Tag Archive for: networking

Newport Interactive Marketing

Trade Tips & Network at Newport Interactive Marketer’s Open Mic Night!

Network, Learning, Sharing & More at #NIMRI’s Open Mic Tip Night!

After the incredible success of NIM’s Open Mic Tip Nights in the past, we are very excited to once again host an insightful evening of networking, learning & sharing. We’ll be covering topics such as the latest in SEO, social media, project management & more. Join us & experience the collective wisdom the #NIMRI community has to offer, share your own bit of expertise & network with other RI professionals!

What’s involved?

Just 1 quick 2-minute tip that would help other businesses/nonprofits, whether it’s SEO, design, Facebook, time-savings. No powerpoint or anything fancy. Just an opportunity to showcase your brand and your know-how.

This event is not to be missed!

Missed this great talk? Learn more about video & visuals and more via the NIM media library!

Become a NIM $upporting member, if you aren’t already, for access to the vast video library of past presentations and watch from your device at your convenience.

Newport Interactive Marketing

100% networking with PRSA, AMP-RI, and Newport County Chamber Connections

Whether you’re a start-up company or the oldest non-profit in the area, meeting new people & networking can be key. You may find that one person who can build a partnership with your brand, offer essential marketing intel, or connect you to the biggest name in your field.

Join us for an evening of networking and scenic views with the Public Relations Society of America, the Rhode Island chapter of Advertising, Marketing, and Public Relations, and Newport County Chamber Connections. 

Missed this great talk? Learn more about video & visuals and more via the NIM media library!

Become a NIM $upporting member, if you aren’t already, for access to the vast video library of past presentations and watch from your device at your convenience.

 

Be Part of NIM’s New Advisory Board

Advisory Board Forming Now

Have you enjoyed attending NIM events?

Have you made some valuable contacts through NIM?

Have you been exposed to thought leaders in your field?

If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, you might be the right candidate for  an exciting opportunity to join our newly formed Advisory Board. We’re looking for a few creative people to brainstorm for just an hour a month about ways we can leverage our platform to be more beneficial to our members and to take advantage of the incredible resources we have within our group.

NIM was designed to connect, promote and engage like minded people who share an interest in the rapidly changing digital marketing and social media worlds and we did it! 

>We built one of the largest volunteer networking groups in Southern New England

>We meet consistently and have done so over the last 5 years

>We grew our membership to more than 1000 members

Join our Advisory Board if you want to be part of this exciting time in our development and have some ideas to share. Contact Suzanne at Sue@DesignatedEditor.com. 

Travel Bloggers’ Secrets You Can Use: Part 2

 

As promised here is Part 2 of our “Travel Blogger’s Secrets You Can Use” blog post! If you missed Part 1 be sure to click here and check out all the amazing blogging tips we covered in last week’s post. This week we’re talking about the best marketing, monetizing, and travel tips our lovely panelists, Tamara Gruber of We3Travel, Lillie Marshall of Around the World “L”, and Priscilla Pilon of The Weekend in Paris, shared at our August #NIMRI event. So let’s get started!

Top 8 Marketing/Monetizing Tips

1. Soliciting Sponsors: The emphasis should always be on the content you’re creating. “Write it, and they will come,” said Priscilla sagely, “Produce high-quality content, and they will come.”

The Work With Me Section of the We3Travel Website

The Official “Work with Me” section of We3Travel’s About Page

2. Doing Business With Brands: There are a few ways a blogger can work with a brand: being contacted by people to place ads, contacting people to place ads, sponsored posts, or, if you’re lucky, a sponsored trip.“If I work with a brand or do a sponsored post, it has to be something I believe in. Once your audience doesn’t believe you, you’re done,” Priscilla warned.

“Native Advertising, which is when you have content that is already successful and then work with advertisers who would complement that content, can work very well,” said Lillie.

3. Navigating Negativity: It can be very difficult to figure out what to do when you have a bad experience as a blogger, particularly if the trip is a sponsored one. It is especially tricky because, depending on the country’s laws, you could potentially be sued for a negative review. “Contact the PR people and be sure to start with the positive things and then talk about the disappointments,” advised Priscilla, “I always give them a chance to fix it. If they do, I won’t write a bad review. If they don’t, I will offer to not write about it.”

“Steer away from negative content, even though it can be very effective. Everyone gets fired up over a bad review and they like to share it, but it doesn’t reflect very well on you and can get you into trouble,” offered Lillie.

4. Create a Community: “Facebook has become a pay-to-play platform. You can pay $5 to promote a post (and I do that sometimes), but you won’t see a big difference in your analytics. What’s really powerful is to form alliances and private Facebook groups, not just with other travel bloggers. People who like wine, food, lifestyle, even interior design share readers. The cross-pollenization that happens helps everyone grow,” Priscilla said.

5. Know Your Worth: “It depends on your reach and your demographic,” reasoned Tamara, “I have a group of travel blogger friends, and we share that information.”

“This is why you need the group mentality!” proclaimed Priscilla, “Building your blogging network is key. Whatever you do, don’t write a post for someone for free – it brings the rate for everyone down to $0. You’re time is worth something.

“I would argue that there is a value in giving content to high-traffic sites, so it can be OK to do something like that for free as long as there is some ROI. It’s a value to your resume,” Lillie said.

One of We3Travel's Pinterest boards

We3Travel on Pinterest © Photos by Tamara Gruber

6. A Photo’s Worth a Thousand Shares (nope, still not right): “For me, Pinterest is very important. It drives traffic to my site, often more than google,” Tamara shared.

“Be sure to link all of your photos: photos on Google and Pinterest should link to your website and have descriptions,” Priscilla said.

“Selling your photos can also be another source of income,” Lillie pointed out.

The Newport Interactive Marketers' Hootsuite dashboard

Here’s a look at the Newport Interactive Marketers’ Hootsuite dashboard

7. Tally Your Toolbox:  “Don’t be afraid to automate! Hootsuite can schedule your posts at the best time for your demographic. You could write the best blog post ever, but if no one ever reads it, it won’t matter,” explained Lillie. To find out when the ideal time for your demographic is, be sure to check out Tweepi. 

“The Tail Wind app is great for automating Pinterest,” shared Tamara, “Paying a little for the right tools can be worth it.”

Google trends is an invaluable SEO tool,” said Priscilla, “In WordPress there is a feature where you can try a bunch of different options and put them in Google Trends to see where you are in searches.”

Snapchat logo

Snapchat! If you want to learn more about using Snapchat as a blogger, check out AdventurousKate

8. Socialize, Socialize, Socialize (your media, that is):  “Learn and get busy on all social media sites and thank everyone who follows (NOT by direct message),” Priscilla advised.

“The biggest mistake people make is to just stop for an extended period of time on social media,” Lille said, “Be consistent and don’t be afraid to self promote!

“Snapchat is the newest thing people must be on, although it does appeal to a younger demographic,” said Tamara, “Its important to know who your audience is and where to find them.”

 

Top 3 Travel Tips

“Use Trivago or another trip-cost comparison site to look for the lowest fare. Then, take a screenshot and call the hotel. They will always match it, and it’s always better to book through the hotel because they tend to have a better cancellation policy and you also will be eligible for upgrades,” advised Priscilla.

“Tuesday is the best day to book airlines usually,” shared Tamara.

“People would pay a lot of money to stay in your home in beautiful Newport so rent it out on Airbnb to get money for travel and also find places to stay in yourself!” Lillie suggested.

All-Time Favorite Hotel

The Phoenix Resort in Belize

Balcony view from the Phoenix Resort in Belize © Photo by Lillie Marshall

Lillie’s Pick: The Phoenix in Belize “No better place for a babymoon!” 

 Kona Village Resort in Hawaii at Sunrise

The now closed Kona Village Resort in Hawaii © Photo by Tamara Grub

Tamara’s Pick: Kona Village Resort in Hawaii “Unfortunately, after 45 years, this resort was forced to permanently close their doors after the March 2011 tsunami.”

A hammock overlooking the ocean at The Bitter End Resort in BVI

The gorgeous Bitter End Resort in BVI © Photo by Priscilla Pilon

Priscilla’s Pick: The Bitter End in the British Virgin Islands “I’ve never been sponsored to stay at this hotel, but I visit every year!”  

And, of course, we had to ask about their favorite place in Newport! 

Castle Hill Inn from the sea

Castle Hill Inn from the sea © Photo by Priscilla Pilon

Priscilla’s Pick: Castle Hill Inn “They have the best lunch and the best views!” 

hotel viking

The beautiful Hotel Viking (#NIMRI venue sponsor for our annual networking event!) © Photo by Lillie Marshall

Lillie’s Pick: Hotel Viking “This is the place to go to feel like royalty!” 

Here’s what #NIMRI members were saying on Instagram and Twitter: 

 

Great turnout at #NIMRI! A photo posted by Suzanne McDonald (@newportinteract) on

 

 

Learning about travel blogging at #NIMRI at @ParlorNewport. #NewportRI A photo posted by The Newport Blast (@thenewportblast) on

Many thanks to our venue sponsor Parlor Kitchen & Bar

Register for the next #NIMRI event now! 

100% Networking at Newport’s Best Sunset Spot

On July 30th, Newport Interactive Marketers held our annual networking event on the Rooftop of the Hotel Viking, Newport’s Best Sunset Spot, which overlooks Newport Harbor. Unfortunately, we were a bit short on sun but that didn’t stop our #NIMRI members. It was an extraordinary success despite the downpour and having everyone huddled together under the tent just made the networking easier!

Our annual rooftop 100% networking event was co-hosted by:

Here’s some of our favorite moments from that rainy night:

NIM members networking under the tent 2015-07-30 19.26.04

2015-07-30 18.30.08 2015-07-30 18.50.13

All the lovely snacks provided by @HotelViking!

All the lovely snacks provided by @HotelViking!

Such an amazing giveaway! Lucky #NIMRI member Pieter van Gool won 2 tickets to the Newport Jazz Festival and he had a blast!

Such an amazing giveaway! Lucky #NIMRI member Pieter van Gool won 2 tickets to the Newport Jazz Festival and he had a blast!

 

 

2015-07-30 19.35.48

Jameson on the rocks at a rainy #NIMRI. #NewportRI   A photo posted by Drink Newport – Newport, RI (@drinknewport) on

The rain couldn't dampen these #NIMRI members spirits!

The rain couldn’t dampen these #NIMRI members spirits!

 

 

And here’s our lucky winner at the Newport Jazz Festival! 

Many thanks to our venue sponsor Hotel Viking

Newport Interactive Marketing

Trade Tips at Newport Interactive Marketer’s Second Open Mic Night!

After the incredible success of NIM’s first-ever Open Mic Tips Night, we are very excited to once again host an insightful evening of networking, learning & sharing. We’ll be covering topics such as the latest in SEO, social media, project management & more. Come join us and experience the collective wisdom the NIM community has to offer & share your own bit of expertise!

What’s involved?

Just 1 quick 2-minute tips that would help other businesses/nonprofits, whether it’s SEO, design, Facebook, time-savings. No powerpoint or anything fancy. Just an opportunity to showcase your brand and your know-how.

This event is not to be missed!

Missed this great talk? Learn more about video & visuals and more via the NIM media library!

Become a NIM $upporting member, if you aren’t already, for access to the vast video library of past presentations and watch from your device at your convenience.

Eeyore or Elvis?

In an age where we can’t seem to put down our phones, it was nice to hear Gail Lowney Alofsin give a presentation involving face-to-face communication at last week’s Newport Interactive Marketers Networking event.

Newport Interactive Marketers (NIM) was established in 2010 as an assembly of new media talent. NIM attracts speakers from across New England to share their marketing experiences.

Thursday night’s speaker, Gail Lowney Alofsin is the Director of Corporate Partnerships at Newport Harbor Corporation as well as a professor in the Communications Department at URI. Alofsin is also the author of her first book, “Your Someday is Now.”

Alofsin began her speech, drawing philosophy from her book, explaining the power of networking. While giving many helpful tips along the way, here are a few that stuck out to me:

Mindset

Every networker needs to begin with a positive mindset. It is easy to sit back and not take part in something. Particularly when an opportunity allows you to build relationships, Alofsin advises that you check your “whether report.” No, I didn’t make a spelling mistake…the “whether report” is a way to address a situation to decide whether to go or not. Take advantage of any opportunity that comes your way (or make your own opportunities).

Clearly making an impact, newportFILM even used the expression in a tweet, “@sue_DesigEditor glad my “whether report” told me it was going to be friendly & awesome at #NIMRI 😉 THNX for the wise words @gailalofsin!”

Network before you need it: Meeting new people can be fun! Remember to spend time with your colleagues and reinforce current relationships. You never know when you might need them, or whom THEY know.

Screen Shot 2015-03-04 at 12.24.31 PM

You, Inc.: Alofsin also stresses the idea that EVERYTHING communicates. It is important to pay attention to how you present yourself. When networking, try to “disconnect to connect” by putting away your phone and communicating with the people around you.

Screen Shot 2015-03-04 at 12.24.52 PM

Attire, body language, attitude, as well as what you say, all contribute to a person’s perception of you. Are you going to enter a room like an Eeyore or an Elvis? When communicating with people: be present, be interesting, and be your best.

After all of this inspiration, the NIM event also provides its attendees with the opportunity to utilize some of these skills. With over 50 people in attendance, all were able to mingle and create new contacts.

Filled with old-timers, newcomers, and great food…the NIM Networking event was a success!

Gail Alofsin, who works to promote in-person networking to ensure a sincere and organic connection with others to increase professional growth.

Top Tips to Maximize Your 2015 Networking

Another networking event,” “I am tired, do I have to go?” “It’s raining and cold.”

It’s always easy, not to go. However, sincere and organic networking is a crucial element for your personal and professional growth, especially if you’re active on social media, perhaps even more so.

In-person networking cements online relationships and may actually reduce the amount of time you need to spend online. Plus, networking done well builds support and interest in your career or business.

If you enjoy networking or even dread it, you’ll be sure to take away top tips from one of Newport’s best connectors, Gail Alofsin. If you know Gail, you won’t miss her … and if you DON’T know Gail, you need to see her speak. Don’t miss this national keynote speaker on work/life integration and personal leadership, share her top tips to maximize your 2015 networking.

Meet Gail Lowney Alofsin

Gail-Lowney
Gail Alofsin is a lifelong student and educator. The intersection of her personal and professional relationships has served to build a sincere and impactful network. Gail has had the privilege of working for Newport Harbor Corporation for over two decades. Additionally, Gail has served as an adjunct professor at University of Rhode Island since 1999 and is the author of Your Someday is NOW – What are YOU Waiting For?  launched in April 2014. A graduate of Tufts University, Gail serves on the boards of the Martin Luther King Jr. Center and St. Michael’s Country Day School. She has been a volunteer for her family’s foundation, the Haitian Health Foundation, for over three decades.

Missed this great talk? Learn more about video & visuals and more via the NIM media library!

Become a NIM $upporting member, if you aren’t already, for access to the vast video library of past presentations and watch from your device at your convenience.

Sunset Networking with Views of Newport

Newport Interactive Marketers and the Public Relations Society of America hosted close to 200 engaged professionals at their annual networking event on the rooftop of the Hotel Viking on Thursday, July 31 from 6-9 p.m. No speaker in July — but plenty of business cards were exchanged. Attendees connected with area professionals and enjoyed the beautiful views of downtown Newport over drinks. Many thanks to the Hotel Viking for hosting!

Missed this great talk? Learn more about video & visuals and more via the NIM media library!

Become a NIM $upporting member, if you aren’t already, for access to the vast video library of past presentations and watch from your device at your convenience.