In case you missed it, this video was posted over at The Huffington Post in late January. It shows an early 90s version Katie Couric and Bryant Gumbel trying to understand what the Internet is and why it would be important to people.  What is that @ symbol anyway?

It’s a funny video.  But what strikes me when I watch it is the fact that I have had (what feels like) the exact same conversation many times over the last couple years when explaining Twitter.  The same questions come up: Why do we need it and who is going to use it.  What made me really laugh, though, was when they use the example of the California earthquake to explain why communication through the Internet is so important.  I think I have used that exact same example (although with a different natural disaster) to explain why Twitter is so important.

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

March 22, 2011 – BlueSky Communications is seeking an experienced Media Relations Coordinator.  Supporting the Account Directors, the Media Relations Coordinator will:

• Drive media relations campaigns (includes developing story ideas, pitching reporters, writing press releases, managing media databases, and monitoring editorial calendars and newswires).
• Create online/social media campaigns (includes blogger relations and leveraging various social media tools such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn).
• Daily client management (includes managing status meetings and planning/brainstorming sessions and preparing clients for interviews).

To be considered for this role, you will have 1-3 years experience within PR, and media relations, have strong organizational skills and attention to detail, the ability to multi-task with competing priorities, an in-depth understanding of media relations processes, knowledge of social media, strong strategic thinking ability and a high level of verbal and communication skills. 

How to Apply

This is an invaluable opportunity to join a fast paced, experienced team.  If you believe you have the necessary qualifications and experience to succeed in this role, please send your resume and cover letter to Sarah Turnbull at sturnbull@blueskycommunications.com.

The office move.  A good time to reflect on the business, gain a fresh perspective and create a new workplace dynamic.  All great for creativity and inspiration.  An opportunity to break old habits and try something new.

Sure we’ll miss the corporate Bloor Street digs with its great view from the 23rd floor, many conveniences and great shopping, not to mention the vibe of sharing floors with a 100 year old Canadian bank.  But we have a new, hipper look now and an opportunity to redefine ourselves.  No, I’m not talking about rebranding – we still are BlueSky Communications committed to our urban girl ‘under the umbrella’ icon.  But our new loft space brings out a different side of us.  We are now the PR agency we are meant to be – a more casual environment, commitment to having fun, while delivering a renewed passion and excellence toward client work.

As we enter the next phase of our business evolution, coming up on our 10^th anniversary next year, I reflect on how far we’ve come.  From working out of the attic of my Leslieville home, to partnering with my sister who brought a whole new discipline to the business (not to mention a dedication that is the envy of any entrepreneur), to hiring our first employees, Sarah and Leah, two of the most buttoned-down professionals I’ve encountered, not to mention the long-term partnerships with many talented consultants – we’ve created something remarkable here.

And as we unpack and decorate our new space, locate a good nearby coffee shop and the best lunch locale, we look forward to another year of expansion, new relationships, strengthening current ones, while we continue to raise the bar on our creativity, expertise and client service.

Posted by Cathy-Anne O’Brien on March 3, 2011