In 1985, I was filled with excitement when I first discovered the benefits of the brick mobile phone

As an early adopter, I vividly remember sitting in a pub, taking a phone call, and realising that this could be the answer to working remotely. The idea of running my office from a charming old Cotswold hostelry seemed like utter bliss. Not WFH more WFTP. However, this dream scenario soon diminished as the hidden…

The rise of social media promised a vibrant public square

The rise of social media promised a vibrant public square, but it also brought forth new challenges. Online trolling, disinformation, and a disconnected public have plagued these spaces.Newsrooms rely on metrics to engage audiences, but we are transforming the digital realm into toxic hellscapes. The latest Reuters Institute Digital News Report reveals a decline in…

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The tragic death of 17-year-old Nahel after being shot by the police and the ensuing wave of riots in France has captured the world’s attention.

On Friday, President Macron blamed social media and video games for the spread of the riots, the latest bombardment in an aggressive anti-rioter communications campaign that has seen French government ministers refuse to mitigate their condemnation of the violence and even the family of the young victim call for an end to the unrest. Of course,…

Sir John Major’s session at the #KiteFestival yesterday sent my mind into a spin

Political giants, when out of power, exemplify the enormity of being an elegant and true sage. They demonstrate wisdom that surpasses partisan lines, showing us the value of thoughtful reflection and long-term vision. However, today’s political landscape is marred by hostility and a lack of respect for opposing values, amplified by social media sound bites.There…

It’s been a whirlwind 24 hours for BBC News

First, Andrew Tate granted an exclusive interview from house arrest in Romania, and then Phillip Schofield gave a joint exclusive to the BBC and The Sun.As the BBC struggles to keep pace with the streaming giants, caught in the culture wars crossfire, it should be cautious about proliferating ‘tabloid’ content lest it damages its credibility…

Water UK.

– Water UK – the industry body for embattled English Water Companies, has launched a PR counter-offensive today after reports that it had overseen over 300k sewage spills in ’22 while making eye-watering profits. This slick exercise in corporate crisis response has successfully established the Water Companies’ narrative on prominent media platforms but also highlights…

In times of crisis and catastrophe, I’ve witnessed the importance of facing reality head-on

It’s akin to standing on the edge of a cliff, unaware of the impending storm. The looming disaster patiently waits, ready to strike, while those in power remain lost in denial. But embracing the truth, no matter how difficult it may be, is the crucial first step towards averting catastrophe. It grants us the strength…

Speed kills

An aphorism ingrained in our minds. This week, the news agenda gained momentum through tabloid media narratives, fueling debates on Twitter. From the Holly and Phil estrangement to the King receiving honey from David Beckham, the cacophony of chatter drowned out something profound: ideas and insight.Each incident triggered angst, echoing the diverse passions of the…

As we approach the coronation, the communications challenges facing Charles III are becoming more apparent.

Today’s reporting on YouGov’s most recent poll shows a slight but definite slide in monarchism and a rise in republicanism and apathy in the UK.Tracked against a similar poll from September 2022, overall support for the monarchy has fallen by 9%, while support for an elected head of state has risen by 6%.These figures aren’t…

Mark’s Words on Linkedin – Mary Quant

As a fashion designer in the 1960s, Mary Quant was a true trailblazer who introduced new styles and designs and revolutionised how fashion was marketed and branded. Here are some examples of how Quant pioneered a modern, youthful approach to PR, marketing and branding:Making fashion accessible to young women: Quant created designs that were affordable…