Speed dating may or may not be the best way to meet the love of your life. But it turns out that it’s a great way for public relations professionals and journalists to get to know each other! VPM recently hosted an event with the Public Relations Society of America’s Richmond Chapter (PRSA) called ‘Speed Dating with a Journalist’ that gave PR professionals from the Richmond area a chance to meet with and learn from members of the Richmond media.
Check out a slide show of photos (above) for a special look inside the event!
“This event brought together local journalists and communications professionals in a unique and fast-paced way, with the goal of practices pitches, connecting and asking questions about successful media relations strategy,” said Madilynne Tanner, PRSA Richmond’s first vice president of professional development and communications coordinator for state programs at the Virginia Department of Social Services. “I heard such positive feedback from our participants and look forward to offering this type of workshop again in the future.”
On Apr. 9 at VPM’s Sesame St. studios, public relations professionals and journalists gathered for a fast-paced, interactive "speed dating" session. Attendees (the PR professionals) had the opportunity to pitch their stories in short, timed intervals to journalists, or just ask questions, receiving feedback to refine their approach to media relations.
The unique networking opportunity encouraged strong media relationships, gave people the chance to enhance their pitching skills and provided valuable insights into what journalists look for in a story.
Journalists and reporters who attended the event included:
- Christine Winder, Managing Editor, Richmond Family Magazine
- Greg McQuade, CBS 6 Richmond
- Samantha Willis, Virginia Mercury
- Elizabeth Beyer, Cardinal News
- Dawnthea M. Price Lisco, VPM News
- Matthew Kiewiet, Richmond Times-Dispatch
- Sabrina Moreno, Axios Richmond
