Keith Yaskin

Smart Strategic Communications Should Start With Dollars

I sat in a networking meeting where business leaders went around the room sharing their primary goals. When it was my turn to talk strategic communications, I said bluntly, “Our objective is to make more money.” The room laughed. In public, many organizations say the same thing under layers of more polished language. They talk […]

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Ideas to Kickoff Video Marketing for Your Business

Launching a new product or aiming to boost your brand?  Here are some ideas and strategies for creating an effective video marketing campaign. 1. Storytelling Videos Storytelling videos are a great way to connect with audiences, highlighting the deeper story behind your business, product, or service. Overview. Start with an overview video explaining why your

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A microphone represents the increased influence of AI and media mentions on strategic communications.

AI Might Make Media Mentions Matter More Than Ever

Is AI making timely media mentions more important for businesses? If people are getting more information from AI, where does AI get its info? AI Information from Media Mentions The PR software platform Muck Rack analyzed more than 500,000 prompts. It says most information came from unpaid sources such as very recent journalism. Trade publications and industry

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Communicating Complex Financial and Technical Information to the Public

An example from our own work involved a video project for a college trying to explain financial aid to students. The script included so many technical details that even a professional actor struggled to deliver it smoothly on camera.  We must simplify content to ensure target audiences actually understand. Two Arizona bills highlight this need

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Managing Immigration-Related Concerns in School Districts

School districts must prepare to manage a variety of crises impacting students and the educational environment. A recent example highlights the importance of districts to communicate quickly, transparently and empathetically in response to rumors and misinformation. A social media rumor regarding immigration enforcement raised concerns in an Arizona school district, which addressed the issue by

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Adversity as Opportunity – A Football Lesson on De-Escalating Disgruntled Customers

One of the most impactful lessons in communication comes from my favorite football team’s coach. While I’m not sure about his play calling, I appreciate one of his favorite lines: “Adversity is an opportunity.” This is particularly relevant in public relations. In any organization, customer complaints arise. However, how we respond either damages or strengthens

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A book standing upright on a wooden table

Mastering the Art of Book Promotion – Why Pitching Timely Stories is More Effective Than Just Selling Your Book

When I was a TV reporter, I often received story pitches from authors and publicists eager to promote their latest books. Occasionally, they even sent me copies of these books. However, I quickly lost interest upon realizing that the pitch centered solely on the book itself. Despite feeling guilty about tossing these books, many were

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A food truck at a Tempe event celebrating Hispanic heritage

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage at Tempe Tardeada

We believe in the power of storytelling through video, especially when it comes to celebrating cultures and communities. Recently, we had the opportunity to shoot video at Tempe Tardeada, an event which honors Hispanic Heritage Month and showcases the rich history and cultural contributions of the Hispanic community in Tempe. Tempe Tardeada included music, dance,

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Drone flying in the foreground at a construction site in Queen Creek, with the company founder wearing safety gear in the background.

Drone Videography at Queen Creek Construction Site

We recently completed a drone shoot at a construction site in Queen Creek, Arizona, highlighting the value of drone videography in capturing construction. This experience was not only about flying a drone but also about appreciating what’s happening in our local community. Navigating Challenges in the Heat Working at a construction site can be an

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