Jennifer Wilson
StylesWilson
Public relations
my core skills
Storyteller
event manager
copywriter
creative collaborator
ideas sounding board.
StylesWilson
Public relations
my core skills
Storyteller
event manager
copywriter
creative collaborator
ideas sounding board.
I couldn't put my finger on a single event. I literally get a buzz every time a client achieves the type of publicity they've been aiming for. I love creating an idea or an activation that I get to see through to it's inception and getting feedback that it met all the KPIs put in place. And meeting HRH Princess Diana, Donna Karan, Miuccia Prada and Giorgio Armani in London when I worked there in the 90's along with work trips to Rome still rates pretty highly!
Goodness, typical isn't really a word that suits a freelance PR practitioner since every week (and day) is different. The only constant is starting each day with coffee, and often even working out of my local cafe bright and early for an hour. I have a daily to do list of things that must take place in a given timeframe along with blocking out time for clients to brainstorm, strategise and plan. An up to date database is crucial so this is certainly a daily activity. Emails, phone calls and research round out most days. Other days are spent collaboration with agencies, suppliers and venues for events and activations. And I'm trying to get better at networking amongst all this as well. I can go from organising a beauty or photographic event through to working with well known bloggers setting up Garden Towers and talking all things worms and compost and environment. No two days look the same.
It's beautiful - I absolutely love it! As someone who is passionate about design, my choice of desk and chair was incredibly important. I've had both pieces for years and I imagine I'll have them through to retirement. It's worth investing in pieces that you love since you literally spend the majority of the day with them. I'm surrounded by amazing artwork and pictures of my daughter. Music or ABC 702 keep me company during the day as I get through my work load.
I ran my own PR agency for over 12 years. Combined with working as a Group Account Director in a larger agency and working in both London & Sydney, my experience is broad. I've worked on global accounts through to start ups. The diversity of clients I've worked with combined with strong media relationships has enabled me to have a thorough understanding of what's not only achievable for clients, but what actually works for their business. Many clients worked with me for years and have since become a source of great referral which I’m forever grateful. It’s pigeon holing to say that ‘I’m a PR consultant’ or ‘I’m an events manager’ or ‘I’m a content writer'. Clients simply need to be able to call on someone that they trust and say ‘I need your help with the following’ and know that you can manage their issue. I tend to think of myself as a producer since I need to be across all elements of a client’s business. I need to know what angle to develop in order to create interest in what they’re doing. I need to be able to connect them with other people who will benefit their business, be it a journalist, an influencer, a buyer, a supplier or key stakeholder. I need to assist on their marketing campaign, to manage budgets, to be a frequent cheerleader and an occasional sceptic. I help to shape their campaigns and hire people for these. I work with them on the future direction of their business. This is what makes my job so dynamic and enjoyable!
My laptop, mobile and mind.
Yes, often. I work with media and creative agencies who work in partnership with my clients as well as collaborating with agencies who need an extra person at times to manage specific projects.
Develop a criteria for the sort of client you want to work with - and learn to say no to work when this criteria isn't met. There are times when you'll be tempted to take on a client or a project because you need the income - but if it doesn't fit the criteria, then the relationship is unlikely to work and you're unlikely to enjoy the experience. It's also critical to factor in exactly how many hours you have available during the week - not only the hours that you 'sell' to clients, but the time you need to spend on your business to ensure that everything functions successfully. I have a spreadsheet that shows exactly how many hours I have available at any given time so I know when I can promise to get through something, engage in a project, and devote time to an agency. And when to say no.
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