Take a moment to reflect and be thankful

By: Cole Buergi, VP of Business Development, Leonard & Finco Public Relations, Inc.

I was going to write about a public relations related topic today, but instead, felt tugged in a different direction. In light of the overnight tragedy in an Aurora, Colorado movie theater, I just want to send thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families of the tragic and senseless murder of 12 innocent movie goers.

What was supposed to be an exciting evening for people to see the premiere of the new Batman movie has turned into horror for the families and a surreal sense of disbelief, anger and frustration for many Americans as to why anyone would do this.

I can’t imagine the pain they are going through and I truly hope the media respects the families’ rights and need for privacy during this difficult time.

Even with all the political and social disagreements we have within our country, I hope everyone can find it within themselves to set that aside for a time, and reflect on how lucky we are to be able to go home today, hug our spouse, see our families and be thankful we have that opportunity.

What does your digital footprint say about you?

By: Angela Raleigh, Account Executive, Leonard & Finco Public Relations, Inc.

As a result of our daily conversations on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest and other social media networks, we become content creators…posting one-liners, inspirational quotes, photos, personal reminiscences and complaints among other things. Interacting through social networks is a way for us to stay connected with those around us.

As you tweet, post or pin, do you think about the digital footprint that you are creating? Or the message you will send to those who follow your personal page or like your company page?

It’s important to understand that what others know about you is based on what you post. Think about it, if you were applying for a job, there is a good chance that the company will do a Google search to see what information they can gather about you. And remember, first impressions matter.

On the business side, you will want to know what your customers are saying about your products or services. The reviews that your company receives, whether they are good or bad, will be on the web for current and potential customers to see. Monitoring what is being said and responding in a timely manner is key to managing your reputation. That’s never been more true than in today’s digital world where it’s easy to look up information on companies and individuals.

Whether you realize it or not, your online activity or inactivity contributes to your identity and influences those around you. Next time you’re near your computer or smartphone, take a moment to learn what your social media footprint says about you. I’d be interested in learning what you found.

The fourth comes every month – let’s celebrate Independence Day!

By: Scott Stein, VP of Client Services, Leonard & Finco Public Relations, Inc.

Another holiday is here and this year there’s been a bit more grumbling with Independence Day falling smack dab in the middle of the week. Did you take Monday and Tuesday off to make it a long weekend heading into the holiday? Or are you coming out of the holiday with a long break? And we can’t forget about those who take the whole week off of work.

Of course, we all do this so that we can properly observe and celebrate what happened back in 1776. Right?

Of course not. Most holidays today we simply combine with a few vacation or PTO days to head to the cottage, visit family or friends, take in some fireworks, have a few drinks, eat a burger or brat or just take it easy. All-too-often we forget what the holiday is all about. 

I’ll be the first to admit that I don’t have any actual plans to celebrate the real meaning of Independence Day. But I will spend some time thinking about all of the freedoms I have as a result of what happened more than 235 years ago.

As we observe Independence Day, it’s difficult to ignore the many levels of discord that engulf our nation right now. Still, it’s amazing that even though we may vehemently disagree with what our neighbors, our co-workers and our government leaders on certain issues, we can all speak out, yet peacefully co-exist. Many of us take Freedom of Speech and other freedoms for granted without ever thinking about what this country would be like today if the Declaration of Independence had not been adopted on July 4, 1776.

So the next time someone says “Happy 4^th of July” to you, shoot back a quick “Happy Independence Day.” You may get a few strange looks, but you also may get a few more people thinking about the true meaning of the holiday.