Heather Young, MBA

The @PageSociety just released its newest report Beyond Communication: CCO Leadership in Navigating New Complexity. The findings underscore the CCO as an ever-more-essential partner with the CEO in defining and activating corporate character. Read more here: https://hubs.la/Q02x4nPQ0

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This was a challenging one. The silent epidemic of loneliness - a specific branch of #mentalhealth crisis - is widespread in western society. Tragically, 22% of adults in the US "often or always" feel socially isolated. Such a significant problem requires a dedicated approach to resolution. I believe the #sports industry is uniquely equipped to help in this endeavor. As a phenomenon that transcends languages, cultures, generations, income brackets and locations, sports fandom promotes healthy group identification, enriches others’ lives, provide excuses to reach out and challenges the unspoken social pressure to prioritize independence.    In an era of sports where multi-billion-dollar deals and valuations are increasingly commonplace, this ability to forge social connections is arguably the industry's most valuable asset, and more important than ever.   Thank you to Sportico for allowing me to opine on such an important topic.   #mentalhealthawarenessmonth #sportsbusiness #csr https://lnkd.in/eV_8wrvv

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I have lost count of how many times I’ve had conversations with competent Comms professionals who second-guess themselves or doubt their professional ability. I believe confidence can be built and there are external and internal dimensions to it. In my latest YouTube video, I shared some tips on how to build your professional confidence. You can watch the full video here - https://lnkd.in/eVyVmAp4 #Communications

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Well worth a read - this piece in PR Week from my fabulous co-founder Lewis Iwu about the value of good public speaking in leadership. Particularly relevant in the context of all the election speeches we are about to be bombarded with over the coming weeks 🙄 but also applies to business leaders who are looking to motivate and inspire both internal and external stakeholders on key issues. #publicspeaking #leadership

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Have you ever heard of the "curb cut effect"? In the 1940s and 50s, returning veterans from WWII, many with mobility-related injuries, faced challenges navigating public spaces, particularly the 6-inch curb heights prevalent in U.S. cities at the time. Side by side with other disability advocates, veterans became frontline activists, urging colleges and officials to improve public spaces to ensure wheelchair access. Some even took direct action, laying asphalt and jackhammering curbs to force city officials to address the issue—until federal legislation increasingly recognized the rights of Americans with disabilities, leading to the widespread implementation of curb cuts across campuses and cities. While initially aimed at supporting specific communities—veterans and people with disabilities—curb cuts proved beneficial to a diverse range of individuals, including parents with strollers, travelers with luggage, cyclists, and many others. What began as a targeted effort evolved into a necessary change, enhancing conditions for everyone. Disability activists refused to accept the status quo, and today, curb cuts are a universal design feature. This "curb cut effect" embodies the very essence of DEI—lifting everyone by addressing the needs of specific communities. We identify "curb cuts" so inclusivity becomes commonplace, no longer a movement but a fundamental aspect of society. To all the practitioners dedicated to this work, stay steadfast. DEI is not “dying”; it's evolving. Resistance often signals the evolving urgency, need, and expectation for social change. For more insightful metaphors and brilliance, check out this Fast Company piece from author and my favorite culture change leader, Amira Barger, MBA,CVA,CFRE #DEI #WorkplaceAdvisory #GlobalInclusion

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It’s heartening that so many of you are interested in Crisis Communication planning and response. Please continue to send your questions. I am also available to provide Crisis Communication and other Corporate Communications services to individuals and companies. An important but often overlooked step, when Crisis Communication responders are called to duty at the start of a crisis is to inform your next of kin or emergency contact that you may be away for lengthy periods. Whether you are a spokesperson, family care representative, CEO, or hold any other role, — it's essential to notify your loved ones that you may be unavailable for a certain, possibly extended period, depending on the nature and demands of the crisis response. By keeping your next of kin informed, you ensure they are prepared for your absence and can provide necessary support during this demanding time. #weleadcomms #dynamicleadership #crisis #crisiscommunication #bestpractices #responders

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As someone who has media-trained CEOs of airlines, tech companies, banks, insurance firms and everything in between, I'm still surprised when leaders balk at the need for training ahead of an interview with a journalist. Reporters aren't "out to get you" but there is a world of difference between conveying a few key messages and really telling the story you want to tell, whether it's about you, your company or some journey or transformation that you're currently undertaking. Media training is a core part of the strategic communications toolkit that any CEO ought to have in their possession. Along with communications planning and strategy, executives need to know how to successfully execute an interview, impact and influence the conversation and ensure the best possible outcome for their stakeholders. To use a clumsy analogy, going to a media interview without training is like getting behind the wheel without a driver's licence - dangerous and unpredictable. Whether it's in-house or outsourced, leaders shouldn't sleep on the opportunity to sharpen their interview skills. Even as someone who's spent a decade of his career as a daily business journalist and another as a communications executive, I still routinely prep and train ahead of most media appearances. Key question: would you rather be a little uncomfortable while rehearsing and training, or would you rather fly by the seat of your pants in a media interview, with your stock price, reputation and personal brand on the line?

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CALIFORNIA

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⚠️ Comms Pros: I need your help! ⚠️ I'm speaking to a group of up-and-coming communicators about a career in corporate communications. I'd like to create a leave-behind with some top advice from those who have blazed a trail in communications. Can you help? 🙏 If you have 2 minutes to complete the below survey, I'd be hugely appreciative. It's just ONE question, plus a couple qualifiers (industry, title, etc.)… Link to Survey: https://lnkd.in/dj97Nzgj Thanks so much! You totally rock 👊 #corporatecommunications #branding #mediarelations #pr #pragency #communications #internalcommunications #executivecommunications

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The Physics of Communications (1) This is the first of three posts on communications as physics. Welcome any additional equations to play with. I’ve always maintained that communications is as much an art as a science. A dark art, perhaps, but an art nonetheless. But what if I’m wrong? What if communications is, in fact, physics. A collection of equations or rules which should shape the way we understand, develop and execute our campaigns or programmes. For example, p=f/a is the equation for pressure. Pressure equals force over area – the greater the force applied on the smaller the area, the greater the pressure. Which is why, if someone steps on your foot wearing stiletto heels it hurts more than if they are wearing flats. The force is the same but the area is smaller. Why is this relevant? Arguably, communications largely intends to bring pressure to bear on a decision point. This might be lobbying government officials to change regulation, persuading companies to back your initiative or convincing individuals to buy your product. In each case there is a decision (or multiple decisions) to be made. And each of these decisions is where we can apply pressure. As per the equation, to apply the pressure requires understanding the nature of the area (and therefore the audience). Is it small and focused (one or two individuals) or large and diffuse (a large public group)? Depending on the answer, we would need to think about the nature and volume of the force. Do we need to demonstrate compelling public opinion via a national poll, or will a well-reasoned argument appealing to self interest suffice? Or do we need to combine several elements to reach the necessary level of pressure? Either way, understanding the three variables in the equation help us be more precise when planning our communications. If nothing else, taking this approach has helped me explain what we do to engineers. Useful especially for those who, heaven forbid, think we're making all of it up as we go along. Two more equations or laws to come. In the meantime, any to add? #corporatecommunications #reputationmanagement #PR FleishmanHillard UK FleishmanHillard

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Are the tools of journalism applicable to #corporate communications? Without a doubt. I recently had the opportunity to discuss three of those tools, and how to apply them, at a gathering of comms professionals from @Method Communications, @Sling&Stone, @Harvard and other teams from our @VCCP family. I’d love to hear about other skills from #journalism you think are applicable to helping companies tell their best stories in authentic, media-genic ways. Comment below!

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Cognitive Inflexibility. Good read! Of #information, #knowledge and #communication - "a common mistake in conversations is focusing on what people claim to know as opposed to how they came to know it. Focusing on how we know what we claim to know—that is, our reasoning process—rather than what we believe, can be more constructive and generative of mutual understanding." Of beliefs and habits - "it can take between 18 to 254 days to form a new, simple habit. Beliefs and philosophies can take even longer. Instead of seeking short-term change, consider what the long-term outcome is and consider what single steps can be taken." Psychology Today #polarization #politics #philosophy #change https://lnkd.in/dj5WERgX

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In the world of media and communications, the relationship between journalists and PR professionals is often misunderstood. However, the reality is far more nuanced and symbiotic. Journalists rely on PR folks to provide them with access to newsworthy stories, expert sources, and valuable insights. In turn, PR depends on journalists to amplify their messages and bring attention to their clients or organizations. A recent report by #MuckRack on the "State of Journalism," found that journalists acknowledge PR professionals 70% "as at least moderately important to their success." This mutual dependence highlights the essential role each plays in the dissemination of information to the public. Trust forms the foundation of our collaboration and ensures that the stories that reach the public are credible and impactful. Journalists rely on us to provide accurate and reliable information, while those of us in PR trust journalists to report the news fairly and accurately. Journalists are skilled storytellers who strive to craft compelling narratives that resonate with their audience. PR pros, on the other hand, are adept at identifying and shaping stories that align with our clients' goals and objectives. Together, we work to create stories that inform, engage, and inspire. I encourage you to read the attached report which provides many insights of today's newsrooms. #Journalism #PR #MediaRelations #PublicRelations #NewsMedia #MediaIndustry #JournalismEthics #Storytelling #MediaCollaboration #InformationSharing #MuckRack #StateOfJournalism #PressRelations #MediaPartnership Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Natan Edelsburg

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Fighting misinformation can be infuriating, not to mention difficult, but there are ways to do it effectively and here are some tips from Spin Sucks.

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Sooo.. I asked ChatGPT to create the cringiest Linkedin post about citizen engagement..... 🌟✨🤝💼 Government and Citizen Engagement: The Ultimate Love Story! 💼🤝✨🌟 Hey LinkedIn fam! 🌍💼 Today, I want to talk about something that's been on my mind like a catchy pop song 🎵... Government-Citizen Engagement! Yes, you heard it right! It's the Romeo and Juliet of our modern era! 💘💬 Imagine a world where governments and citizens are BFFs, sharing memes, retweeting each other's thoughts, and tagging each other in inspirational posts! 👫📲 💡 Why It's Important: Transparency Goals 🌈🔍: When governments engage with citizens, it's like opening a giant, glittery curtain to reveal the magic behind the scenes. Transparency is the new black! Trust Vibes 🤗🔐: Building trust is like making the perfect avocado toast. It takes the right ingredients and a little bit of love. When citizens feel heard, trust blooms like spring flowers! 🌺💬 Community Power 🏘️💪: Engaging with citizens is like hosting a massive block party where everyone brings their favorite dish. Collaboration = Innovation + Fun! #EngageLikeIts1999 #GovernmentGoals #CitizenLove #TransparencyTrend #TrustHustle #CommunityCrush #EmojiEmpire #LinkedInLovesSatire

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When Arun Sudhaman invited me to be part of a roundtable discussion about how AI is changing the game for comms professionals, I thought it was serendipity. I had just presented to the Board about the various ways my team is using AI for employee and customer engagement, brand awareness, crisis management, and more. And what a delightful and interesting conversation it turned out to be! We could have gone on for hours. I had the opportunity to share insights on the transformative impact AI has had on my team’s productivity and creativity, and learn from others on how they incorporate AI into their work.  David Ko Lauren Myers-Cavanagh Pia Tyagi Sanjay Nair Shruti Gupta From content generation to data analytics to virtual influencers, the potential to drive efficiency and engagement is limitless. The insights from the discussion are captured in PRovoke Media’s report "Surviving & Thriving: Communicators Navigate AI Era's Uncertain Waters," and is a must-read for anyone navigating these changes. Read the full report here: https://lnkd.in/gkDS2rUG Here are my top three takeaways 1. Adaptability is key Embracing AI requires us to be adaptable, learning to integrate new tools while rethinking traditional workflows. 2. Ethical considerations are paramount As we adopt AI, maintaining transparency and trust with our audience is crucial. 3. Collaboration enhances innovation AI doesn't replace human creativity; it augments it. Collaborating with AI allows us to unlock new creative potential and drive more personalised communications. This discussion has reinforced my belief that AI is not just a tool; it's a collaborator that extends our capabilities and inspires innovation. I’d love to hear how you are using AI in your work. #AIinCommunications #DigitalTransformation #Communications

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Growing older has always been a privilege, and today it’s one that is enjoyed by more people as life expectancies rise and we are able to live longer, healthier lives. Yet the idea of aging remains a sensitive – and even scary – subject for too many of us. But why? You don’t have to look much further than the media we consume to see that our society is preoccupied with youth. Older people, once valued and regarded as wise, are too often portrayed as incapable, irrelevant or out of touch. Ads for anti-aging products tell us that growing older is something we should fight against because it is unattractive. Modern society has also created separation between generations, in part because there are fewer intergenerational households and fewer opportunities for young people and older people to develop bonds of friendship. Without a mutual understanding of each other’s life experiences, the gap widens. For young people, whose perspective on aging is largely colored by the entertainment and advertising they consume, the experience of growing older seems like something to fear. At AARP, we often talk about the importance of social connection for all ages. After all, our country’s loneliness epidemic is affecting Gen Z and Millennials as much as Gen X and Boomers. Creating intergenerational connections enriches older and younger generations alike. Whether through multigenerational living arrangements, community and volunteer activities, or building friendships with people outside your own generation, finding opportunities to share and learn together is crucial if we are to understand both the challenges and opportunities of all ages.

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