Dr. Riedy's Random Thoughts

I cannot resist adding my two cents worth to the public debate surrounding protests of the American flag and national anthem. I believe the negative  impact  of the actions of these sports celebrity protesters is being underestimated.  I also believe the methods  (kneeling, sitting, etc.) used by those individuals are producing unintended consequences whose negatives at the national level substantially outweigh whatever positives the protesters hope to achieve at the local level. Like termites their impact is eating away at the foundations of American democracy. But I am getting ahead of myself. To set the stage let me make it clear I love America, the American flag, our national anthem and the right to exercise free speech, among other freedoms.  Protest is a protected tradition. I hope this is unequivocal, before I get to the "however". HOWEVER..... I wholeheartedly disagree with the way NFL, NBA and other sports celebrities are going about their protests ...

The term "media relations" historically referred to dealing with reporters and other professional interviewers, issuing press releases and holding press conferences.--everything except using social media.  The use and misuse of social media are fertile grounds for a future post, for sure, especially in light of their current popularity at the White House, but not today. Instead, there are several practical thoughts I'd like to make for those who use media relations from time to time to communicate a message to others. This post, Part 1, covers dealing with reporters and media outlets whose objectivity is questionable and about never, ever, going "off the record".  Part 2 will cover preserving your reputation and credibility, making your key points effectively, and a few do's and don'ts during interviews. When media objectivity is suspect:   I'm being polite here. The Walter Cronkite's of the media world are few and far between today, especial...

Everyone does public speaking in one way or another, whether a formal presentation to an audience of 500 industry professionals or leading a book club discussion.  If you really care about delivering a message effectively, read on. Don't get caught up in using the "right" words or phrases in a first draft.  Don't labor over following a preconceived outline of your major points.  Simply sit down and put your pen to paper--write the first thoughts that come to mind.  If you get fixated on the outline or phrasing at the start of drafting you'll never finish. Fine-tuning and revisions can come later, once you are satisfied with the core message. If something is not relevant or does not advance your message, chances are it does not belong in the draft. After completing the draft I go back to see if the core message comes through clearly and the topics flow logically.  I also read the draft aloud to eliminate words and phrases that are tongue-twisters. On a practic...