Tom Garrity

Archive for February, 2011|Monthly archive page

Why I “Like” Attending #CAPRSA

In Uncategorized on February 24, 2011 at 1:37 am

 Running a public relations firm is a tricky thing.  The first ten years were equivalent to teaching myself how to type; it started as “hunt and peck” then transformed into its own unique form.

In 2007, I participated in my first PRSA Counselors Academy event.  The opening session featured a speaker talking about this social media thing called Twitter, I was hooked.  Over the years, #CAPRSA programs have kept pace; addressing new technologies and ways to help connect my firm and clients with our respective target audiences.

The only thing that surpassed the programming was the networking.  There is nothing quite like working a room with all “Type A” personalities!  Conversations about how people manage their practices and teams continue to be one of the key reasons I return year after year.  For me it was like one beggar showing another beggar where to get food.  Each year I get a lot of great ideas about running a public relations practice from inspiring people.

So, what did I do with the information?  Well, I brought back the cool swag for staff giveaways.  Then I took bits and pieces of information and conversations to move my team and firm forward.  As a result of those discussions, a lot of faith and a talented team, my firm has seen a growth of 200% over the past three years.

So, what am I doing this May?  I’ll see you at #CAPRSA in Las Vegas.

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Is there something better than Groupon?

In Uncategorized on February 4, 2011 at 1:25 pm

There are a lot of people jumping on the Groupon bandwagon.  The discount service provides some tremendous value, helping businesses get rid of excess inventory at a substantial discount to consumers.

Is there something better than Groupon?

The record freeze hitting our country has left travelers stranded and many without heat and water.  In New Mexico, the Governor declared a state of emergency because of scarce natural gas supplies.  This created the perfect storm for price gouging in a variety of different sectors.

The Hotel Albuquerque took a different approach.  Seeing a community in need they offered rooms at $35 a night for families impacted by the natural gas shortage.  For those of you out of town, this is not a “no tell motel”.  The Hotel Albuquerque is an upscale hotel that is host to a variety of community events.

Yes Virginia, there is something better than Groupon and it is called charity.