreaming about. After taking a sharp nosedive in March and April thanks to COVID-19, podcast growth appears to be on the rise. While many are still working from home and practicing some social distancing, the fact that more people are hopping in their cars now has increased downloads and subscribers. Plus, there are all those new listeners who tuned in to podcasts for the first time when the pandemic began and they had more downtime. Assuming we’ll all be able to return to normal life someday, many of those new fans will keep tuning in to their favorite shows.

Most businesses found themselves in reactionary mode amid the pandemic – we need to increase production, update our digital capabilities, start advertising about how we’re here for you and our contactless options … the list goes on and on. Chances are, you’re still in reactionary mode or just trying to catch up on all the projects that were put on the backburner. But, what if, instead of trying to catch up you took a moment to stop and think about the future. And consider what business looks like after the pandemic.

Creative marketing communications firm Bozell received 9 industry awards, including two Pinnacles, at the 2020 American Marketing Association (AMA) Omaha Pinnacle Awards on Monday. A complete list of awards won are as follows:

Sorry, millennials, your reign is over. Alas, it was short-lived, and we’ll always remember you for your avocado toast, but a new generation stepped up to the plate: Generation Z. Gen Z, born between 1995 and 2015, grew up in the Internet age. They think mail has always been digital and video chats were second nature to them even before COVID-19. They are confident, empathetic, diverse, independent and adaptable. And, even though many of them may only be kids, they know the power of their own voice and are compelled to use it when they feel wrongs are happening in the world.

Ever wonder why your ads are not converting as much as you’d like? Or why your visitors are not staying on your website for very long? In this episode, senior UI/UX designer Justin Henriksen explains why it doesn’t matter how great your advertising is if you’re not thinking through the UI and UX on the other side of the ad. He helps us understand the difference between the two, as well as how both should work together to create a “holistic customer journey” that will support your business objectives and keep your customers happy.

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But Who Really Means It and Who’s Just Masking a Lame Attempt to Get Our Money?

That’s a huge new thing. I get numerous emails every day from companies claiming to be experts that want to help us through this pandemic – but who really means it?

Many do. My bank and law firm, and even my CPA firm send me critical information on what grants and loans are available and what rules are in place, and this is ongoing communication since things are changing constantly. Although they never claim to be experts as so many do, their guidance and advice are invaluable.

“We’re in this together.”

“In times like this.”

“Now more than ever.” 

“We’re here to help.”

Not long after the spread of COVID-19 in the U.S., we became bombarded by TV commercials and Facebook ads from various brands saying these same phrases. Over and over. So much so, that one of my co-workers pointed out we could be playing advertising bingo every night with all of these now mundane phrases.