WaddsCon is back for a new season. We’re looking for original speakers for a series of practical events focused on innovation and excellence in media relations.

COVID-19 has impacted how public relations practitioners work with journalists. Training and development has also been challenging.

Over six sessions from February to July we want to explore pitching, newsjacking, data storytelling, the relationship between owned and earned media, promoting coverage, integrated marketing, and reporting and measurement.

If you’ve got a case study, examples of best practice, innovation, or favourite tools, we would love to have you involved. Please check out the sessions we’ve planned and if you’re interested submit a pitch for a speaking slot. We’ll be in touch with speakers in the first week of February.

February – media relations innovation and excellence

We’re seeking examples of media relations innovation and excellence. What are the best ways to listen, engage and pitch journalists?

March – newsjacking and responsive marketing

How do you incorporate a brand, organisation, or individual into the news cycle? We’re looking for newshounds to share their tips.

April – data storytelling

How does an organisation use its own data or publicly available data sets to tell a story, and create earned and owned content?

May – using owned media to earn media attention

Using blogs, podcasts and other owned content to earn media attention. Exploring ways to use owned media to land press coverage.

June – amplifying earned media and integrating with marketing

You’ve worked hard to secure coverage but how do you ensure it works as hard as possible. We’ll cover links, promoting coverage, and third party endorsement.

July – reporting and measuring results from media coverage

How do your measure and report the return on investment of media relations? Reporting on results and securing budget for future activity.

WaddsCon is a high energy, fast paced and fun learning and development event. Its goal is to provide a platform for original contributors to cover a diverse range of topics related to marketing, media and public relations.

The format is simple: over 60 minutes, four speakers each deliver a five minute presentation (maximum three slides) followed by a lively 10 minute Q&A with the audience.

The event is hosted by Stephen Waddington and takes place on the last Friday of the month via a Zoom webinar from 1pm-2pm.

The attendance is typically 100-300 people and there is lively discussion in the chat and on Twitter. More than 1,500 people attended a WaddsCon event in 2021.

The 2022 series is sponsored by the PRCA, Reuben Sinclair and The PR Cavalry.