Strategy First!

by Frank L. Williams In the past, I’ve occasionally gotten strange looks from clients when I ask about their big-picture business or organizational goals. One even seemed a bit defensive and asked me why I wanted to know. The reason is simple: EVERY communication program or activity should be designed to move you toward your…

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Connecting Communication with Strategy

by Frank L. Williams Throughout my career as a public relations professional, I’ve adhered to a belief that effective communication flows from a solid strategy. Every communication activity should be designed, planned, and executed to help advance a larger business goal. Unfortunately, in far too many organizations, communication “programs” are anything but programs. They are…

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The Dangers of a Communication-Strategy Disconnect

by Frank L. Williams Throughout my career as a public relations professional, I’ve adhered to a belief that effective communication flows from a solid strategy. Every communication activity should be designed, planned, and executed to help advance a larger business goal. Unfortunately, in far too many organizations, communication “programs” are anything but programs. They are…

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A Plan on a Shelf

by Frank L. Williams Does your business, association or non-profit organization have a well-thought-out strategic plan, communication strategy, or crisis communication plan sitting on a shelf collecting dust? Over the years I’ve been involved with organizations and worked with clients who fell into this trap. In some cases, they invested countless hours developing a well-thought-out…

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The Power of Social Engagement

by Frank L. Williams Earlier this month, my wife and I attended the largest promotional products trade show in the world, the Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) Expo in Las Vegas. We were there to gain ideas for how to grow Pioneer Specialties, our promotional products business and a sister company to Pioneer Strategies. Additionally,…

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Take 2023 by the Horns

by Frank L. Williams I’ve often heard that time passes faster as you get older. If 2022 is an indicator, this statement is indisputably true. It’s hard for me to fathom that 2023 is only a few days away. The passage of time from one year to the next is a time of reflection for…

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The Value of Patience

by Frank L. Williams Patience is one of the foundational keys to success in public relations, branding, networking, and countless other areas. However, we live in a “show me the quick-fix” world in which nearly everyone wants instant results from processes that naturally take time. Many years ago, one of my clients decided to purchase…

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