Thursday, November 02, 2006

How I got started.


I've been thinking about this blogging thing for a while. I read some blogs, recommend blogs to clients, and definately have my own educated opinions - so why not share them with the world. Hopefully they will prove helpful to someone out there.

My first entry will be a little about myself. Of course you can read my offical bio at www.corecommpr.com . The unoffical version will remain here.

My career in public relations started out when I was in sixth grade when I was asked by my elementary school to give a speech to the entire PTA about the abilities of my retiring teacher Mrs. Smith. I have to admit that I was a little shocked because I was far from the best student. But the speech went over very well. What struck me that night was that a cafeteria full of adults from Idlewood Elementary stopped and really listened to what I had to say.... and they remembered what I said.

That night I learned that communication is powerful.

From Idlewood Elementary I went onto Shamrock High School where my PR career really started. I took part in activities that I enjoyed - class government, yearbook staff, fundraising, event planning and alike.

My most bold PR campaign by far remains in High School. I took it upon myself to post posters from the newly formed DUI awareness group Arrive Alive. I urged students not to drink and drive. (I didn't drink alcohol and couldn't drive at the time.) What made this effort so bold was that the PTA actively opposed this campaign saying that "students are not old enough to drink alcohol and therefore do not." Since I had seen the son of the PTA president plastered at a party the week prior to this statement - they couldn't stop me.

I continued work on this subject until I was in my mid-20's. Today educators, doctors, and the goverment all talk about this cause with youth. I guess I was ahead of my time.

If you view my website you'll see that I graduated from UGA with a Journalism degree, promoted a variety of high profile organizations, companies and brands and have now started my own PR agency in Atlanta.

Through all those accomplishments, working with heads of industry and heads of state, no other professional accomplishment has brought me so much satisfaction as digging through the garbage cans at Shamrock High School and re-posting the Arrive Alive posters. I can't help but think that they did work afterall.

Until next time, remember ...... Communication is at the Core.