Leadership

Employers are searching for ways to talk to employees about vaccination in a way that is respectful but clear. Read on for tips from Blueprint Alaska about how to communicate effectively in a way that inspires confidence and builds trust:

1. Words matter: Choose them carefully. 
2. Dispel myths and share facts.
3. Be honest about vaccine unknowns and encourage employees to talk to their health care providers. 
4. Consider if vaccine incentives are a good approach for your team.
5. Make it easy by removing barriers for your employees.
6. Take advantage of free resources from the CDC, National Institute for Public Relations and more. 

– Sarah Erkmann Ward, The Alaska 100

Cash Balke has become the first University of Oklahoma graduate to join the Space Force. He commissioned into the Space Force on Dec. 19, one of less than 100 cadets to be commissioned into the newly formed military branch this spring. Balke, an Edmond native, graduated Dec. 18 with a degree in aerospace engineering and was a member of Air Force ROTC Detachment 675.

Balke said he has always been interested in space and that being selected is a dream come true.

“When I got the news, I was ecstatic because I couldn’t believe it,” Balke said. “It’s a huge honor.”

– Andrew Aston, Jones PR

Quality leadership can make or break an organization. Leaders have the power to alter the company culture and productivity either positively or negatively. So how can leaders ensure they’re elevating their team morale?

Lead by example: Subordinates respond better to leaders who are willing to work themselves, as opposed to simply being a boss. Employees strive to work harder when they feel like management is working equally as hard.

Appreciate your employees: Employees who feel valued and appreciated outperform those who feel like they’re being taken advantage of. Some leaders enact rewards systems that help motivate employees and show appreciation.

– Colton Basks, Jones PR

Muscovites are certainly interested in Oklahoma City’s renaissance. About 2,000 government officials, including the mayor, and citizens attended the “Healthy Moscow” conference to hear Jones PR’s Executive Counsel Mick Cornett’s presentation on his book, “The Next American City,” as the opening keynote speech.

“Since I was last in Moscow almost 15 years ago, they have incorporated new parks and pedestrian-friendly features. The quality of life in Moscow has come a long way,” said former Mayor Cornett.

Who knew Oklahoma City can be a guide for cities around the world to help citizens live healthier lifestyles. Way to go, Mick!

– Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, Jones PR

Executives looking to take their companies to the next level should consider investing in their employees’ professional development. Check out the reasons why, below:

It sets your employees up for success by preparing your employees to take on more responsibility and giving them confidence in their ability to excel in high-pressure situations.

It sharpens your employees’ abilities by expanding their knowledge base and honing an underdeveloped skill.

It helps you retain the best talent by keeping your employees passionate about their work as they use new skills, and it can foster a deeper sense of loyalty within your company’s ranks. 

– Andrew Aston, Jones PR