Media are often the gatekeepers to public perception but successful navigation requires a full understanding of the roles that message, execution and timing play in both earned and paid media. Alpha Agency’s owner has worked in or with the media throughout her career and can help you:

leverage social media,

pitch stories,

respond to inquiries,

learn the basics of media relations and prepare for interviews.

Each written and spoken communication is a reflection on you and your organization, so make every word count. It’s a whole new world out there — filled with little devices, big ideas and constantly changing platforms. Should you be posting on Facebook, Twitter, Linked-In or Pinterest? Alpha Agency founder Valerie Martin is an experienced wordsmith. She is frequently asked to write for business leaders and elected officials and also publishes articles under her own name. Services include:

social media content,

talking points,

opinion columns

ghost writing,

speeches,

position papers and articles.

The reputation of your firm and your client’s image are on the line when your case gets media attention. Being a good lawyer and being a good media spokesperson are two very different things. As communications director and spokesperson for the Minnesota judiciary and the Minnesota Supreme Court, Valerie Martin managed numerous high-profile cases and the media they drew. In addition, law firms increasingly require compelling content for web and social media distribution. Services include:

on the spot media relations counsel,

interview prep for clients and attorneys,

message development,

content for web, social media and business development,and

basic media relations training.

Employees, stakeholders and business partners are often the most overlooked areas of communications and the reason why many efforts fail. Internal audiences should be among the first — not the last — to know when changes are taking place or your organization is going to make news. Services include:

effective, integrated communications plans that build understanding and support;

stakeholder strategies that identify and mobilize coalitions of support; and

internal communications audits that drive better business planning and execution.

This is the service most people hope they’ll never need, but when you do, it’s important to rely on someone with experience.  Valerie Martin served as Press Secretary to former Minnesota Governor Arne Carlson and Communications Director for Minnesota’s judiciary.  She has comprehensive experience in high-stakes, highly sensitive and highly volatile media situations. Services include:

deploying an effective response management team, and

executing an immediate and long-term response strategy.

Public affairs has three vital levers: grass roots, “grass tops” and the media. With a broad and successful background in policy and issues management spanning all three branches of government and the city, state and federal level, Valerie Martin knows how to work each of these levers to your advantage. Services include:

opinion management,

media,

white papers,

online advocacy,

editorial boards, and

grassroots or “grasstops” campaigns.