This Thursday (March 26), leading public relations expert Stewart Gowans will be providing answers on how to stand out in a crowded marketplace, how to get balanced media coverage and also how to avoid what he calls 'bad spin'.

He will also examine if new technology - the web, blogging, social networking sites - offer new opportunities, or new threats, to corporate reputation.

Over the past 10 years Mr Gowans, an independent communications consultant, has been associated with Isle of Man-based marketing agency, Mainstream Financial, working on a variety of major client accounts.

'The media dominates our lives and no organisation can ignore its power,' said Richard Slee, chairman of The Chartered Institute of Marketing Isle of Man branch.

'In a multimedia environment with 24 hour news there is no choice but to engage with the media.

'This event will help local businesses and organisations manage this important dimension to their future success.'

The event is sponsored by isleofman.com and is free for CIM members and just £9.80 for non-members, which includes refreshments. It will take place at the Hilton Hotel, Douglas. Registration is from 5.30pm with the hour-long event starting at 6pm.

For further details contact CIM Isle of Man events co-ordinator Tiffany Jacobsen on 433131 or email cimevents@cim.co.uk