IABC Houston Articles RSS Feed

Interactive Workshop Reveals How to Achieve M&A Success

Joshua Pelzer - noemail@iabchouston.com — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 20:00:00 GMT

Business executives throughout the country are not getting what they bargained for from their corporate mergers and acquisitions with financial outcomes almost always falling short of expectations, or even worse.

Statistics from the global accounting firms, including KPMG, show that 80 percent of U.S. companies are failing to realize their fiscal goals in the first year following a merger or acquisition. About half actually lose their value, impacting business deals across every industry and every market.

IABC Houston members have a rare opportunity to get an inside look on how to keep their companies strong following mergers and acquisitions (M&A), when Connie Barnaba speaks on how M&A communications strategies build trust at the organization’s February luncheon.

Barnaba is founder and president of Barnaba & Associates, a Houston-based consulting firm specializing in advising companies on how to assess risk and implement M&A since 2002. She is a certified M&A advisor and global human resources professional with more than 20 years experience.

This seasoned pro is a frequent contributor to the Houston Business Journal on the topic of M&A, and following the IABC Houston luncheon, will share more of her expertise and proven strategies in an interactive two-hour workshop.

Barnaba says companies fail to effectively integrate their business cultures with those of their partners and draws comparisons to what married couples face as they join their lives together.

“All these things that married people do, companies have to do,” she says. “It’s just a lot more complicated.”

Too often, M&A risk assessment gets limited to examining dollar figures without looking at the impact on people who drive performance, Barnaba explains. This creates a “culture clash” with acquired employees who are forced to learn new skills and operations, meet new job expectations, accept changes in benefits or compensation, or even face downsizing. That spells trouble if the communication is not there.

“The imposed changes trigger strong conflicts created by deep-seated cultural differences,” she says. “As a result of these unresolved conflicts, execution of the business strategy is delayed or completely derailed. Companies that make successful acquisitions understand how the integration process will affect people and then communicate with them, train them, and support them through the transition process.”

Barnaba believes that the country’s growing and diverse workforce, globalization of U.S. business, and volatile economic climates will demand new and unique strategies to ensure business agility.

Her book, due out later this year, is titled Going to the Chapel: A Practical Guide to the Risks of Business Marriage, and draws on interviews from over 100 M&A experts. It highlights her findings and lists the best practices for companies considering strategic M&A.

Jan 30, 2012 2:00 PM

How to Break into Technical Writing

Daniel Maddux - noemail@iabchouston.com — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

There are a hundred different variants of technical writing, from maintenance procedures to large-scale proposals. Whatever kind of technical communication you want to get involved in, there are some tried and true ways to get there.

Investigating

The first thing you need to decide is whether or not technical communication is the field for you. It’s not for everyone, and if you aren’t really suited for it, you could be miserable in such a job. On the other hand, the technical communication field might be a perfect fit for you. So how do you figure out if it’s something you want to dive into or not?

It’s a simple task to do some basic investigation.

You might first look at taking a basic technical writing class, such as one of the excellent ones that the University of Houston-Downtown offers.

Also, sitting down to talk to an experienced technical writer is always a great idea. You can get an idea of what the career of a technical communicator might be like, and get advice on how to best pursue your writing career goals. Several experienced technical writers are involved in the Houston chapter of IABC, and you can find other connections at meetings of the Society for Technical Communication (STC).

Getting trained

Once you’ve decided that you want to communicate technical information, you need to expand your skill set, and decide what kind of technical writing you want to produce.

Taking additional technical writing classes, and/or getting a degree in technical writing, can provide you with a very strong foundation for breaking into the field. Programs like the University of Houston-Downtown offer flexible class schedules that allow you to learn according to your own schedule. These classes will teach you the principles and methodology for completing any kind of technical communication project.

Additionally, you need to read, read, read, anything and everything you can related to technical communication. Pick up an issue of Intercom, and get up to speed on what’s going on in the field. Sign up for Jakob Nielsen’s useit.com newsletter, so you can keep up with how to communicate information clearly online. There are many other valuable resources for getting expert knowledge about technical communication.

The training you go through will also give you some direction as to what kind of technical writing you want to do. Technical communication is such a broad field. You might love working as a member of a large proposal team, for example, but perhaps you’d be bored to death putting together software manuals.

Getting a job

Once you’re decided to get involved in technical writing, and you’ve prepared yourself for the field, you have several good options for getting a job doing the kind of technical writing you want to do.

If you’re looking for general technical writing experience, consider applying for a job with one of the larger writing firms around town. These companies are often looking for entry-level talent with good writing skills. If you’ve gotten some technical writing training, and can show that you can learn what you need to learn, you’ll be set up well for one of these jobs.

If you have prior experience in a particular field, you can often parlay that into a technical writing job. For example, oil and gas companies have a fetish for technical writers with some experience with oil and gas-related work.

Find one or more good recruiters to get your resume out to the right people. You can make contact with some good technical writing recruiters at the STC networking meetings. If you’ve figured out that you want to do a particular kind of technical writing, get involved in organizations that support that kind of work. For example, if you want to write proposals, the Association of Proposal Management Professionals is a great place to make high-quality connections.

Questions? Comments? Give me a buzz!

Jan 30, 2012 2:00 AM

February is Membership Month: Are You on the Fence?

Sylvester Garza - noemail@iabchouston.com — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

If you’ve been exploring, researching, thinking about, pondering, contemplating or reflecting upon joining IABC Houston, now is the time for action.

Well, actually, anytime during the upcoming month. You can save $40 by joining IABC in February. I did!

As a fiscally responsible solo practitioner, I wanted to get the most bang for my buck. Having been an IABC member back in the day, I wanted to re-join. So in 2010, after researching the options (e.g., American Marketing Association, Public Relations Society of America), I decided to join the group that I felt had the most value. From the standpoint of cost of membership versus the benefits of membership, IABC Houston brings home the bacon by providing local resources, networking opportunities, professional development, and national as well as international contacts and events.

Plus, as a member, I have become part of a global community of communicators. I’ve been fortunate enough over the past two years to meet professional communicators from all over the world.

Many of my new “big business” corporate colleagues have also mentioned the ease of locating an experienced vendor for outsourced projects by utilizing the IABC Entrepreneur Special Interest Group (ESIG) and the IABC Marketplace directory. They also network within IABC Houston to help identify prospective new employees.

So, whether you are a Fortune 100/500 communicator with a real job, or an experienced solo communications practitioner, you will find value in joining the professional communicator community within IABC Houston.

So here’s the deal:

During the month of February, IABC Houston waives its $40 application fee. So instead of paying $339 for membership within IABC International and the local Houston chapter, the fee is only is $299.

The most convenient way to get this discount is to join online.

If you still have a fax machine and want to use a real pen and actually fill out a paper application, we have that technology too. Download the membership application here.

Feel free to call me if you want to talk with a real person about IABC, and I will enthusiastically and passionately answer any questions you may have regarding the benefits of membership in our organization.

Jan 30, 2012 2:00 AM

2012 Bronze Quill Call for Entries

Elaine Krause - noemail@iabchouston.com — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 23:00:00 GMT

Bronze means something.

Yeah, we know. There are shinier, more precious metals. But the Houston Bronze Quill represents the best of the best.

The IABC Houston Bronze Quill competition is Houston's gold standard. You can be sure your work will be evaluated by some of the top communicators in the country. Walking away with a Bronze, in this town, is a very big deal. You can be very proud of what you accomplished; your boss or clients will be impressed, and itʼs a nice addition to your resume or portfolio.

SO . . . what are you waiting for? We know you have a project or two you were proud of in 2011. All thatʼs left is to fill out an entry form, then sit back and wait for the kudos to roll in.

Download the 2012 Call for Entries .pdf here.

Access the 2012 Bronze Quill Entry Form here.

Entry Fees & Deadlines

	EARLY BIRD Deadline Thursday 23 February 2012	FINAL Deadline Monday 1 March 2012
Member first entry	$80	$105
Member additional entries	$65	$90
Non-member first entry	$105	$125
Non-member additional entries	$90	$110
Student member each entry	$20	$30
Student non-member each entry	$35	$45

Reserve Your Seats for the Bronze Quill Gala!
May 8, 2012

We have some great plans in the works for this yearʼs presentation dinner – to make it more truly a GALA. Weʼre sure youʼll love our choice for Executive Communicator of the Year, the redesigned Entry Showcase and some truly unique musical entertainment.

The bottom line: weʼre committed to making our awards presentation event as polished and professional as the people and companies we will honor. Weʼre “kickinʼ it up a notch,” and we hope youʼll join us for this special evening. Until midnight on March 1, receive a discount on all tickets (to include Table Tickets) to the Gala and Preview Showcase by purchasing them before the competition entry deadline!

The Gala will be held on Tuesday, May 8, 2012 at The Junior League of Houston. Lowest prices for those who register by March 1!

Click here to register.

Jan 20, 2012 5:00 PM

Give the People What They Want

Alise Isbell - noemail@iabchouston.com — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

If you’re involved in numerous professional organizations, you may feel as if you’ve heard presentations on some of the same career development topics too many times to count. Within IABC Houston, we’re always thinking of ways to bring fresh ideas to our members, giving them top value for their time and money.

Recent survey feedback from IABC Houston members compelled me to slightly modify the approach for our 2012 programming. Our overall objective is to bring in dynamic presenters that are experts on topics that our audience wants to hear about. This may sound simple, but part of our challenge as a volunteer organization is attracting high-profile speakers while remaining fiscally responsible. Another chapter focus is to bolster IABC Houston’s sponsorships to help companies gain visibility. Ideally, meeting our two goals will result in a win-win for everyone.

With a corporate concentration and an entrepreneurial spin, the first four luncheons of the year offer rich content to a wide audience. The January program showcases two well-known firms and their best practices. Anadarko will demonstrate their process for creating an online newsletter. This might seem basic, but understanding the planning, implementation and evaluation of such an endeavor is serious business, complex at the least. Also in this month’s program, we will hear from Keystone Resources, who designed an award-winning direct mail piece, another task with a deceptively simple result, but dauntingly detailed in its design and delivery. Both companies made the most out of these projects, winning accolades both within and outside their organizations.

In February, Connie Barnaba, a human resources professional and well-known Houston Business Journal columnist, will shed light on the importance of communication during mergers and acquisitions. I’m sure many of our members can attest to having observed or been involved in a merger setting where there were many unknowns, and not much forthcoming information. The real nuts and bolts of how to communicate will be revealed by Connie in a two-hour workshop following lunch.

Patrick Knapp of Baker Hughes, an expert in navigating delicate crisis situations, will join us at the March luncheon to share the ins and outs of how to best handle a crisis from inside the organization. From locating employees to creating on-message and accurate communications, this will be a fascinating program.

April brings us Christi McNeill of Southwest Airlines, whose corporate social media outreach is top notch. Christi will show how her organization leverages social media platforms internally and externally to create their famous positive customer experience. We have lots to learn from such an innovative company.

The topics for the remainder of the 2012 luncheons are still being confirmed, but to give you a taste of what’s to come, we are working on programs highlighting external crisis communications, change communication, sports rebranding, and how area hospitals deal with medical issues among celebrity patients, to name a few.

Join us for lunch on the fourth Thursday of every month. We’ll make it worth your while!

Jan 11, 2012 6:00 PM

iPhones, iPads and SmartPhones, Oh My!

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 19:00:00 GMT

IABC Houston’s monthly luncheons are always great reminders to those of us who are communicators that technology and the internet are critical tools that we must master in order to be successful in our careers. Now that mobile devices are dominating the sphere of website browsing and internet activity, it is extremely important that communicators know the ins and outs of mobile websites, and why they’re important.

Companies are now allowing employees to use iPhones, iPads and SmartPhones for work. This is an exciting time for those of us who carry the iPhone as their personal device. As a result of the new policies, communicators like myself who manage global websites are embarking upon new trends. In addition to focusing on maintaining current and aesthetically appealing internal websites, we are now focusing our efforts on creating mobile versions of websites. Creating a mobile version of a desktop-accessed website is like taking a jumbo umbrella, folding it and putting it into a small purse. In short, it’s a huge undertaking that requires a lot of thought, careful planning and user testing.

The W3C (World Wide Web Consortium) recommends that, as far as is reasonable, the same information and services that are available from a desktop website, should be available to users on a mobile site. Of course, there are some exceptions provided given the fact that mobile devices are smaller, have less viewing space and should allow for an optimal experience for the user. So, again, think: jumbo umbrella - small purse.

If you’re a business owner, entrepreneur or corporate communicator who has decided to make the leap into mobilizing your full website, remember that the process is a marathon and not a sprint, so take your time, and let the journey begin.

Stay tuned for a future article from Allyson detailing the process for how to audit your website and make it “mobile ready”!

Nov 30, 2011 1:00 PM

Back by Popular Demand: Member-Get-a-Member

Elaine Krause - noemail@iabchouston.com — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Word of mouth has long been a great marketing tool for IABC and for other organizations as well. Here's a chance to put it to work in trimming your annual membership dues AND helping us grow the Houston chapter. The promotion begins on December 1, 2011 and runs through the last day of the month.

Many IABC members join because a respected colleague recommended IABC membership. That's why IABC International is bringing back the popular Member-Get-A-Member promotion. Members who recruit new professional members get three free months of membership for each new member they bring in: up to one full year's membership.

Just Four Rules

1. The new member must identify the referring member in one of the following ways:

For mailed, faxed and online enrollments: Write the referring member's first and last name and chapter (or region if he or she is a member-at-large) on the application form.
For phoned enrollments: Mention the referring member's first and last name and chapter (or region if he or she is a member-at-large).

In other words, your name must be provided at the same time the check or credit card number is received to be eligible. We cannot apply credit if your name isn't mentioned, so please be sure it is. We want everyone to benefit from their efforts.

2. The new member must not have been an IABC member since August 1, 2011.

3. The limit for this promotion is four members, which would provide the referring member with a full year of membership at no charge. For members who already have lifetime membership (e.g., 500 Club members), you can donate your free months to the member of your choice, even the member you referred.

4. The new member must be a professional member (not a student member), although recruiting members can be any type.

Follow this link to help your friends become members and to renew your own dues as well.

Nov 28, 2011 6:00 PM

What To Do When the Product is YOU: Houston marketing pros share ideas for promoting themselves

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 15:00:00 GMT

Meeting Update: ESIG for business communications entrepreneurs in Houston

By Richard Cunningham

Go ahead, push yourself. That’s the message from Alise Isbell, an IABC member. Isbell revealed her own self-promotion best practices and invited participants to share theirs at the November ESIG luncheon for business communications entrepreneurs in Houston.

View presentation on Slideshare

Among the top tips: Stay visible by publishing articles in trade journals and entering professional contests. Participate in trade shows, sponsor events and make yourself available as a speaker. Take time to volunteer. When people ask what you do, have an “elevator pitch” you can deliver in 10 or 20 seconds, and when you’ve got more time, talk to people about your current projects and get their input.

“Be super clear about your products and services,” Isbell said, “you’ll be surprised how often even close friends don’t realize all that you can do. It’s very important to communicate to others how your company is the solution.”

Networking is high on the list.Get out, get on line and meet people, then follow up. Ask for referrals and give them. Let potential clients know you’re an expert in your field, and constantly strive to promote your brand. Make sure every e-mail or note you send includes your contact information.

Your approach, of course, depends on your business goals. The range is huge. Are you looking for part-time work or are you building a company you might sell someday? Do you prefer working on your own, or do you want a full-time staff?

“Even if your goals change over time, you must have a clear self-promotion plan,” Isbell said. “If those pieces aren’t in line, if you don’t have a clear plan, your self-promotion is going to be amateurish, because you don’t have a good foundation. It’s going to be a house of cards instead of a nicely-built estate.”

Next month > ESIG Christmas Party

The Entrepreneurs Strategic Interest Group (ESIG) is chartered by IABC/Houston to address the challenges and rewards of small business ownership in the field of business communications. Houston entrepreneurs in the area of business communications are invited to visit and learn about the benefits of IABC membership.

Nov 11, 2011 9:00 AM

What Is A Technical Communicator?

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 11:00:00 GMT

In the Houston chapter of IABC, there is a broad mix of professionals that communicate marketing information, public relations information, and other kinds of business information. There are also a few of us technical communicators scattered throughout the ranks of our chapter.

But what is a technical communicator? That's the question I'm asked at every dinner party and networking event I attend. "You're a technical communicator ... so, what do you do?"

To some extent, communicating technical information is the same as communicating any other kind of business information. The technical communicator's main responsibilities involve analyzing the document's audience and purpose, and ensuring that the information meets the audience's needs. The technical communicator also must ensure that documents have a consistent voice. Aren't those tasks key in all types of communication?

But there are some key differences between technical communication, and other kinds of business communication.

Technical communication is focused directly on getting work done. This is the fundamental challenge that initially attracted me to the field. Does this document really help a person understand the company's policies, inspect a gas transmission line, or do whatever it is that the person needs to do?

As a result of the first difference, we produce different deliverables than other business communicators. Does creating procedures, manuals, and policy documents sound like a thrilling job for you? Probably not. But it can be for a technical communicator.

Technical communicators' work processes are different. We are charged with building bridges from sources of technical information to various audiences. We translate information from an engineer or accountant, so that the recipients can understand and use it, whether the recipients are other experts, company executives, or members of the general public.

Technical communicators themselves tend to have a different makeup than other kinds of business communicators. We tend to be more introverted and analytical. At least in the early stages of our careers, we tend to be behind the scenes, making businesses run more efficiently, rather than being figureheads out in front. After all, it can take some solitude and deep thinking to turn a chaotic jumble of complex information into an organized, well-written set of documents that people can really use.

So what do you do if you want to get involved in technical communication? You've got several options at your fingertips.

Check out local organizations that focus on technical communication, like the Society for Technical Communication, or the American Medical Writers Association. You'll find some great opportunities to learn more about the profession, and to begin working on technical communication projects.

Think about getting some formal technical writing training. Some people say a good writer can write anything, and that's partially true. But you need to equip yourself for the unique challenges that technical information presents. Just because you can write a smashing press release does NOT mean you can put together a usable procedure.

Educate yourself. There are many valuable resources, online and in print, for learning how to write and organize technical content. I'll recommend these two to start: Jakob Nielsen's usability research, and the Chicago Manual of Style ("The Technical Communicator's Bible," as I call it).

Remember that most technical communicators don't get into the profession on purpose. So no one's going to expect you to have wanted to write technical documents since you were five years old. As long as you can pick up the skills you need, you will have opportunities.

I hope this helps you understand what's unique about the work of a technical communicator. Maybe I'll get fewer blank stares the next time I tell someone what I do for a living!

Nov 7, 2011 5:00 AM

Relationship Marketing: Turning Employees, Vendors and Customers Into Raving Fans

Maegan Clemens - noemail@iabchouston.com — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 11:00:00 GMT

When it comes to the success of an organization or company, there is one key ingredient! It’s strong relationships you create between employees, vendors, clients and customers that truly determine the life of your business.

“Understand the relationships you have with your employees first, because core values drive people to be successful,” said Jay Steinfeld, founder of Blinds.com.

No matter what, every organization benefits from a clear vision and mission. If you are not clear about where you are going or how you are going to help people get there, your company is going to be ineffective. You have to understand people’s motives, success and what drives them.

Steinfeld goes on to say customer relationship marketing is about benchmarking expectations. How do you define success? What does successful relationship marketing mean to you? It’s important to know where you stand, especially as you employ new tactics and strategies to find out if they are working.

Some benchmarks to look at include your customer satisfaction scores, how quickly are you answering emails, checking if the manufacturer deliveries are on time, finding out your repeat and referral rate, and knowing if you have a high employee turnover rate. Using these metrics and others will help you identify improvements that need to be made.

Join IABC Houston at the November 17 luncheon to learn more relationship marketing strategies and find out what the Blinds.com story can teach you. Register here today!

Nov 7, 2011 5:00 AM

Take Control of Your Branding Messages, Even in the Digital Age

Maegan Clemens - noemail@iabchouston.com — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

When it comes to brand management, what channels have you been using to manage your company dialogue? With any medium, you have to be proactive, especially when it comes to using social media. It’s also important to deliver a consistent brand message by incorporating online and offline techniques.

“For the most part, the things happening online are a mirror of what is happening offline. So, if we are building relationships interpersonally, over lunch, in a somewhat similar context we can build them online using technology to manage the relationships," said Chris Conant, founder of More Cabbage. "However, don’t dismiss new technology as being artificial or subservient to real relationships. For a lot of people, that is relationships. There are changes afoot and this has become a new communication method for people to build relationships.”

An important component of brand management is transparency, because conversations about your company's brand are taking place all the time.

“Not answering a negative comment on Twitter, LinkedIn or Facebook is like having a customer service phone and not picking it up. Transparency is where it gets more complex and traditionally, corporations have kept cards close to chest. Social media comes with sets of philosophes about being open companies and understanding change happens,” said Conant.

So what do you do if you are a small business that is hesitant to get involved in social media?

“First, I recommend small businesses get a smartphone or iPhone and download key applications for Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Then, start to build up a network. I am certain the network of relationships we build now are potentially our prospect base within the next two to three years. Also, this is where we will pull our future employees and vendors, and meet other people,“ said Conant.

To hear how companies are using conversations and social PR to solidify their brand and build a loyal customer base, attend the October 27 luncheon with guest speaker, Chris Conant. Or, for anyone who doesn’t believe in what social media can do, anyone who has dabbled with networking applications a bit, or for anyone who is responsible for a corporate brand, register for the October 27 luncheon AND workshop. You will come out compelled and take away a lot of “ah ha” experiences, review case studies and learn how to get “socially” connected. Sign up today!

Oct 10, 2011 3:00 AM

PR Day 2011 is Oct. 26! Register Today!

Paula Ruth - noemail@iabchouston.com — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Join hundreds of Houston-area PR professionals for this exciting, one-day conference focusing on trust and the PR professional. Register here.

Hosted by PRSA Houston, PR Day is a chance to enhance your career by building your networks and keeping up with industry best practices and the latest tools of the trade.

Theme:   A Matter of Trust
Date:         Wednesday, Oct. 26, 2011
Time:         7:30 am - 4:00 pm
Location: Reliant Center, One Reliant Park

Oct 5, 2011 5:00 PM

Communications Leadership Award 2012 -- Nominations Date Moved WAY Up

Elaine Krause - noemail@iabchouston.com — Wed, 05 Oct 2011 21:00:00 GMT

Each year IABC Houston recognizes a top-level business or organizational leader who displays understanding and active support of communication. Watch for a call for entries, to be released in the next week or so, with a submission deadline of November 30, 2011.

The nomination process is being expedited for a number of reasons, primarily to ensure our chosen winner might be able to attend the Bronze Quill event and receive our congratulations in person.

You’re invited to nominate an exemplary communicator at the executive level of your organization. Nominees must:

Be an active senior management official (communication and public relations professionals are ineligible).
Have demonstrated solid understanding and support of communication within his or her organization and have the highest professional and ethical standards in fulfilling his or her responsibilities.

Previous winners include:

2011 – James L. (Jim) Gallogly, Chief Executive Officer of LyondellBasell
2010 – Bob Hale, President and CEO, Houston Association of REALTORS®, and Greg Garland President and CEO, Chevron Phillips Chemical
2009 – John C. Sheptor, President & CEO, Imperial Sugar Company
2008 – Dr. Giuseppe Colasurdo, Dean of the University of Texas Medical School at Houston
2007 – John D. Hofmeister, President of Shell Oil Company
2006 – J. William "Bill" Boyar, Chairman of BOYARMILLER
2005 – Clark Baker, President and CEO of YMCA of Greater Houston
2004 – John D. Stobo, M.D., President of the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston
2003 – Jacqueline S. Martin, President, United Way of the Texas Gulf Coast
2002 – Steve Miller, Chief Executive Officer, Shell Oil Company
2001 – Kirbyjon Caldwell, Senior Pastor, Windsor Village United Methodist Church

Oct 5, 2011 4:00 PM

Speed Dating: It's Not Just For Singles

Karin Knapp - noemail@iabchouston.com — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 11:00:00 GMT

Communications Entrepreneurs Enjoy Rapid Networking Format

By Karin Knapp

ESIG writers, designers, photographers and PR pros find potential partners over appetizers at business communications networking luncheon

Freelancers and business owners caught up on colleagues’ portfolios and capabilities in a fast-paced format at the September ESIG meeting. Members shared their work samples, latest accomplishments and project wish lists for six minutes before changing partners, honing elevator speeches and identifying talent for future projects along the way. LaGriglia’s portable savory appetizers and sweet dessert bites made it easy to eat on the go.

Everyone agreed that the format was less intimidating and more fun than it sounded. Whether it’s called Show and Tell or Portfolio Day, ESIG members want to make this an annual event to stay current on how we can help each other with referrals and work partnerships.

Check out this video and see for yourself!

Video by Tracy Torma

“I learned some amazing things about people and connected some dots today. And we learned some ways we can help one another.” -- Susan Burnell, APR

“...an opportunity to know more about what my fellow communicators are doing...I may get some new business and I may be able to pass along some assistance.” -- Alice Brink, ABC, APR

“Everybody's business changes...it's so important to get in with people touch and find out what their new directions are.” -- Ben Wheatley, ABC, APR

The Entrepreneurs Strategic Interest Group (ESIG) is chartered by IABC Houston to address the challenges and rewards of small business ownership in the field of business communications. Houston entrepreneurs in the area of business communications are invited to visit and learn about the benefits of IABC membership.

Sep 19, 2011 6:00 AM

Accreditation Q&A at Brennan's on Sept. 22

Elaine Krause - noemail@iabchouston.com — Tue, 13 Sep 2011 21:00:00 GMT

IABC Accreditation Co-Chairs April Canik, ABC, and Patricia Schroeder, ABC, will be meeting with anyone interested in becoming accredited or anyone "still on the fence," following our next chapter luncheon.

Those who meet the requirements of the program earn the designation Accredited Business Communicator (ABC). And, when you put those three letters after your name, not only will your momma be bragging, but Aretha Franklin might even belt out her famous song in your honor: R-E-S-P-E-C-T!

What is the value of accreditation? Key findings from an international study conducted for IABC indicate that:

ABCs add strategic value to their organizations and clients by practicing strategic communication management.
ABCs increase credibility and respect to themselves, their departments and organizations, and the communication profession.

Read the Value of Accreditation Report on www.iabc.com. You can begin the process right here in Houston with help from our accredited members. For starters, check our the article on accreditation here, of hear what Ben Wheatley has to say in the YouTube clip on our home page.

Sep 13, 2011 4:00 PM

The Next New Thing(s)

Elaine Krause - noemail@iabchouston.com — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 22:00:00 GMT

by Elaine W Krause

There's a great new photo studio in town, the Photobooth on Montrose, and I found it while eating a po-boy next door.

In a space formerly occupied by a dry cleaner, owner Simon Gentry plans to shoot portraits there during the day and host art and fashion shows, dance and performance artists at night. He's already making waves around town.

What struck me was the quick repsonse code -- and Gentry's creative use of it. It's posted prominently on all sides of the space -- as a design element, not just for information. We're seeing more and more of these in magazines, on business cards and realty signs, to convey a variety of "quick snippets" about a company or person.

Is your organization using QR codes in creative new ways? If so, let us hear from you here -- post a comment and tell us your thoughts.

And if you'd like to know more about the technology, Mashable online is a great place to start. Here's an op-ed piece with some tips on how advertisers can get the most from this new technology: Why QR Codes Will Go Mainstream.

Sep 8, 2011 5:00 PM

September Is a GREAT Opportunity for Corporate Groups

Marie Coppola - noemail@iabchouston.com — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:00:00 GMT

September is Membership Month for IABC International and Maria Coppola, Director of Corporate Packages, tells us special discounts (for the month of September only) are available for groups of five or more.

Enrolling your communication team in IABC heightens your team’s contribution to your organization and increases your employees’ engagement. And, by joining as a group, you get discounted membership dues.

In addition to savings on dues and the regular benefits of membership, corporate membership includes greater discounts on World Conference registration fees, Job Board postings, IABC publications, and the convenience of being able to renew as a group once a year. Corporate member organizations also receive a listing on IABC’s website with a link to the company URL.

Any company with five or more IABC members can become a corporate member. Members may be in any location. The transfer of membership option allows you to replace any member who leaves your company with another employee at no charge (within the first nine months of the membership year), which protects your investment.

It is easy to combine current and new members in a group. IABC prorates dues of current members so you won’t pay twice for any portion of the membership.

There are three levels of corporate membership. The larger the group, the greater the discount.

· 4 BRONZE (5–15 members) offers a 5 percent discount on international membership dues.

· 4 SILVER (16–30 members) offers a 7.5 percent discount on international membership dues.

· 4 GOLD (31+ members) offers a 10 percent discount on international membership dues.

For the month of September, extra discounts are available.

To inquire about corporate discounts, or to start a dialogue, contact Director of Corporate Packages Maria Coppola.

Sep 6, 2011 5:00 AM

Calling all Volunteers

Elaine Krause - noemail@iabchouston.com — Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:00:00 GMT

Seriously, we need you. IABC Houston is one of the largest chapters in the country, with a lot of “moving parts” to running a chapter this size. If you have an hour (or more) a week to pay-it-forward in some way, there are myriad ways to “plug in” and help us make a difference.

You can offer your honed skills, the things you're best at, and receive acclaim and recognition for your effort. Or, if you prefer, you can dip a toe into some new areas of PR/marketing to expand your portfolio.

Take a look to see which of our activities or projects might have your name on them. You do NOT need to be a member to volunteer. In fact, it’s a great way to get to know us better.

· External communications / media relations
· Event planning (annual Bronze Quill Gala)
· Judging Bronze Quill award entries for other chapters
· ABC’s: accreditation mentoring and portfolio review
· Mentoring new communicators; resume review
· Volunteer recruitment
· Interface / welcome activities for new members
· YouTube / video content from our meetings and events
· Copy editing for the web and print (articles, case studies, post-event write-ups)
· Program planning committee
· Greeters / table captains at events
· Social / mixers planning and welcoming
· Community / non-profit outreach activities

Have new ideas from other chapters or organizations you belong to?? We’d love to hear ‘em, and we’d love to have your help. Contact Elaine W Krause, President, or Sylvester Garza, VP for Member Services, to help us do more for our members and community.

Sep 6, 2011 5:00 AM

New on the IABC Houston Job Bank

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:00:00 GMT

The IABC Houston Job Bank has four new listings!

Job seekers, here are the latest we’ve received:
* Internal Communications Specialist for Texas Children’s Hospital

* Director, Communication Operations for University of Texas Medical Branch

* Web Communications Specialist for Baylor College of Medicine

* Internal Communications Specialist for Amicus Energy Search

Remember, IABC members can post their resumes on our site as well. Just go to Add a New Resume to add yours. There is no charge to post a resume, but only IABC members may post – it's a privilege of membership.

Employers, IABC Houston's Job Bank is one of the first places job seekers look in their search. The cost to post your job opening is only $90 for three months, for which you reach all our members as well as non-member subscribers to our newsletter and visitors to our events – some 3,000 people all in the local Houston community.

For more information, visit About the Job Bank ... or to check resumes of available candidates, go to Search Resumes.

Sep 6, 2011 5:00 AM

R-E-S-P-E-C-T, that's what an ABC means to me!

April Canik - noemail@iabchouston.com — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 10:00:00 GMT

What have you done lately to "make your mama proud"? Have you taken action to further your career in a job market that gets iffier by the day? IABC's Accreditation program is a litmus test to demonstrate to yourself and others that you have what it takes to think strategically and implement effectively. Who wouldn't like a little more respect?

Those who meet the requirements of the program earn the designation Accredited Business Communicator (ABC). And, when you put those three letters after your name, not only will your momma be bragging, but Aretha Franklin might even belt out her famous song in your honor.

What is the value of accreditation? Key findings from an international study conducted for IABC indicate that:

· ABCs add strategic value to their organizations and clients by practicing strategic communication management.

· ABCs increase credibility and respect to themselves, their departments and organizations, and the communication profession.

Read the Value of Accreditation Report on www.iabc.com. You can begin the process right here in Houston with help from our accredited members. For starters, visit www.iabchouston.com/Accreditation for details, contacts and our chapter's fee reimbursement offer.

April Canik, ABC, two-term Houston IABC chapter president is chairing this professional development program this year.

Aug 29, 2011 5:00 AM

IABC Houston Articles RSS Feed

Interactive Workshop Reveals How to Achieve M&A Success

How to Break into Technical Writing

February is Membership Month: Are You on the Fence?

2012 Bronze Quill Call for Entries

Bronze means something.

Entry Fees & Deadlines

EARLY BIRD Deadline Thursday 23 February 2012

FINAL Deadline Monday 1 March 2012

Member first entry

Member additional entries

Non-member first entry

Non-member additional entries

Student member each entry

Student non-member each entry

Reserve Your Seats for the Bronze Quill Gala! May 8, 2012

Give the People What They Want

iPhones, iPads and SmartPhones, Oh My!

Back by Popular Demand: Member-Get-a-Member

Just Four Rules

What To Do When the Product is YOU: Houston marketing pros share ideas for promoting themselves

Meeting Update: ESIG for business communications entrepreneurs in Houston

What Is A Technical Communicator?

Relationship Marketing: Turning Employees, Vendors and Customers Into Raving Fans

Take Control of Your Branding Messages, Even in the Digital Age

PR Day 2011 is Oct. 26! Register Today!

Communications Leadership Award 2012 -- Nominations Date Moved WAY Up

Speed Dating: It's Not Just For Singles

Communications Entrepreneurs Enjoy Rapid Networking Format

Accreditation Q&A at Brennan's on Sept. 22

The Next New Thing(s)

September Is a GREAT Opportunity for Corporate Groups

Calling all Volunteers

New on the IABC Houston Job Bank

R-E-S-P-E-C-T, that's what an ABC means to me!

EARLY BIRD Deadline
Thursday
23 February 2012

FINAL Deadline
Monday
1 March 2012

Reserve Your Seats for the Bronze Quill Gala!
May 8, 2012