Connecting With the Physically Absent

The Point of Connection, PRSA’s 2008 International Conference
October 25-28, 2008 Detriot, MI

The conference is already in full swing, on to Day 3 now, but what does it have to offer to those of us who are not in Detroit? How can we get in on the action? Luckily for us there is the PRSA blog, comprehension, that can be accessed through the PRSA website. Also, there was a free webcast of the keynote presentation by Craig Newmark, founder of craigslist available to PRSA members and nonmembers. Awesome, right? Well... there was one catch- the webcast could only be viewed within the time block of 12:45 to 2:30 pm, yesterday, October 26, 2008. Bummer... On a good note, the presentation will be available in three months.

So what exactly is going on that we would want to experience? How about 100+ workshops focused on branding, research, digital communications, media relations, transparency, etc. The list goes on and on. Here is information on each track of the conference taken from the PRSA website.

Track 1: Innovative Strategies - Sessions will address the latest strategies in leadership, management, planning, research, relationship, reputation, sustainability, communications and integrated communications.
Track 2: Effective Tactics and Techniques - Sessions will address proven tactics and techniques in core communications, media relations, green marketing, measurement and emerging technologies and social media.
Track 3: Specialization and Practice Areas - Targeted sessions, including Professional Interest Section sponsored programming, will focus on expertise specific to audiences, industries, emerging trends and multicultural communities.
Track 4: The Connected Profession - Sessions will address the vital components that connect public relations professionals and help them engage together as a community on ethics, diversity, education, current issues, advocacy and Accreditation.

Keynote Speakers:
Mitch Albom, Bob Lutz, Craig Newmark, and Penelope Trunk

We may not be there now, but don’t look at it as a lost opportunity. Keep your eye on the comprehension blog and stay up-to-the-minute with news on the conference.