RFP: Strategic Media & Messaging Consultant
Client: Somatic Experiencing® International (SEI)
Engagement Type: Part-Time Contract (Avg. 10 Hours/Week)

1. Purpose of the Role

SEI is seeking a specialized PR Consultant or Boutique Firm to serve as our External Voice Architect. Unlike a traditional broad-scope agency, this partner will focus on two high-leverage pillars: refining our global narrative/messaging and securing high-tier media connections. This role is designed to be highly efficient, collaborating directly with SEI’s Co-Executive Directors and Marketing Leadership.

2. Streamlined Scope of Work

To maintain a 10-hour-per-week threshold, the scope is limited to the following high-impact activities:

Pillar A: Messaging & Narrative Strategy (Approx. 3 hours/week)

• Global Messaging Framework: Create a “One-Voice” Guide: A finalized 2-3 page global messaging framework in multiple languages.
• Thought Leadership Positioning: Ensure publication of one high-level “point of view” piece (Op-Ed or LinkedIn long-form) per month for SEI leadership.
• Narrative Guardrails: Create a “messaging cheat sheet” and support the marketing team to create “messaging training” for faculty, training organizers, and staff to ensure SE™ is described
  accurately and distinctively in internal and public forums.

Pillar B: Media Connections & Outreach (Approx. 7 hours/week)

• Targeted Pitching: Conduct monthly, high-touch outreach to “Tier 1” journalists in healthcare, wellness, and mental health.
• Establish a Network: A vetted list of 10–15 “friendly” journalists who now recognize SEI as a primary source for trauma-related stories and 2–4 high-impact placements in major outlets (e.g., NPR, NYT, Wellness-focused publications)
• Media Bridge-Building: Facilitate direct introductions between SEI subject matter experts and relevant podcast producers, editors, and conference curators.
• Vetting Inquiries: Create a vetting approval process training for first points of contact for incoming media requests to ensure alignment with SEI values.
• Media Relations Training: Provide media relations training for key spokespeople within the organization.

3. Submission Requirements

• If interested, please email the following materials to Krysti Giese. Submissions will be considered on a rolling basis beginning on February 16th and will remain open until the selection is made.
• Tailored Cover Letter: A concise letter (1–2 pages) detailing:
  o Your approach to translating Somatic Experiencing concepts for a mainstream audience.
  o A summary of your existing relationships with journalists and publications in relevant sectors.
• Portfolio & Relevant Experience: Highlighting previous contract or consulting roles for mission-driven organization.
• Portfolio Sample: One recent example of a successful media placement you secured or a messaging framework you authored.

Interview Timeline

• We respect your time and aim for an efficient, transparent selection process:
• Round 1: Initial Screening (30 mins via Zoom)
  o Focus: Values alignment, initial messaging philosophy, and chemistry.
• Round 2: Strategic Deep Dive (90 – 120 mins via Zoom)
• Reference Check & Selection: Top candidates will be asked for two professional references.
  o Goal Selection Date: February 27, 2026.