In a recent interview at Black Tech Week, Ramon Ray sat down with Vanessa Misoon, the Director of Communication and Media for Lightship Foundation, to discuss the art of effective communication and media relations. Misoon, whose organization owns Black Tech Week, shared valuable insights for entrepreneurs looking to improve their messaging and gain media attention.
The Power of Clear Communication
Misoon emphasized the importance of clarity and conciseness in communication. In today’s fast-paced, social media-driven world, grabbing attention quickly is crucial. She advises entrepreneurs to:
- Keep messages brief and to the point
- Craft compelling subject lines for emails
- Communicate the value proposition clearly
“You want to be really brief, especially where we are right now with social media and technology. Anything that’s going to be too wordy is going to get ignored,” Misoon explained.
The Role of Relationships in Media Relations
Beyond clear messaging, Misoon stressed the significance of building and leveraging relationships. She attributes much of her professional success to networking and making connections. For entrepreneurs seeking media coverage, she recommends:
- Focusing on building genuine relationships
- Understanding that success often comes through “knowing somebody that knows somebody”
- Being disciplined in your approach to networking
Balancing Relationship-Building and Promotion
When asked about the delicate balance between building relationships and promoting a product, Misoon described it as a “dance.” She offered the following advice:
- Be aware that people in positions of influence expect to be approached
- Be clear about what you want without being pushy or obnoxious
- Be direct and honest in your communication
- Understand that if someone is interested, they will follow up
Misoon cautioned against being too aggressive, stating, “The minute you become pushy or obnoxious with me, I’m turning you off.”
About Lightship Foundation
During the interview, Misoon also shared information about Lightship Foundation, describing it as “an organization that provides educational programming to entrepreneurs.” They offer bootcamps across the country, teaching crucial skills such as marketing, branding, product placement, and legal considerations.
For entrepreneurs looking to improve their communication skills and media relations, Misoon’s insights provide a valuable roadmap. By focusing on clear, concise messaging and building genuine relationships, businesses can increase their chances of gaining the media attention they seek.
