It may take a village to raise a child but it takes an entire group of professionals connected worldwide to create standards of excellence for the communications profession. Before IABC formed, there was no single organization that allowed all of these talented communicators crafting their profession in different areas of the world to connect, learn from each other and clearly define industry “best practices” from a business perspective. Technology advancements further enriched this connection allowing communicators to share ideas and concepts from across oceans in a matter of minutes. It sounds easy but you would be surprised how many people pass on the opportunity to learn, grow and connect through IABC. They don’t have the vision to see in tangible terms the value of understanding in depth the ever evolving communications field. It’s a sight gained only by connecting with people who share common goals and interests. But then there are others, like this month’s spotlight recipient who not only gets it, but embraces it, becoming the unofficial IABC/Atlanta blogger and an industry award winner in the process.
Anne Wainscott Sargent
Title: President
Company: Anne Wainscott, Inc., a writing/communications consultancy
When did you join IABC/Atlanta: Joined in May 2009
“Why I Joined IABC”
My first introduction to IABC came in 1992 as a new communicator in Dayton, Ohio. I worked as writer for NCR Corporation headquarters, which as we know moved its base to Duluth, Georgia, this past year. I enjoyed attending luncheons, connecting with fellow communicators and earning some of my first professional recognition in the Bronze Quill Award program. It would take two relocations and a decade spent as an independent communicator before I again found a local IABC chapter– this time in Atlanta. And I am so glad I did. I joined to connect with peers and to stay current on the latest trends in communications.
“My Volunteer Roles”
As a writer for empart, IABC’s quarterly member magazine, I’ve connected and conversed with some of our best and brightest practitioners — both locally and regionally. They’ve shared how they’ve innovated in a tough recession, served as trusted counselors during times of crisis, and relied increasingly on social media channels to build connections. This winter’s empart issue will include a feature on the role of those of us who work as independents – in the context of a challenging economy. One of my “sources” was our dynamic membership chair Audraine Jackson, who I always find inspiring and fun. We recently sat together at the Technology SIG meeting at Turner Broadcasting and heard their team of new media production, photography and communications experts share the best techniques and tools for doing web-based video storytelling. I learned a lot and shared it on my blog, The Writing Well. Attending IABC meetings almost always gives me fodder for my blog. In February, I covered IABC’s February talk, featuring Rick Perera, press officer for CARE, who talked about the role texting played in mobilizing Haiti humanitarian relief efforts in that earthquake-ravaged country.
Audraine is one of many faces of IABC who make me proud to be affiliated with this organization. They all share a common desire – to make a difference as communicators. IABC as an organization attracts a broader base of the communications profession — not only PR people, but also internal communications, marketing and website and graphics experts. As someone who is trying to expand her own skills in new media, I welcome that diversity.
“My IABC Experience”
My best IABC experience comes from the people, of course! IABCers are a friendly, open and talented group who are always willing to share tips and offer advice. I’m indebted to Cindy Parker, owner of coaching firm, Avalon Unlimited, who frequently invited me to join her at IABC luncheons – sometimes asking me to fill in her seat when scheduling conflicts kept her from attending meetings. She asked me to help judge a Bronze Quill award entry, and that experience gave me an opportunity to test my own strategic thinking about the role and impact of a communications campaign. I look forward to attending my first Southern Region conference where I will receive a Silver Quill Award for a feature article on living with childhood cancer that I wrote for CDC Connects, the agency’s employee intranet . I do know that being recognized by my IABC peers is a great honor considering the caliber of communicators in our region. I look forward to deepening my involvement in IABC in the coming year – I know it will definitely be time well spent.
“The IABC & Industry Outlook”
Authentic, clear writing and storytelling are vital to the future of our profession – especially as we look to reach audiences in an increasingly crowded landscape. Social media, once thought to be the domain of hip and consumer-driven brands, has gone mainstream. Customers, employees, and citizens want to feel like they are part of the conversation and are being heard. We as communicators need to cultivate a social media mindset in our organizations.
