November 27, 2005

Seem as You Want to Be

That's an old - but ever-relevant - addage of public relations: Seem as you want to be.

Yesterday, the New Orleans Zoo re-opened, and the director's display quote in our paper was, "This is a time of sadness in this city."

Well, it may be a "time of sadness," but communicating that negative message - instead of a positive message of hope - makes the "sadness" even more of a reality.

There's a prominent antique dealer in New Orleans - I can't remember his name - and he frequently has very important auctions. He has one coming up, and he has made a point of advising his numerous out-of-town clients that there are good places to stay...there are good places to eat...and visitors to New Orleans can, in fact, have a terrific experience. He is not denying that major parts of the city have been tragically devastated. But he is focusing on what's up and running, and he is presenting a realistic and positive opportunity.

That's just the right attitude, and it's one that can become a self-fulfilling prophesy.

Meanwhile, Atlanta has positioned itself with the following slogan: "Every day is opening day."

Will someone please tells me what that means?