Blog - RyanShell.com

One of My Worst PR Nightmares

Years ago I worked at a camp for kids with chronic illnesses and was in charge of marketing and public relations. In my time there I helped the camp get a ton of press, but this story has to do with a specific three-month period.

During these three months I spent a considerable amount of energy trying to get NBC Nightly News to the camp. If pulled off, the hit would be one of the largest the camp had ever had, and it would help drive a considerable amount of donations and increase awareness.

The pitch eventually stuck, and before you know it, NBC Nightly News was coming to town. But this is when things went sideways.

It’s Time to Rethink Your Facebook Advertising Budget

By Ryan Shell

Facebook has been a go-to social media platform for marketers and business owners for quite a while, but based on the networks continued page algorithm changes; it may be time to rethink your options.

In no is this post going to imply that you should abandoned Facebook, but I do hope it prompts you to reconsider a thing or two.

Small Business Owners Can’t Suck at This

By Ryan Shell

There’s a lot that small business owners have to do right to succeed, but in my book, there’s one very important thing they can’t suck at.

Sucking at this thing just isn’t an option. That is, unless you love the idea of not having loyal customers.

My wife and I played tennis a lot when we were younger, and picked the game back up during our honeymoon a month ago. Once the first ball was hit it was if we became kids again and remembered how much we loved the game.

My Unexpected Thinking Place

By Ryan Shell

It’s that place.

The one where you can go and let your mind wander.

And more importantly, it’s a healthy place.

When I lived in North Carolina, “that place” was sitting on my bike while out riding 40 or so miles. It was peaceful, and a way my mind, in some ways, became free.

Now that I live in New York City, escaping is much harder, but I’ve found my spot, and it’s probably not a place you’d expect.

A Fear that can Negatively Impact Great Customer Service

By Ryan Shell

Providing great customer service in times of error requires one important element: honesty.

But there’s a fundamental problem people have with being honest during these situations. And it stems from your childhood.

It’s the fear of being in trouble.

No matter who you are, it’s a natural fear. But those that provide great customer service have learned how to deal with this “fear,” and are honest with customers and act as if they are in a partnership, and not in a me against you scenario.

Customers read this very clearly, and when they see your guard is down they’ll quickly appreciate your honesty, and that you’re trying to help. Granted, some people will take advantage of the situation, but the vast majority will not.

Fear is a natural feeling, but how you react to it will make a world of difference when it comes to customer service.