Ag Media Summit 2018 can be summed up in one word: inspiring! As a first-time attendee, I came with expectations; but it was the things I didn’t expect that pushed the conference into the category of excellence.
I expected Ag Media Summit’s convergence of ag communicators and ag organizations to be the perfect blend of professional development and relationship building, and it was. I also expected to learn various aspects of design, writing, media relations, and social media management. I am excited to bring home insights that will continue to influence the choices I make. Some of my favorites include:
- Every change in typeface is a change in voice.
- Spacing out lettering actually slows down a reader.
- A story lead is a promise to the reader; ensure the promise is fulfilled.
- Ask researchers to compare their data to something important that the reader will understand.
- Read and know the audience of the publications you write for; then help the editors do their job.
- Be mindful that print deadlines are often two weeks out and the information still has to be relevant when it is published.
- When communicating social media metrics, define the terms you are using.
While technical tidbits are helpful, I also appreciated the sessions focused on personal development. I realized that it is best to never stop learning and be willing to invest in your strengths. That it takes a personal commitment to manage your career and in your absence of commitment, someone else will do it for you. Or worse, your career will flounder because no one is tending to it!
However, my inspiration came from those who shared the intimate aspects of their road to communication excellence. Two award winners recognized by the Association of Communication Excellence shared insights with the group that empowered me to continue defining my brand, and the legacy I want to leave as a communicator.
Brian Meyer, director of college relations at Iowa State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, acknowledged that a sense of dissatisfaction and an eye toward perfection can yield a lifetime of communication success. It is rewarding to think that someone who is successful in this field can feel the way I do most days.
Fernanda Santos, former correspondent for the New York Times turned journalism educator for the “selfie generation” at Arizona State University provided additional motivation. Sprinkling enlightenment throughout her presentation, she encouraged everyone to not waste time and energy in life trying to communicate like others. She compelled us to “Know what you can and can’t do…and who you can call on for the things you can’t.” She assured everyone that it is never too late to start again and give it our best with what we know.
As communicators, we know this profession is dynamic; what we know today will change tomorrow. But if every attendee was inspired, like I was, we can charge forward with a commitment to grow and adapt to this change. If we do, our ability to impact the world of agriculture is limitless.
