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