Ana Livia Coelho | Oct. 9, 2008
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| Courtesy photo |
| Karen Hampton |
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Hampton talked about ways to communicate effectively with the public. Using examples from Ford, Hampton described ways she sets goals and measures results for a campaign.
Currently, Hampton is responsible for all communications for Ford president and CEO Alan Mulally. Some of her duties include managing global archives and content factory, such as press releases and photos, and communications research.
Hampton has been with the company for 15 years after starting as an intern. She talked about what she’s learned and emphasized the impact of developing defined goals and objectives for every project.
“If your goal isn’t precise, your work won’t be precise,” she explained.
According to Hampton, the best way to improve work is to measure every single step of the process.
“Make what you do measurable, and measure what you do,” she said.
Students will use Hampton’s suggestions right away as both classes are at work on real-world projects. The 20 students in J429 are working in four teams, competing to develop the best overall campaign for the IU School of Journalism’s centennial in 2011. The 28 students in J428 are working in six teams, competing to develop the best communication strategy for either Volunteers in Medicine or the regional chapter of the American Red Cross.
Hampton suggested analyzing each project separately and talking to key people. For her, each campaign requires specific tactics.
“Each situation is different,” she said, “and it is important to take the time to make sure you know the answers for important questions.”
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