Shedeur Sanders’s Draft Fall: Perception
At Spotlight PR, we understand that perception is everything when it comes to public relations. Perception plays a large role in how people think about you and how they treat...
read more . . .Shedeur Sanders’s Draft Fall: Narratives
Falling all the way from a media projected top 10 pick to a round 5 selection, Shedeur Sanders’s slide to draft day 3 was the main headline of the 2025...
read more . . .5 Media Rules You Should Know
Like a lot of things in life, there are many factors that go into securing media coverage. However, if you understand the preferences of members of the media, you will...
read more . . .Shannon Sharpe & Carefully Managing a PR Crisis
The matter involving Shannon Sharpe appears thornier by the day. He has been accused of rape and assault by a woman close to 30 youngs his junior. She is now...
read more . . .Tips to Discover Your Audience
Prior to granting an interview or delivering public remarks, you'll want to get clear about the audience you’ll be engaging. Who are they? Where do they come from? What do...
read more . . .Why Journalists Won’t Share Their Story in Advance
Most journalists won't share their story in advance of publication. I’ve been in public relations for close to 23 years. If there is one question I consistently receive, it is...
read more . . .Brianna Rivers: It’s Ok to Walk Away.
Recently, a woman went viral for punching a pro-life influencer during an impromptu street interview. Without warning, Brianna Rivers punched Savannah Craven Antao, allegedly leaving her bloodied and bruised. The...
read more . . .Strategic Communications Tip: Don’t Argue. Listen. Engage.
Here's a strategic communications tip: don't argue. Listen and engage. Our beliefs are often informed by messages we have received over a significant period of time. Our preferences are also...
read more . . .The Importance of Investing in Public Media
It is clear that the media landscape is changing. Trust in traditional media sources is declining, and many critics have attacked public media in particular. However, public media is a...
read more . . .What is Over-Exposure in Public Relations?
In public relations, there is such a thing as oversaturation or over-exposure. It occurs when a leader is highly visible for an extended period of time. The public may feel...
read more . . .YouTube Reaches All-time High in TV Viewership
It’s no secret that YouTube is the world’s second largest search engine, after Google. When many people want to find out what is happening in the world, they are as...
read more . . .Jasmine Crocket and the Dangers of Going Off Script
Do you know the time when a leader is most likely to make a mistake? It's when they’ve done their fare share of interviews. It’s when they are relatively comfortable...
read more . . .Public Relations is About Getting Ahead of the Headlines
Public relations is about foresight and planning ahead. On March 22, star NCAA basketball athlete JuJu Watkins led her USC Trojans to a 71-25 victory over UNC Greensboro in the first round...
read more . . .Zoe Saldaña and the Importance of Media Training
Regardless of who you are or how much you’ve achieved, everyone needs consistent media training. Actress Zoe Saldaña’s recent interaction with a journalist is a case study on why how...
read more . . .English is Our National Language – What Now?
On Saturday, March 1, President Trump signed an Executive Order officially designating English as the national language of the United States. This comes amidst a slew of attacks on immigrants...
read more . . .Six Steps to Successful Media Interviews
Media interviews can be unnerving, especially if you have little experience with them. But with preparation, you can deliver impactful interviews with confidence. Prior to sharing steps to help you...
read more . . .Are Your Expectations for Your Communications Team Realistic
If you want to maximize your communication’s results, you will want to appropriately staff your communications department. Often, I see job descriptions for communications staffers that are loaded with unrealistic...
read more . . .The Media Landscape is Changing; Here’s What You Should Do
A number of people are wrapping their heads abour the cancellation of Joy Reid’s primetime show, The ReidOut. While we reflect on her departure, this is also an opportunity to...
read more . . .Washington Post Opinion Pages to Focus on Personal Liberties, Free Markets
For years, Spotlight PR has assisted clients and partners in crafting and placing opinion essays. Given its significance and circulation size, it is not unusual for clients to request that...
read more . . .Spotlight PR’s Women’s History Reading List
In honor of Women’s History Month (WHM), we compiled a list of books we believe everyone should read. In addition to those who illuminate the experiences of womanhood, we include...
read more . . .Reid’s Exit from MSNBC was Troubling, But Predictable
On Sunday, February 23, MSNBC announced the cancellation of Joy Reid’s primetime show, The ReidOut. The change comes mere weeks after Rashida Jones, the first Black woman to run a major cable...
read more . . .What Was the Impact of Rihanna’s Appearance at A$AP Rocky’s Trial?
Public relations is the management of one’s relationship with various publics, including the media, the courts, customers, clients and, for celebrities, fans. The public is impacted as much by what leaders...
read more . . .DEI Reversals a Reminder Companies Will Do What’s Convenient
DEI reversals are a reminder that companies will do what's convenient. But companies who value equity will advocate for marginalized communities even it is inconvenient to do so. A number...
read more . . .Do You Need a Publicist?
If you have told yourself or someone else, “I need a publicist,” you may want to read this article. While a lot of people believe they need representation by a...
read more . . .What You Should Consider Before Issuing a Press Release
In a 24/7 news cycle, the demand for attention is unending. Media outlets and content creators craft headlines to draw in viewers and subscribers. You are in a game, and...
read more . . .Spotlight PR’s Black History Reading List
In honor of Black History Month (BHM), we compiled a list of books we believe everyone should read. In addition to those who illuminate the Black experience, we include writers...
read more . . .The Longer the Interview, the Greater the Risk
When Seeking to Raise Your Profile, Be Wary of Long-Form Interviews In today’s digital media landscape, many podcasts specialize in long-form content. It is not unusual for some podcasts to...
read more . . .Glossary of Public Relations Terms
Terms you should know. If you work with a public relations firm or a publicist, you will hear a host of words and phrases. You may struggle to make sense...
read more . . .Press Releases: What People Get Wrong
Here's what most people get wrong about press releases. If you are distributing press releases and your organization is not being included in news stories, you’re going to want to...
read more . . .Why Weren’t My Comments Included in the News Story?
Has this happened to you? It’s frustrating to speak with a reporter for twenty minutes or more only to see the final story and realize your comments weren’t included. But...
read more . . .5 Tips to Demystify Media Outreach
This guidance will help you garner the media coverage you deserve. For those outside of public relations, media relations can feel like a mysterious art. In this article we help...
read more . . .Does Influencer Marketing Really Work?
When it comes to promoting your work, there are a host of strategies and tactics you could consider. One such strategy is influencer marketing. Influencer marketing is defined collaboration between...
read more . . .Striking Amazon Employees Show Workers the Way
This holiday seasons, warehouse workers and delivery drivers at Amazon participated in a 5-day strike in nine cities. Few people want work stoppages, but these employees say they exhausted all...
read more . . .Why PR Teams and Legal Teams Must Be Involved in Crisis Management
It is indisputable that 2024 was marred by jaw-dropping scandals and public relations crises. From celebrity to faith to politics, it seems scandals have rocked major industries, leading to reduced...
read more . . .You Should Consider Launching A Podcast: Here Are Four Reasons Why
The media landscape continues to shift. With newsrooms cuts and journalists transitioning from the industry, it is imperative that nonprofit and grassroots organizations build their own content channels. This could include developing...
read more . . .How To Cultivate Strong Relationships With Reporters
By Chris Pugh Maintaining good relationships with reporters can amplify the work and reach of your organization. So much of life revolves around relationships. Engaging with journalists is no different. ...
read more . . .The Media is Contracting: Here’s What You Should Do
Even with newsroom cuts, you can still share your story and amplify your message. We'll show you how. In 2023, there were over 21,400 jobs lost in media, according to...
read more . . .The PR Challenges Following Ohio State and Michigan Football Game
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kK57BH4u4A[/embed] By Andre White Spotlight PR LLC Digital Media Specialist Andre White talks about the public relations and leadership issues the Ohio State football team is facing after a fight following...
read more . . .The PR Challenge with President Biden’s Pardon Of His Son, Hunter Biden
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiBPU_m3mSI[/embed] Spotlight PR LLC Founder Jennifer R. Farmer talks about public relations questions President Joe Biden is facing after the announced pardon of his son, Hunter, on gun and tax evasion charges. ...
read more . . .Public Relations and Marketing: What’s the Difference?
Public Relations (PR) is the management of one’s relationship with various public entities. A public entity could include the media, also known as the Fourth Estate, customers, governmental agencies, employees,...
read more . . .12 Things Spotlight PR Is Grateful For in 2024
Today we pause to remember and celebrate the many blessings we’ve received over the past year. We know that we are not entitled to anything, but we are thankful for...
read more . . .The Biggest PR Crises of 2024
A crisis is anything that takes you off purpose and off mission. Anything that distracts from your ability to fulfill your mission is a crisis. And in 2024 there were...
read more . . .Kamala Harris and Limits to Celebrity Endorsements
Do celebrity endorsements help or hurt? During the pandemic, I noticed a growing backlash towards some celebrities. There were a handful of celebrities who posted content that suggested they were...
read more . . .8 Ways to Shield Your Organization and Executives from A PR Crisis
By Jennifer R. Farmer and Chris Pugh In today's 24/7 news cycle, a single misstep can quickly escalate into a public relations nightmare. It could hurt your reputation and...
read more . . .Here are Four Mistakes to Avoid in Media Interviews
Avoid these common mistakes for stronger media interviews. Sometimes people with significant information can struggle with media interviews. They have so much information that they may have difficulty discerning what...
read more . . .Media Trends To Watch In 2025: Essential Insights For Those Seeking Coverage
The media landscape is expected to change rapidly in 2025 with continued advancements in digital media, audience behavior, and increased demands on journalists and newsrooms. Understanding these changes...
read more . . .How An Editorial Calendar Boosts Your Chances of Media Coverage
Media attention is essential for building credibility, attracting donors and funders, and building your platform. Timing is everything when it comes to garnering coverage. That is why editorial calendars are...
read more . . .10 Facts About Editorial Boards
Your strategic communications plan should include editorial board meetings. An editorial represents the views of the publisher and the paper. An editorial is not the same as a news story....
read more . . .How Two Media Outlets Ignited a Self-Inflicted Crisis
Several U.S. based media publications decided not to endorse in the 2024 presidential election. The Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post and USA Today, all noted they were not endorsing...
read more . . .Who is Getting Their News From Social Media?
In the past, public relations professionals may have relied on traditional media outlets to spread their message. However, today there are a host of digital media channels to consider. This...
read more . . .6 Tips to Write Better Press Releases
Good media coverage is essential to your success. And a well-written press release can help you get the word out about your organization, campaign or event. To support you in...
read more . . .Should Kamala Harris Have Sat for an Interview with Bret Baier?
Vice President Kamala Harris sat for an interview with Bret Baier, Fox News,’ chief political anchor. The question is whether she should have given this interview. When considering media requests,...
read more . . .Why Weekend, Night Events Don’t Work For Media
By Chris Pugh Timing means everything when planning an event in hopes of attracting media coverage. Here's why scheduling your event for a weekend night will limit your chances...
read more . . .Why You Should Use Vertical Video
Since vertical video fits naturally with how users capture content on our phones, anyone can capture these videos on their phone and share them easily. Video is an effective...
read more . . .Why Do Brands Change Their Names?
Ever wonder why brands change their names? Perhaps you’ve grown accustomed to referring to a company by the only name you’ve ever known and then the name changes, seemingly out...
read more . . .Why Response Time is Everything In Media Requests
Here’s Why You Should Respond as Quickly as Possible to Media Inquiries By Chris Pugh Whether promoting an issue or handling a crisis, a prompt response is critical to getting...
read more . . .9 Steps to A Successful Media Interview
We get it. Being interviewed by a news reporter can be unnerving or scary. But with preparation, you can be confident and successful. Below are nine tips for a successful...
read more . . .Everyone in the Public Eye Needs Media Training, Including Entertainers
Everyone in the Public Eye Needs Media Training, Including Entertainers By Jennifer R. Farmer All people in the public eye should have an understanding of public relations. Public relations is...
read more . . .Here’s How To Edit Video on Your Phone
By Andrew Robinson The days of needing a computer to edit a video are gone. With a few exceptions, you can now edit any style of video right from the...
read more . . .Language Guidance for This Election Cycle
Guidance to Help You Craft Inclusive, People-First Language By Jennifer R. Farmer Years ago, The Opportunity Agenda, and then The Opportunity Agenda and Advancement Project, released a social justice phrase...
read more . . .What Contributed to the NABJ Convention Debacle?
A Crisis Communications Perspective on What Went Wrong with President Trump at NABJ 2024 By Jennifer R. Farmer The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) recently experienced a crisis of...
read more . . .Registered Trademark for “The PR Whisperer”
‘The PR Whisperer’ is Now a Registered Trademark! We're excited to announce that we’ve pursued and received a registered trademark for ‘The PR Whisperer.’ A former Spotlight PR consultant, Gail...
read more . . .Do I Need a Wikipedia Page?
Am I notable enough to warrant a Wikipedia page? Is this event necessary? By Jennifer R. Farmer If you are in a leadership role where you are charged with raising...
read more . . .Why Learning to Pivot During Media Interviews is So Important
It is imperative we learn to pivot while conveying credibility and sincerity. Jennifer R. Farmer Singer and model Tyla appeared on the popular Breakfast Club Morning Show on June 13,...
read more . . .What is an Editorial Board Meeting?
The editorial board of a publication opines on a host of issues, and its perspective appears on the “editorial” page. Editorial boards write editorials, which represent the views of the...
read more . . .WATCH: Human and Sex Trafficking Survivors and Advocates Share Their Story
Watch this touching podcast segment and then take action to help. Since 2019, Spotlight PR LLC founder Jennifer R. Farmer has hosted a podcast for United Women in Faith, formerly...
read more . . .Six Steps to Become a Better Storyteller
Just because you tell a story doesn't mean it's received by the listener. By Jennifer R. Farmer There is no shortage of issues around which we need to communicate. But...
read more . . .There Are Some Things Crisis PR Teams Can’t Fix
By Jennifer R. Farmer When celebrities run afoul of the law, are accused of wrongdoing or make decisions that adversely impact their reputation, they will sometimes hire crisis communications or...
read more . . .Exciting Networking Opportunities for Communications Staffers
By Jennifer R. Farmer If you're an organizer, communications staffer or student interested in journalism, there are several convenings of journalists that you should put on your radar. Major associations...
read more . . .How to Know If You’re Ready to Hire a Publicist
By Jennifer R. Farmer If you have told yourself or someone else, “I need a publicist,” we have tips to help you. While a lot of people believe they need...
read more . . .What To Look for When Hiring a Publicist
By Jennifer R. Farmer After the release of the ‘Where is Wendy?’ documentary, a lot of people have wondered how her team could have allowed the project to move forward...
read more . . .Approximately 80% of People Will Not Read Past a Blog’s Headline
By Tiffany Onyejiaka If you are strategizing about ways to share your message and mobilize your audience, you should consider blogging. Blogging enables you to share thought leadership, engage your...
read more . . .Ask Yourself These Questions When Navigating a Crisis
By Jennifer R. Farmer If you are navigating a crisis, you may be inundated with advice from your colleagues, family and friends. But not all advice is created equal. So...
read more . . .Four Tips for Pitching Alternative Media
By Kimberly Barbano With significant newsroom cuts and the dominance of artificial intelligence, the media landscape is changing. For instance, Traditional news outlets are all online. Mainstream media outlets are...
read more . . .Avoid These Three Common PR Mistakes
By Jennifer R. Farmer Your work is important. I am sure you would prefer to spend the bulk of your time on mission rather than resolving a public relations (PR)...
read more . . .What You Should Consider Before Granting that Media Request
We know what they want, but is what they want good for us? Is what they want good for our current and future self? By Jennifer R. Farmer It’s been...
read more . . .Get The Media Coverage You Deserve: Download Spotlight PR LLC’s Editorial Calendar
Get The Media Coverage You Deserve: Use the Editorial Calendar Now. By Jennifer R. Farmer As you think about your media outreach for 2024, there are three phrases to keep...
read more . . .Exposure is Not Necessarily a Flex
Your work is the flex, and it’s your work that will ultimately provide you a platform. By Jennifer R. Farmer In most situations, participating in a media or podcast interview...
read more . . .I’m PR pro and these are the 7 things I appreciated about Katt Williams’ Club Shay Shay Interview
Katt Williams broke the internet with his Jan. 3, Club Shay Shay interview. He demonstrated courage, authenticity and vulnerability. By Jennifer R. Farmer On Jan. 3, former NFL player and...
read more . . .Who is Getting Their News from Social Media?
In the same ways that traditional media is responding to the rise in social media by expanding their online presence, social and racial justice campaigns must continue to adapt as...
read more . . .How Grassroots Groups Should Respond to AI
"From even a cursory glance, we can conclude that AI is pervasive, seemingly omnipresent, and damaging to some industries." By Jennifer R. Farmer There is no question that if you...
read more . . .8 of the Most Inspiring Leaders We Met or Worked with in 2023
By Jennifer R. Farmer In 2023, Spotlight PR LLC once again had an opportunity to meet or work with inspiring leaders across multiple industries. We were encouraged by the change...
read more . . .The Spotlighting Series: Introducing Some of our Clients, Friends and Partners
By Jennifer R. Farmer I am in awe. I am blown away by the amazing people who Spotlight PR LLC has had the pleasure of supporting this year and over...
read more . . .5 Media Trends for 2024
By Jennifer R. Farmer As we wrap one year and prepare to greet another, I am reflecting on what I believe will be the defining trends in media for 2024....
read more . . .Mastering the Art of Connection: 6 Tips to Transform Your Email Marketing
By Joia Bullock Email marketing is a timeless way to connect with your audience. But it’s important to ensure email marketing campaigns convey authenticity. Here are six personable strategies that...
read more . . .Thank You for Your Support of Spotlight PR LLC
Any success that we enjoy has been fueled by your investment. By Jennifer R. Farmer It is the end of the year and I am once again reflecting on all...
read more . . .What’s Your Deadline?
Assume the deadline is immediate. Acknowledge the request even if you don't have a source lined up. By Jennifer R. Farmer What’s the first question you should ask when a...
read more . . .How to Request a Correction From a Journalist
At the end of the day, all you can do is ask. By Jennifer R. Farmer You can give what you think is the perfect interview only to read the...
read more . . .Why You Should Take Control of Your Brand in 2024
To be clear, a strong brand makes a promise. When fulfilled time and time again, customers, clients and colleagues come to trust you and your brand. By Jennifer R. Farmer...
read more . . .You Have Two Jobs: The Work and Promoting Your Work
Regardless of how meaningful our work is, and how much value we get from doing it, we still need to be intentional in promoting what we're doing. By Jennifer R....
read more . . .
Four Signs Your Media Interview Has Gone Off the Rails
By Jennifer R. Farmer If you utilize traditional media to amplify your brand or campaign, you must know how to salvage a media interview when it has gone south. And...
read more . . .Having A Large Platform Doesn’t Always Confer Credibility or Character
A large platform means a person is highly visible, not necessarily credible. By Jennifer R. Farmer There is something about our culture that idolizes those with power and money. Sometimes,...
read more . . .Four Steps to Invest in Your Own Content Channels
The media continues to contract, leaving fewer journalists to cover the issues you and I care about. You and I must become the architects of our own stories by building...
read more . . .Build Your Own Content Channels
One of the most important items on your "To Do" list for 2024. By Jennifer R. Farmer As we near the end of 2023, I have at least one item...
read more . . .What Makes a Good Spokesperson
All your life, you’ll need to communicate. But if you’re a business leader or executive, your success depends – in part – on how well you communicate. Certainly, if you...
read more . . .Don’t Cut Corners to Grow Followers Online
Success doesn’t always happen overnight; and even if it did, we all need time to develop the character and capacity to maintain it. By Jennifer R. Farmer I recently learned...
read more . . .The Underbelly of Extensive Media Coverage
I have seen leaders spearheading incredible work and receiving awesome coverage, only to struggle with the jealousy of their peers. By Jennifer R. Farmer Many people want and need media...
read more . . .Journalism and PR: What’s the Difference?
By Jennifer R. Farmer Earlier this week, leaked video appeared to show Ultimate Fighting Championship President Dana White striking his wife at a New Year’s Eve party. While the clip...
read more . . .