Are you ready for some football? With NFL season kicking off, you might be surprised to learn how similar the public relations industry is to the beloved game. While we may not be as large and mighty as the players, we definitely know how to win the game and dance after a touchdown!
In PR, every publicist acts as a quarterback. We work to get the ball in the hands of the players and in our case, the media. We are trusted by our teammates and put a lot of thought into who will receive the ball. A quarterback’s job is all about directing the team forward down the field and that is exactly what we do for our clients. We want to make it to the end zone successfully, without any bruises or cuts.
We also act as wide receivers in that we are pass-catching specialists. After we throw out a pitch, our job is then to look for an opening and run with the ball. Sometimes we are blocked but more than often, we cover great yardage in making connections with the media. Every play is important and we strive to make it to the end zone as quickly as possible. Who doesn’t want to rock their touchdown dance? Like wide receivers, we are speedy in our plays and know how to score.
There are also objectives and strategies to the game that are quite similar. Football is all about winning and PR is about increasing visibility, enhancing reputation and driving business forward. We work to help companies reach new consumers and establish a respectable brand. In the end, we all have the objective to win.
When it comes to the strategy of the game, often people assume the sport is easy to play. You simply throw the ball, catch it and run. How hard could that be? Well it’s a lot harder than you think and PR is very similar in perception. Public relations strategies are reliant on resources, abilities, training and technology. Not everyone can play the game. But much like in football, while certain things appear, there are countless paths to success and our Pitch team is built for a Super Bowl!
Many would be surprised to learn that publicists play both offensive and defense on a daily basis. It’s not always easy to work with the media but that is why PR pros have the ability to work around any obstacle. We are built strong and know how to protect the quarterback. No matter how you define winning, whether in football or public relations, we are all in it for the same reason – to be on top of our game for the whole team. Now if only we had colorful jerseys, screaming fans and cheerleaders to pump us up. Caffeine will have to do!
Robyn Moore
Publicist
Pitch Public Relations