Business Archives - The Washington DC 100

Can you pass the drug test?

Collaboration between business and health leaders is the prescription needed to fix the opioid epidemic in Oklahoma.

This question is no longer sufficient for employers to ask potential new hires. The misuse of prescription painkillers and synthetic opioids is well known, and its impact is devastating some companies to the level that The Journal Record hosted a panel discussion for the business community.

The most recent study from Castlight Health reported opioid abuse is costing employers about $18 billion per year in lost productivity and medical expenses. On average, 4-5% of employees who received an opioid prescription showed signs of abuse.

The best prescription is for businesses and health leaders to collaborate and remedy this epidemic.

— Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, The Oklahoma 100

Business

US Data Breach Crisis

Know what to do after a data breach.

Crises can arise at any time and through no fault of your own. Protecting your personal brand is always at the center of good crisis planning.

As long as we rely on technology, we leave ourselves open to threats, including the most recent data breach at Equifax that potentially affects nearly 150 million people. We receive phishing emails regularly, and every time you swipe a credit card, you open the door to disaster.

There are resources available outlining the proper steps to mitigate these potential crises as to not affect you, your family or your business for years to come.

– Chuck Norman, APR, The North Carolina 100

Energy

EnergyNet Transforms Oil and Gas Sales

Long gone are the days of oil and gas auctioneers calling bids. Today, EnergyNet’s online platform allows auctions, sealed bids and negotiated sales to happen 24/7/365.

Oil and gas “properties,” like producing working interests, royalties and mineral interests, are bought and sold daily. Whether you are a big independent selling $50 million packages containing hundreds of wells, or an individual selling granddad’s minerals, all sellers need buyers — and the more buyers, the higher the value. But finding good customers can be difficult.

Enter EnergyNet, the country’s largest online auction site for oil and gas with 26,000+ users. Think eBay for energy. This high-tech energy company now holds the exclusive to provide online lease sales for federal government lands and seven other state land offices.

– Chip Carter, The Oklahoma 100

public relations

Reputation, Reputation, Reputation

"It takes 20 years to build a reputation and five minutes to ruin it. If you think about that, you'll do things differently." -Warren Buffett

United Airlines is under fire for refusing to let young girls board wearing leggings, and forcibly removing a passenger unwilling to be bumped because the flight was overbooked. A company creates its image and solidifies its reputation with every statement it makes — verbal or otherwise. That is why communications strategists should be an integral part of the leadership team.

People are increasingly making decisions based on values, and millennials are more likely to support companies demonstrating social consciousness. It’s critical to think through every angle of policies, procedures and statements with a professional communications strategist. Your reputation is at stake.

– Lisa Cutter, The Colorado 100

public relations

PR’s Role in Fake News

Though fake news isn't a new issue, the speed at which it can be shared is.

The “fake news” epidemic has swept the nation since the 2016 election and has affected more people than you’re probably aware of. For example, 91% of journalists feel they’ve lost public trust.

From a PR perspective, it results in equally difficult challenges. Misinformation about a client can irreparably damage their image (and yours). Some even believe it is PR’s responsibility to combat fake news entirely. Bottom line, it’s now more important than ever to:

1. Have a crisis plan

2. Respond quickly

3. Be transparent

4. Constantly monitor client mentions

5. Never embrace or capitalize on fake news for clients

– Haley Barton, The Atlanta 100

Business

Fake News Can Be Fatal to Your Brand

Checking your facts and stats are important steps in ensuring your content is truthful.

Public relations practitioners have long been known as guardians of the public truth.

With the rise of fake news in the age of digital and social media, it is more important than ever that PR professionals uphold their duty to follow ethical guidelines when creating content for clients or the entities for which they work. In recent PEW Research Center findings, the majority of US adults say fake news has left Americans confused about basic facts.

When hiring an agency or employees who will be tasked with telling your story to key stakeholders, ensure proper research supports the final product.

– Chuck Norman, APR, S&A Communications

Business

Communications Is the Conduit to Rebuild Trust

Three out of four respondents agree a company can take actions to both increase profits, and improve economic and social conditions in the community where it operates.

Trust in business can be difficult to come by, and per the 2017 Edelman Trust Barometer, the general population’s trust in business, government, NGOs and media has rapidly declined recently.

Trust in business dropped in 18 countries and credibility of leadership roles dropped to an all-time low of 37 percent.

To maintain trust with clients, businesses must keep consistent, reliable, open communications. By directly addressing issues you can instill trust and loyalty in your audience that you have their best interests at heart.

When it comes to public relations, upholding the principles of ethics is a key trust builder.

– Jane Dvorak, SLJ 100 Communications

Business

Top Business Trends Shaping 2017

Experts predict a shifting landscape for common business trends in 2017.

Last year was focused on consumer control, artificial intelligence and excitement in virtual reality. In 2017, experts predict a shifting landscape.

The Next Big Innovation: Entrepreneurs/innovators are creating the next big ideas at accelerated rates, which raise expectations for everyday business, too.

Life Sustainable: This year will see increased shared responsibility for companies to invest in sustainable practices. Businesses should also inform employees and customers of ongoing efforts.

Privacy/Security: Privacy policies are no longer only a legal necessity. With web hacks and threats to privacy, customers want evidence they’re protected and reassurance that businesses will resolve any issues.

– Jake Pasdach, Jones PR

Management

Pay Equity a Key Issue in 2017

Women earn 83% as much as men in median hourly earnings, according to the Pew Research Center.

Employee pay practices related to gender equality will be monitored like never before in 2017.

To address gender discrimination, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission recently revised its EEO-1 form, which collects data on employee gender, ethnicity and other classifications, to also include detailed information on compensation. This change means salary disparities among men and women could be under the microscope.

While the first report isn’t due until March 2018, it will require data from 2017. The form is required for all businesses with more than 100 workers.

Pay equity is one of many workplace issues gaining attention this year.

— Steve Bernstein, Fisher Phillips

Electronics

CES to Unveil the Latest Tech Trends – and the Policies That Support Them

The Consumer Technology Association’s global tradeshow, CES, takes place Jan. 5-8, 2017 in Las Vegas.

CES^® is the launchpad of innovative new technology — from smart homes and smartphones to self-driving cars, smart cities and the Internet of Things. As many of these new products and services develop and enter the market, so do a variety of related public policy issues.

Our robust conference program will examine the latest developments in emerging technologies at the center of today’s policy discussions, including drones, vehicle technology, data privacy and security, as well as other hot-button policy topics that impact and drive innovation — issues that you will be reading about, and dealing with, in the coming months.

– Gary Shapiro, President & CEO, Consumer Technology Association

Energy

Shifting RFS ‘Point of Obligation’ Would Mean Higher Prices at the Pump

Created under the Energy Policy Act of 2005 and expanded in 2007, the RFS program was designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and expand the renewable fuels sector.

Since the inception of the Renewable Fuel Standard, refiners that make fuel have been obligated to fulfill the law’s mandates. It’s a system that has effectively integrated renewable fuels into the marketplace while keeping prices low.

Now refiners want to shift that obligation to fuel retailers – threatening consumers and the U.S. economy while benefiting a few oil companies. NATSO recently joined seven fuel-related associations in an unprecedented display of solidarity to oppose shifting this “point of obligation.”

The groups, which include both the American Petroleum Institute and the Renewable Fuels Association, urge EPA to formally reject these petitions.

– David Fialkov, Vice President, Government Affairs and Legislative and Regulatory Counsel, National Association of Truck Stop Operators

Transportation

Trucking Moves the Holidays

If you bought it, a truck brought it.

The trucking industry makes almost every piece of the holiday season possible. We haul fuel to the pump so families can drive to grandma’s house, deliver presents and stocking stuffers, and supply the food that is shared with our loved ones.

We also make small miracles happen each day by providing jobs to more than 7.3 million Americans. Chances are, at this very moment, one of your neighbors is contributing to the holidays by delivering presents or managing logistics as part of the trucking industry. These hardworking professionals take pride in delivering holiday joy, and we sure appreciate them.

– Kevin Burch, co-chairman, Trucking Moves America Forward

Economy

How Will Trump Impact the Economy?

Trump's economic policies may have the most impact on the Federal Reserve.

Many are wondering how much impact President-elect Donald Trump will have on the economy, whether for better or worse, when he takes office next year.

Trump could have an immediate impact by filling the two Federal Reserve board seats that are currently vacant. The Federal Reserve sets interest rates and regulates banks.

Trump has signaled that he may support higher interest rates, which would help savers, but could hurt borrowers. On the other hand, he’s suggested that with less regulation, banks would be more eager to lend to businesses, which could help borrowers.

We’ll see what happens in January.

– David Ide, USAmeriBank

The 100 Gal

Three Books Every Business Leader Must Read

Every business leader should have a collection of leadership books in their arsenal to improve their knowledge.

Have you ever noticed that leadership books typically have the same structure? Define your vision, find your own style and implement a personal leadership plan. A long-time colleague recently recommended three books that really stand out among the crowd of leadership books.

Tom Hoog, a leader in national politics and former President/CEO of Hill and Knowlton/USA, recommended the following books: James O’Toole’s “Leading Change, The Argument for Values-Based Leadership;” Daniel Goleman’s “Primal Leadership, Unleashing the Power of Emotional Intelligence;” and Rabbi Harold Kushner’s “Living a Life That Matters.”

I can hardly wait to read all three.

– Brenda Jones Barwick, APR, Jones PR

Economy

Franchises Hopeful on Jobs, Upward Mobility

Cresanti was named president & CEO of IFA in September 2015.

Our view of this year’s election is a straightforward one. The voters spoke loudly and clearly – and they rejected candidates who pledged to continue imposing policies that would destroy jobs and crush small businesses, which are the engine of our economy.

We plan on going to work – hopefully with the incoming administration’s help – to strike the massive regulatory state created by the practice of legislation through executive order; we also want to work with congressional leaders to repeal these unnecessary, harmful, and overly burdensome regulations, beginning with the newly broadened joint employer standard and the Department of Labor’s overtime rule.

– Robert Cresanti, President & CEO, International Franchise Association

The Law

Legal Rights for Veterans

Veterans enjoy a number of legal benefits. (Photo courtesy of Colorado Veterans Project)

Our veterans have earned our respect, which includes a number of legal benefits. For a home loan, veterans – and those on active duty – can obtain loans easier with a certificate of eligibility (COE) indicating they can obtain a VA-backed loan and pay no mortgage insurance.

For entrepreneurial types, the SBA Veteran’s Entrepreneurship Act of 2015 reduces the upfront borrower fee to zero dollars for SBA Express loans up to $350,000.

And the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Civil Relief Act allows members of the military to terminate agreements and gain additional time to honor debts and contracts under certain circumstances.

– Joseph P. Stengel, Partner, Evans Case LLP

Public Affairs

Welcome to The Washington DC 100!

Gloria Story Dittus founded Story Partners in 2010.

Story Partners and I are thrilled to launch The Washington DC 100.

In this inaugural edition — and every other week going forward — we’ll share 100-word stories and 100-second videos on topics of intrigue to the D.C. area — from the politics and events du jour to the latest in the worlds of thought leaders on Capitol Hill, K Street, and cocktail parties everywhere in between.

We will focus on the people and events that make Washington our city. I invite you to read, enjoy, and reach out to include your own 100-word story in an upcoming edition.

– Gloria Story Dittus, founder and chairman, Story Partners

Politics

Top Shelf Issues Remain for Retail

With Black Friday just around the corner, the retail industry keeps an eye on the political climate.

Election years come and go, but the issues stay the same.

For retail, an industry supporting one out of every four American jobs and contributing $2.6 trillion to our GDP, the issues that topped the list four years ago — tax reform, health care, labor, trade, and credit/debit card swipe fees — remain.

We are optimistic about what can get done under a new president and Congress, and will continue our efforts to advance a pro-growth agenda for the benefit of our economy, our retailers, their associates, the consumers they serve, and the communities where they live and work.

– Matthew R. Shay, president & CEO, National Retail Federation

Manufacturing

Getting Down to the Business of Uniting the Country

America's manufacturing sector says "we are the solution."

Last week, I wrote a letter to the president-elect titled “Manufacturers: We Are the Solution.” I’m proud to say more than 1,100 business leaders also signed it.

We signed together because we agree that while it was a hard-fought campaign, and while there are many divisions in our country that need mending, business can help lead the way toward reconciliation.

Our industries, comprised of more than 12 million men and women in manufacturing, have the power to work together and restore faith in our economic and government institutions and to bolster the promise of America, starting now.

– Jay Timmons, President & CEO, National Association of Manufacturers

The Back Story

Introducing ‘The Back Story’: We Want to Hear From You!

Have a Back Story to share on the Supreme Court, or any other topic of intrigue? Email washington100@storypartnersdc.com!

In Washington, we all know there’s the story we see in the headlines and then there’s the behind-the-scenes, inside-the-Beltway insight – the back story. That’s why we’ll have a recurring column featuring a prediction, insight, or Beltway perspective – from you, our readers.

In this edition, Newsweek’s Matt Cooper opines on the Trump transition where New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie might fit in.

For the next issue, we want to hear about the Supreme Court: Who do you foresee as Trump’s pick? How will Democrats react? Remember Merrick Garland? Email us your Back Story at washington100@storypartnersdc.com!

– Gloria Story Dittus, Story Partners

Politics

After Taxing Times, Reform on the Horizon

The critical pieces seem to be in place for the first major reform of the U.S. tax code in three decades.

There’s a reason we don’t do tax reform every five, 10 or even 20 years – it’s really hard to do.

That said, for the first time in decades, all of the pre-conditions for tax reform have emerged: an out-of-date, out-of-step tax code, a struggling economy, taxpayer enthusiasm, strong congressional tax reformers, and most importantly a president-elect who is willing to lead and expend political capital on getting it done.

Accomplishing tax reform will be harder than most expect, but when it gets done – and it eventually will – the work will be well worth it.

– Greg Nickerson, founder of The Washington Tax & Public Policy Group

Infrastructure

(Concrete) Change We Can Believe In

Voters put their money where their mouth is when it comes to funding transit.

The long and tenuous presidential race wasn’t the only bumpy road this year.

Americans across the country, seeking a smoother ride on their work commutes and daily travel, voted in favor of a whopping three dozen ballot measures aimed at improving public transit.

Fixing our crumbling infrastructure was one issue that both presidential candidates agreed on, and voters responded by approving 33 of 48 state and local ballot measures aimed at raising or borrowing money to expand rail and bus lines – including D.C.’s neighboring Prince George’s, Arlington, and Fairfax Counties, which all voted in favor of Metro improvements.

– Gloria Story Dittus, Story Partners