Start to Finish

I want to talk about my first experience working from start to finish on a client project. A new client of ours was having its company launch event and I had a hand in compiling the media list, calling media to pitch the event, helping prep the client for a television interview and assisting at the event itself! Typically, interns focus on one aspect of the overall project rather than remaining involved with everything. This experience gave me further insight into the ‘why’ of what I do.

Pitching my first event over the phone was terrifying! In fact, I was so nervous when I went to leave the journalist a voicemail I forgot to leave my number! After that experience, I learned I need to have the necessary information directly in front of me, including a full script. When I called the second time, I made sure I was well prepared. I left a phenomenal message and although I don’t feel comfortable with pitching on the phone (yet), it feels good to have done it at least once. I also learned from a wise colleague to remember we’re not calling the media to bother them; we’re calling to lend a hand and let them know something of interest is going on. If any of you are facing your first phone pitch or need to brush up on your skills like me, check out this blog I found with a few great tips on doing a successful pitch.

Another interesting part was helping out at the WDIV-TV Local 4 interview. There, I discovered the PR professional’s role in preparing the client for the interview, so they know what to say and how to say it. It’s important the client is clear on the angle they want to present to the public and it’s our job as the PR pro to help them find ways to say that. I also learned it’s not just about answering questions; the client needs to know how to answer in a way that directs the conversation back to the important points. The segment went really well and aired on the six o’clock news. Here’s a link to the segment.

Interns may not always get to see the entire process of a project but each step of the way is integral to the success of the client’s objectives. I had a lot of fun working on this particular project and I’m looking forward to what else may be coming my way.