NP Strategy (NPS+), a strategic communications firm providing crisis, media and public relations assistance, welcomes Denada Jackson to the growing team.  Jackson, an award winning public relations expert with established roots in the Charlotte area, will serve as a NPS+ Senior Advisor.

“Denada’s relationships and dynamic background will immediately add value our clients and our team,” said Heather (Hoopes) Matthews, CEO of NP Strategy. “We look forward to growing our client base and our offices throughout North and South Carolina.”

Jackson joins NP Strategy after serving the City of Charlotte for seven years in a number of different roles. Most recently, Jackson worked closely with Mayor Vi Lyles and the Charlotte City Council to provide communications support, event and relationship management and also played an integral role coordinating initiatives with the White House and North Carolina Governor’s Office.

“I’m excited to join NP Strategy to offer my unique problem-solving ability and passion for storytelling to help clients thrive in the current marketplace,” Jackson said. “I look forward to accessing its deep bench of resources to grow public, private and nonprofit organizations in Charlotte and across North and South Carolina.”

A recognized community leader with a passion for youth empowerment and education, Jackson is currently a board member of the Thomas Davis Defending Dreams Foundation, which provides free programs and educational opportunities for underserved youth. Among her many professional achievements, Jackson received the Women in Business Award from the Charlotte Business Journal in 2017.

The Charlotte native graduated from North Carolina A&T State University with a degree in journalism and mass communications. Jackson is the fourth new team member to join NPS+ since August 1st.

Your business website serves as a snapshot of your brand — it is the fastest way for potential clients to see who and what you offer. If your website was created or has been updated in the past three to five years, you may think that everything is running smoothly. Think again. It may be time for a refresh.

Is website neglect responsible for killing your marketing?

The longer a website goes without updates or new content, the further your website drops in search engine rankings. And, when you finally decide to make a change with your website after years of neglect, you’re probably more focused on design aspects rather than content.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Google algorithms, and the technologies and software we utilize online are constantly evolving. What may have worked for your website a year or two ago probably isn’t working for your website anymore. Website development is no longer a one-time thing, but an ongoing process requiring constant care and attention.

Here are three things to consider when evaluating your website:

1) Create and implement an updated vision. What do you want your website to say about you and your brand? Who is the target audience you want to visit? What resources does your website provide them?

2) Make sure your website is undergoing constant content development. Updating your website with new and relevant information not only helps your search engine rankings but gives people a reason to come back. In that same vein, your social media channels should drive traffic back to your website. Create a calendar for your content — whether it is social media posts, blog posts, events, etc. — so that your content and message is clear and consistent across all platforms.

3) Monitor your site analytics and the changes that are occurring (from SEO to consumer trends). From there, you can adjust content as needed. This will also help identify when your website looks and feels outdated given the ever changing way people use digital platforms.

Having an updated, engaging website is attainable for everyone — it just takes a little work on the front end. So the next time you find yourself wondering why your marketing strategies aren’t producing the results you want, ask yourself, “Are we neglecting the website?”

Putting the “O” in PESO

In the world of public relations there is a model for everything. When it comes to handling media relations, that model strategy is known as PESO—Paid, Earned, Shared, and Owned media. The model is structured so each media type plays a role and serves a purpose to an overall well-rounded media strategy.

Those unfamiliar with the PESO model may naturally assume the media types are arranged left to right by level of importance, but in this case, it’s simply a memorable acronym. Paid media technically comes first, but owned media actually comes first in the process. Why? Owned media assets are the foundation of the media strategy and provide a means for the other pieces to work.

Everyone wants media coverage, but what are you doing to prove the value you are able to provide? In order to gain media traction, you have to show before you can tell. Almost all earned media starts with owned media. Owned media is the content your organization creates on its own: blogs, videos, visual content, podcasts, case studies, etc. This content is considered owned because it lives on your own platform, website, or channel.

Creating owned media means you are developing content that showcases your brand’s realm of expertise. It opens the door to which earned media can walk through.

When planning an owned media strategy, there are a few key pieces to keep in mind. Keep it unique. If you’re producing the same podcast, blog or video as everyone else in your industry, how do you expect to stand out? Find your secret sauce and own it! Next, identify the type of media coverage you want. It will serve as a guide and help you build out content that feeds each media outlet’s appetite.

Finally, instead of focusing on quantity, be strategic and put care into quality content that gets your message across in a clear way.

If your goal is increasing earned media, owned media should be one of your top priorities. Just remember: know your topics, stick to your plan, and keep it unique.

It’s no secret: video is the flavor of the month in the world of marketing and communications. Take a look at web traffic and bandwidth usage and you’ll find where interests lie: more and more of us are watching our content as opposed to reading it (except this article – which you should continue to read).

If you run a business, non-profit, or even government entity, you’ve probably had someone tell you, “We need to do video!”

But, jumping in head first without considering your overall strategy is the wrong approach.

When setting aside bandwidth metrics and consumer habits and blocking out the noise of the video-obsessed, how do you know if now is the right time to press record?

Think of video as a tool, not a checkbox. Part of the reason I enjoy working at NP Strategy over a typical, standalone video production house is that we take the time to examine each client’s situation to determine the best course of action to move toward their goal. In some cases, video may not be the right step to take at that particular time. A trustworthy video production manager should be honest with you and acknowledge when video may not be the best strategy, while also explaining where it has a place in future plans and projects.

NP Strategy has the knowledge and expertise to guide you on your video production journey, but what If you’re going it alone? Here are some simple tips for making the determination on whether it’s time to go to video:

Know your why. What is the goal of this proposed video, and can it be done better or more efficiently in a different format, like a press release, social media campaign, or something else?

Consider the demands of your organization, and the goals you want to accomplish. How would a video help you reach these?

Remember your audience. Who are you trying to reach with this video? Is this the best way to speak to them?

If your video can be used to achieve or excel an existing or targeted communications strategy, then it is likely a worthwhile investment.

I’ll leave you with one final reminder: whether it’s content you create on your own, or something more significant that requires experts like NP Strategy to film and produce, don’t do video just to do it. A video with no purpose or strategy to reinforce it is oftentimes just noise, and we all deal with enough of that already.

So be strategic—and when in doubt, we’re here to help.

Today’s media scape is constantly evolving, and how we share news must evolve along with it. Whether it’s a success story, product announcement, or something else, there is no “one size fits all” when it comes to pitching today’s media world. It’s why now more than ever, media engagement should be carefully crafted to decide the best course of action to bring that news public.

Press Releases

There’s no question why many clients ask for a press release when there is news to share–it’s the traditional format of exchanging information with the media. It started in 1906, when Ivy Lee’s agency was working for the Pennsylvania Railroad at the time of a crash. Up to that point, there was no other option than to wait and see how journalists would respond and what the story might look like. Instead, Lee was the first ever to write up a press release, detailing the accident from the perspective of the railroad. More than 100 years later, we’re still following the same format to share brand and company stories.

The press release is tried and true, and it often is one of the best ways to share information with the press. However, just because you can put out a press release doesn’t always mean you should.

Digital Assets

Some stories require more tailored elements to best display its news-worthiness. Take, for example, an event that is not scheduled at a convenient time for journalists to attend, or is a far drive from the nearest news outlet. Sometimes there are elements outside of your control that would cause the event invitation press release to flop and result in no notable coverage. It is instances like these that require creative attention.

A digital media kit is an easy way to secure news coverage. Filled with useful broadcast content like one-on-one interviews stacked with questions and answers you want heard, b-roll (footage of the event that provides a sense of setting), and other convenient assets like interview transcripts for easy story writing and audio files for quick placement in both broadcast TV and radio outlets.

It’s delivered on a silver platter and is easy for broadcast outlets and reporters to pull and use on-air, online or on social media. It gives broadcast reporters the feel of attending an event, without the logistical nightmare. Plus, it allows the brand or company to control the message since they decide exactly what goes into the kit, and through that decision they are further shaping what the story will look like.

Social Media

Today’s journalists have no shortage of story inspiration. Social media has made it possible for anyone to have a platform, and the thoughts, ideas and stories shared on the web are ripe for the picking. Many brands utilize their social platforms to share news from a press release or amplify coverage, but the usefulness of social media shouldn’t stop there.

Say, for example, a company or brand is adding new members to its team or executive board. In large media markets with a lot of competition, it is likely that only a press release including well-known, noteworthy names would get coverage. Instead of sending out the press release and letting it flop, or skipping over the opportunity altogether, consider joining the masses sharing their stories on social media. Instead of a press release, maybe the news is shared via short interview clips with the new hires, allowing them to share their story in their own voice. Not only does that give these new members a platform while getting the news out, it serves double duty by displaying a company culture of employee appreciation and inclusion.

Just because you have news to share doesn’t always mean that a press release is the best approach. Before hitting send, consider: Is there a better way to share this news?

Women’s History Month is not just about acknowledging the achievements of women who came before us. It is about making note of the women we surround ourselves with who are making history today.

The days of all women being placed in boxes of just childrearing or homemaking are gone as women themselves continuously burst through each ceiling placed above them. The women we traditionally celebrate throughout Women’s History Month are merely the spark of the modern day woman: one made of strength, grit and passion for building and excelling in all aspects of her life—professionally, personally and more.

An attribute of the female power network that never fails to disappoint, surprise, and most importantly, empower me is the success that spurs from women supporting women.

I have worked nearly my entire career until joining NP Strategy in male dominated industries like journalism and politics and rarely had a female boss. Due to those early years, I typically built relationships with male mentors and never understood the importance of honing in on those female leaders until later in my career.

Madeline Albright might have the most famous quote on this subject but I’ve always liked Gloria Vanderbilt’s take the best, “I always believed that one woman’s success can only help another woman’s success.” I truly believe this.

And men, don’t stop reading now. This dialogue is almost more important for you than it is for the women reading this today.

In my role working with clients at every level of the corporate ladder and managing internal relationships across a female dominated firm, I have to be incredibly cognizant of the behavior around me and the performance I exude. Here are a few tactics I recommend we all consider when working with our team members to build a supportive and cohesive environment in our workplace:

1) Fully commit to the understanding that your colleagues’ achievements can assist in your long-term success. I have personally experienced or watched colleagues worry about the success of a partner or colleague to the detriment of their own efforts. It shouldn’t work that way. You can always learn from your friends, colleagues and family members and being able to see success in action will only help you in achieving your own goals.

2) Don’t just say you support women—put in the work to back it up. There are many instances in which women in leadership preach about their interest in seeing other female leaders, or promote their organization’s efforts in hiring female employees. However, when it comes time to share opportunities or work with other females on their individual success, it turns into a game involving egos and a lack of interest in moving the ball forward on a larger scale. Voicing your commitment to DEI is not enough. Implement support at every step of leadership.

3) Use your time and energy in building up the next generation. I have heard, and admittedly been part of, conversations about the work ethic of the next generation and the differences in what we’ve seen in generations before us. Without teaching and spending time with these young people and displaying the work ethic and professional behaviors we expect, we are effectively setting them up to fail. Help them understand the importance of work-life balance while reminding them the importance of deadlines.

With the ongoing growth of women leaders from Lou Kennedy at Nephron Pharmaceuticals to Vice President Kamala Harris, women are the future of business and politics. We can do the job just like men, if not better, with high heels on and a dinner to cook for two kids and a spouse at home. If we all work together to achieve each other’s successes, our potential is great but our accomplishments will be greater.

In 2012, I left a thriving career in Washington, DC to move back to my native state of South Carolina. Apart from family and friends, a driving factor in my decision to move back to South Carolina was my desire to be able to make an impact in my community.

Looking back, it’s hard to believe that Columbia has been my home for nearly a decade. When I first moved to Columbia, I had a handful of personal relationships, but very few professional relationships. Nevertheless, I was determined to hit the ground running and get involved.

I quickly sought out individuals and organizations I aligned with to see how I could be engaged in the community outside of my job. My involvement with local organizations allowed me to not only build my network in Columbia but also strengthen my skill sets. One organization gave me public speaking opportunities while another organization helped me learn patience as I aided an elementary student with reading. Each experience helping me grow as an individual, both personally and professionally.

Due to my steady commitment to one organization, in particular, I’m proud to share that I am chairing the Board of Directors of the Columbia Chamber this year. The Chamber matches my personal interests of wanting to make a difference for my community while also complimenting my professional interest in helping businesses succeed. As I look back on my decision to move back to South Carolina to try to make a difference, I’m beyond grateful for the friends and mentors who have encouraged and guided me along the way allowing me the opportunity to serve in this capacity.

So, my plea to you is to get involved in your local community! Some people choose to get involved through elected office, while others give back through their churches. Whatever your outlet, get in the arena and you will realize you get way more out of it than you give.

Here are a few things to consider when deciding whether to engage:

• Are you passionate about the organization?
• Can you commit time to the organization?
• What talent or attribute could you bring to the organization?

My friends in development have taught me that giving back is not just about providing financial resources, it’s more about sharing your time and your talent. I hope you will join me in giving back to your community!

I recently celebrated five years at NP Strategy. Since I began as the first full-time employee, we’ve built an incredible group of 25 individuals across two states and five cities. We provide a number of services, but I’ve always felt most ‘at home’ in our stakeholder engagement efforts, where I can combine communication skills developed during my years as a journalist with the engagement strategies I used during my time as a political operative.  I’ve relied on both while assisting corporations and small businesses with some of their most difficult needs.

However, when I think about this service and how it has affected me and the people I work with each day, the most meaningful influence can be traced to my days working with Congressman Jim Clyburn. His skill of being able to combine his notable aptitude to help his constituents with his skilled understanding of how to use his political capital at the precise time it’s needed is one of the most intriguing things I’ve ever witnessed.

Recently, national political reporters Amie Parnes and Jonathan Allen released an excerpt of their book, “Lucky,” due out in March. It highlighted February 26, 2020, when Congressman Clyburn’s endorsement of then-candidate Joe Biden changed the landscape of the election, and with it, the course of our country’s future. To appreciate Congressman Clyburn’s instinctive ability to affect substantive change, thus providing an opportunity for his constituents and the country as a whole, you have to appreciate his history.

His younger years, growing up in a parsonage in Sumter, South Carolina, shaped his worldview. He has never forgotten where he came from and his best quality as an elected official has been his ability to truly listen to his constituents. He is currently in his 15th term as a congressman, where he serves as the third-ranking Democrat in the House as Majority Whip.

Congressman Clyburn has been a staunch supporter of many important pieces of legislation. He was critical in the passing of the Affordable Care Act and consistently focuses on the growth and opportunity for HBCU’s across our country. He has also introduced the 10-20-30 formula, which would fundamentally change how persistent poverty communities in our country are funded, thus giving them the opportunity to grow and thrive.

I became Congressman Clyburn’s Communications Director in 2014 and learned so much from him during our state’s most recent difficult moments – the shooting at Mother Emanuel, the removal of the Confederate Flag, and the 1,000-year flood in Columbia. For me, it was a masterclass in compassionate, effective leadership.

I’ve tried to walk a similar path in helping clients navigate their own journeys, both professional and personal while helping build our industrious communications firm. And yes, it is these blessed experiences that have shaped my history and, hopefully, our shared future.

Jesica Johnson Mackey of NP Strategy joins other distinguished leaders from across South Carolina to participate in the Diversity Leaders Initiative (DLI), an award-winning program of Furman University’s Riley Institute now in its 17th year.

While DLI classes are typically sorted by state geographic region, the fall 2020 class is the first-ever statewide cohort. The intensive four-month program will be held virtually due to COVID-19, a pandemic that underscores the need for such a program, said Dr. Donald Gordon, executive director of the Riley Institute.

“The extreme hardship brought on by the pandemic has exacerbated the existing social and economic divisions that we address through our Diversity Leaders Initiative,” Gordon said. “The road ahead will present its share of challenges, but our new group of leaders are uniquely positioned to create real-world solutions within their own enterprises.”

DLI class members are selected through a rigorous application and interview process after being nominated by existing Riley Fellows. Participants are accepted based on their capacity to create impact within their organizations and communities.

Jesica will take part in a highly interactive curriculum consisting of case studies, scenario analyses, and other experiential learning tools that maximize interaction and discussion among classmates and facilitate productive relationships. Working alongside classmates, Jesica will also develop a capstone project that raises awareness of community need.

DLI classes are facilitated by expert Juan Johnson, an independent consultant who was Coca-Cola’s first-ever vice president for diversity strategy.

“DLI is unique among South Carolina’s leadership programs,” Johnson said. “In addition to developing new relationships and affecting positive change in their communities, participants gain deep knowledge of how to effectively manage and lead diverse workers, clients, and constituents,” Johnson said.

Graduates of DLI become Riley Fellows, members of a powerful cross-sector of South Carolinians that includes corporate CEOs, legislators, superintendents, religious and nonprofit heads, and business and community leaders.

“With more than 2,300 Riley Fellows statewide, each new class amplifies the impact of leaders willing to work together to make South Carolina a better place to live and work for all its residents,” Gordon said.

To see a full list of participants and for more information about the Diversity Leaders Initiative, visit riley.furman.edu/diversity.

Do you react or respond?  That question felt like a stab to my heart and almost made me fall off the treadmill one evening.  Why? Because in the heat of the moment I react far too often, and later wish I had just kept my mouth shut.

The stress of the pandemic has only made the challenge of providing a “measured response” harder for everyone. We have seen it with clients who have employees responding in highly emotional ways to the surprise of both the supervisor and even the employee.  We have seen it in the news media with raging soundbites.  We have watched it at the grocery store when someone accidentally gets too close or goes the wrong way down the cereal aisle.

Even if we don’t realize it, the pandemic has pushed many of us to our tipping points. And unfortunately, we can shove others over the edge if we burst out with an emotional reaction. What can we do to help this situation?

Reflect on the difference between a reaction and a response
The first is emotional with little thought or consideration. The latter is controlled, thoughtful, and intentional.

PAUSE
When the next offense or sticky situation occurs, commit to pausing – even if only for a second – to ask yourself, “react or respond?” This quick pause could save you the heartburn of firing off hurtful words that may feel good at the moment, but cause heartache long after they are said.

Draft a “deferral” line
Determine a canned response that fits your personality and allows you to exit a sticky situation before you blast off a reactive chain of words. For me, I’m going to use something like, “I have so much on my mind right now that I need more time to think about this. I hope you understand.” Then I’m going to zip my lips and exit like the building is on fire.

Discipline your face
One reason I was a news reporter out in the field – and not an anchor behind the desk – is my face too often reflected my thoughts. Even when I could keep my comments to myself, my facial expression gave me up. So consider how you will refrain from rolling your eyes or deploying the death stare the next time someone irritates you. And prepare to put a pleasant smile on your face as you pause to consider “react or respond?” [For some of us, it may require looking down at the ground to talk our face into cooperating.]

These simple tactics will not immediately win an argument. In fact, you might leave feeling like the other person got the last word. But in the long term, a measured response wins every time. You avoid the regret of reactive remarks, and you leave the door open for restoring a relationship or showing grace to a stranger who likely needs it today.