Online Tools: Work smarter, not harder
Feb. 13
Are you using online tools effectively? Save money and become more efficient by familiarizing yourself with e-newsletters, podcasts, blogs and RSS feeds. We’ll teach you which ones you should be using in your job and how to keep up with the ever-changing online world. Also learn why writing for the Web is so different than writing for other mediums and why key word optimization and the Gunning Fog Index should be at the top of your mind when writing anything for the Web.

Planning for a crisis
March 13
As soon as you say “that will never happen to my business,” it will. Learn how to prepare a successful crisis communications plan that will keep you from scrambling during a crisis. Also, get tips for interviewing with the media during a crisis.

What's in a brand?
April 10
Thinking about changing your organization’s image? We’ll teach you where to start and how to get others (both internal and external) to buy in. Learn methods for developing a new logo, tagline and vision. Also great for those starting an organization or launching a new product or service.

Move your media message
May 8
Before you can successfully promote your business message through the media, you’ve got to understand what the media is looking for. Learn how to prepare press releases that will leave reporters asking you for more. Get tips on the best ways to promote your event so the media is sure to show.

Promotional pieces with purpose
June 12
Thinking about creating a new brochure for your organization? Learn how to determine if you are putting together promotional pieces for the right reasons, which can save you money and give you what you really want from your piece.

Special events from start to finish
July 10
Back by popular demand! Though special events come in many forms, they all require adherence to a specific process to be successful. Learn how to get what you really want out of your special event by developing strong objectives and following through with them.

Writing an effective marketing plan
Aug. 14
If you don’t know where you’re going, how will you know when you get there? A good marketing plan (one that’s not just being used as a dust-collector) helps your organization better understand your role in the market and what you have to do to stay in the game. Learn the keys to creating a usable, working marketing plan gives you tangible, realistic goals and a means to evaluate whether you reach those goals.

Interviewing with the media
Sept. 11
Practice makes perfect. We’ll conduct mock media interviews and critique each participant’s performance. Get tips for preparing effective talking points, overcoming nervous tics and staying on message, regardless of the questions. Also learn how to give great interviews during a crisis.

Trade shows: A cool booth isn’t enough
Oct. 9
Success at a trade show depends on much more than just showing up and manning a booth. This session will explain how to develop goals and materials to ensure that trade shows yield desired results.

Market research on a dime
Nov. 13
Back by popular demand! Before you market your organization, you need to determine who your target audience is and what those people think about you. Learn some low-cost techniques to gathering data that will make your marketing more effective and, in turn, increase your return on investment.