WEBINAR: Public Relations for Entrepreneurs, Session 2 of 3: Using PR Tools to Build Brand Trust, Loyalty, and Credibility during a Crisis

Implementing effective social media, email marketing, crisis communique and media engagement strategies are essential to building trust as well as business retention and sustainability during an economic crisis. Utilizing traditional PR tools such as news stories and press releases coupled with 21st century tools like social media, e-newsletters, podcasts/webinars and virtual speaking engagements are a great way to maintain a long-term branding strategy. During this session, business leaders will view actual news stories, press releases, social media posts and e-newsletters to properly illustrate how to best approach brand strategy development during a crisis. Business leaders will have the opportunity to create a social media post promoting their product or service that takes into consideration the sensitivities of the times. In order to attend, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements. To become a Certified SEBD, please visit https://tinyurl.com/SEBDCertify. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

SBA EIDL Updates and PPP Loan Forgiveness Requirements

To further meet the needs of U.S. small businesses and non-profits, the U.S. Small Business Administration reopened the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) and EIDL Advance program portal to all eligible applicants experiencing economic impacts due to COVID-19. In addition, the Paycheck Protection Program is still available to eligible small businesses through June 30.

Protecting Yourself from Covid-19 in the Workplace

During this session, small business owners and their employees will learn the importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as well as, how to clean and disinfect the workplace to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Preparing For A Virtual Hiring Fair

In this time of online career searches and online interviews, learn what you need to be successful in the virtual hiring process.  Julia C. Rock is the owner of Rock Career Development, a career solutions firm that empowers ambitious professionals to unlock and achieve their full career potential.

VIRTUAL JOB FAIR

The Urban League of Louisiana – Office of Workforce Development is VIRTUAL JOB FAIRS to connect job seekers to opportunities in essential industry jobs.

WEBINAR: Public Relations for Entrepreneurs, Session 3 of 3: Online Reputation Management

A company’s digital footprint is as important to their branding strategy as other traditional branding efforts. With millions of potential customers online every day, businesses that ignore or discount their online reputation often find their name and brand trust in need of repair. Understanding digital review platforms like Yelp, Google Business, and Glassdoor can help businesses to maintain a positive online reputation during and after the COVID-19 crisis. During this session, business leaders will learn about online review platforms like Yelp, Google Business, and Glassdoor and their significance to maintaining a trusted brand strategy during the COVID-19 crisis. Statistical data will be examined to illustrate the importance of effective online reputation monitoring, connecting with customers on digital platforms and earning positive reviews. In order to attend, all participants must be a Certified Small and Emerging Business via Louisiana Economic Development’s Small and Emerging Business Development (SEBD) Program. Please note that there is no cost associated with SEBD certification, and most startups meet SEBD eligibility requirements. To become a Certified SEBD, please visit https://tinyurl.com/SEBDCertify. If you should have any questions, please email us at WBRC@UrbanLeagueLA.org.

DEADLINE TO REQUEST ABSENTEE BALLOT

To vote by absentee ballot, you must submit the application to request a mail ballot by 4:30pm on July 7th. Applications can be sent to the registrar of voters by mail, fax, hand delivery, or electronically through the secretary of state’s website at GeauxVote.com.

The Future of Work and Creating Wealth in Minority Communities

During this session, local national thought leaders will provide insights and recommendations on preparing minorities for the future of work with automation and closing the wealth gap in America between minority and non-minority communities. Panelists will share historical and current legislation and practices that have created the skills gap and the wealth gap in America, and recommendations for how communities of color can work to advocate for and create sustainable enterprises that create value for these communities. This session will also examine the economic, political and cultural implications that create positive outcomes or those that hinder progress in our communities.

VOTE TODAY! LOUISIANA PRIMARY ELECTION!

Q: I was prepared to vote in the April election but it changed due to the pandemic. When do I vote now? A: The Presidential Primary election for Louisiana is now on July 11th. FIND YOUR POLLING LOCATION!