Mountain West Regional Public Relations Conference

  I had been debating for a couple of months whether or not I was going to head to the conference.  I knew it was going to be beneficial, that wasn't the issue, the cost.  Ya, $40 isn't a big deal to some, but, bills and all that stuff catch up quick.  At any rate, some local businesses, namely ChemDry, was willing to sponsor a handful of students and take care of their registration.  Wonderfully, I was one of those students.  

  Though I wasn't able to the full amount of time, those who I listened to present were great.  Yesterdays highlight was Nick Dragon.  He spent the better part of 50 minutes talking about how to appropriately network both face to face and via LinkedIn.  I was able to see some mistakes I've made and where I have room for improvement.  I've already went through my LinkedIn account and made some changes, hopefully for the better. Also, in the midst of his presentation, I found out he works for IHC.  When I found this out I just about jumped out of my chair and yelled, "Hey, I've been organizing a charity event for the past year to benefit Logan Regional Hospital's Cancer Center, wanna help!?!"  Instead, I waited until the end and spoke with him about the event and he said he would place the 2Cure Cancer information on the McKay Dee Hospital Facebook page which has approx. 1,400 fans. WAHOO!  Even better, Christina Roberts at the hospital gave me the okay to send him the information  

  Today, the two presenters I was able to listen to were great.  Marshall Thompson talking about the love/hate relationship between journalists and Chris Thomas talking about public relations in the Greater Salt Lake area his college experience with the whole thing.  Both were enjoyable and I took away some great things.  Being accessible to reporters/journalists, providing information immediately (if possible), and making sure that I stay involved.

  Overall, a wonderful experience.  Something I definitely look forward to for next year.