FIR Interview: Jillian Beard, Morton’s Steakhouse

The social media world erupted with speculation when Peter Shankman blogged that Morton’s Steakhouse had read his tweet (written in jest) and delivered to him, via tuxedo’d staffer, a porterhouse steak at baggage claim after he’d landed. It was a PR stunt, many claimed, and nothing more. Others argued that the only reason Shankman got special treatment was because of his 100,000-plus Twitter followers.

We’ve gone straight to the source to find out what was really behind the gesture and to learn more about how Morton’s approaches social media.

FIR co-host Shel Holtz spoke with Jillian Beard, Chicago-based regional marketing manager for Morton’s and the face behind the company’s Twitter account for the inside scoop. The conversation includes discussion of the Twitter account, Facebook page, blog, YouTube channel and more

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About our Conversation Partner

jillianbeard As Regional Marketing Manager at Morton’s The Steakhouse, Jillian Beard executes company-wide marketing initiatives and business strategies from its corporate office to the 77 worldwide Morton’s restaurants. She is also the dedicated marketing liaison for all locations designated within the U.S. East Region (approximately 40 restaurants), providing guidance with local restaurant marketing tactics, campaigns and current market challenges.

Jillian is a leading member of Morton’s Social Media Team, aligning and coordinating the company’s marketing strategies, public relations campaigns and guest relations with its social media efforts. She oversees and manages Morton’s national U.S. Twitter handle while also coaching approximately 40 local Public Relations firms that tweet on behalf of Morton’s local handles.

She was the recipient of the Morton’s Employee of the Quarter Award in 2010 and has also completed the first level of examination from the Guild of Sommeliers with hopes of becoming a Certified Sommelier in the future. She volunteers for CASA of Cook County (a non-profit organization that strives to protect abused and neglected children by providing them a voice in court, a safe and permanent home, and an opportunity to grow, learn and thrive) as a marketing consultant. Jillian is married and lives with her husband in Chicago, Illinois.

Connect with Jillian on Twitter: @JillianMktng.

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