Facebook Website Shut Down for Mobile Growth

Facebook took a leap of faith, shutting down its site internally in an effort to focus staff attention on increasing mobile app users. The experiment worked. Now, more than 70% of Facebook users use the mobile app.

"Basically it forced us to use only mobile devices for a week…It forced us to say, 'Hey, we have these features that exist in one place but not in another, and we have to remedy'," explains Facebook product manager Josh Williams.

Employees were encouraged to trade in their iPhones for Androids to better represent the majority of Facebook mobile users.

This case study highlights the importance of thinking like the end-user.

Source: http://www.fastcompany.com/3007314/tech-forecast/facebook-turns-website-internally-force-mobile-development

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A Documentary about the Student Loan Debt Crisis

I had the unbelievable opportunity to work alongside Professor Bill Gentile, American University, this semester to create a documentary about the student loan debt crisis. Gentile has made documentaries for Discovery, National Geographic, ABC Nightline, C-SPAN, PBS and several other major news outlets. 

Check it out!

NBC In Need of Olympic Sized Overhaul

Short & Sweet

The average attention span has decreased with the rise of technology - we hear this over and over again in the PR world. It's hard to focus solely on one screen. People don't just watch TV, they watch TV with a computer on their lap and a phone in hand. It's rare that people use one screen independently of the others. 

What does this mean for PR professionals? Keep your press releases and blogs short and sweet. People only look at your content for a couple of seconds, so say what you need to say without the fluff. 

Can't Touch This--Funny Thanksgiving Video

How to Get Promoted in PR

My Dad uses a lot of catchphrases, but one of his favorites is "the difference between being good and great is this much" (as he holds his thumb and pointer fingers up to the light with a tiny sliver of space between). Here are a few techniques to help you look great in your bosses eyes.

• Show up early-Even if you think no one notices when you arrive at work, someone is always watching. Arriving at your desk 30 minutes before your designated start time demonstrates your dedication commitment.
• Stay late-Prove that your job is your priority. 
• Make suggestions-Managers want workers that care about their organization and want to see it grow. 
• Ask questions-Not only will you learn more about your company, you will also facilitate conversation which will lead to more meaningful relationships with your co-workers.
• Join clubs/organizations-Do your research to find clubs and organizations related to your company or field of work. Managers promote people who love what they do.
• Follow your company on Facebook and Twitter-Retweet their tweets, reply to their comments and write on their wall. You will help expand their following and their brand awareness.
• Dress up on casual Fridays-Professionalism is key and must be maintained. No one wants to see you in worn jeans and an old t-shirt.