Song of the week: “MT” by 77s

When it comes to social media connections, quality is SO MUCH MORE important to quantity

When it comes to social media, it’s not able the number of “likes” or “follows,” it’s about how you use them.

Successful community managers need to interact with those who follow the page.

It’s not about selling, it’s about building relationships.

Relationships lead to brand awareness, the potential of new sales and your audience sharing your information with others.

I remember working in restaurants through the 90s in college where “if a customer has a bad experience, they share it with seven others” was drilled into my mind.

From a positive side in the social media world we live in today, how about the power of your customers sharing positive experiences online. There’s a lot of untapped resources here.

It’s important to understand that you have to give someone a reason to like your page.

Content is vital. The information you share must be interesting and fun.

In addition to content, what else can you offer your audience?

The answer may vary depending on your company or organization, but you need to give your audience a reason to listen.

EXTRA, EXTRA - Facebook unveiled a new feature which allows you to read your news feed as a personalized newspaper. Mashable has the details.

NOT VIRAL - A recent report from All Facebook indicates only 2 percent of Facebook posts are shared.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Friday’s View From The Pugh column features communications news and notes. E-mail viewfromthepugh@yahoo.com to submit an item for consideration for a future column).

NICB reports metal thefts increase 81 percent since 2008

A new report from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) confirms what many Americans have learned through news reports and, unfortunately, their own experience that thefts of copper and other metals are occurring all over the nation. The report reviews metal theft claims from January 1, 2009 through December 31, 2011.

The NICB issued an initial report on metal theft in February, 2009. Since then, incidents dropped off slightly, but as today’s report shows, beginning in August, 2009, thefts steadily increased across the nation driven, once again, by rising prices for base metals—especially copper.

Whether the theft is an expensive personal irritant, like finding your catalytic converter has been stolen, or one that threatens public safety, as in the recent theft of copper wiring which blacked out runway approach lights at the Modesto, Calif., regional airport—metal thefts are increasing in frequency and severity.

In an unclassified intelligence assessment first released in 2008 and modified in 2010, the Federal Bureau of Investigation wrote, “Copper thieves are threatening US critical infrastructure…and present a risk to both public safety and national security.”[1]

INSURANCE REMINDER – With spring and National Flood Safety Week upon us, Lieutenant Governor and Department of Insurance Director Mary Taylor is reminding Ohioans that financial protection against flood damage is not included in a standard homeowners or renters insurance policy. Flood coverage has to be purchased separately and there is a 30-day waiting period before it becomes effective.

“Now is the time for Ohioans to evaluate their need for flood insurance and talk with their insurance agent about potentially adding the extra protection,” Taylor said. “Anyone with questions about flood insurance should contact the Ohio Department of Insurance.”

The Department has also created a flood insurance toolkit on its website, www.insurance.ohio.gov, with information such as an agent locater, tips on how to secure coverage, what to do after a flood, and how to file a claim.

Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) in any community that participates in the program. The NFIP website is www.floodsmart.gov and is filled with consumer and agent friendly material. Even though flood insurance is administered by a federal program, private insurers sell the policies. An insurance agent can tell you if your community is part of NFIP and assist in determining if coverage is appropriate and affordable.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Thursday’s View From The Pugh column features upcoming local events. E-mail
viewfromthepugh@yahoo.com to submit an item for consideration for a future column).

Bonus job of the week: Sales position (telemarketing) with Cybervation

Cybervation Inc., a full-service technology firm based in Columbus, Ohio, is looking for an experienced sales position for making outbound Sales Calls to individuals and businesses to sell monthly membership packages and commission job leads for our online product offerings. Individual is expected to sell by phone and by setting in-office sales appointments. Experience with sales for online applications and websites would be a definite plus.

Forward a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to recruiter@cybervationinc.com. Applicants must have over one year of verifiable successful sales experience.

New way to post quickly on WordPress

WordPress announced a new way of publishing posts quickly.

If you’re logged in to the site, officials said “you can create and publish new posts without the leaving the page you’re on. So instead of having to visit your blog’s dashboard each time you want to publish a post, now you can start a new post the very second you’re inspired to create one.”

A company press release indicates all bloggers need to do is click the new post button on the right side of the toolbar to start.

MOTORISTS GETS MOBILE - Motorists Mutual has created a mobile app for policyholders. Policyholders can now download the free app from iTunes if using an Apple product, or from the Android Market if using an Android device.

Motorists Mutual Mobile gives customers instant access to their auto insurance policy information. The app also provides agent information and the ability to submit claims directly from an accident.

Additional features include an accident checklist, agent locator, pay by phone, the ability to view past claims history submitted via the app and more.

LINKEDIN FOR BUSINESS - Business2Community has a great article with advice on how to set up a proper business page on LinkedIn. You can read it here.

NEW ADS ON FACEBOOK – Facebook announced new advertising opportunities for businesses this week on the site. The Cleveland Plain Dealer has a great rundown you can read here.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: Friday’s View From The Pugh column features communications news and notes. E-mail viewfromthepugh@yahoo.com to submit an item for consideration for a future column. Picture is from WordPress e-mail).

Job of the week: Corporate & Foundation Relations Officer at Kent State University

Kent State University, Institutional Advancement Division

The Corporate & Foundation Relations Officer will initiate, develop and coordinate fundraising approaches to secure gifts, grants and donations from corporations and foundations to support university priorities. To maintain a pool of corporate and foundation prospects, both locally and nationally, to generate support for university priorities to meet or exceed established fundraising goals and responsibilities.

The Institutional Advancement office is currently raising funds for The Centennial Campaign, an unprecedented effort to raise substantial new resources for Kent State’s students, faculty and programs. Kent State completed its first major capital campaign in 2003, surpassing a $100-million goal by $22 million.

Kent State University has been selected as one of the 2011 “Great Colleges to Work For” by The Chronicle of Higher Education, the nation’s number one source of news and information about colleges and universities.

Job Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Public Relations, Communications, Marketing or relevant field; minimum of five years progressively responsible experience in development, donor relations or relevant field is required. Experience in higher education administration and corporate and foundation fundraising is preferred.

Information and Application Process Instructions Application Deadline: Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

Application Process: Please apply online at https://jobs.kent.edu or quick link: https://jobs.kent.edu/applicants/Central?quickFind=186059. You will also find a complete job description as well as other open positions in Institutional Advancement. For additional information about the division, visit our website: http://www.kent.edu/advancement/index.cfm

Northeast Ohio – A Great Place to Live and Work! http://www.ercnet.org/neohio/index.htm

Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer

When inquiring or applying for this position, please also reference Academic Careers Online. Applicants with dual-career considerations can find postings of other employment opportunities at this and at other institutions of higher education in the region on www.AcademicCareers.com

To obtain more information or to submit your resume you can contact as shown below. If you apply for this position, please say you saw it first on www.AcademicCareers.com. Thank you.

Job of the week: Digital Marketing Director at Bob Evans

EDITOR’S NOTE: Information about applying for this job can be found here.

Statement of Purpose

This position is responsible for the lead development and execution of the Bob Evans restaurant digital and CRM strategies. Build programs to drive loyalty among users as well as leverage internet as a key marketing tool to acquire target consumers.

Accountabilities

Designs and develops a best-in-class CRM that will drive customer acquisition, increase customer retention and value, drive sales, and generate ROI in its respective categories.

Social Media Channel Management – Manage and grow our Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube presence – measured in fans/followers, interactions, shares, and video views – and begin building our footprint in other channels. Continuous monitoring and moderating of community discussions that occur on our social media sites. Increase engagement via development of interactive, authentic two-way dialogue.

Develop and maintain a longer online/CRM calendar to (12-24 months) active plan.

Manages involvement of agency and digital partners.

Leads ongoing development and implementation of CRM plans and campaigns that achieve customer growth targets through a combination of customer acquisition, conversion and retention strategies into overall annual and long term marketing plans. Create and communicate analysis of email metrics on weekly, monthly and seasonal basis at the program and campaign level.

Pursue and assess CRM email and online advertising programs; optimizing strategies and new promotions to grow. Maximize paid and organic search engine traffic and conversion, while meeting cost per acquisition targets

Collects and analyze data to evaluate Bob Evans digital activity and consumer/digital trends. Identify and monitor competitors and research market conditions or changes in the industry that may affect Bob Evans.

Discover new paths for growth by uncovering and developing new segments, products, and channels.

Performs other job-related duties as may be assigned or required.

Job Requirements:
Knowledge

Self-starter with the ability to thrive under pressure managing multiple projects in a fast paced, changing environment. Proven experience in managing email campaigns for a progressive web company or large brand utilizing industry tools.

General knowledge in internet technologies like HTML, gif, flash, email protocols, etc.

Strong email/web/social media and search engine advertising experience

Strong quantitative and analytical skills

Advanced knowledge of social media marketing best practices including, establishing a voice, VOC/listening, reporting and measurement, and engagement

Significant experience managing outside creative services

Solid PC knowledge including Microsoft Office; Word, Excel and PowerPoint

Basic understanding of Photoshop or similar

Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written

Experience leading social media/online viral marketing campaigns with quantifiable results

Education/Experience

College degree (BA, in business with graduate degree preferred) or equivalent experience

9+ years of marketing experience

2 year minimum of hands-on experience managing online CRM campaigns (agency or client side)

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

This position requires some travel.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools, or controls; climb or balance; and taste or smell.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Job of the week: General Manager at Frontier Communications

Frontier Communications Corporation (NYSE: FTR) offers voice, High-Speed Internet, satellite video, wireless Internet data access, data security solutions, bundled offerings, specialized bundles for small businesses and home offices, and advanced business communications Access Solutions for medium and large businesses in 27 states through more than 14,000 employees. We are a Fortune 500 company, included in the S&P 500 and the largest provider of communications services to rural America. Find out more about our company, product offerings and financial results at www.frontier.com and view our exciting career opportunities at www.frontier.com/careers.

A Frontier General Manager brings life to our Leadership Model focusing on Operations Proficiency, Employee Relations, Community Relations, Competition, and Customer Ownership. From fostering innovation and working cross-functionally to driving performance and delivering results through customer contact and community involvement. This position has direct P&L responsibility and will represent the company within a designated geographic area to promote a positive image by participating in local community events. This position will also provide leadership to supervisory staff and a workforce of field technicians that install and maintain the following: residential and business lines, OSP cable facilities, multi-line CPE equipment, hi-cap access services, broadband services, central office/transmission equipment and digital loop carrier equipment. The individual will successfully drive change through an established, unionized workforce to create a customer focused, competitive workforce. This position also plays a key role with sales, marketing and regulatory organizations in evaluating new business opportunities to determine the appropriate network support costs and timeframes associated with new revenue streams.

Key Responsibilities & Accountabilities:

1. Operations/Sales:

Ability to develop and execute tactical sales & marketing strategies
Comprehensive understanding of the business & directly responsible for P&L
in assigned market
Ability to clearly set, communicate and deliver against goals that drive results
Ability to drive a sales culture
Collaborate with regional staff & provide feedback to improve processes and
customer experience

2. Competitive Marketplace:

Development and execution of market distribution plans
Has thorough understanding of the local competition (products, promotions,
business/sales & marketing strategies) via media outlets, community
involvement & infiltration.
Engages in marketing initiatives to promote the Company’s products and services
(i.e., Frontier Take the Lead and marketing events)

3. Leadership:

Holds team accountable to achieving results through coaching and performance
management
Demonstrated ability to lead and manage diverse workforce
Consistently provides feedback and direction to staff to ensure employee
development, engagement and business knowledge
Leverages all employee communication vehicles and opportunities
(weekly/monthly/quarterly/one-on-ones) to obtain feedback on departmental
goals, gains input on action plans and modifies direction as necessary to
engage and to hold employees accountable to overall business results
Utilizes and leverages existing employee recognition programs to reward key
contributions and positively impact employee morale
Partners with Human Resources to ensure firm, fair and consistent application of
HR practices/policies and labor agreements
Ensures employee advocacy and a positive work environment by listening and
responding to employee feedback, issues and concerns in a timely manner

4. Community Relations:

Positively represents the Company and communicates Company vision and
direction through active engagement and involvement in the community
Leverages community relationships to retain business & identify future business
opportunities.
Ensures continuous education and awareness of community issues/developments
via involvement in local market community boards and civic organizations
Cultivates and strengthens relationships with key politicians and local community
decisions makers via community involvement.
Serve as point person of Frontier to the community, local media and press

5. Customer Ownership:

Supports employees that directly interface with the customers by removing
barriers, soliciting process improvement suggestions and streamlining the work
Holds employees and other departments accountable to meet customer
needs/demands
Responds to issues identified on Customer Surveys, works with teams to ensure
action plans are developed and ensures follow-up on customer issue resolution
identified in action plans

Position Requirements:

7 to 10 years of demonstrated business unit or general management experience
in a communications or related field
Excellent Problem Solving skills and tenacity
Proven success in managing all aspects of a business operation or market with
P&L responsibility and through strong strategic orientation
Solid knowledge of the designated local market with strong community
connections is preferred.
Strong sales and marketing experience required in a recurring revenue/subscription based business or related
field
Demonstrated leadership through change management
Ability to manage effectively in a matrixed environment
Must be able to interact with internal/external customers and various community
leaders to establish long term relationships
Must possess strong leadership & interpersonal skills along with a strong work
ethic
Must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication skills and able to
communicate with all levels of the organization and different audiences – field
technicians, direct reports, senior management, customers, politicians.
Strong public presentation skills
Must possess basic PC skills: Excel, Word, Power Point and Outlook.

Environmental Factors/Physical Requirements:

Must be available in emergency situations as needed
Some travel required and may require driving for long periods of time to remote
locations
Sit for extended periods of time
Use computer keyboard and monitor

Education/Licenses/Proficiencies:

BA/BS in Operations Management or Business Administration preferred
Valid drivers license

Will Pinterest work for marketing?

Another day, another social network.

I’ve joined the craze this week and am checking out Pinterest.

In case you haven’t heard, the relatively new social network is an online pinboard where “you can organize and share things you love.”

The service mostly features pictures, but marketers can share links as well.

I think the service is a natural for companies that feature products, but I’m still researching how the site can benefit companies that feature online services, like NeedNexus, one of the companies where I do marketing.

Need to do some reading on these matters this weekend. If you’re like me and feel you need to catch up on Pinterest, feel free to check out the following links.

How to do Pinterest for marketing

Marketing on Pinterest for Small Business Owners

Ideas For Marketing Your Products Using Pinterest.com

Social Media Marketing with “Pinterest” – In and Out

10 Creative Ways to Use Pinterest for Marketing

The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Pinterest for Marketing

Job of the week: Telemarketing Sales at Cybervation

Do you have an interest in learning the ins and outs of introducing an online web portal? Are you motivated by the challenge of attracting users to an online product offering? Are you interested in gaining experience in and/or building upon your existing skills in the area of online sales and marketing?

If yes, then take a moment to learn more about Cybervation Inc., a full-service technology firm based in Columbus, Ohio. Our services include custom Software Development, fully interactive Web Design and Implementation, Search Engine Optimization, Graphics and Animation, Internet Marketing and Data Processing Solutions and much more. We have experience in all types of environments from enterprise to small and medium business-based applications and solutions. To learn more about Cybervation, please visit us online at: www.cybervationinc.com.

We’re looking for an experienced Telemarketer for making outbound Sales Calls to individuals and businesses to sell monthly subscription packages for NeedNexus, which is one of our online product offerings.

The position pays $10-14 per hour plus a 20 percent sales commission.

Sound like the opportunity for you? Interested in learning more? If so, please forward a cover letter, resume and salary requirements to recruiter@cybervationinc.com.

Applicants must have over one year experience as a telemarketer.