The Social Media Revolution

A LOOK INTO THE CHANGING WORLD OF SOCIAL MEDIA

Baylor University public relations students gain valuable insight from KWTX's Director of New Media

By Leah Sneed

Professor Mia Moody's PR Programming students had the opportunity to think creatively and realistically about their future in public relations, when the KWTX Director of New Media, Jay Hicks, spoke during class on March 27. 

Hicks provided insight into how media has developed over time and helpful hints that might lead to a successful career in PR.

"It's about catching the moment, whoever you work for," Hicks said, as he encouraged Moody's students to fully commit to their futures in public relations.

Hicks is not only the Director of New Media at KWTX, but is also a professional new-media producer focusing on interactive marketing.  Also a Baylor graduate, Hicks earned a Bachelor's of Business Administration Education degree.  He explained to students how traditional media was a one way conversation, but new media is about sharing.  

He urged listeners to always be transparent, conversational, democratic, and trustworthy in communication. 

"We are all publishers,"  Hicks said, as he discussed the power of blogging and all forms of social media. 

Facebook, Twitter and many more websites, now give everyone the chance to control their own paths and have their own voice.  While Hicks stressed the importance of taking advantage of social media outlets, he explained that Facebook and Twitter are just the base of a good social media campaign, the students must get creative and include so much more in their efforts as PR practitioners. 

"I learned so much from Mr. Hicks, he really got me thinking about how I could stand out in an interview and what special elements I could add to my resume,"  Leah Sneed, senior public relations major, said. 

Be "good story tellers," Hicks said. He stressed that an interactive resume, possibly a video resume, would allow students to be easily noticed by employers.  Hicks shared a video resume by Shannon Boodram, who has had extensive experience with both PR and interviewing. 

Ultimately, Hicks challenged students to:

·         make a game plan and to get creative

·         incorporate blogs that will grab readers' interest

·         develop a network of key industry players

·         conduct informal interviews

·         create a positive and effective approach to communication.