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How ProctorU Protects Your Grades (and Your Integrity)

When you hear the word “proctor,” you probably don’t get excited. Maybe it makes you think of someone hovering behind you while you take a test, watching your every move. And yes, using ProctorU — an online proctoring service — can feel intimidating at first. But here’s the thing: ProctorU isn’t your enemy. In fact, it’s here to help you.

Let’s talk about why ProctorU is actually a good thing for you as a student.

1. It Levels the Playing Field

Have you ever sat in a class where you studied hard for a quiz, only to hear later that someone else found a “shortcut”? Cheating is frustrating because it puts honest students at a disadvantage.

With ProctorU, that’s not the case. Everyone is held to the same standard. When you log in to take a quiz or an exam, you can feel confident knowing that your effort counts. No one else is getting an unfair advantage. That’s a big deal — it means your grade really reflects your knowledge, not someone else’s shortcuts.

2. It Protects Your Academic Integrity

Think of ProctorU as a shield for your academic reputation. One of the most valuable things you’ll take away from college is your integrity. When employers or grad schools look at your transcript, they want to trust that the grades you earned represent your own work.

Using ProctorU helps guarantee that. You’re showing your professors, your school, and ultimately yourself that your work is honest. It’s proof that you did things the right way. That matters not just now, but years from now when your degree is part of your professional identity.

3. It’s Just Like Taking a Quiz in a Classroom

If you’ve ever taken a test in a lecture hall, you’ve already experienced the same concept as ProctorU. Instructors walk around the room, making sure students aren’t whispering answers or sneaking notes. ProctorU is simply the digital version of that.

Yes, it feels different at first. You’re on your laptop at home instead of sitting in a classroom. But the principle is the same: a fair, distraction-free environment where everyone is accountable. If anything, you might find it less stressful — no shuffling papers, no coughing in the background, just you and your screen.

4. It Helps You Stay Focused

Believe it or not, having a proctor (even a virtual one) can actually help you focus. When you know that your test environment is being monitored, you’re less likely to get distracted by your phone or wander into “just five minutes” of social media scrolling.

Instead, you’re locked in, focused on the task at hand. That extra accountability can actually improve how you perform because you’re giving your full attention to the quiz.

5. It Prepares You for the Real World

In many professional fields, assessments, certifications, and even some job interviews are proctored online. ProctorU is practice for that. You’re learning how to set up your space, follow clear rules, and demonstrate your knowledge under fair conditions.

Rather than thinking of it as a hassle, consider it training for what’s to come. The ability to perform honestly under pressure is a skill that will serve you long after you graduate.

Final Thoughts

At first, ProctorU might feel like “Big Brother” is watching. But once you understand what it’s really about, it makes sense. It’s not about catching people doing the wrong thing. It’s about making sure everyone has the same fair shot and that the work you put in actually matters.

So next time you log in to take a quiz or exam with ProctorU, think of it the same way you’d think of walking into a classroom test: it’s your chance to show what you know. And when you walk away, you can feel good knowing that your grade is truly yours.

What are YOUR thoughts on using something like ProctorU? Do you have tips to share?

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(Image created with the assistance of ChatGPT 5.)

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College Life Can Be Hard. These 60-Second Videos Make It Easier.

College students, this one’s for you.

My Arrive, Survive & Thrive video series is officially live — and it’s here to help you navigate college one 60-second tip at a time.

Each video covers a different aspect of college life — from navigating roommate situations and staying on top of assignments to figuring out how to talk to professors or make the most of group projects. The tips are quick, practical, and sometimes even funny (depending on the day).

Whether you’re a first-year figuring things out, a senior in high school getting ready to launch, or somewhere in between — this series was made with you in mind.

Here’s your next move:
Pick your favorite platform — Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or YouTube Shorts — and follow me there. That way, the tips come to you when you need them most: between classes, waiting for your latte or in a late-night scroll session.

Some recent topics:

The goal? To help you feel more prepared, more confident, and less alone in your college journey.

Let me know in the comments: What college questions or challenges should I cover next?

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What Makes a Story Newsworthy? 8 Essentials Every PR Student Should Know

If you’ve ever wondered why some stories get picked up instantly while others fall flat, it all comes down to newsworthiness. In PR, writing a strong news release isn’t enough — you need to know what makes editors, reporters, and your target audience care. The good news? Journalists and PR pros use a consistent set of criteria to evaluate story ideas.

These eight classic news values are essential for anyone learning public relations. Let’s break them down — with real-world examples, tips, and a few watch-outs — so you can start thinking like a pro.

1. Timeliness: Why does this matter right now?

News is about the present — not the past. Stories with a timely angle are more likely to grab attention because they feel urgent, relevant, or connected to something people are already talking about. Whether it’s a seasonal trend, breaking news, or a major event on the calendar, think of timeliness as the “why now?” behind your pitch.

  • Example: A campus mental health initiative tied to World Mental Health Day will land better than the same story released randomly in May.
  • PR tip: Use calendars and awareness days to your advantage. Tie your content to something people are already paying attention to.

2. Prominence: Who’s involved — and why should we care?

When a story involves someone famous, influential, or respected — even within a niche — it immediately becomes more newsworthy. Prominence taps into name recognition and reputation, which often translate to public interest. People are curious about what well-known individuals or organizations are doing.

  • Example: A small-town event gains big media attention when a well-known alum returns as keynote speaker.
  • PR tip: If your client, subject, or spokesperson has any recognizable credentials or associations, lead with them.

3. Proximity: How close is this to your audience’s world?

People naturally care more about what affects them where they live, work, or study. That’s proximity — stories that are geographically or emotionally close to your intended audience. Even national stories can become more relevant if you localize the angle.

  • Example: A national nonprofit launching a chapter on your campus makes the story more relevant to student-focused media.
  • PR tip: Think local, even for global stories. Ask: “How does this affect people here?”

4. Significance: How big is the impact — and who’s affected?

Significance is about scope and consequence. A story is more newsworthy if it affects a large number of people, or even a small group in a meaningful way. This value helps answer: “Why should the audience care?”

  • Example: A new university policy that changes how scholarships are awarded affects hundreds of students — that’s significant.
  • PR tip: Use clear data, numbers, or examples to show how many people are impacted — and in what way.

5. Unusualness: What makes this stand out from the norm?

The unexpected grabs attention. Unusualness, also called novelty, is what makes people pause and say, “Wait — what?” Stories with quirky, surprising, or rare elements tend to stick in people’s minds. Just make sure the unusual angle is relevant, not just random.

  • Example: A professor who uses TikTok to explain economics concepts in full costume might turn heads — and earn headlines.
  • PR tip: Ask yourself, “Have people seen this before?” If not, that might be your hook.

6. Human Interest: Does this story make people feel something?

These are the stories that make people smile, tear up, or feel inspired. Human interest pieces are about people — their challenges, accomplishments, or journeys. These stories are often heartwarming, emotional, or deeply personal, and they make the news because they touch something universal.

  • Example: A student who overcame homelessness to graduate with honors is a story that resonates on a human level.
  • PR tip: Look beyond facts — who’s at the center of your story, and why should others care about their experience?

7. Conflict: Is there tension, struggle, or change involved?

Stories with conflict often involve competing ideas, public debate, or a problem being addressed. Conflict adds narrative energy and can create a sense of urgency. In PR, it’s not always about scandal — it might be a challenge your organization is trying to solve or a difference in opinion that’s being explored.

  • Example: A campus group challenging a proposed tuition hike is news because it shows students taking a stand.
  • PR tip: Use conflict carefully — highlight how it’s being addressed, not just that it exists.

8. Newness: Is this the first, the latest, or a fresh take?

Something being new — a product, program, event, or finding — adds an automatic layer of newsworthiness. But “new” has to mean something. Launching a “new version” of something old doesn’t matter unless it offers value or solves a problem in a new way.

  • Example: A university launching the first-ever esports program in the region is both new and noteworthy.
  • PR tip: Don’t just say something is new — explain why it’s important now, and to whom.

Wrapping It Up: Think Like Your Audience — and the Editor

Before you pitch a story or write a news release, take a moment to walk through these eight values. You don’t need to check every single box, but the strongest stories often include several. And if your draft doesn’t include any of these? It might be time to rethink your angle.

Strong public relations writing always starts with strategy — and newsworthiness is part of that foundation.

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Sparkle Up Your Semester: What Taylor Swift’s Orange Glitter Meme Can Teach You About College

If you’ve been anywhere near social media lately, you’ve probably seen the bold, sparkly orange glitter background from Taylor Swift’s new album era. It showed up in her promotions, podcast covers, and across fan memes—and whether you’re a Swiftie or not, you’ve got to admit: it grabs your attention.

That’s exactly the point.

In the world of college life, there’s a simple takeaway from this viral trend: make the small things stand out. In other words, embrace your own version of the orange glitter background.

Let’s face it—college is full of details that are easy to overlook. Deadlines, reminders, messages from professors, group chats, or even the reading assignments that quietly show up in your learning management system. But when you add a little flair, you make those things stick.

Try these “Orange Glitter” Moves:

  • Highlight your planner with bright colors. Orange for deadlines. Pink for tests. Blue for self-care. Make it visual and fun.
  • Add a little sparkle to your notes. Sticky flags, doodles, or even color-coded pens can help key concepts pop.
  • Send better group chat messages. That doesn’t mean flooding the group with emojis—but a single well-placed GIF or bolded sentence can make your message stand out.

These small, playful changes do more than just look good—they help your brain focus, organize, and remember. And let’s be real: if it worked for one of the biggest album drops of the year, it can probably work for your Chem 101 reminders too.

Bottom line: When your semester starts to feel gray, throw a little orange glitter at it.

What’s one way you make your school routine more fun or memorable? Let me know in the comments—and don’t forget to follow along for more tips on arriving, surviving, and thriving in college.

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No Crickets Allowed: Strategies for Engaging Your Classmates in a Case Study Discussion

Let’s be honest—leading a class discussion can feel way more intimidating than just giving a presentation. With a presentation, you talk, your classmates (hopefully) listen, and that’s that. But a discussion? You’re expected to get people talking, keep it on track and make sure it’s meaningful. No pressure, right? Especially when the discussion is via Teams rather than in person?

If this sounds like you, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here are 10 friendly, practical tips to help you lead your case study discussion with confidence, even if it’s your first time.

1. Actually read (and think about) the case

Don’t just skim. Read it like you’re trying to explain it to someone else. As you read, ask yourself:

  • What’s the main issue here?
  • Why does this case matter?
  • What do I think about it?

Write down two or three things that stood out to you personally—you’ll use those later.

2. Plan four or five solid discussion questions in advance

Your questions should go deeper than “What happened in the case?” Instead, ask things like:

  • What would YOU have done in this situation?
  • How does this apply to real life?
  • What ethical dilemmas are at play?
  • Make sure at least one question is open-ended and encourages multiple opinions.

3. Warm up your group

Start with something easy to get people talking. One great way—especially for online classes—is to send classmates into breakout rooms for two minutes right at the start. Ask them to share one takeaway from the case study. When everyone comes back, invite a few volunteers to share what came up. This gives quieter classmates a chance to talk in a smaller setting first and usually leads to better whole-group conversation.

You can also start with a quick poll or simple yes/no question related to the case. Just break the ice.

4. Give a short (one minute) summary—but don’t reteach the whole thing

Assume most people have done the reading (fingers crossed). Give a quick overview to refresh their memory, then get to the questions fast. You’re not giving a presentation—you’re guiding a conversation.

5. Let silence be your friend

When you ask a question, count to at least seven in your head before jumping in to fill the silence. People need time to think. Don’t panic if no one talks right away—it doesn’t mean you’re failing.

6. Be ready with follow-ups

If you get blank stares, try follow-up prompts like:

  • “What makes you say that?”
  • “Do you agree or see it differently?”
  • “Would that approach work in a different situation?”

These little nudges can spark more conversation without putting anyone on the spot.

7. Use names (gently!)

If someone made a good point earlier, bring them back in:

  • “Taylor, you mentioned this earlier—can you say more about that?”
    This shows you’re listening and encourages more back-and-forth.

8. Notice who’s quiet and invite them in (without pressure)

If a few voices are dominating and others are silent, you can say:

  • “I’d love to hear from someone we haven’t heard yet—any new perspectives?”
    OR
  • “No pressure, but if anyone else has a thought, feel free to jump in.”
    You’re opening the door without calling anyone out.

9. Watch the clock and pace yourself

You’ve got about 20 minutes. That’s enough time for maybe four questions max, especially if the convo is flowing. Keep an eye on the time so you’re not rushing the last few minutes.

10. Wrap it up with a quick takeaway

Don’t just say “Okay, time’s up.” End with a one-minute summary or closing question like:

  • “What’s one big idea you’re taking from this case?”
  • “How might this show up in your future work?”

It helps everyone walk away with something solid—even if the discussion had some awkward silences.

Bonus: What to do if no one’s talking ?

Let’s be real—it happens. If your group is extra quiet, try these:

  • Use breakout rooms early (see Tip #3) to get people comfortable
  • Ask for reactions in the chat
  • Be honest: “This case has a lot going on. What part felt confusing or unclear?”
    Sometimes naming the awkwardness helps people move past it.

Final thought:
You’re not expected to be perfect. Leading a discussion is a skill, and the only way to get better is to try it. If your group doesn’t light up right away, that’s okay. You’re learning, and so are they.

Now go get that conversation going.

What additional tips would you add?

Signature Block: I'm listening, Barbara

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Are We Still Listening? Talking with (Not Just About) Students in the Age of AI

The Robots Are Here. Now What?

Let’s be honest: education looks a lot different than it did even a couple of years ago. Tools like ChatGPT, AI writing assistants, and automated grading systems are popping up in classrooms everywhere—from high schools to graduate seminars. Whether we’re ready or not, artificial intelligence is now part of how we teach, how we give feedback, and how students ask for help.

But here’s the question that’s been gnawing on me: Are we still listening to our students? I mean really listening—not just skimming data dashboards or glancing at AI-generated summaries.

This post isn’t about banning AI or pretending it doesn’t exist (spoiler: it’s not going anywhere). Instead, it’s about exploring how we can stay grounded in human connection—especially as machines start playing a bigger role in our communication with students.

Fast Feedback Isn’t the Same as Feeling Heard

One of AI’s biggest selling points is speed. Feedback that used to take a few days can now happen in seconds. According to a 2024 UNESCO report, automated grading and assessment are the most common uses of AI in education today. Efficient? Yes. But also a little… robotic?

In a recent piece from Central Michigan University, students said AI-generated feedback often felt generic or impersonal. In fact, one of my students once told me (about another faculty member): “It was like my paper was graded by a robot—because it probably was.”

That hit me. I love a good rubric, but I also know that thoughtful, nuanced feedback—especially when it’s written with a student’s voice in mind—can be the spark that helps them grow. If all our comments sound the same, how can students tell we’re paying attention to them?

Office Hours Are Getting Quiet

In an August 2023 article from The Chronicle of Higher Education, one student shared that they’ve basically stopped going to office hours. Why? Because ChatGPT can answer their questions faster.

I get it. We’re all juggling a lot. But that convenience comes with a cost. Office hours aren’t just about explaining course material—they’re about building trust, showing up, and offering a space where students feel seen and supported. When students skip the conversation, they might get an answer, but they miss out on a relationship.

When the Data Gets It Wrong

Let’s talk about classroom dashboards for a minute. They can be helpful—especially for tracking attendance or identifying students who might be falling behind. But they’re not always accurate.

One student told EdSurge that a platform flagged them as disengaged during class. In reality? They were just quiet. Thinking. Processing. Not every student raises their hand or dominates the discussion—and that doesn’t mean they’re not tuned in.

And in an article from Fast Company, students who were falsely accused of using AI said they felt completely ignored during the process. One said, “I was talked at, not listened to.” That stings. When students feel judged without being heard, trust erodes fast—and rebuilding it takes time.

4 Ways to Keep Listening (Even When AI Is in the Room)

So, how do we stay connected in a world where bots are part of the learning experience? I don’t have all the answers, but here are a few strategies that have worked for me—and that might help you, too.

1. Check In After the Bot Checks Out

If you’re using AI to give feedback, try following up with a quick one-on-one. A simple, “How did that feedback feel?” opens the door for reflection—and reminds the student there’s a real person on the other end.

2. Build Listening Into the Routine

Create a “tech-free” time during the week—just a few minutes for students to share how things are going. You’d be amazed what they’ll tell you when the devices are down and the room feels safe.

3. Ask Students to Reflect on the Feedback They Receive

I’ve started giving prompts like, “What did you agree with in your feedback? What surprised you?” It helps students slow down and think critically about the input they’re getting—whether it came from me or a machine.

4. Believe Them First

This one’s big. If a student says, “I didn’t use AI,” and you believe them, say so. In that Fast Company article, students talked about feeling guilty until proven innocent. Our first response matters. Listening doesn’t mean agreeing blindly—it means giving them the dignity of being heard.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Human

I’m not anti-AI. I’ve used ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas and help me organize materials for a course. I’ve seen students light up when an AI tool helps them articulate something they’ve struggled to say. But I also believe that no matter how smart our tools get, they can’t replace the power of a genuine, present, empathetic conversation.

Listening is our superpower. Let’s not let it get automated away.

I’d love to hear your thoughts—how are you navigating the intersection of AI and student communication? Let’s keep the conversation going.

Want more resources or interested in becoming part of a community that cares deeply about listening? Visit the International Listening Association at www.listen.org.

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Launching August 1: Arrive, Survive & Thrive — Essential Tips for College Success

College students, this one’s for you.

Starting August 1, I’m launching a new video series called Arrive, Survive & Thrive — and it’s all about helping you navigate college life one 60-second tip at a time.

Whether you’re a first-year student trying to find your footing, a high school senior getting ready for the transition, or even a seasoned sophomore or junior looking for smarter strategies, this series is designed for you. (Your parents can even benefit from this series.)

Each video tackles a single topic in less than a minute — from navigating roommate dynamics and making the most of group projects, to setting up your study system and talking to professors with confidence. You’ll find videos that are encouraging, practical, even a little funny — depending on the day.

The goal? To help you feel more prepared, more confident, and less alone in the college experience.

You’ll find the videos on Instagram (and Facebook), TikTok and YouTube Shorts starting August 1 — just in time for back-to-school. Watch them between classes, while waiting for your coffee or anytime you need a quick dose of support and strategy.

So whether you’re arriving for your very first semester, figuring out how to survive the challenges or ready to thrive in new ways — these tips are for you.

Let me know in the comments: What college questions or challenges should I cover in the series?

Let’s do this—together.

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Why Teaching Online Feels a Little Like Wicked — And What I’ve Learned

This semester, I found myself thinking a lot about Wicked. Maybe it was the new movie trailer. Maybe it’s my lifelong adoration of the Wizard of Oz in all its forms. Maybe it was my love for Elphaba and Glinda’s complicated, imperfect friendship. But the more I reflected on my courses, the more I realized: teaching online — especially synchronously — sometimes feels like sitting alone on a broomstick, defying gravity, hoping someone’s watching, reading and/or listening.

And sometimes… they are. But not always.

“No One Mourns the Wicked” — or Watches the Weekly Video

One of my go-to strategies this semester in my online asynchronous course was embedding Easter Eggs — little bonus point opportunities — in weekly video content. Quite a few students truly engaged with this, more this semester than in previous ones. They watched the videos, earned the points, and even mentioned the surprise in their emails to me. Others? They clicked the video just long enough to make the “viewed” list. Whether it was a matter of time, energy, or priorities, some students just didn’t interact the way I hoped they would.

That gap — between intention and reality — was a theme that kept surfacing.

“Dancing Through Life” vs. Doing the Reading

Some students did every reading, came prepared and participated with thoughtful questions. Others, despite my encouragement, skipped it. And their work reflected that choice. While I try not to teach with a punitive mindset, the truth is that preparedness matters. And I found myself wondering: how do I help students see the value of steady, consistent engagement when so much around them encourages shortcuts and survival, especially in this age of AI?

“What Is This Feeling?” (It’s Frustration)

In one of my classes that I’ve taught for about two years, we used peer editing groups. Not everyone showed up (physically, virtually or emotionally). We used synchronous discussions. Participation was inconsistent. Even when a student presented something they worked hard on, many peers stayed silent. I could sense the awkwardness and disappointment through the screen.

I tried so many tools including Kahoots, chat prompts, breakout rooms. Still, there were moments when it felt like I was Glinda singing to a green-faced Elphaba: “You can still be with the wizard, what you’ve worked and waited for…” and getting nothing back but silence.

And yet.

“For Good” — What Worked

The real turning point for me this semester was something deceptively simple: virtual one-on-ones, using Zoom or Teams. Meeting individually with students, even briefly, transformed our dynamic. After those conversations, I could feel the difference. Students were more likely to ask questions in class, contribute to the chat or email a follow-up. Our interactions had a face, a voice and a shared moment. It reminded me that the magic in online teaching often comes in small, human doses.

What I’m Carrying Forward

This semester taught me that no strategy is a universal fix. But it also reminded me that connection — real, individual, empathetic connection — still matters most. As I look toward the next semester, I’m letting go of the idea that I can (or should) get everyone to engage the same way.

Instead, I’m embracing a more “Elphaba” mindset — focusing on the students who show up, holding space for those who don’t (yet), and remembering that the most powerful lessons aren’t always the ones in the syllabus.

Because in the end, some of my students (for better or worse) have changed me. For good. And I can’t wait to get back into the virtual classroom in the fall.

Signature Block: I'm listening, Barbara

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The PR Practitioner’s Guide to Beating Writer’s Block—No AI Required

You’re staring at a blank screen, the deadline is looming and your brain feels frozen.

Writer’s block is frustrating—especially in public relations, where content creation is a huge part of the job. Whether it’s crafting the perfect pitch, drafting a news release or composing an engaging social media post, new PR practitioners and students often struggle to get words flowing.

The good news? Writer’s block isn’t permanent. With the right exercises, tools and mindset shifts, you can break through and create strong, compelling content—without over-relying on AI.

Let’s dive into some proven strategies to get you writing confidently.

1. Ditch Perfectionism and Start With The Ugly First Draft (TUFD)

Many PR newcomers get stuck because they’re trying to write the perfect piece on the first try. PR and marketing expert Ann Handley calls this the “Ugly First Draft (TUFD)”—a liberating concept that encourages you to just get words on the page, no matter how bad they are.

Exercise: The 10-Minute TUFD Sprint

Set a timer for 10 minutes and write non-stop WITH PEN/PENCIL AND PAPER, even if it’s rough. Don’t worry about grammar, structure or making sense—just get thoughts down.

Why it works: TUFD frees you from the pressure of perfection. Refining comes later.

Real-World Example: PR professionals often draft “word vomit” versions of pitches or news releases before polishing them. The key is to get started—even if what you write isn’t client-ready yet.

2. Use a Storytelling Formula

PR is all about storytelling, but when you’re stuck, structuring your thoughts can feel like riding on the struggle bus.

Tool: The PAS Formula

If you’re struggling to frame a news release or pitch, try this simple formula:

  • Problem: Identify the issue or newsworthy angle
  • Agitation: Explain why it matters
  • Solution: Present the product, service, or news as the answer

Example:
Instead of starting a pitch with, “Acme Company launches a new app”, use PAS:

? Boring: “Acme Company is excited to announce the launch of its new app.”
? Engaging: “Busy professionals struggle to find time for healthy meals (Problem). With limited options, they often rely on fast food (Agitation). Acme’s new app delivers fresh, personalized meal plans in minutes (Solution).”

Why it works: This structured approach prevents you from overthinking your introduction.

3. Step Away from the Screen (Yes, Really)

If you’re stuck, staring harder at your screen won’t help. Sometimes, stepping away is the best way to move forward.

Exercise: The 20-Minute Reset

  • Walk around the block (this works best with a dog).
  • Listen to a podcast (but not about PR—give your brain a break).
  • Meal prep your dinner.

Why it works: Your subconscious continues working on the problem while you’re doing something else. Often, ideas will flow naturally when you return.

4. Limit AI Use – It’s a Helper, Not a Crutch

AI tools like ChatGPT can be great for brainstorming but shouldn’t replace your unique voice and strategy. Over-reliance on AI can make your writing sound robotic and generic—both of which are PR red flags.

How to Use AI Wisely

? DO:

  • Use AI for headline variations or brainstorming angles.
  • Run a draft through AI for readability suggestions (but tweak heavily).
  • Ask AI for industry stats or research sources to verify independently.

? DON’T:

  • Copy-paste AI-generated content without editing.
  • Use AI to generate full news releases or pitches—it lacks nuance.
  • Let AI think for you. Clients hire YOU for strategy, not automation. (What will happen when you’re F2F in a meeting with your client if you always rely on AI?)

Pro Tip: Use AI sparingly as a brainstorming tool but always inject your own insights and creativity into your final content.

5. Keep a “Swipe File” for Inspiration

Even experienced PR pros struggle with writer’s block, which is why they keep a swipe file—a collection of inspiring headlines, creative angles and past work to spark ideas.

Tool: Your Personal PR Vault

  • Google Drive/Notion: Store your best PR work, newsworthy angles, and media pitch templates.
  • Screenshots Folder: Save great news releases, headlines, or campaign ideas you admire.
  • Sticky Notes App: Jot down creative ideas whenever they strike.

Why it works: Instead of starting from scratch, you’ll have a bank of ideas to remix and adapt.

6. Talk It Out (Yes, Out Loud)

If writing feels impossible, say your ideas out loud—either to a friend or into a voice memo app.

Exercise: The “ELI5 – Explain It Like I’m 5” Method

  • Record yourself summarizing your news release or pitch as if you were explaining it to a child.
  • Play it back and write down what sounds natural.

Why it works: Talking forces clarity. If your pitch sounds awkward spoken aloud, it probably needs reworking.

Pro Tip: Many PR practitioners dictate ideas into their phones and transcribe them into rough drafts later.

7. Read Like a PR Pro

If you’re stuck, reading good writing will kickstart your brain.

Resources for PR Inspiration

? Books:

? Websites:

  • PR Daily – Latest industry insights
  • The Skimm – Great for headline writing inspiration
  • AdAge – Trends in media & brand storytelling

Why it works: Consuming high-quality writing trains your brain to recognize what works and why.

Final Thoughts: Build Your Writing Muscle

Overcoming writer’s block isn’t about waiting for inspiration—it’s about building habits that keep your creativity flowing.

? Quick Recap of Key Strategies:
? Write The Ugly First Draft (TUFD) – don’t aim for perfection.
? Use the PAS formula to structure pitches.
? Take a 20-minute reset when stuck.
? Use AI as a helper, not a replacement.
? Keep a swipe file for inspiration.
? Talk out ideas before writing.
? Read quality PR content regularly.

Next time you’re stuck, try one of these strategies. Writing in PR gets easier with practice—so keep at it!

A Question for You

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Your Listening Blueprint: How to Receive, Process, and Respond Like a Pro

Graphical representation of the definition of listening

When was the last time you truly listened to someone—not just heard their words but genuinely engaged in what they were saying? We often think of listening as a passive act, but it’s far more than that.

According to the International Listening Association, listening is “the process of receiving, constructing meaning from, and responding to spoken and/or nonverbal messages.” That’s a mouthful, but breaking it down makes it easier to see why listening is a skill we should all work to improve. Let’s explore each part of this definition and how it shapes our daily interactions.

1. Receiving: The First Step in Listening

Listening starts with receiving—the physical act of hearing sound or noticing nonverbal cues. If you don’t hear or see something, you can’t process it.

Example:

Imagine you’re in a crowded coffee shop. Your friend is talking, but there’s background noise—machines whirring, people chatting, music playing. If you’re distracted by your phone or thinking about your to-do list, you might hear their voice but miss the words entirely.

How to Improve:

  • Remove distractions: Dr. Ralph Nichols, often called the “Father of Listening,” emphasized the importance of resisting distractions as a key component of effective listening. He noted that our attention can easily wander, so minimizing external noise and internal thoughts is essential.
  • Make eye contact: It signals engagement and helps you pick up on body language.
  • Practice mindfulness: Be present in the moment instead of thinking about your response.

Takeaway: Just because you hear someone doesn’t mean you’re listening. True listening starts with attention.

2. Constructing Meaning: The Heart of Listening

Once you receive the message, your brain processes it and makes sense of it. This step is where miscommunication often happens—our biases, past experiences, and emotions shape how we interpret what we hear.

Example:

A colleague says, “I didn’t expect you to finish that so fast.” Depending on your mood and their tone, you might hear praise (“Wow, you’re efficient!”) or sarcasm (“Did you rush through it?”). Your interpretation depends on context, past interactions, and assumptions.

How to Improve:

  • Ask clarifying questions: “Did you mean that as a compliment?”
  • Check for emotional reactions: Are you assuming the worst?
  • Consider context: Think about the speaker’s usual tone and intent.

Dr. Kittie Watson, a communication expert and President of Innolect Inc., advocates for active listening—a technique that involves fully focusing, understanding, and responding to a speaker to ensure clarity and connection. By paraphrasing what we hear and asking thoughtful questions, we move beyond just hearing words to understanding them.

Takeaway: We don’t just absorb words—we assign meaning. Making sure we interpret correctly is key to true understanding.

3. Responding: The Final Step of Listening

Listening isn’t complete until we respond. A response doesn’t have to be verbal—it can be a nod, a smile, or an action that shows we understand.

Example:

A friend shares something difficult, like “I’ve been really stressed lately.” A poor response might be dismissing it—“Yeah, we all are.” A better response is acknowledging their feelings: “That sounds tough. Want to talk about what’s stressing you out?”

How to Improve:

  • Reflect before responding: Instead of reacting instantly, pause to ensure your response is thoughtful.
  • Use active listening techniques: Consider the importance of showing the speaker you understand through verbal affirmations like, “It sounds like you’re feeling overwhelmed. Want to tell me more?”
  • Validate emotions: Even if you don’t agree, show you understand their perspective.

Takeaway: A great response shows the speaker they were heard, valued, and understood.

The Power of Listening in Everyday Life

Listening isn’t just about words—it’s about connection. Research published in the International Journal of Listening shows that strong listening skills improve relationships, workplace productivity, and even mental health.

When we truly listen, we build trust, prevent misunderstandings, and create deeper relationships.

See How Your Life Changes When You Truly Listen

The next time you’re in a conversation, ask yourself: Am I just hearing, or am I really listening? Small changes in how we receive, interpret, and respond can make a huge difference in our personal and professional lives.

See how your life changes when you truly listen to others. Visit listen.org for more strategies.