5 Olympic Sports that Exemplify Agency Life

My Eisbrenner PR colleagues and I have been watching a lot of the Summer Olympics these last two weeks and even hosting our own. Everything from soccer (football, to the rest of the world) to badminton (yes, that’s an Olympic sport) and we can’t get enough of the games. I think it’s because in many Olympic sports, the traits that define an athlete’s success are the same as those that define a PR professional’s success in an agency setting. Here are five Olympic sports that embody life at a public relations agency.

1. Diving
At Eisbrenner PR, interns are expected to “dive in” on account work. It can be intimidating, and downright terrifying at times to plunge headfirst into the deep end hoping you don’t slip and do a 10-meter-high belly flop. The pace of agency life is sink or swim, but that first time when you know you’ve done a superb job on an assignment feels like a refreshing dip in the pool on a hot summer day. (Did I go overboard with the water metaphors?)

2. Gymnastics
Gymnasts have excellent balance. So do agency pros. In the PR world, you need the skills to balance multiple clients and priorities simultaneously – and do it all with grace and style. You need to be flexible and ready to transition at a moment’s notice. Here, we represent good companies, and our belief in our clients and their work drives us to do somersaults and bend over backward to help them achieve their goals.

3. Archery
Accuracy is perhaps the most important aspect of effective communication. Whether the audience is media, clients, the public or agency team members (especially team members), we are always looking for ways to deliver messages with greater precision. An off-target pitch is the difference between no coverage and Olympic glory.

4. Triathlon
The most challenging and thrilling part about working in an agency is the variety of work we do. Writing, research, media relations, writing, event planning, writing – there are so many opportunities to demonstrate and hone your skills. Did I mention writing is involved? Agency pros are experts at multi-tasking and possess the endurance of triathletes. 

5. Synchronized Swimming 
Some people may dispute whether synchronized swimming is a sport, but regardless of your opinions on the matter, synchronized swimming squads (say that ten times fast) and PR agencies thrive best when team members work in tandem. Being in sync with your account teams and clients are crucial to your success at a public relations agency. Teamwork is the backbone of Eisbrenner PR, and open communication is its life force.

Have you been watching the Olympic Games in London? What qualities best exemplify your workplace? Let us know in the comments.

Be a Good One.

Abraham Lincoln famously once said, “Whatever you are, be a good one.” Good advice, don’t you think? As young professionals we often have lofty goals we strive for, which are great, but sometimes it can hinder our focus on being the best we can in this moment.

Instead of focusing so much on who we want to be, it can be helpful to focus on who we are right now. So what does that mean? It means to put your best effort into the task at hand, no matter how “mindless” it may seem. That is, concentrate on doing your best work even if you are just stuffing envelopes.

Recently, I was given the opportunity for a client event to brainstorm some topic suggestions and was able to use all the tools I’ve learned to come up with relevant ideas that my team loved! An opportunity like that won’t come around unless you’re constantly putting your best foot forward.

So go the extra mile and voice your ideas – even if they aren’t actually taken at least it’ll show you’re thinking creatively. By focusing on not only the big tasks but also the small ones, it shows how diligent you are – and by then, who wouldn’t want to give you that promotion you want?

It’s important that no matter what position we hold, whether that’s the intern or the president, we are striving to be the very best. There’s no way you can make it all the way to your dream position unless you can perfect the art of those mundane tasks, like compiling media lists. So next time you’re lacking some motivation, try just being “a good one” – whatever that may be right now. 

The Pillars of Our Firm

There’s a lot to learn as an intern at Eisbrenner Public Relations, from developing client strategy to the tedious-yet-necessary task of assembling a media list. But the most important things to learn, understand and demonstrate at Eisbrenner PR, or any company for that matter, are the core values of the organization.

At Eisbrenner PR, our core values define our culture. All of our actions and decisions are guided by these five core values:

Use individual curiosity to spur innovation
Work hard and have fun
Treat the world with respect
Be motivated to discover what’s next
Find the positive in everything we do

Two months into my internship, I’ve learned when people around here speak of our core values, they mean what they say. They are the essence of our agency. They are what drive us to go above and beyond for our clients. They are why we get out of bed in the morning and why we love coming to work (well, most days).

When working in a collaborative environment, sharing a common vision and attitude is not only important, it is crucial to the team’s success. Here are three ways you can integrate your company’s values into your everyday work life.

Know them
Even though our core values are on display on the pillars in our office and on company business cards, I still printed them out and tacked them to the wall at my desk, always within view. It serves as a daily reminder of why I am here and what I am here to do.

Incorporate them
Find your own unique way to incorporate your organization’s core values into daily activities. For example, one of the recurring tasks for Eisbrenner PR interns is to update the message boards outside the breakout rooms with the week’s meetings and quotations. The quotes I include generally are related to one of our five core values (thank you, Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations).

Believe in them
Core values are devoid of meaning if they are not appreciated and respected by employees. In the end, it is the people who are the true pillars of Eisbrenner PR.

Our core values are the pillar of Eisbrenner PR - literally!

(Left) My daily reminder of what Eisbrenner PR is all about. (Right) My defensive measures against intermittent koosh-ball-shellings, one example of how we work hard and have fun.

A New Journey

Hello! I'm Jessica Postema, the other summer intern at Eisbrenner Public Relations.

I recently graduated from Michigan State University, home of the almighty Spartans (GO GREEN!) with a Bachelor of Arts in communication and specialization in public relations. Prior to joining Eisbrenner PR, I interned with Mittenberry, Triterra and CRT Medical Systems in various public relations and communication positions. Throughout my internships, I have learned how much I enjoy working in public relations, in particular, the media relations and writing components. They also have helped prepare me for the busy-ness, and sometimes craziness of agency life!

Outside of my education and experience, I'm an avid baker (particularly known for my red velvet cupcakes), dog lover and aspiring marathon runner (although I'm a long way from it). I love traveling the world (hoping to visit Greece and South Africa next), spending time with my friends and now that I've graduated, having time to read something other than textbooks; which currently is "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett.

So far, my internship at Eisbrenner PR has been great! They work hard, but definitely know how to have a good time. My co-workers have been so welcoming and willing to go above and beyond to ensure Greg and I have a good experience.

Well, that's a short introduction about me, more about my new journey as an Eisbrenner PR intern to follow. Stay tuned!

Pull Up A Stool

My first official pic at Eisbrenner PR

My name is Greg Melvin and I’m one of the new interns at Eisbrenner Public Relations. I will be your ‘tender for the evening. Not too long ago I was sitting on that side of the bar. I am a long-time reader, first-time writer of the SpeakEasy, and I couldn’t be more excited.

First, a little bit about myself. I am a recent graduate of Wayne State University, where I majored in public relations. During my senior year I served as chapter president of the James S. Measell Chapter of PRSSA, a position that allowed me to hone my ability to multitask and work in a team-oriented environment, both essential to agency life.

Getting goofy at The Henry Ford

Before coming to Eisbrenner PR, I spent eight months as the media and film relations intern at The Henry Ford. My experiences there were as fun as they were valuable – from giving media tours of Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit, to HOUR magazine photo shoots, to the Trevor Bayne vehicle dedication and everything in between. 

The Driving America ribbon
 cutting ceremony

I interned while the museum was opening the new automotive exhibit, Driving America. Working on press materials for Driving America is what initially piqued my interest in the American automobile and how it has and continues to impact our lives. It was a good introduction to life at Eisbrenner, whose clientele is around 60 percent automotive.

My first month at Eisbrenner PR has been great! Sure, I had a Kevin McAllister moment or two that first week – there is a lot of new information to absorb and a learning curve with any new place. But when your first week includes a hula-hoop contest, a game of office baseball and Koosh ball fights (plural), you know it’s a cool place to work.

Outside the Book, Eisbrenner PR’s intern program, is designed for you to succeed as an intern, and everybody – from my OTB “buddy” to the firm’s president – is happy and willing to help you find success. Plus, I’m not alone on this crazy ride – this semester Eisbrenner PR has two interns! You’ll meet Jessica Postema soon.

Well, that’s a little background on me. I look forward to sharing more of my internship experiences at the SpeakEasy in the coming months. So pull up a stool – I’ll start your tab

The Importance of Teamwork

“Working together is success” – Henry Ford

There’s no ‘i’ in team – yeah, it’s an old saying, but it still rings true. Think about it, most things can’t be done by just one person. A surgeon has a team of nurses. A writer has an editor. A shoe salesman has a supplier.

Here at Eisbrenner PR, the way we approach team work is to make sure everyone has the opportunity to use their particular skills and experiences to shine. No single person makes a team successful or even brings every skill to a team. On our teams everyone contributes, and yes, some people have a bigger role than others, but that’s what teamwork is all about.

And no, we don’t sit around and assign roles or pick them out of a hat. Similar to how we approach most things in our firm, each individual is responsible for defining their role on the team and asking for the opportunity to help where they can. The cool thing is that your role changes for various clients and projects – from leader to contributor and everywhere in between.

Another benefit to our approach to team work is that you have the opportunity to learn things from your teammates. Our team has experience from all walks of life – corporate, marketing, retail, nonprofit, editorial – so there’s always the opportunity to learn something new. The best approach is – here comes another old saying – to be a sponge and learn as much as you can. Admittedly, around here not all of it will be work related, but we can’t talk shop all the time! Even as an intern, you bring unique experiences and knowledge that we can learn from, so don’t be afraid to speak up.

Like everything at our firm, our approach to team work reflects some of our core values: respect one another’s skills and experience; be positive that you have something valuable to contribute; and, of course, work hard and have fun!

Nailing the Interview

“Interview.” The word alone can spread fear through your body. It can make your face and neck turn red, your voice shake, your mouth dry and your hands sweat. But it doesn’t have to! With the proper preparation, research and confidence, interviews can be nearly painless – just take it from Eisbrenner Public Relations’ staff, somehow, we all passed the interview!


Research - Hit the company’s website. Get to know its customers, culture and capabilities and do a search for past news articles. We’re taking time to interview you, so be prepared to show you’ve taken time to make it a valuable meeting.

Prepare Questions - When we ask candidates if they have any questions about the internship or the firm, we’ve actually heard the response, “Dude, I don’t think so.” Wrong! Have a few thoughtful questions prepared. What are the company’s growth goals? How many former interns are now full-time? You should be interviewing us nearly as much as we’re interviewing you – you don’t want to end up at a miserable place or one that’s not a good fit; and we certainly don’t want to hire the wrong candidate.

Prepare for Questions - You’re going to interview with several people. And yes, you’re bound to be asked some stumpers. We’re not Google, so don’t prepare for –“you’re running for President. What’s your campaign slogan?” But have something ready for the dreaded ones. “So tell me about yourself.” “What are your greatest strengths and weaknesses?” “What do you think you will be able to add to our firm?” “Where do you see yourself in five years?” “Describe a challenge you’ve overcome.”

Confirm the Appointment - Call or email the day before your interview to make sure it’s still on, verify directions and ask any questions you may have. This shows enthusiasm. Preparedness. Anticipation. Thoughtfulness. Geez, when can you start?

What to Wear - Lose the Uggs and cover the navel ring. Got a suit? Wear it. Basically, leave the Thursday night bar gear in the closet and dig out the professional attire.

 What to Bring - Your smile, voice, enthusiasm and AP Stylebook.

Arrive on Time - Early isn’t a bad idea either.

And last, but not least – RELAX - Smile. Shake hands firmly. Have fun with it. Ask questions. Breathe. Be yourself. And don’t be nervous – we’re not scary, we swear! Oh, and don’t forget to send a personal and thoughtful thank you card or email. You don’t want to miss this final opportunity to stand apart from your competition.

Interning Ain't Easy

Well here it is, folks – the blog post you all have been waiting for! I filmed this little ditty before Christmas and looking back on it, I forgot how silly I look. However, it being my last day at Eisbrenner Public Relations, I think it’s only appropriate everyone gets to enjoy this insightful, delightful, all-around eyeful of awesome. I’ve learned a lot at Eisbrenner PR and I wasn’t just an intern; I was a part of the team. This one’s for all you Eisbrites! Enjoy!

Ode to Interns

What do I do all day in my cube?

You think because I'm an intern

I'm just a know-nothing noob

But I promise you this

My dear friend

I'm much more than a noob

On me, many depend

I don't say this because I'm conceited

If that's what you think

You better just beat it!

My typical day is rather full

I write bios and releases

and that's no bull

If you need a media list

Just stop on by

I'll hook you up

With one on the fly

I research like a grad student

But spending that much time

Would definitely not be prudent

You have to be fast when you intern here

Switching clients and tasks

I'm checkin 'em out like a cashier

So the next time you're thinking'

Interns only handle the fluff

Stop by my cube

I'll call your bluff

Because a world without interns

Would be a sorry world indeeed

Who else could do what interns do

That's my intern creed!

The Future of Detroit Begins With Us

Excitement hung in the air Wednesday as people gathered for Crain’s Detroit Business and Advertising Age’s second Idea: Detroit Conference, at the Fox Theatre. And while it felt like a small, intimate day of panel discussions and presentations – the names, the actions and, more importantly, the ideas were anything but small.

Idea: Detroit takes a fresh approach to instigating dialogue about the future of Detroit, and as a young professional, I was eager to learn what is in store for the city, its streets and its people. The conference touched on every industry’s (retail, entertainment, social media, fashion, movies, real estate, business, etc.) perspective and impact on the city, but the overarching theme was not how these industries will return Detroit to its original splendor, but rather, how they will help Detroit go beyond the past – and transform it to reach its full potential.

What also made the conference so exciting (in addition to the free food and amazing location) was that it pooled together a collection of thought leaders and visionaries who are already actively participating and changing Detroit.

For example, Quicken Loans’ founder and chairman, Dan Gilbert, spoke about how the company is bringing talent to the D by hiring more than 500 interns from around the nation, to work, live and play. (There are already more than 3,000 applicants and the company hasn’t even advertised it yet!) And by doing so, more young professionals will be exposed and ideally interested to what Detroit has to offer this generation, and hopefully more likely to stay. As Gilbert and his partners attract more and more companies to the area, the revitalization of Detroit grows exponentially, and what makes Detroit so attractive to young professionals, like myself, in comparison to other urban cities, is the opportunity to make your own mark on the city and impact the community for the better.

Another way people are impacting Detroit’s economic recovery is by building up the current creative community. Between music, movies and fashion – Detroit’s entertainment industries have always had a place, but it’s now time to fuel the flame and make Detroit known for more than cars.

For me, Ajmal Zaheer Ahmad, co-founder and executive producer of Detroit-based Exxodus Pictures LLC, hit the nail on the head when he explained his business theory to bring in new revenue – building a movie production company in Michigan, instead of simply filming through incentives. While a small community benefits from the $3 million spent while a movie is in town filming, the real benefits return to the production company itself, and the place it calls home. So in theory, by building parent companies here, not just producing here, Michigan will reap the profit, no matter where filming occurs (but ideally, some of that stays here too, because I love running into Daniel Craig at American Apparel!)

As a member of Eisbrenner PR’s social media team, seeing and hearing how we can greatly impact the future of Detroit was enlightening. Gathering all the different communities, races, religions into the proverbial public square can elevate the importance of what’s happening here. All of us tech nerds know that social media channels amplify the positive things the Dan Gilbert’s, Ajmal Zaheer Ahmad’s and Jordan Wolfe’s are doing and spreads it farther and faster than traditional media.

The moral of the story (or conference) is that Detroit might be in a bad place right now, but people already are changing those circumstances by working together to bridge these gaps, bringing in businesses and people and thinking outside the box. Detroit doesn’t have to stay in last place, but people need to start moving to get us where we need to go. And as a young professional in Michigan, I have the opportunity to be one of those people, and I’m pumped!

To read more about the panel discussions, presentations and BIG ideas go to crainsdetroit.com, and search “Idea Detroit.”

Resumes that Land the Job

As graduation gets closer, the idea of a finding a j-o-b becomes more realistic each day. Some of you may be experiencing a flash of fear and excitement as you prepare for finding an ideal internship or job, which includes perfecting your resume. Each year, the Outside the Book team here at Eisbrenner Public Relations reviews a ton of resumes, and we’ve definitely seen our share of outstanding resumes, as well as some that are not quite up to par. While resume writing can be tricky, I’m here to offer a few tips and tricks to help you create a stellar resume that could land you an internship or job!

The first thing to remember is each resume should be tailored to the position you’re applying for. Employers want to see how your experience is relevant to the duties you’ll perform in that position and how you’ll benefit their company. At Eisbrenner PR, the first thing we look for on a resume is experience. I’d recommend listing your experiences first (i.e. above skills, volunteer work, etc.), and by experience, I mean internships or jobs you’ve had that would complement the work we do, not the waitressing job you had last summer. However, use your past waitressing or pizza delivery job as talking points during an interview to demonstrate that you gained skills that are relevant to the company you’re interviewing with. For example, you can mention you have great communications skills, excellent customer service experience, the ability to multi-task, etc. It’s also attractive to an employer when you provide metrics that demonstrate success during your past experiences, such as writing a press release and noting the amount of coverage that resulted from your efforts. We LOVE to see stuff like that!

After reviewing plenty of resumes, I’ve outlined below what Eisbrenner PR likes to see (or doesn’t like to see) on resumes:

One-pager: If you have enough experience to fill more than one page, do your best to remove past experiences that aren’t as relevant so you can keep the length to one page.

Use bullet points: Under each job listed, use bullets to quickly elaborate on the activities you performed and any achievements you made. Use key words, including “managed,” “lead,” “revamped,” “organized,” “increased,” etc.

Keep it professional: Please, please don’t include pictures and/or animations (i.e. swirls, fairies, glitter, etc.). Unless you’re applying for a graphic design/artistic position, it’s unnecessary to jazz up your resume.

Remove hobbies: Remove any hobbies unless you’re confident your personal hobbies will have a positive impact on the job you’re applying for. It’s great that you love to bake, but tell your friends, not future employers.

Tell us who you work(ed) with: Mentioning that you’ve had experience working directly with managers, CEOs and presidents illustrates that you’ve established trust with previous employers and demonstrates that you’re capable of handling challenging and important projects.

Highlight skills: Again, this depends on the position you’re applying for, but call attention to the skills you have that will directly benefit the work that you’d contribute.

Format: Pay close attention to formatting and consistency, and make sure spacing is accurate.

Proof read: After focusing hard on your resume for a few hours put it down and come back to it later when you have a fresh set of eyes. Then ask someone to have another set of eyes to make sure it’s error-free!

If you feel panicked – relax! Following basic resume guidelines is a great place to start. If you already have the experience, the hard part is over, now you just have to organize and highlight that experience using the tips above. Remember that taking the extra step to update your resume and make sure it looks as professional as possible might be the factor that gets you the job. When in doubt, ask for feedback. Our Outside the Book team would be happy to help guide you in the right direction.

Good luck!

Kara Yadach, assistant account executive