FORUM Fall 2015 | Page 8

What You Should Understand About Measurement BY JASON MOLLICA PRESIDENT, JRM COMM Measurement is a term you’ve no doubt heard time and time again when it comes to public relations campaigns, social media marketing and even what you are doing for your student-run firms. However, do you really understand how to measure? What exactly should you measure? While this may sound like a difficult proposition, it doesn’t have to be. A very high percentage of firms and agencies have used or will use measuring tools like Marketwired, Cision and Brandwatch. Over my career, I’ve seen how measurement tools have changed, so it is important to understand what you need to be looking for now and in the future. Here are some tips: Ask for a demo. Call the listed companies and explain that you are a member of PRSSA and you’d like to learn more about their service. Each of these companies are easy to work with and are willing to help. However, make sure you clearly state that you aren’t purchasing anything right now, but you need to understand how their platform works. You also could ask if they would be willing to offer your student-run firm discounted rates. Before you call, educate yourself about each company. Don’t blindly