Communications Specialist

Connected Nation believes that states, communities, families and individuals can realize great economic and social advantages when we accelerate broadband availability in underserved areas and increase broadband use in all areas, rural and urban, alike. Connected Nation facilitates public-private partnerships to increase access to and use of broadband and related technology, creating dramatic results that translate into economic and community development, better education, higher quality healthcare, more efficient public service and improved quality of life. Connected Nation aspires to be recognized as an international market leader among organizations that work in the trenches to bridge the digital divide and increase opportunities that are enabled when people have the ability and desire to connect.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Develop a best-in-case media relations program to build Connected Nation’s image and awareness among its target audiences – particularly national technology and business media.
• Assist in maintaining effective/cooperative working relationships with national/regional technology and business print, radio and television broadcast media.
• Develop an online marketing strategy by identifying new media opportunities for CN via outreach to search engines, social networking sites, partners and related organizations to increase visibility and traffic.  
• Produce reports based on website statistics then apply knowledge gained from analyses to improve marketing and outreach.
• Drive pro-active press coverage, developing and executing on media outreach strategies for targeted media.
• Craft and edit media pitches, press releases, messages, fact sheets and media Q&A’s.
• Assist with coordination of special events such as press conferences, open houses and meetings.
• Using the VOCUS PR system, maintain an accurate and up-to-date database of media contacts, track CN media impressions and maintain archival of news stories.
• Responsibilities are not all inclusive, additional duties may be assigned.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• A Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, English or related field required.        
• Three years of Public or Media Relations, Communications or Journalism experience required.
• Experience with VOCUS PR software preferred.

TO APPLY: Interested applicants please visit the careers section of our website at www.connectednation.org.  Be sure to select the link for the specific region in which you are interestd.