2012 certainly seems like it will be a year of opportunities. For two people starting out in PR it has certainly proved that way as we have opened the doors of Orchard Towers to Laurence Makins and John McCarthy who have joined the team in account executive roles.
Here is what they thought of their first month in PR.
What made you consider a job in PR?
Laurence: Having written for student publications in the past I knew that I would enjoy a job that allowed me to be creative. But what made me consider PR over other creative careers was that it allows for applied strategic thinking alongside more traditionally creative elements.
John: I was looking for a fast-paced, varied job that would allow me to use my strengths and constantly develop new skills, particularly in communication. I have been a freelance reporter for a few years and have a huge passion for writing.
What skills or experience do you have that you think have helped you in your first few weeks at Orchard?
Laurence: My writing experience has helped me but it is no substitute for learning on the job. Working here has shown me that I still have plenty to learn about the language I speak every day. Coming into the job with an open mind has also been hugely beneficial. I want to learn as much as I can about business, the PR discipline and how the media works so every day I learn something new.
John: I think my interest in writing, research and the media in general helped. My experience with events and in the finance industry has proved useful too. Even my personal interests and hobbies (such as music) seem to have a place and are valued here!
What has surprised you the most about working for a PR consultancy in the Channel Islands?
Laurence: The diversity of the client base. There is no such thing as a typical client or a typical campaign so we get to see the full spectrum of what Channel Island businesses offer. We work with the public sector, the private sector, charitable and voluntary organisations, the entertainment industry and retailers. It’s a wide range that certainly dispels the notion that the Channel Islands are totally dominated by financial services.
John: I was surprised at how organised and meticulous you have to be but this is something you learn to grapple with quite quickly. It’s sink or swim.
Who do you think we should follow on twitter?
Laurence: I hear that @oscarpuffin and @GFCRoary have an interesting take on current events.
John: I’d say Charlie Brooker (@charltonbrooker) is a favourite – he tweets some interesting and satirical stuff.
You can read up more on Laurence and John at the Orchard website, or you can follow them on twitter at @laurencemakins and @mocaf
