Kickin' It with Tom Joyner's Sr. Producer, Nikki Woods

 

Hi dolls! Happy Friday! I wanted to start 2013 with a fabulous and inspiring interview. I started following Ms. Woods months ago on Twitter because her tweets are so inspiring and encouraging. As I began to research who she was, I discovered that she worked with Tom Joyner as a Sr. Producer, and for those who don't know, The Tom Joyner Morning Show is the #1 urban radio station in the country! I respect Ms. Woods on so many levels, not only as a media professional, but a positive woman who is does amazing things and is a great role model to young women. Today, you all will have the opportunity to read about how she entered in the broadcasting/media industry. Enjoy!

As a young girl, what inspired or intrigued you about the field of journalism/broadcasting?

I thought it was very interesting that you studied education at Howard University, how did the transition from education to journalism/broadcasting come about?

I've always been a communicator. I began writing fiction at a very young age but didn't consider journalism as a career until much later. I initially went to school for education and began teaching right away. It wasn't until a couple of years later, that I decided I wanted to try something different while I was still single with no children and no mortgage. I thought Television Sports would be interesting and went back to school to get a degree in Broadcast Journalism.

For students now who are pursuing a degree in Communications/Journalism/Broadcasting, and with the rapid pace of technology, how beneficial is it for students to be heard? By that I mean creating a blog or starting a youtube channel?
 

Not only is it extremely beneficial, but it is extremely easy and FREE. Whereas before you had to wait for someone to give you an opportunity to break into radio, print, or TV - now you can create your own blog, online newspaper, webisode or radio show. And you don't have to be young or a student. Anyone can create a platform for their voice to be heard.

How has the industry changed since you've entered? and how have you been able to adapt to building brands, implementing strategic tactics via social media?

The industry has changed tremendously. There are so many different ways to listen to radio now ... satellite, on line, via an app and that has paved the way for a whole new group of "on-air" personalities. It has become paramount that those in traditional radio implement a variety of social media strategies to not only maintain their audience but to grow it. It is also crucial for personalities to establish their brand in social media. Luckily I became active in social media early on so I was ahead of the curve by the time it really started taking off. Before, people view social media as a game but now social media has the power to create celebrities and hurt them so it is not a platform to be taken lightly.

What was your very first job entering into the media world? How beneficial was it compared to where you are now?

I started in local radio news and television sports. I think the most beneficial thing about both of those jobs is that they taught me what it was that I didn't want to do long term. While I appreciate news, it was not something I wanted to do full time and television wasn't a good fit for me. Realizing that early allowed me to get on "my" path at the beginning as opposed to the end of my career.

When did you first begin at Tom Joyner and what was your position? I've heard that it's difficult to move up in radio because most people enjoy their positions and would prefer to continue in their current role. What are your thoughts about that?
 

Well, I do think most people enjoy their positions and would prefer to continue in their position aka employed but that is not always the opinion of your boss or the company that you work for. And in media, most times when a job becomes available it is because someone got fired, resigns or is promoted. Positions are hardly ever "created" just for one person. So there is limited space and opportunity to break into this business and move up the ranks. You have to be persistent, be talented and have faith that even though things may not work out the way you want them to, they are working out for the best.

As Sr. Producer, what does your position entail?
 

My job is to take care of all things Joyner as it pertains to the on air radio show. There is a large team that works very hard to make sure that only the best content, guests and music is presented. I serve as the gate keeper to make sure it all comes together when the mic goes on. I am also the liason between Tom Joyner and the other departments of Reach Media - like sales, marketing, the Tom Joyner foundation and BlackAmericaWeb.com.

How has working for TJMS helped mold and fine-tune your skills as a producer?

This was my first position as a producer. I've always been the talent so this opportunity was a chance for me to expand my skill set and add to my value. Needless to say - when you start in one of the top positions as a producer - you fine tune your skills pretty quickly. Luckily I work with a team of very talented and experienced producers so they made the transition fairly seamless.

What's a typical day for you?
 

There is no typical day which is why I love my job so much. I certainly never get bored. There are certain things that have to be done daily to make sure the show is ready for the next day but what that show looks like is never the same as the day before.

What advice would you like to share with young people who desire to become a producer?
 

Be passionate about the product that you are producing, be passionate about the messages that you are communicating and realize that even though you may not be in front of the camera or behind the mic - you are just as responsible for what goes out over the airways - some times even more so - and to take pride in that. Always be willing to learn from others in the business and never be scared to take a well researched chance on doing something different.

And of course, what was your "breakthrough" moment/experience?
 

I think my life has been a series of "breakthrough" moments - sometimes on a daily or weekly basis. I am so open to messages from others about how to better myself that I am constantly receiving, growing and living in my purpose. But my initial breakthrough moment was the first time I sat behind a mic and felt the power of communication.

If you would like to connect with Nikki, follow her on Twitter @nikkiwoods

Be GREAT today!

XO,

Key
@Fab_Key

Grace Mayele of Within Essence Productions

Hi PR Dolls!  I know it's been a while since I've posted, but I would like to introduce you to one of good colleagues, Grace Mayele. Grace is the CEO of Within Essence Productions based out of Canada! Grace and I actually had one of the most inspiring conversations back in October. We discussed EVERYTHING from Social Media enhancement, destruction of your brand because of poor use of social media and connecting the dots with the right people! Check out her interview below:

Within Essence Productions officially launched back in 2009 how was the transition from corporate America to working for yourself?

 The transition has been smooth yet quite the learning curb! It’s something that had to be done in order for me to appreciate what I have and not focus on what I don’t have. Running solo is something neither easy nor for the faint of heart financially nor emotionally. Building an empire comes with many sacrifices that can easily be ignored when you’re too comfortable.  There comes a time when you have to be tried in order to embrace and re-connect with your true “calling”. The transition allowed me to reposition myself personally on many fronts, re-align and re-strategize what I was really trying to achieve. Went back to the board, stretched my mind and tackled the basics…  Realized I wasn’t thinking big enough which is why I’ve been in the midst of my re-invention and re-brand!

Within Essence Productions is known for branding, what are some of your branding tactics that you use to produce successful events?

 We’re definitely known for our strategic and empowering approach when it comes to brand management and event planning. I wouldn’t say there’s a specific tactic per say other than truly understanding what our clients’ needs are. Once you know the ground rules of any project or event it’s easier to bring it to life and in the proper context. My aim is to operate with purpose in all that I do! Events are powerful marketing tools therefore it’s important to know what you’re trying to diffuse in order to reach your audience. There has to be a message or an element of influence.

 What is the meaning behind the name of your brand, Within Essence Productions?

 Within is the heart…

Essence is the journey…

Productions are the actions…

 To sum it up, I’m simply building from the inside and out…

 How would you describe the difference between branding and public relations?

 I believe they both merge in one to some degree. Branding is quite holistic to me, its understanding the essence of who you are and more. You can’t buzz about a person/brand or yourself for that matter if you’re not in tune with your identity nor what you truly stand for, which is why Branding and PR are interconnected.  PR gives you an opportunity to showcase your brilliance but you need a foundation and that’s where branding comes in.

I know that you've recently added PR services to your company, what are some of the services that you specialize in specifically?

 Yes, PR chose me lol! As far as PR is concerned: Fashion and lifestyle PR

With social media being so influential in most businesses, what is the correlation between PR and Branding that you use to network with potential clients via social media?

Honestly, I just lead by example. That alone sets the tone for any client lead and network potential. You never know whose watching therefore you have to make sure you as a publicist/marketer etc. are moving your own brand. In doing so, people will be able to see the types of results you are able to provide.

 What are some upcoming projects that Within Essence is currently working on?

 I’m currently working on some exciting campaigns and projects for clients in both the beauty and fashion industry. Moreover, I’m working on my company re-launch and new website alongside other things.

What was your 'breakthrough' moment that made you realize that entrepreneurship was something that you wanted to pursue?

I’ve had several moments and truly believe my breakthroughs are ongoing! But once I realized there was more to life than just being confined in a box with the desire to go to law school; that’s when I realized I had more to live for and explore within myself. Seizing new opportunities that were beyond me and getting out of my comfort zone allowed me to do just that… break through!

 What's a typical day for you as a BOSS?

 Typical day pretty much goes like this on average...There’s just always something to do!

      Ø  Meditation/Prayer

Ø  Emails/Calls/Follow-Ups/Brainstorm/Networking

Ø  Social Media

Ø  Meetings/Site Visits/Social

Ø   “Me time” – That’s just how I wrap up my nights. Need to let it all simmer even if I put in some overtime.

As far as branding values, what are two essentials that you feel are key when working with clients and luxury brands?

Knowing your purpose and knowing your value! Those two are very key!  You just can’t sell yourself short nor step outside of your standards and protocol. Remain humble and on course!

 

Be sure to follow Grace on Twitter @Withinessence

 

XO,

 

Key

Tweet me: @Fab_Key

Beating The Odds & Seizing The Opportunities- Nyle Washington

Today, I bring you VH1's PR Manager, Nyle Washington. I can honestly say that her interview gave me chills, because she defeated the ODDS and went after her dreams and created her own opportunities. I pray that this interview, moves and inspire all of you, just to go after everything that you desire!

-Being apart of drama/theater in grade school, do you feel that being 'confident' at such a young age, has played a major part in your fearlessness in your leading positions in the field of PR?

I can attribute some of my confidence to being in theater as a child, but the majority I can say is from being raised by a VERY confident and determined single mother. If I have learned nothing else in life from my mother, it's confidence, integrity, fearlessness and the fact that leaders don't always lead from the front, sometimes you have to lead from the behind, side or middle.

 

-I thought it was very interesting to know that you majored in English while you were in college, why didn't you pursue Drama for your undergrad career?

Funny that you ask this— I was in theater from the age of 8 up until I graduated from high school at 18 and never thought twice about majoring in English. As much as I loved theater, I loved reading, writing and English much more. I was a journalism major at Hampton University first and then switched at the end of my freshman year and decided to stick with my first love, English. It's definitely one of the best choices I have ever made.

 

-How were you introduced to the television/broadcasting industry?

I made it my goal my freshmen year to land an internship. Keep in mind I had zero experience, but in my mind I had nothing to lose and clearly lots to learn and gain. I absolutely love the news ( CNN, MSNBC, FOX) I watch it all, as I want to know what everyone is saying—gain different perspectives. I am one of those people that is always interested in knowing what is going on? Why is it going? How did this happen ? I have always been a curious person so television/broadcasting just fit into place and my freshmen summer heading into my sophomore year I had an internship at KYW television station in Philadelphia, PA. I learned soo much that summer and stuck very close to one of the reporters and was able to go out with her during trials, breaking news stories, etc.

 

-I noticed that you studied abroad in England at Bath and Oxford University. How did studying abroad change your perspective on education in a different country? Do you feel that should be an essential for all college students to study abroad and experience a different culture?

I absolutely feel it should be essential to study abroad. I learned so much about who I was as a young person in this world by studying abroad and I feel every person should experience being fully immersed within another culture for an extended period of time. Yes, I could speak the language, but British culture is completely different from American culture. I discovered a beautiful different world of people ( European, African, Indian) in Bath and in Oxford and absolutely loved the people, architecture and freedom to make my own choices in a different environment. Also I loved traveling around Europe (Paris, Germany, Amsterdam, Italy) while I was studying in Bath— definitely a bonus. As far as education, I truly feel the more you get to experience how other countries and their education systems work the better and richer you are as a person.

 

-What do you feel was your 'BREAKTHROUGH' moment that made you realize that you wanted to be in the PR field?

 

My "breakthrough" moment came during my press internship experience at HARPO. I had the great opportunity to intern during the 22nd season, the one in which Oprah gave away the cars. I remember the kinetic energy that resided in that building the day before Oprah's big announcement and how excited and eager everyone was, it was like something huge was about to bust out of its seems. I was fielding calls from NY to Italy to Paris and all over the world as people were trying to guess this big announcement. It was such an amazing time to be at The Oprah Winfrey Show and to see how her press department masterfully handled the media frenzy.

 

-You interned at HARPO studios in Chicago, in the PR department for the 'Oprah Winfrey Show', tell me how that made you feel when got the opportunity to work for Oprah? What were daily tasks there? What was three inevitable lessons that you learned while working there, that you apply to career now as a PR manager for VH1?

First I have to say I had ZERO publicity experience when I got the internship at "The Oprah Winfrey Show," but just having the opportunity to be at HARPO was a huge deal to me. I had applied my junior year at Hampton and while I was studying abroad I had the opportunity to interview for the position and got the internship, but had to turn it down as my grandmother wasn't in the best health. I was needed home in New Jersey so Chicago was out of the question. I kept in contact ( #1 rule of PR— network network and keep in contact with people) with the internship coordinator at HARPO and when I applied to Temple University for grad school I re-applied and was accepted for the internship. Sorry for the lengthy story, but I wouldn't be where I am today if I hadn't gotten that internship. It was an early peak into television PR and I did everything filed clips, fielded calls for requests for Ms. Winfrey, set up meetings for her publicist, attending meetings with the publicity department, wrote loglines, etc.

Three lessons: 1) Speak with authority and be succinct with your message 2) It's PR not brain surgery nor are you saving lives 3) You are only as good as your last hit

 

Now that you are a publicist for VH1, how is the culture with working for a brand that is known for music, but is increasingly being out-shined by reality tv?

My love of VH1 started with their music programming "Storytellers," "Behind the Music," and their shows "Hip Hop Honors" and "Divas." Now that I am on the other side and see how much work goes into these shows and I get to attend tapings I sometimes have to pinch myself. As much as I love music programming we are now in a climate where reality has also moved into the landscape and so I sometimes get the advantage of working on a show that combines both music and reality — ex "T.I. & Tiny: The Family Hustle."

 

-What are your key responsibilities in handling publicity for reality tv and award segments?

 

My responsibilities differ per project, but for the most part my job starts with mapping out a strategic press plan for both television shows and tentpole events ( VH1 Divas, Hip Hop Honors, etc). Once the time line is in place its only a matter of reaching out to long leads, speaking with journalist, working out reviews/mentions, locking in television appearances and being flexible when it comes to scheduling talent.

 

-Do you feel that it's easier to secure press for celebrity events seeing as though it's for VH1?

 

No not necessarily, it's great to have the VH1 name, but at the same time you are working with a celebrities that already have their own reputation so its up to you to build upon that with whatever project they bring to VH1. Also in PR your reputation and integrity are everything and once either is tarnished it's hard to rebuild.

 

-I'm dying to know, how's the atmosphere in the VH1 office?

 

Very fun ! I must say this has been one of the most fun offices to work in. We shoot a show in our lobby called "Big Morning Buzz Live" so there are always celebs walking our floor and occasionally we might have a margarita Friday. My department is a blast— we like to have fun, kid around and we go out for karaoke every now and then, but we are also as equally invested in putting in the work.

 

-What advice would you give to young publicists who are interested in entertainment television pr?

Network, network, network. Join NAMIC –join NABJ –join something! Networking is such an important tool and so key to achieving success in this business.

 

-Do you plan on continuing climbing up the PR ladder for Viacom or do yourself ever transistioning into tv producing or maybe having your own agency?

My hope is to definitely continue to clim the PR ladder here at VH1. I also never will say never to the possibility of dabbling in TV production.

 

-I know that you have a hectic schedule, would you ever consider mentoring your pr professionals if you're not currently doing so?

Yes I am huge on mentoring and work with several organizations one called Saving Our Daughters. I am always happy to mentor, have an informational, or talk to anyone who is interested in breaking into this business.

 

-What's one of your favorite things that you LOVE about your job?

I love that everyday is definitely not the same and I don't work a 9AM-5PM job. One day I might be in LA for a show or Miami for a shoot or at my desk in NY making follow up calls. When it comes to PR variety is definitely the spice of life.

 

To contact Nyle, be sure to follow her on Twitter @MissNyle.

 

XOXO,

 

Key

Tweet me: @Fab_Key

 

Kickin' It with Celeb Publicist, Jakeem Smith of Jay Productions

I know that you started out as a celebrity photographer, what inspired you to become a publicist? and how was the transition?

• Just seeing friends not getting the services that they deserve and I wanted to change that pattern.

I know that you're pretty well known publicist in the ATL area, what is that sets you apart from the tight-knit pr circle in Atlanta?

• That I'm just real and I don't sugarcoat anything, I believe in giving my clients 100% of me.

You represent, Nicci Gilbert from R&B Divas, how did that relationship come about?

• It's been a long time coming, I have been trying to work with Nicci since I moved to ATL back in 2008.  During that time I was a photographer and every time I seen her at events, I told her I would love to work with her one day. In 2011 I began to work for Chanita Foster who has a non-profit organization and I did the event planning. I was finally awarded the opportunity to meet Nicci because she became a BTG Girl and through that, she told me that she was watching me and was very impressed with my work ethic and my skills. She asked me to work with her and then the show came was finally in production in which she had been working on for some time. R&B Divas was a great experience and I loved every moment of it and being able to do different things and to be around influential women!

I noticed recently that you posted a picture of your weightloss transformation, do you feel that PR is an image-based industry?

• I believe that it is but I always say feel good in your skin and never allow anyone to put a label on you.

Since you've been featured on R&B Divas, has that attracted more potential clients and opportunities?

• Yes. I think when anyone appears on a reality shows, they receive some attention. I appeared in three episodes out of eight. People have approached me in regards to new opportunities and clients.

Are you tied to ONLY working with entertainment clients, or are you open to clients in different fields?

• I have clients that are in entertainment, sports and theatre.

-What's been one of your MOST successful pr tactics that enhances your delivery of great press for your clients?

• I believe my personality, being blunt, straightforward with everything and building relationships invaluable relationships with people.

-What does a typical day for you consist of?

• My day begins with prayer, responding to emails/texts, conference calls and attending meetings.

Since entering into PR, what do you feel has been most effective for you as a successful publicist and where your agency is headed?

• I think its about being personable! Working as a photogrpher for several magazines helps me as well because I know what they expect. As for growth, I see my company expanding beyond ATL.

-What do you feel was your breakthrough moment that got you to the point where you are right now?

•   God is my reason for being where I'm at and just being Jakeem.



To contact Jakeem, follow him on Twitter @JayProductions1

XOXO,

Key
Tweet me: @Fab_Key

The REAL Architect of PR: Elvira Guzman

Elvira Guzman is a graduate of USC with a degree in Political Science and Law & Society. Although she graduated with a piece of paper,  that certified her abilities, BUT her drive, tenacity, realness and humble spirit, is what allowed her to live her dream.  One of the key elements to her successful career was when she earned the opportunity to work for comedian and actor, Steve Harvey as the Director of PR.  After completing college, Mr. Harvey moved Ms. Guzman to NYC to handle all of the PR for his businesses. One of the most admirable traits that I LOVE about Ms. Guzman, is her ability to flip no’s into a YES! As the CEO of Elvie G. PR, Ms. Guzman took the time to study her craft and fine-tune it into one of the top PR agencies in the country.  Of course as a publicist, majority of the time you’re behind the scenes and behind the brand. Many know Ms. Guzman as a celeb publicist and strategist, but what a lot of people don’t know is that, she’s been the mastermind behind the Hoodie Awards, worked with the BET Gospel Celebration and produced multiple TV shows. With her extensive experience in the entertainment field, her clientele is a pure reflection of  how she works to bring QUALITY press and brand awareness. With an expanding clientele, Ms. Guzman manages to share and balance her time effectively with each of them. Not to mention, she definitely keeps it REAL and accepts no-nonsense! Much respect to her because she’s never had a client that was displeased, and they all recognize how hard she works to make their brand a success. After reflecting on the conversation that I had with Ms. Guzman, she was my confirmation that I must continue pushing and be confident in everything that I do. Who knows your dreams better than you? Don’t allow roadblocks to become permanent, as they were made to temporal. With all of the outstanding and continuing success, one thing that Ms. Guzman has kept close to her is her faith and trust in God. “Nothing is possible without him!”-Elvira Guzman

Follow Elvira at @Elvie_G_PR

www.elviegpr.com

XOXO,

Key

Tweet me: @Fab_Key

Act Like Lady, Think Like A Publicist! Interview with Tiffany Lee ♥

I loved this interview with Tiffany as she definitely brought a twist to how she entered transitioned from acting to entering into PR. Not to mention the breakdown of how publicists are in ATL! Big city, with extremely small circles! Check out the interview below, and let me know your thoughts.

You worked at Tyler Perry Studios for five years, how was your experience there? How did you get the opportunity to work there?

       I actually began working at Tyler Perry Studios at the age of 17yrs old. At that time I was trying to become an actress. I auditioned for a small agency, got in and read their castings for Tyler Perry’s Daddy’s Little Girls, went and got a call to come work on the movie. Due to the fact that I was 4”11, I was getting called constantly to work on most of the projects at Tyler Perry Studios as a Stand-In actress. That became my 2^nd home and my studio family, so I learned how to do everything while there.

What was a typical day like while working with Tyler Perry?

      As a stand-in, we get a call time (must be on time), we check in, receive the script and start reading over the actor’s lines that you will be standing in for, for the day. After we ate breakfast we went to the set, and EVERY morning we got into a big circle and prayed, after that it was time for “1^st Team rehearsal.” First teamers are your real hired actors; the entire crew will watch their rehearsals for camera blocking purposes as well as it is important for the stand-ins because we have to take notes on everything our actors are doing. Once they were done, crew took a 10min break, then the “2^nd teamers” aka “Stand-In’s” would get on set and have to act out everything our actor just did so that camera’s could practice where they were going to go and the lighting team would know how to light the scenes. After that, we ate and then we would shoot the show. After the show was shot we went home. That was a typical day at Tyler Perry Studios.

As a freelance publicist, do you find it more difficult to secure projects?

        This is a great question. No and Yes. No because I have a great personality so over the years I have developed great relationships with people, I constantly flew out of town to meet with high end executives, and I had the reputation from working at Tyler Perry Studios. I don’t have a “money hungry” spirit, so word traveled fast that I will bust my tail for any client that I obtain, but for little to no money. So that wasn’t hard to find a bunch of clients. Yes because the top paying jobs will sometimes overlook the smaller freelance publicist and will go with the large PR firm. So while you’re getting the smaller clients just to build your name, the firms are getting the larger cliental eating great. It’s a big hustle. Who can get to the larger clients first, and what can you offer them that a PR firm can’t do, as a freelance publicist you have to be ON IT!

How would you describe the atmosphere of PR in the city of Atlanta?

        Difficult. There’s not too many PR’s that “Think outside the box” or in this case “think outside of Atlanta.” Because I used to want to be an actress, I understand a potential clients needs. PR is about exposing them into a broader atmosphere. If I’m paying my PR $1,000-$3,000 a month, I would want to be exposed in New York, and LA and depending on my talents, I may want to be exposed overseas, but most PR’s here haven’t fully grasped that yet, I spent years developing relationships in other cities and now I can attach my clients to those relationships. Also, Atlanta can be “clickish” you can tell because the same people are at the same events. We are growing as a city; therefore we must grow into other avenues to become the best PR’s we can be for the sake of our clients. It’s VERY competitive in these Atlanta streets, hardly anyone comes together, so everyone is for themselves, and when they get a great celebrity client, the moods change. I wish we can have more love and support here.

Did you attend college/University for Communications/Marketing/PR?

        I actually attended a community college and I was going for Marketing. After two years of attending that college I began working at TPS and I never went back. I believe college is important. I had to learn PR on my own, and it was tough. Had I stayed, I wouldn’t have made as many mistakes as I have in the past. I want to go back. To everyone wanting to be a PR, Finish School!!!  J

What was your 'breakthrough' moment that made you realize that you wanted to pursue PR as a career?

        Every year, The Soul Train Awards would come to Atlanta. At that time, I was still doing some acting and mainly casting for independent film projects and fashion shows. I got to know my friend from the film The Blind Side and asked him if he was coming down to Atlanta for the show. Another one of my friends, who actually was a PR, happened to be working with the awards show, so they were interested in Quinton coming as a guest but they needed a PR representative for him. I said sure, I can “act” like your publicist to get you going for the award show. While he was here, he partnered with his charity that is located in Atlanta, and because of my relationships I got him on four radio stations in one day, a huge magazine red carpet party, handled his charity meet and greets, and had him on the football field for the Falcons game and had that sponsored. I said to myself, if this is PR then this is easy!!! Clients started to come at me a lot after that, and then I realized how much of a challenge PR truly is, but that was the “breakthrough” moment and I haven’t looked back since.

What are some marketing strategies that you use to attract new clientele?

         I don’t sale anyone a dream. Surprisingly, people just see my drive and my hustle and that’s what attracts new clients. It helps that I am still in film as well, so while the film industry grows in Atlanta, they want to get cast too. So I can work on getting them cast in projects I’m affiliated with, or in projects with directors I already have relationships with that can build their brand. I also let the “potential client” know that if I don’t know someone, I’ll find them. My hours don’t stop at 5pm, I am up emailing, researching, creating documents until 3am if need be. I’ll work with them on media training, go with them to pick out clothing for events or shoots, I go beyond and above. I want them to understand that any concerns they have, they can always call me. When I take someone on, they are my team, my new family, and what happens in some large firms, they have so many clients, that the client sees their money going to them every month, but nobody is really spending time with them, and listening to their needs. After all it IS their brand! They want to feel like it will be taken seriously and they want to know what is being done on daily basis that is helping them grow. So at the end of the day, I’m just me. I’m a go getter that cares and that loves to work, it’s not a marketing strategy, it’s really who I am and I appreciate those that want me to work with them because that means they see and appreciate my drive.

How has social media impacted your career as a publicist?

      Drastically!!! Without Social Media I would not be the Tiffany I am today. People really have to play social media very smart. If I know that almost everyone in the world has Facebook, I’m not busy looking up old classmates or family, I’m researching names that are within my industry and looking them up on Facebook. Same with Twitter. Twitter gives you the opportunity to make conversations with people you need to know. It’s so funny because everyone is trying to get to the “star” that already has 130k followers and skipping over the people they need to know to get to them like the PR, the manager, and when you go to their followers they have like 1200 but I find that as opportunity, that means if I am making conversation with you, you are going to see it and I can build a relationship with you. What I do is after I build the relationship over social media, I find an excuse to fly into your city and meet up for lunch or coffee if we connected, that’s how I build my relationships. That’s the drive that it takes to be and maintain in this industry. Social Media is GREAT!!

Since Atlanta is known as the city of 'music entertainment', do you mainly specialize in entertainment publicity, or do you specialize in other industries as well?

       Great question. I came from film/tv. So when I began working as a publicist, besides helping out Quinton who is an actor, everyone that kept coming to me needing PR was in music. Now I mainly have music artist and still produce and cast film projects but I don’t PR any other actors. I’m open to doing that though. I also find sponsorships for events and find investors for film projects.

 What are the pros and cons in being a freelance publicist?

        The Cons: Getting a lot of potential clients approaching you with no money, but knowing that they may poses a talent that you may need to grow your name and business and still taking them on anyways (a firm won’t play that).

·         Not being able to snap your finger and make things happen sometimes.

·         Sometimes not being taken seriously because you are on your own.

·         Sometimes two heads are better than one, freelancing alone has you carrying the weight and pressure by yourself.

        The Pros: When you actually do succeed and your client is pleased, you can pat your own self on the back and say that you did it and did it alone.

·         You have creative space. Nobody will argue or disagree with the way you want things handled.

·         I’m a true go getter, it’s hard to find someone that matches my drive. If I’m up until 5am, I want them to be up too. You won’t always find someone else like you, so freelancing allows you to work at your own pace.

Do you plan to have your own PR agency in the future? or is that in the works right now?

Yes, I am in the works of starting my new company right now. Last year I wanted to start a company, but again it was hard finding other power players to join with me. Then college interns approached me, if they’re new while I’m 2yrs in but still considered new I found that it won’t work when I had relationships all over the globe and they have none, if they up and left me they would take my built relationships. So finally I linked up with three other powerful women to help me with my vision. It’s a full service entertainment company with PR, management, film/tv development, sponsorship opportunities,etc. These ladies have track records and they expand to China, LA, Canada, NY, Florida, Africa and the list goes on. It’s been two years in the making but FINALLY it’s coming to pass!! I told you I’m about unity, and I’ve freelanced long enough. It’s time to unite with other powerful women and really build and grow these clients out of Atlanta by thinking out the box!!!! ;)

To contact Tiffany, tweet her at @Tiffdashielle

XOXO,

Key
Tweet me: @Fab_Key
Email me: info.prblog@gmail.com

PR Exclusive: CEO of The Glit PR Agency, Victoria Odu

The beautiful and fabulous Victoria Odu (CEO of The Glit PR Agency) is really and truly a breath of fresh air. I am truly humbled by the fact that she supports my movement of what I'm doing with PR Breakthrough. I'm excited to share this exclusive interview on her background and how she got started in the field of PR.
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The Glit PR agency, tell me more about your company and how it came about?

Well the Glit PR agency was started under an umbrella company that I started in 2009 called the Glit Inc which consists of, of course the PR agency, a lifestyle networking and entertainment website (TheGlitInc.com), and a Wardrobe and Image Consulting Service. The Glit PR is a boutique entertainment PR agency specializing in branding, event planning and management, social media management, celebrity placements, special events and more. We work with and represent up-and-coming and well established clients in film, fashion, music, fine arts and sports.

I started the company while working for a film production company where I did PR. Through networking and building relationships with people in the industry, I came across several people that either were looking for PR representation or knew of someone who was looking for some and at the time it only made sense to start my own PR agency.

Owning my own agency was something I always knew that I wanted to do eventually in the long run. Definitely not as soon as I did. But at that time, the way things were falling into place, it seemed like the right time. It was inevitable.

Prior to you having your own business, did you have previous PR experience?

Yes, not as much as I wanted to before starting my own business, but I can honestly say that getting my feet wet and really jumping out there and getting involved has been my best teacher.

Prior to starting my own business, I got a bachelors degree in PR and interned for a really great entertainment PR company which taught me a lot about PR and gave me some hands on experience. Following that I did some freelance writing work for PR agencies and worked at a film production company where I was a publicist.

I have also been blessed to learn from some really awesome PR professionals in the business along the way and I still am learning.

 I noticed that you work closely with Vanessa Simmons as the VP of Marketing for ROSE By Vanessa Jean swimwear line, is there more pressure when working closely with celebrities?

Working with a celebrity and someone who is on the come-up is the same to me. At the end of the day, we are all human beings and that is how I view celebrities. I always feel the pressure because you kind of have someone's career in your hands and that pressure to deliver and deliver successfully is always intense no matter who the person is.

I know that this year was the official launch of ROSE, what were your responsibilities as VP of Marketing? Do you feel that when working with celebrities that you're acknowledged more versus when you represent a brand or a client that isn't as reputable yet?

My responsibilities while working as the VP of Marketing and PR included everything from daily pitching, creating sponsorship opportunities, email marketing, social media management, drafting and distributing press releases, booking interviews, responding to media inquiries, monitoring media coverage and more.

Yes, I definitely do feel like I am acknowledged more when working with a celebrity name versus a client that isn't yet as reputable. I feel like a lot more people reach out to you and respond better to the client or project when it involves a celebrity name.

Working with a client that isn't yet reputable, you definitely have to get more creative with pitching and really build that brand up first. However, I've experienced that when you have already established great working relationships and networks with people, they will acknowledge you and be more open and receptive despite who you are working with because you've built that reputation and loyalty.

I know that you travel extensively, are you looking to have an office on the west coast as well?

Yes, I would love to eventually expand and have an office on both the west coast and down south. I honestly don't mind the traveling, I actually love it, but I know that expanding the agency would be more convenient and open up more avenues.

 

What was your 'Breakthrough' moment that made you realize that PR was the field for you?

The breakthrough moment when I realized that PR was the field for me was when I landed my first major media placement for a client. It wasn't just the joy of accomplishment for me, but hearing the excitement of the client is what did it for me. Seeing how I made someone else feel was really like wow for me.

PR is a tough business, and you'll definitely get a lot of no's before you get that first yes, but when you do and it's for something you've worked so hard on and impacts someone else in a positive way, the feeling is gratifying. Knowing that you can really contribute to a highlight in someone's career is an awesome feeling. And when I first did it, I realized that the no's and mistakes and hard work was all worth it, and that PR was for me.

How has the use of social media influenced your brand as a publicist and business owner?

The use of social media has influenced my brand as a publicist and business owner tremendously. This industry among many, is forever changing and social media is the easiest way to keep up. Social media has allowed me to really connect with people, build relationships, and make people aware of what I am doing within my business and with my clients. Through social media you can get instant feedback and interaction, keep up with what's current and learn how to do things from others individuals, which has been great in helping me revamp and really define my brand as a business owner and publicist.

What are some the key components that you feel are necessary to be a successful publicist?

Some of the key components that I feel are necessary in being a successful publicist include thick skin, forward thinking, creative and innovative and great relationship building, networking, writing and of course communication skills.

Where do yourself in the in the PR world in five years?

In five years I see myself definitely still working in the entertainment industry with more major clients and having helped build my current clients to major brands in the industry. I would like to be focused more on special events PR and working with international accounts. I see myself definitely expanding to an office in the west coast or down south and on my way to being one of the top publicists in the industry.

Thank you so much for taking the time out to interview me Key! It has truly been an honor and a pleasure. I definitely look forward to building with you as well :)

If you would like to contact Victoria, follow her on Twitter @VikGlitterati

XOXO,
Key
Tweet me: @Fab_Key