PR AGENCY DIARIES: ANATOMY OF A PUBLICIST’S HANDBAG

Managing talent is one of the most challenging (and rewarding) jobs a PR can do. Whether you’re working with a Hollywood star, C-suite exec or an everyday Kiwi telling their story for your charity client you need to be ready to handle anything – without losing your winning smile.

Nervous talent (despite expert media training), wardrobe malfunctions, schedule changes, journalists throwing curveballs, transport issues… we’ve seen it all.

No matter how polished and high flying your spokesperson, they are still a person and having a few creature comforts on hand can make all the difference between a great day and a grumpy client. 

Painkillers

A jam-packed day of journalists is enough to give anyone a headache, especially if your media tour comes the morning after the launch event or premiere. Extra for experts - have both paracetamol and ibuprofen so you’re prepared for allergies, other meds and personal preference.

Pens

All the pens, honestly grab more than you think you’ll need and add two more #thankmelater.

Lipbalm

Studio lights, working on the run and all that talking can make for seriously chapped lips, so lip balm will make you your talent’s best friend. Top tip: make sure it’s a neutral colour – a male CEO may not be able to rock that glossy pink pout.

Your schedule

Obviously, you’ll know this like the back of your hand but when things get hectic a paper copy is a publicist’s godsend. Timings, travel arrangements, notes on each journalist and contact details for EVERYONE – don’t rely on your phone, you’ll be using it to time interviews, answer calls and take those all-important behind the scenes snaps.

Wet wipes  

Lunch spills, leaky pens, sweaty foreheads, badly blended make-up…you never know when a good old wet wipe will come in handy. We use WaterWipes (#AD - client) since they’re safe for even the most sensitive skins.

Mints

No one is immune to bad breath and a day of one-on-one interviews can get a bit close for comfort – the trick is offering politely to your talent (or the journalist who’s clearly arrived from an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet).

Safety pins/double-sided tape

Pointing out a wardrobe malfunction isn’t a fun job but it is your job when you’re looking after talent. An awkward moment for you doesn’t compare to an embarrassed client on live tv situation. Likewise the most perfect #lewk can be rendered an unflattering (or revealing) nightmare by a bad furniture and camera combo.

Have a story to tell but don’t know where to start? Get in touch and we’ll have your strategy humming in no time.