Speed Your Organization’s Path to Goals with Strategic Planning Guest post by Christina Ragsdale, MA, APR – Big Sky Public Relations Consultant Fresh into the new year, our friend and consultant, Christina Ragsdale, shares a few thoughts about the importance of taking time to plan in 2019. What is Strategic Planning? This may be a term you’ve heard bandied about, but do you really know what it means and if it’s a valuable tool for you? Simply, it’s a systematic process for an

Learning the ropes of construction felt like an uphill climb six months ago. As a lifelong learner and lover of the outdoors, there are specific aspects of Montana Department of Transportation's (MDT) work that are complex - six months later, I find them fascinating. In January, Big Sky Public Relations worked on producing educational materials about the Migratory Bird Treaty Act for MDT. This act prevents construction during the time of year when birds are nesting, so as not

In nearly every position I've ever had, and in my role with Big Sky PR, it's my job to encourage best practices for online content and social media platforms. However, as most communications professionals will tell you, putting theory into practice can be a challenge when working in large, complex organizations, or agencies that have lots of research and history behind their projects. At the recent Active Threat Intervention Symposium presented by The Montana Disaster & Emerg

It's hard to imagine being where we're at today without the many incredible people and organizations who have encouraged, believed, and faced challenges with our team. Today, on Thankful Thursday, looking back, I'm amazed by the incredible people who have walked with us, given us a chance, and been a part of our success. The list is long and in my mind, highly esteemed. There's no way to recognize each in a single post but a few are especially prominent in my mind. To these,

Big Sky Public Relations is pleased to welcome our newest client, Glacier Park International Airport! Servicing the Flathead Valley and beyond, Glacier Park International Airport has grown exponentially over the years. In 2016, nearly half a million passengers flew in and out of the airport, setting a record for the fifth consecutive year. Shortly after, the airport named Rob Ratkowski as its new director. Big Sky Public Relations is thrilled to hit the ground (and air) runn

Big Sky Public Relations is pleased to announce the promotion of Josh Galassi to Junior Account Executive. Josh joined Big Sky Public Relations full-time in February 2016 as an Account Coordinator, where he assisted with media relations, event coordination, research, and client support. In his new role, Josh will expand upon his previous duties, and further develop his skills in agency research and reporting, media relations, client-facing support services and managing social

“Can millennials learn to love orange juice?” questions a recent Washington Post headline. “Why Millennials Need to Save Twice as Much as Boomers Did,” declares another from Money Magazine. A new study or article on millennials is published virtually every day. It’s clear everyone has an opinion about them, but how will millennials impact us here in Montana? The need for millennials in Montana is paramount, especially since they are on track to become the largest workforce in

“People don’t understand what we do.” “Why does the media keep misquoting us?” “Why would they say that about us?” When it comes to marketing and public relations, brands of all sizes in every industry may face similar frustrations. With the right perspective in place, the questions posed above can help an organization take huge strides toward developing more effective communication. Organizations that pose these type of questions generally take one of two approaches: 1) “We

Today, Rebecca Farm provided riders of all abilities and ages training to jump to the next level – literally. For years, Montana eventing clinics, such as the one directed by expert Marc Grandia were few, making advancement in the sport difficult. Rebecca Farm is changing that by bringing educational opportunities, clinics and shows to the Flathead Valley. One of the Farm’s core values is Community and they’re acting on it. We had the chance to see students in action this mor

Time management is a funny thing. Often, those who appear most capable – the mega multitaskers – are juggling multiple cell phones, obsessively checking emails, attending every conference, or constantly engaging on Twitter. Unfortunately for these folks, looking busy or heck, even being busy doesn’t necessarily increase your prospects for long-term success. It’s productivity that bags the big results, long term. Productivity includes reliability, organization, ingenuity and c

UPDATE: THIS POSITION HAS BEEN FILLED. THANK YOU TO THE MANY WONDERFUL PEOPLE WHO EXPRESSED AN INTEREST AND PLEASE CHECK BACK FOR FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES. Live in the Big Sky state and do what you love – Montana was just named the #1 State to Live the American Dream and we have to agree! If you’ve been dreaming of unparalleled mountain landscapes, rushing rivers, gravel roads and chasing pow all winter long, Montana might be the spot for you. If you peruse the news first thing e