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Effortless Email Hacks: Boost camper engagement in minutes!

You’re a busy campground owner, and I’m sure your to-do list feels like it will never end! Among all of the marketing tactics you could be employing for your campground, one stands out as a tried-and-true method for fostering lasting relationships with your campers and reminding them to book: email marketing!

If you’re not already leveraging the power of your email list, it is time to explore what your list can do for you.

What is email marketing?

Email marketing, in the simplest form, involves sending targeted messages directly to your customers’ inboxes, which creates a direct line of communication. Not only does this keep your campers informed and engaged, it also opens the doors to a world of benefits, like increasing camper loyalty to higher booking rates.

Here are 5 effortless email hacks to help you boost camper engagement in minutes:

1

Personalize Like a Pro:
Don’t overlook the importance of a clean email list that incorporates the person’s name in addition to their email address. When campers receive an email that feels like it was written just for them, it can make all the difference. Use tags within your emails to ensure personalization. You can draft the email with the use of their first name in the subject line or in the opening sentence to grab their attention.

For example, “Hey {Camper’s Name}, are you ready for your next adventure at {Campground Name}?”

2

Short and Sweet Subject Lines:
Keep it concise and to the point, yet intriguing. Long subject lines can get lost in crowded inboxes, which is why personalization and short subject lines are the best ways to catch people’s attention.

Try something like: “{Camper’s Name}, Unforgettable Summer Memories Await You!”

3

Weave a Story Into Your Email:
Write your email like you’re telling a story to the reader. Begin with a relatable scenario or share a camper’s testimonial about their experience at your campground (of course, you’ll want to select one that excites the reader!). This will help instantly engage them and convince them to continue reading about your campground.

Here’s an example email:
Greetings {Camper’s Name},

Remember that time you and your family enjoyed a crisp evening by the campfire, assembling s’more after s’more, and sharing the starry night skies here at {Campground Name}? We’re bringing that magical experience back to you this weekend! Join us for our Campfire Tales Night, where we’ll gather around the toasty campfire to share memories, laughter, and treats. Don’t miss out on reliving those unforgettable memories with us!

4

Clear Call to Action:
Use email to tell your campers exactly what you want them to do. Whether it’s booking a site, checking out an upcoming event, or engaging with your campground’s social media, be sure to make your call to action crystal clear for them.

Use action-oriented words like “Reserve Now” or “Book Your Site Today!”

5

“Picture Yourself Here” Images and Videos
They say a picture is worth a thousand words! Be sure to include images and videos that allow your camper to envision themselves at your campgrounds.

POV, or point-of-view videos, are a terrific example of this style. Grab your cell phone and video a short tour around your campground, or piece together a bunch of images to create a carousel that will give a great feel to the property. There are many ways to create content that will allow users to feel ingrained in the experience of your campground.

    Hot tips:

    • Keep paragraphs short and use bullets for easy scanning.
    • Use a responsive email template to ensure your emails look great on all devices.
    • Send emails at times when campers are most likely checking their inbox, like during lunch breaks or early evenings.

    Remember, it’s not about spending countless hours crafting the perfect email; it’s about delivering valuable content that connects with your campers. Implementing these effortless email hacks will help you create emails that drive bookings and engagement!

    Not sure who your Perfect Camper is? We have just the thing – an online workbook called “Let’s Find Your Perfect Camper!”

    Find Your Perfect Camper!

    How to solve the mystery of attracting your ideal camper.

    Hi, campground owners! It’s almost that time of year when the campfire’s embers have settled, and there’s a chance to catch your breath. The off-season is the perfect time to reflect on your campground business and plan for the next season. But wait! Before you kick back and relax, there’s one little mystery that may have been bugging you for a while – how to find and attract your campground’s “Perfect Camper!”


    Identifying and attracting your perfect camper can sometimes feel like searching for Bigfoot in the forest but you know they’re out there! And without a clear understanding of who your ideal camper is, your marketing efforts can feel like throwing a flaming marshmallow at the wall and hoping it sticks.


    Let us help you piece together the puzzle of what motivates your target customer with the “Find Your Perfect Camper!” workbook. No more guesswork – just actionable insights and aha moments that will help you create a camping experience that will leave your perfect campers coming back for more.


    Think of the “Find Your Perfect Camper!” workbook as your trusty compass that will lead you to the campers of your dreams! Now, let’s talk about the three classic problems this workbook helps solve. At some point in your journey, every campground owner has wondered:


    1. Who is my perfect camper?: You know you have an amazing campground with incredible amenities, but without a defined target camper profile, your marketing messages might be missing the appropriate decision maker. This workbook will help you zero in on your campground’s ideal camper profile, so your messaging hits the mark every time!


    2. Why do I keep attracting all different types of campers that I can’t keep happy?: Picture this: your website screams adventure, but your social media posts are all about relaxation. Without a consistent brand message, your perfect campers might be scratching their heads, wondering if your campground is the right fit. We will work on creating a cohesive profile of your ideal camper that will ensure you are messaging your campground correctly and with intention.


    3. WOW – that ad was expensive. Why did I spend so much on something without seeing one customer come from it?: You are working day-in and day-out for your money, and you deserve to spend it wisely. This workbook will ensure you invest your marketing budget where it matters most – reaching the campers who will fall head over heels in love with your campground. Say goodbye to wasted dollars and hello to your perfect camper, someone who can’t wait to stay and experience all your campground has to offer. 


    So, as you enjoy planning for the next camping season, take a moment to imagine a future where you know exactly who to market to. I can’t wait to embark on this exciting adventure together! 


    **Save $25 on the “Find Your Perfect Camper!” online and print workbook! Use coupon code: blog3. **

    Fast and Easy Social Media Tips: Use them today to attract tomorrow’s campers

    Social media has fast become one of the most powerful tools for any business to connect with their prospective customers. For campground owners, harnessing the potential of social media platforms is key to effectively marketing your campground, engaging with past and future campers, and showcasing your unique amenities and activities.

     

    Here are three fast and easy social media tips that anyone with general social media knowledge can implement today to attract attention, engage your audience, and ultimately attract campers to your campground! Let’s dive in!

     

    Tip 1: Visual Content that Stops the Scroll
    Social media is a highly visual form of marketing and communications, and captivating images and videos can make a lasting impression. When posting about your campground, focus on sharing high-quality visuals that showcase the beauty of your location, amenities, and features that make you stand out from the rest.

     

    Use eye-catching images of scenic views, well-maintained campsites, and fun activities. Additionally, you can create short videos (using your phone) that highlight what it is like staying at your campground. These visuals draw campers in, evoke emotions, and inspire them to plan their next adventure with you!

     

    Here’s an example: Imagine posting a stunning photo of a group of friends gathered around the campfire, roasting marshmallows, and enjoying the starry night sky at your campground. The image captures the essence of a memorable camping experience and immediately draws attention.

     

    Tip 2: Compelling Captions and Descriptions
    While visuals are essential, don’t underestimate the power of compelling captions and descriptions. Use your captions to tell stories, share interesting facts, and essentially use them to create a relationship with your reader. Highlight unique aspects of your campground, things that make you stand out like family-friendly activities, scenic views, or highlight nearby attractions.

     

    Consider incorporating calls-to-action items, such as inviting campers to tag a friend they want to come camping with or sharing their favorite camping memory with you. By writing engaging captions, you’re encouraging interaction and building a sense of community with your campers.

     

    Here’s an example: Alongside a photo of a hiking trail near your campground, you write a captivating caption that tells the story of the trail’s history, its breathtaking views, and the unique flora and fauna that can be spotted along the trail. You might want to also encourage campers to share their favorite hiking memories or tag friends they want to go hiking with. This creates that emotional connection to your campground that everyone looks to gain with their campers and repeat customers.

     

    Tip 3: Hashtags and Geotags
    Harness the power of hashtags and geotags for each of your posts to expand your reach and attract campers that are searching for relevant content. Research and use popular camping and travel-related hashtags like #CampingLife, #ExploreNature, or #YourStateCampground. These hashtags will help your posts appear in searches and increase your visibility among the camping community.

     

    Additionally, don’t forget to geotag (location) your posts with your campground’s location. Geotags make it easier for potential campers looking for spots in your area to discover your campground when researching camping options.

     

    Here’s an example: You post a photo of a serene lakeside campsite, accompanied by relevant hashtags like #LakeLife, #CampgroundName, and #NatureEscape. By using these popular camping and location-specific hashtags, your post becomes discoverable to campers searching for lakefront camping experiences or seeking out campgrounds in your specific area. Additionally, you geotag your post with the campground location, making it even easier for local campers and campers from afar to find you.

     

    Social media has revolutionized the way businesses connect with their customers, and campgrounds are no exception. Remember to focus on captivating visual content, compelling captions and descriptions, and strategic use of hashtags and geotags. Consistency is key, so make sure posting is a regular part of your daily routine. Embrace the power of social media and watch as your campground becomes a sought-after destination for campers seeking unforgettable outdoor experiences.

     

    Need help getting your social media up and running, or looking for help with content creation? We’re here for you! We can personally help you or join the Campfire Tools membership or download a DIY Toolkit.

    Beating the Heat: Cooling Solutions for Campgrounds in July

    July, the height of summer, paints a picture of idyllic camping adventures under the warm sun. However, behind the scenes, campground owners face unique challenges during this peak season. The scorching heat can transform campsites into sweltering ovens, testing the endurance of both campers and owners. Insects and mosquitoes, awakened by the balmy weather, emerge as unwelcome guests, disrupting the tranquility of the great outdoors. 

     

    Furthermore, the lack of accessible power sources in remote areas can leave campers feeling disconnected from the modern world they’re accustomed to. In this blog post, we delve into these summertime hurdles, offering practical solutions that will transform your campground into an oasis of cool respite, bug-free serenity, and technological convenience. Let’s discover how you can overcome these challenges and provide an unforgettable camping experience for your guests.

     

    Sweltering Heat in General Campground Areas

    Summer heat can be unbearable for campers, especially in open spaces without shade. High temperatures can discourage potential visitors and lead to discomfort for those already camping and participating in activities. Especially if you have tent sites, cooling stations are a must for guest comfort.

     

    If you have electricity on all your sites, an option might be to offer portable air conditioners for rent or purchase. These compact units can be placed in tents or even common areas, providing much-needed cool air during hot summer days. Also, consider purchasing misting units to strategically place throughout the campground. 

     

    Insects and Mosquitos

    July is notorious for increased insect activity, which can negatively impact your campers’ experience. Not only a nuisance, bugs and mosquitoes can cause discomfort and even potential health risks. Be sure to offer campers a wide variety of bug repellents for purchase or place bug stations throughout the campground that offer relief from the pests. Be sure to include sprays, lotions, and natural alternatives. 

     

    Limited Power Supply for Campers

    In the digital age, campers often rely on electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and cameras. Campgrounds can stock charging cords, power banks, and solar chargers to sell to their campers or to rent for their stays. 

     

    Campgrounds can even provide or rent extension cords and power strips just in case campers forget theirs. Offering campers a convenient and sustainable solution for charging their devices by providing portable solar chargers and power banks. These devices harness the power of the sun to charge electronics, ensuring campers stay connected even in remote areas without access to traditional power sources. 

     

    By addressing these small challenges and pain points campers may face, which may seem small to us, could have a huge impact on their memory of their stay at your campground. Providing cooling solutions, insect repellents, and convenient charging options will ensure that campers stay comfortable and can fully enjoy their time at your campground. Consider incorporating the recommended products from Amazon to solve these challenges effectively, offering practical and convenient solutions that will set your campground apart and keep campers coming back for more! 

    Easy purchases from Amazon that help create a better camping experience in July:

    Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This means that if you make a purchase through certain links on this site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products or services that we truly believe in and use ourselves. Your support is greatly appreciated!

    Sustainable Camping Practices: Eco-Friendly Tips for Campground Owners

    Create a sustainable sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts for years to come.

    As the beauty of nature beckons every one of us, campgrounds throughout the nation become a sanctuary for those of us who seek tranquility and adventure. However, the responsibility of preserving the environment falls on the shoulders of all of us. Embracing sustainable business practices not only contributes to the protection of our planet but also enhances the overall camping experience for your guests.

     

    Let’s explore some easy eco-friendly tips and tricks that any campground can implement to minimize their environmental impact. By incorporating recycling programs, energy-efficient amenities, and sustainable landscaping, you can create a camping destination that aligns with the values and outlooks of eco-conscious campers.

     

    Recycling Programs: 

    One of the simplest yet most effective ways to promote sustainability at your campground is by implementing a recycling program. Set up designated recycling stations throughout the campground’s trash bin areas. Clearly mark bins for paper, plastic, glass, and aluminum, with signage educating campers about the importance of recycling. It is important to clearly label and provide instructions on how to properly dispose of their waste. Partner with local recycling facilities to ensure the materials collected are processed responsibly. By doing so, you not only reduce landfill waste but also encourage campers to adopt eco-friendly habits beyond their stay.

     

    Install Energy-Efficient Amenities:

    Minimizing energy consumption not only reduces the ecological footprint of your campground but it also lowers your overall operational costs. Consider upgrading your light to energy-efficient alternatives, like installing LED lighting, which consumes less electricity and has a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. Invest in low-flow showerheads and faucets to conserve water without sacrificing the campers’ comfort. If you have rental cabins, install programmable thermostats to help regulate temperature settings efficiently. These small changes can make a significant impact on your campground’s energy conservation, and help preserve the natural beauty that draws campers to your location. 

     

    Sustainable Landscaping Practices: 

    The beauty of your campground lies in its natural surroundings. Adopting eco-friendly landscaping practices is a must to ensure the sustainability of your location. Choose native plants that are well-suited for your local climate, reducing the need for excessive watering and chemical treatments. Consider planting an edible garden or creating a designated wildflower meadow to attract pollinators and promote biodiversity. Additionally, use organic fertilizers and natural pest control methods. All of these small changes and actions serve as a living testament to your commitment to environmental responsibility. 

     

    By incorporating these small changes and sustainable practices into your campground operations, you not only contribute to the preservation of your local area but are also attracting eco-conscious campers who appreciate and support your efforts.

     

    Don’t forget to tell your campers about your eco-friendly practices. Whether on your website or at check-in, be sure they’re aware of your recycling programs and other eco-efforts. Need help? Our marketing memberships give you access to a wealth of information, including personalized Canva templates for signage and best practices, to name a few. Together, we can pave the way for a greener future in the camping industry!

    Every Amazon Find that you need for: 

    Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This means that if you make a purchase through certain links on this site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products or services that we truly believe in and use ourselves. Your support is greatly appreciated!

    Creating Memorable Camping Experiences: Themed Events for Summer

    As warm summer days approach, campgrounds and outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for an exciting camping season.

     

    However, in a world where we are overwhelmed with advertising vying for limited attention, campground owners are faced with the challenge of providing unique and unforgettable experiences.

     

    Today, we’ll explore three ideas for themed events that could set your campground apart from the rest and attract potential campers looking for fun and extraordinary activities. Whether you’re a campground owner or an avid camper, these ideas will help you make this summer one to remember!

     

    Outdoor movie nights:
    Nothing quite captures the magic of cool summer nights like watching a movie under the stars. Help families make core memories by organizing outdoor movie nights where campers can gather around a large screen nestled among the trees. Provide bench seating, or go all out and provide bean bags, blankets, and low-rise chairs to your campers. Offer a selection of family-friendly classics or camping-themed movies. Don’t forget to offer or sell popcorn and snacks! This captivating experience will leave campers longing for more and early anticipating their next camping trip. Don’t miss the list of must-haves below. 

     

    Scavenger hunts:
    Engage campers of all ages with an organized scavenger hunt throughout the campground. Create a series of clues that lead participants on a journey through the campground, unveiling hidden treasures or unique features along the way. Consider incorporating educational elements by including facts about local flora and fauna or landmarks. Award prizes like camping gear or gift certificates to further ignite the spirit of friendly competition. Scavenger hunts encourage exploration, bonding, and a sense of adventure among campers.

     

    Live music performances:
    Serenade campers with the mesmerizing sounds of live music. Arrange for talented musicians, local bands, acoustic performers, or even spotlight your campers with a karaoke night. From folk and country to rock and pop, select genres that resonate with your campers’ preferences. The melodies and performances will create a warm and inviting ambiance, fostering a sense of togetherness and camaraderie among campers.

     

    In conclusion, the summer season is upon us and campground owners have an incredible opportunity to create core memories and unforgettable experiences for their guests. Themed events, like outdoor movie nights, offer a unique way to elevate the camping experience and leave campers wanting to come back again and again.

     

    Our Build Your Own Campfire Seasonal DIY Toolkits and Campfire Tools memberships offer you a wealth of resources to help bring these events to life, attract campers, and ensure their return for years to come with our expert guidance. Embrace the spirit of adventure, and let this summer be filled with unforgettable moments amidst the great outdoors!

    Every Amazon Find that you need for the perfect: 

    Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This means that if you make a purchase through certain links on this site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products or services that we truly believe in and use ourselves. Your support is greatly appreciated!

    A Day in the Life of a…PR Intern

    Are you interested in taking on an internship at a PR firm? Let’s take a peek behind the curtain and explore a day in the life of a PR intern to see if it is the right fit for you. As an intern, you’ll have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience, work on fun and impactful projects, and learn from experienced professionals in the industry. 

     

    So what’s a day typically look like for a PR intern? 

     

    Person flipping through a magazine at a desk

    Morning

    Let’s say your day starts at 9 a.m.

    As an intern, your day probably will start around 8 or 9 a.m. Once you’re in the office or settled into your desk at home, you’ll want to review your to-do list for the day. You’ll be working on a variety of tasks throughout the day, so you will want to be sure you’re prepared for what’s to come. 

    It is important to be prepared for what’s to come. I recommend Asana as an organizing and tracking tool. I use it in both my professional and personal life and it is a life saver. 

     

    10 a.m.

    Team Meeting

    It’s time for a team meeting! You join your colleagues in the conference room, where you discuss the day’s priorities, review project updates, and brainstorm new ideas for clients. As an intern, you’re encouraged to share your thoughts and contribute to the conversation. These types of meetings are great opportunities to learn and get a better understanding of the industry.

     

    11 a.m.

    Media Monitoring

    After the team meeting, you’ll dive into your first project: media monitoring. You scour the internet for results and social posts related to your client portfolio and compile a results report. It’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest news and trends, and monitoring is a key part of that.

     

    12 p.m.

    Lunch!

    Head to the breakroom, grab your lunch, and go outside to catch some rays during your lunch break. This is also a great opportunity to clear your head, catch up with friends, and brainstorm cool ideas.

     

    1 p.m.

    Social Media Management

    Up next: social media management. You will draft a content calendar for the upcoming month, create posts, respond to comments and messages, and analyze engagement metrics. Social is an important part of any PR strategy, and reputation management is imperative on the internet. Social is also a great platform to be creative and experiment with new ideas.

     

    3 p.m.

    Research Project  

    In the afternoon, you work on a research project. Digging into industry reports to analyze data helps your team make informed decisions about their PR strategy. Research is an essential part of the job, and it’s important to be extremely thorough and very detail-oriented. 

     

    5 p.m.

    Ending the Day

    As the workday winds down, you wrap up any loose ends and review your to-do list for tomorrow. It’s been a busy day, but you feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. As you say goodbye to everyone, you realize you’re excited for the next day and what tomorrow will bring!

     

    There you have it!

    PR internships can be incredibly valuable experiences! They offer real-world experiences, help you develop your PR superpowers, offer great chances to meet and greet, and gives you a great sense of the industry as a whole. If you’re looking to launch your career in PR, an internship is a great place to start and make the most of it!

     

    Remember to be open to feedback, learn from your mistakes (you will make them and that’s ok!!), and have FUN along the way! The day in the life of a PR intern is full of projects, some exciting, some mundane but extremely important to building strategies. From media monitoring to social media management to research projects, there’s never a dull moment!

     

    Happy PRing! 
    <3 Jess

     

    P.S. Have questions? Want to chat? DM me on Instagram – @stanleysprucemarketingpr – or TikTok – @stanleyspruce. You can also send me a quick email to hi@stanley-spruce.com if you’d like to meet and talk through your questions.

     

    Mini Courses

    Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on mini course launches. We are currently accepting students for our PR 101: From Press Releases to Pitches mini class.

     

    Send us an email to let us know if you’re interested!

    How to Stand Out in Your PR Internship

    BE YOU! To Truly make the most of your internship and set yourself up for success, be yourself. You’ll have the opportunity to gain real-world experiences, develop valuable skills, and meet and greet with industry leaders, but you want to be your most authentic self while doing so. 

     

    Here are some (hopefully) helpful tips on how you can be you, stand out among the rest, and make the most of your amazing internship opportunity! 

     

    Person presenting in front of a crowd

     

    1.

    Communicate Effectively

    I ask so many questions. I’m curious by nature and I think that is a great hallmark of a true PR professional. Our job is storytelling and getting those details correct is an extremely important piece of the puzzle.

    Be sure to listen carefully to instructions, ask questions if you’re unsure of something or want to know more, and provide updates on your progress. Remember, communication is a two-way street! Be sure your ready to receive constructive feedback on your performance from your colleagues.    

     

    2.

    Manage Your Time Effectively

    I can’t say enough about Asana. It is the project management tool I use for everything, including for my personal life – packing lists anyone?! Time management is essential in any career but especially important in PR when you’re working with numerous deadlines, for both yourself and others.

    Make a to-do list at the beginning of the day, prioritize, and be sure to set realistic deadlines for yourself! If you’re having trouble with a particular task, don’t be afraid to ask for help or clarification. It is better to ask for help than to miss a deadline. 

     

    3.

    Be the Best Version of Your Professional Self

    It is important to maintain a professional demeanor at all times during your internship. Dress appropriately, arrive on time, and be respectful to your colleagues and clients. Avoid all the office gossip or complaining, and be sure to maintain an optimistic and positive attitude. It won’t go unnoticed! Remember, you’re not only representing yourself, but also the company you’re interning for. 

     

    4.

    Be Proactive

    Do not wait for your supervisor to assign tasks to you. Instead, be proactive and look for ways you can contribute to the team. Offer to help with projects, even if it is out of your scope, or take on additional responsibilities. Show that you’re eager to learn and make a positive impact on the agency.  

     

    5.

    Networking, Networking, Networking!

    Meet everyone and anyone that may come your way. Connect with them on LinkedIn directly after and be sure to include a message letting them know where they met you, your skills that might be applicable to their company, and ask if you could job shadow them. This is one of the best ways to make a strong connection, learn more about their industry, and keep in touch with them as your career progresses. 

     

    Attend industry events, participate in team meetings, and connect with your colleagues – building relationships can be invaluable, both during your internship and after it’s over.  

     

    There you have it!

    PR internships can be incredibly valuable experiences! They offer real-world experiences, help you develop your PR superpowers, offer great chances to meet and greet, and gives you a great sense of the industry as a whole. If you’re looking to launch your career in PR, an internship is a great place to start and make the most of it!

     

    Remember to be open to feedback, learn from your mistakes (you will make them and that’s ok!!), and have FUN along the way! 

     

    Happy PRing! 
    <3 Jess

     

    P.S. Have questions? Want to chat? DM me on Instagram – @stanleysprucemarketingpr – or TikTok – @stanleyspruce. You can also send me a quick email to hi@stanley-spruce.com if you’d like to meet and talk through your questions.

    Mini Courses

    Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on mini course launches. We are currently accepting students for our PR 101: From Press Releases to Pitches mini class.

     

    Send us an email to let us know if you’re interested!

    5 Reasons Why a Public Relations Internship Can Launch Your Career

    Are you looking to break into the Public Relations industry but having a bit of a hard time forming the connections and building the relationships needed to get where you want to go in your career? A PR internship is a great place to start! 

     

    Also, to note, I would never assign anything to my intern that I couldn’t/wouldn’t do myself. An intern isn’t free labor and isn’t an errand runner! Let’s dive in!

    Interns listening

     

    1.

    Real World Experience

    One of the best things about an internship is that it provides real world experience! It is one thing to learn about PR theories and practices in a classroom setting but a completely different experience when you’re able to apply that knowledge to a real world project. Through an internship, you’ll gain experience creating and executing PR campaigns, working with clients, and collaborating with other members of the agency’s team.   

     

    2.

    Skill Development

    In addition to the experience you gain in an agency, you’ll also have the opportunity to fine-tune a skill set needed to succeed. You’ll have the opportunity to hone your writing, communication, and critical thinking skills, as well as gain experience with project management, research, and data collection/analysis. These are all skills highly valued in the PR industry, and will help you stand out when it comes time to apply for jobs. 

     

    3.

    Networking Opportunities

    Not only will you work on your skills in the agency setting, but you’ll probably receive opportunities to attend events, too. These are the perfect places to network with professionals from other companies and make important connections that can help later on in your career.

     

    4.

    Exposure to Different Areas of PR

    One of the best parts of an internship is that it can expose you to different tactics within the PR industry. For example, one week you might be working on a social campaign for a tourism client, and a press release for a fintech the next. This will give you a well-rounded understanding of the industry, and can help you figure out what area of PR interests you the most. 

     

    5.

    Employment!

    Of course, employment isn’t guaranteed but many companies use internships as a way to identify and recruit new talent. So if you do a great job during your internship, there’s a fair chance that you’ll be offered a full-time job if they have positions available. Even if you don’t get hired by the firm you worked with, the experience and skills you gained will make you a more attractive candidate to other companies. 

     

     

    There you have it!

    PR internships can be incredibly valuable experiences! They offer real-world experiences, help you develop your PR superpowers, offer great chances to meet and greet, and gives you a great sense of the industry as a whole. If you’re looking to launch your career in PR, an internship is a great place to start!

     

     

    Happy PRing! 

    <3 Jess

     

    P.S. Have questions? Want to chat? DM me on Instagram – @stanleysprucemarketingpr – or TikTok – @stanleyspruce. You can also send me a quick email to hi@stanley-spruce.com if you’d like to meet and talk through your questions.

     

    Mini Courses

    Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on mini course launches. We are currently accepting students for our PR 101: From Press Releases to Pitches mini class.

     

    Send us an email to let us know if you’re interested!

    Spread the Love: Incorporating Valentine’s Day into your marketing strategy

    It’s Valentine’s Day! Happy Valentine’s Day to you – you know what that means? It is time to spread the love and boost your business during this prime opportunity for business of all sizes to show some love to their customers and clients.

     

    And before you roll your eyes and think a major cheesy marketing ramble is coming at you, know that I LOVE untraditional and out-of-the-box ideas. Sneaky ones that customers find intriguing and act as a hook to get them to WANT to know more about you and your services or products. 

     

    Here are three examples of promotions and ideas you can use this Valentine’s Day to capture the hearts of potential customers! 

     

    Heart garland from Canva

    Don’t sleep on “Palentine’s Day” or “Friendship Day” celebration opportunities!

    Love is love and Valentine’s Day isn’t just for couples! Show your customers that you value all types of love and friendship, not just the romantic kind. While you can call your promotion “Galentine’s Day,” know there is a more inclusive way of celebrating friendship. 

     

    “Palentine’s Day” or “Friendship Day” still gives your business the opportunity to celebrate, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. It’s important to be inclusive and make all your customers feel welcome and appreciated, regardless of who they choose to love or how they identify. 

     

    Ideas: Offer a group rate for spa services, a free app, or a special deal for group reservations. Encourage customers to buy gift cards for their friends for “Palentine’s Day” and “Friendship Day.” 

     

    Helpful Tip: Keep a stock greeting cards near checkout that someone can grab along with a gift card purchase for an easy upsell and added convenience item for your customer. Make gift giving easy for your customer! 

    Send love letters to your community

    Valentine’s Day is all about expressing your love, right? So why not express love for the community that shows up for you?! Encourage your customers to write love letters to your local community, expressing their gratitude and appreciation for the people and places that make your town special. 

     

    Ideas: Display the cards in your store, tell the media about the display, or create a social media campaign featuring all the special love letters that were created in your location. Foster that community spirit and spread the love!  

     

    Helpful Tip: Set up a table with colorful construction paper, scissors, markers, crayons, anything that inspires creativity and keeps customers in your store or creates a reason for them to stop in.

    DIY Valentine’s Day Kits

    Think beyond traditional Valentine’s Day cards!

     

    Create Valentine’s Day-themed kits for your customers to make at home. Offer unique projects like heart shaped succulent gardens, homemade candles, or personalized love letter kits. 

     

    Ideas: Promote these incredibly thoughtful kits on social media, film demonstration videos, and encourage creativity! 

     

    Helpful Tip: Include a postcard of ideas and your business information. Encourage the customer to take photos and tag you and/or use a hashtag on social media. This is a great way to capture user-generated content (UGC) for future promotions!

    There you have it!

    Three out-of-the-box ways to work Valentine’s Day into your marketing strategy. Remember, the key to success is to think beyond the traditional and keep your target audience’s interests in mind! Whether you’re promoting self-love, community love, or friendship love, there’s no wrong way to show your love this Valentine’s Day. 

     

    Happy Marketing! 

    <3 Jess

     

    P.S. Did you implement any of our ideas? Share your successes with us on Instagram – @stanleysprucemarketingpr – or TikTok – @stanleyspruce. We’d love to feature your content!