If you’re like many business owners or marketing professionals, you understand the value of search rankings. You know what a high rank can do for your visibility, brand reputation and ultimately, your revenue. But are you aware that one of the most effective ways to boost your search engine optimization (SEO) is through media relations? And here’s the thing: most companies aren’t tapping into this powerful synergy.

This article hits close to home for me, as Asheville is where I spent over 17 years of my life, and I still have close friends and family there. Several members of our team have also lived in Western North Carolina and surrounding areas, with deep personal connections to the region. As we watched this disaster unfold, it became clear how vital compassionate and effective communication is for businesses navigating such crises.

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, data is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for any successful marketing strategy. Yet, many companies are falling short in leveraging data effectively. With only 20% of marketing spend being data-driven, businesses are missing out on a 50% potential boost in brand awareness. The challenge isn't just gathering data; it’s about turning raw numbers into actionable insights. 

Reports to: Vice President Client Service & Operations Status: Regular Part-Time
15-20 hours per week
Pay ranges from $15-$18 hour
Objective: To provide support to internal teams and assist with client service.
Accountabilities:
• To model behavior that demonstrates a positive commitment to fellow Fletcher employees,
clients and the community.
• To promote respect for and appreciation of all individuals, traditions and lifestyles.
• To demonstrate and promote a climate of courtesy and professionalism toward all.
Responsibilities:
• Writing and editing press releases, blogs and various other content
• Utilization of Meltwater media database for research and media contact list development
• Research journalists and pitch story angles
• Track and report on pitching progress and results
• Social media content development (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn)
• Research on a wide variety of topics
• Event management and support
• File management and organization for cloud storage
• Assists with monthly client reporting compiling metrics and analytics into digestible reports
• Manages weekly workflow and tracks time on software management platform
• Other duties as assigned
Qualification Requirements:
• Minimum of 3rd year student (seniors or graduate students preferred) in related field (PR,
communications, journalism)
• Previous agency or in-house PR intern experience preferred
• Demonstrated writing skills for diverse media (press releases, blogs, promotional copy)
• Direct social media experience
• Website content management experience preferred
• Fluent with Microsoft Office Suite. Knowledge of media databases, Sprout, Basecamp and
FreshBooks preferred (but will train)
• High attention to detail
• Strong multi-tasking capabilities
• Ability to work both independently on a virtual team

As the Great Resignation continues at a record-breaking pace, I see people all around me jumping ship for better opportunities, higher pay, more benefits or improved work/life balance. I’m well aware that ample job openings are out there—perhaps offering something marginally more desirable—yet I stay. The Great Resignation may be making headlines but the story that isn’t being told as frequently is the “why” behind those of us who have remained. I suppose you could call us the “Lesser Retained.” For businesses, it’s critical to understand what motivates employees to stay just as much as a recruitment strategy and to incorporate it into internal communications. But first I’ll share the reasons why I felt compelled to remain in my role.