Ah, March. The first day of spring, St. Patrick’s Day and, if you’re a sports fanatic like myself, the kick-off to college basketball’s biggest event, the NCAA tournament. However, this month has brought more than its fair share of marketing gimmicks, campaigns and rivalries as well.

Research builds the foundation of any public relations or marketing campaign. Being an expert on a specific topic and having your finger on the pulse for the industry can come in handy not only in formal strategy, but in everyday conversations or meetings.

The NAHB International Builders’ Show (IBS) was just held in Las Vegas, along with the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) during Design & Construction Week. Among the thousands of products being showcased between these two events, the “smart” home trend was very apparent.

Ahh… Spring Break. That random week-long gap between New Years and Easter is upon us – and by us, I mean you, college students. This hiatus that breaks up the second semester offers the chance to fill up your calendar with all sorts of activities, from a few extra work shifts to a trip to Fort Lauderdale to a Netflix marathon on your parent’s couch.

Congratulations! You’ve won an industry award. That’s a prestigious honor you should be proud of, especially with all of the hard work you undoubtedly put into your submission. But now that you’ve won… what are you going to do with it?