Advancing Excellence

In this episode of the Advancing Excellence Podcast, host Janice Clines, Marketing Manager for AOE, discusses the emerging trend of social media platforms becoming powerful search tools, rivaling traditional search engines like Google and Bing. Guest Amy Numbers, Vice President of Operations and Marketing Services at AOE, shares insights on how users are increasingly using Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) to search for information, follow influencers, and receive real-time updates. They explore the impact of this shift on brands and their digital marketing strategies, emphasizing the need for a mobile-first approach, leveraging emerging platforms like TikTok, and investing in digital advertising. The conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a strong social media presence and creating personalized content to engage audiences effectively. Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/cuxhy5IZC64

In this episode of Advancing Excellence, host Janice Clines and guest Bryce Barker, Director of Association Management Services at AOE, discuss effective strategies to enhance member engagement. They explore the importance of personalized communication, offering valuable content, fostering a sense of community, recognizing and rewarding participation, and soliciting and acting on feedback. These strategies aim to create a connected and motivated membership, driving organizational success. Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OpucuJk23VE

In this episode of the Advancing Excellence podcast, Janice Clines, Marketing Manager for AOE, interviews Kimberly Kayler, President of AOE and expert in strategic communication, on transforming LinkedIn into a powerful platform for thought leadership. They discuss the importance of LinkedIn, strategies to enhance engagement and visibility, the role of consistency, and common pitfalls to avoid. Kimberly also shares practical tips such as using humor, sharing behind-the-scenes insights, and leveraging LinkedIn features like the featured section, articles, groups, and video content. Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xQ_KJc0gtpQ

In this episode of Advancing Excellence, Kimberly Kayler, president of Advancing Organizational Excellence (AOE), welcomes listeners to the first workday of 2025. She emphasizes the importance of having an inspiring workspace and shares her office decor that motivates her, including signs that read 'Do what you love and love what you do,' 'Work hard and be nice to people,' and 'Happiness is liking what you do.' Kimberly discusses different work styles and the benefits of a tidy workspace, highlighting a team exercise in decluttering. She encourages listeners to create a workspace they feel good in and invites them to share their own decluttering tips. Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/idSScPm5v7g

In this episode on the Advancing Excellence Podcast, host Kari Moosmann, director of sustainability communications for AOE, discusses META's recent decision to terminate its third-party fact-checking program in the US and introduces their new community notes program, inspired by a similar feature on X (formerly Twitter). Join me as we begin the podcast. Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/-Cb49be9jaw

In this episode of Advancing Excellence, host and AOE Marketing Manager Janice Clines explores the impact of the potential TikTok ban in the U.S. and how LinkedIn is emerging as a platform for short form videos. Janice discusses the importance of diversifying content strategies and highlights LinkedIn's new features for creating and sharing short videos. As the future of TikTok remains uncertain, leveraging platforms like LinkedIn can help professionals and organizations maintain their digital presence. Listeners are encouraged to stay informed and adaptable to navigate these social media changes effectively. Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VmHowKvChT8

In the first episode of 2025, Kimberly Kayler, president of AOE, introduces the Advancing Excellence podcast with a focus on leadership and mindfulness. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth for effective leadership, and shares her own experiences with mindfulness and stress reduction. Kimberly also discusses practical steps for maintaining balance and invites listeners to contribute their ideas and challenges. The episode sets a reflective tone for the new year, encouraging listeners to prioritize self-care and mindfulness to enhance organizational leadership.

In this episode, we’re gearing up for the new year by giving your social media strategy a thorough refresh. If your approach to social media has been more “set it and forget it” lately, this episode is perfect for you. We’ll explore practical steps to breathe new life into your online presence and ensure it aligns with your goals for the year ahead. Join me as we begin the podcast.

To learn more about creating a social media strategy click here: https://www.aoeteam.com/social-media-marketing

During this time of year, you are likely polishing your marketing budget and determining the resources needed in terms of people is always a challenge. A big factor in a budget is the question of whether to outsource or execute with internal resources. In this podcast we discuss both sides of using external partners or keeping things in house.

Read the blog:

https://www.aoeteam.com/post/maximizing-your-marketing-impact-weighing-the-benefits-of-in-house-teams-and-external-agencies

The construction industry is facing a significant labor shortage, and it’s projected to continue as older workers retire. Gen Z is entering the workforce in full force and if the construction industry doesn’t find effective ways to recruit this generation, we’re going to see even more workforce challenges down the road. Today on the podcast we discuss how construction companies can use tech and benefits as a way to appeal to the next generation.

The succession planning process is essential, as it ensures that factors related to the market and organization are considered in staffing roles. Although naming an heir apparent, either formally or informally, is very common in our industry, it is highly encouraged to go beyond and fully engage in the succession planning process. In this podcast we discuss why it's crucial to have an exit plan in place for top level executives.

Strategic/Succession planning resources:

https://www.aoeteam.com/strategic-planning

Studies have shown that employees are more productive when they feel a sense of belonging within their workplaces. And what happens when these productive employees feel content at their jobs? They stick around longer. Armed with this knowledge, people with hiring power began deliberately looking for a “culture fit” in their recruits. In this podcast we explore how to find the right fit beyond qualifications, focusing on aligning strengths and values to build a thriving work environment by using the working genius model.

Read the blog:

https://www.aoeteam.com/post/why-your-new-hire-should-be-a-culture-add-not-a-culture-fit

Public relations (PR) is an ever-evolving industry. AOE started in 2001 as a public relations firm, and our roots in PR are extensive. All of us at AOE work hard to stay ahead of changes and to develop relationships with editors that lead to high-quality content published in respected industry publications. In this podcast head of AOE’s PR practice group Kristin Dispenza shares her perspective on how public relations compares to working in media and how to construct a PR campaign that appeals and establishes relationships with editors. Read the blog discussed in this podcast: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/an-editor-s-perspective-content-creation-and-publishing

One of the questions the AOE team often gets from clients is, "What is the difference between content marketing and social media marketing?" While they may seem similar, they serve different purposes and require distinct tactics. To help us understand the differences, AOE’s Social Media Practice Group leader Vikki Sicaras is here to help us differentiate between the two. Read the blog discussed in this podcast: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/content-marketing

As technology continues to evolve at a breakneck pace, artificial intelligence is not just a buzzword but a powerful tool that's reshaping how construction companies connect with clients, streamline their marketing efforts, and drive growth. In this podcast AOE’s PR practice group leader Kristin Dispenza breaks down how AI is transforming construction marketing strategies, uncovering the benefits and challenges of integrating these technologies, and discusses real-world examples of companies leveraging AI to stay ahead of the curve. Read the blog discussed in this podcast: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/ai-adoption-in-construction-marketing

Strategic planning is crucial for any organization or association as it helps define direction, allocate resources effectively, and ensures everyone is working towards the same common goals. In this podcast AOE's strategic planning top consultants Kathy Spanier and Drew Burns discuss how having a strategic plan can set the foundation for making informed decisions and adapting to changes in the market.

Read our blog on strategic planning: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/crafting-enduring-success-through-the-art-of-long-term-strategic-planning

Surveys have evolved into a powerful tool for gaining deep insights into customer preferences, behaviors and needs. In this podcast Janice Clines, Marketing Manager for AOE, shares how surveys provide B2B organizations with a wealth of information that can drive better decision-making, enhance client relationships and ultimately contribute to growth and success. Read the blog discussed in this podcast: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/the-power-of-online-surveys

In its simplest form, customer segmentation is a process by which you organize your customers with regards to their needs and your services. In this podcast AOE president Kimberly Kayler discusses how customer segmentation directly links customer behavior and their potential profitability to customer loyalty. Read the blog discussed in this blog: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/customer-segmentation-key-to-client-relations-and-sales-process-development

Hosting a webinar or virtual event is a great way to share high-quality information and connect with your audience on a personal level. However, to achieve this, it is key to draw people in and inspire them to attend your event. In this podcast AOE publications coordinator Emily Emanuelsen discusses key strategies proven to not only increase registration numbers, but also attendee engagement. Read the blog discussed in this podcast: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/how-to-improve-webinar-and-digital-event-registration

Sustainability is more than just a buzzword. It’s a crucial component of ethical marketing that resonates deeply with consumers. For marketing professionals and brands committed to ethical practices, understanding the nuances of sustainable marketing and avoiding greenwashing is essential. In this podcast AOE's Kari Moosmann, Account Manager and Sustainability Practice Group Leader, discusses three different blogs all related to sustainability marketing best practices.

Blogs discussed in this blog: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/understanding-greenwashinghttps://www.aoeteam.com/post/best-practices-for-authentic-sustainability-marketinghttps://www.aoeteam.com/post/sustainability-marketing-strategies

The industries we serve have always been at the forefront of technological advancements. Yet, the integration of AI marks a new era of innovation and efficiency. In this podcast we shed light on how using AI as a tool is enhancing our work while continuing to maintain the high level of expertise and creativity that our clients have come to expect. Read the blog that is mentioned in this podcast: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/it-s-a-revolution-how-aoe-is-leveraging-ai

In construction and engineering, safety is not just a best practice—it's a necessity. Through clear, accurate and timely communication, we can reduce accidents and foster a culture of collaboration and safety. In this podcast we take a deeper dive into the importance of communicating safety in the industries we serve. Read the blog that is referenced in this podcast: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/the-importance-of-communicating-safety-in-aec-industries

 One of the most rewarding aspects for a nonprofit leader is witnessing the incredible dedication and passion that your members bring to the association. Their commitment drives your organization forward and empowers it to make a meaningful impact in either your community or industry. Today on the podcast the marketing director for the slag cement association Nick Brimley discusses a recent blog he wrote on cultivating member engagement. Read the blog from this podcast here: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/cultivating-member-engagement-a-guide-for-nonprofit-leaders

There are multiple stressors and influencers that could cause stress in the workplace. This podcast is an accumulation of several blogs that discus the topic of health and wellness in the workplace. In this podcast AOE’s President Kimberly Kayler discusses ways one can combat workplace stress and take care of one’s own corporate mindfulness. To read the blogs discussed in this podcast visit our website www.aoeteam.com/blog

AI has changed the way we live and work, and generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Copilot are changing the way we do work as writers. However, this can seem like an intimidating change, but when used correctly, AI can improve the writing process. In this quick podcast Emily Emanuelsen, publications coordinator for AOE and PTI, discusses how AI is impacting writing. Read our blog on this topic: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/what-writers-need-to-know-about-ai

Whether it’s improving productivity, advancing research or enhancing user experiences, AI is increasingly impacting our personal and professional lives and doing so in ways that are becoming harder to discern. One common type of AI-generated content is photographs or rather, images that are photorealistic. In this podcast AOE's director of design, Lindsay Chelf takes us on a deep dive on how to identify real from fake. Read our blog on this topic: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/how-to-identify-ai-generated-photos

The construction industry’s latest reporting requirement addition is the disclosure of environmental, social and corporate governance or ESG data. In this brief podcast, Kari Moosmann, AOE's sustainability practice group leader, helps our audience understand what ESG is and why it is important.

Read our blog on this topic: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/communicating-esg-data-effectively

Succession planning is a crucial process for any organization, as it ensures that the right talent is available to take on leadership roles when the need arises. In this quick podcast we explain why succession planning isn't just about finding a replacement, but identifying, developing and retaining the right people for fundamental roles and much more. Read more on this topic from our blog: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/succession-planning-essential-in-today-s-economy

 Leadership is a demanding role that requires juggling multiple responsibilities, making tough decisions and inspiring others. While it can be rewarding, it also carries the risk of burnout. In this quick podcast AOE president Kimberly Kayler discusses ways to alleviate and prevent burnout.

Today’s workplace is a complex ecosystem where each professional plays a critical role in achieving collective productivity. Identifying and utilizing each individual's inherent strengths and weaknesses is crucial for optimal performance and satisfaction. In this podcast AOE president Kimberly Kayler dives into the Working Genius personality test model, this platform provides a deep understanding of our natural competencies and areas for development based not on what we are good at, rather, what brings us joy or exhausts us. It is knowledge you can actually implement. https://www.aoeteam.com/working-genius

In our competitive business world, customer satisfaction is the heartbeat that sustains growth and success. One metric that has gained widespread recognition for measuring customer loyalty and satisfaction is the Net Promoter Score. However, key to success in using NPS as a tool is understanding its calculation methodology as well as the benchmarking process. In this quick podcast we take a deep dive into unlocking business success with the net promoter score. Read blog here: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/unlocking-business-success-a-deep-dive-into-net-promoter-score

With much focus on workforce development over the past years, we wanted to put a spotlight on a very successful program developed by leaders in the concrete industry. The program is called the Concrete Industry Management program or CIM for short.  Join Janice Clines, marketing manager for AOE on the podcast with Amy Numbers, VP of operations and marketing services for AOE. As she discusses a recent blog she wrote that covers the CIM program, who are also a client of AOE.

The rise of digital platforms has paved the way for innovative approaches to media outreach and content creation. As journalists and news outlets dwindle, brands, organizations, and agencies are turning to digital platforms for media outreach and content creation. Among these emerging channels, podcasts are gaining significant traction as a powerful tool for effective communication strategies.

To kick off AOE's weekly podcast we cover why your organization should embrace the podcast wave.

Be sure to read our blog that is mentioned in our podcast here: https://www.aoeteam.com/post/embracing-the-podcast-wave.

As the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has grown over the past year, you may be asking yourself if you should have Chat GPT or other generative AI tools generate your press releases. Before you take that plunge, be sure to listen to this fireside chat. Although AI has proven to help in various stages of press content development, there are many concerns to consider ranging from confidentiality to bias. In this quick fireside chat, AOE’s AI certified marketing consultant Elec Izenson sits down with AOE president Kimberly Kayler and Kristen Dispenza, leader of AOE’s PR practice group, to discuss the use of generative AI and public relations. AOE's expertise in public relations, social media, branding and communications is proven, learn more here: https://www.aoeteam.com/marketing-and-public-relations Read the blog here https://www.aoeteam.com/post/ai-and-its-role-in-press-releases-a-fireside-chat-discussion

The digital landscape is undergoing rapid evolution, and at the forefront of this transformation is the growing interest in artificial intelligence (AI) among marketers. AI's ability to analyze vast amounts of data, predict consumer behavior, and deliver personalized content has made it an indispensable tool for modern marketing strategies. In this quick fireside chat AOE marketing manager Janice Clines sits down with AOE’s Elec Izenson, Marketing Assistant, and Laura Merritt, Senior Account Manager, to discuss how marketers can leverage AI-driven insights to craft targeted campaigns, optimize ad spending and enhance customer experiences.

Online learning has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering an alternative to traditional classroom education. In this quick 10 minute fireside chat, AOE Marketing Manager Janice Clines and Marketing Assistant Elec Izenson sat down with Amy Numbers, VP of operations and Kimberly Kayler, AOE president to discuss the many benefits that an online learning program can bring to your organization.

In this episode of the podcast we discuss sustainable initiatives. The concrete industry has a goal of carbon neutrality by 2050.  In response to this goal, many industry organizations are tasked with getting their message related to decarbonization and sustainability to their customers, specifiers, and employees.  Transparency and recognition of goals and achievements are vital.  Kimberly Kayler, CPSM of AOE, discusses a variety of methods and materials that should be used to effectively communicate progress.  Kimberly also shares how to identify key ways to communicate the steps your organization is taking, whether that be in the form of a new product or innovative process, that will help your organization reach your sustainability goals.

On July 5th, Meta Platforms launched Threads, a social media app built by Meta’s Instagram team. Within 24 hours, more than 30 million people and organizations had signed up and were posting (or “threading”), including celebrities, name brands, media outlets and businesses. In this quick 15-min webinar Senior Account Manager Laura Merritt and Social Media Task Group Leader Vikki Sicaras sit down to discuss Threads – the new kid in social media.

Public relations is an ever-evolving industry. Having started in 2001 as a public relations firm, AOE’s roots in PR are extensive.  We work hard to stay ahead of changes and develop relationships with editors that lead to high quality content published in respected industry publications. Join Janice Clines, marketing manager for AOE, as she sits down with Kristin Dispenza, Senior Account Manager and AOE’s Media Relations Practice Group Leader, and Jessica Porter, Account Manager for AOE, who recently came to AOE after serving for years as an editor and writer for various construction industry trade publications and has extensive knowledge and experience with PR. This quick 15-minute episode provides insight on how you can construct a PR campaign that will appeal to both print and digital editors.