Emerging Talent: Reanna Griffith
What has been your biggest learning in your role so far?
Regardless of the level of seniority of others around me whether that be within my agency, client relations or when interacting with the media, at the end of the day people are still people who I am capable of connecting with, there’s no need to be intimidated. I’ve chatted with Editors of magazines, led on client liaisons, and had relaxed sit-downs with the CEO of my agency and all have been wonderful experiences.
What would you say is the most challenging aspect of your role?
Going from supporting on activity to leading on activity. More specifically, the challenge has been fully trusting myself when taking ownership of tasks from start to finish, as well as remembering that I’m still part of a team and there’s no issue in checking with others if unsure of things. I have to remember that it’s always best to clarify when unsure instead of wasting time doing something incorrectly.
What part of your role do you enjoy the most?
When I put an idea forward that leads to success, for instance, suggesting an approach for reaching out to media that leads to securing an impressive opportunity for clients.
How did you get into PR/Comms?
I was doing my final year at university studying multimedia journalism and the COVID pandemic had just cost me the work experience I had lined up. During this time, I also realised that journalism may not be the career path for me. I had previously done a module in PR and enjoyed this, so I combined this experience with my interest in technology and started looking up Tech PR companies on Google. In doing so, I came across The Hoffman Agency and reached out requesting to interview the team to learn more about Tech PR. They agreed for me to interview them over Zoom (given this was during lockdown) and I found them so lovely to speak to. What I didn’t anticipate was that towards the end of our conversation, I’d be asked what I planned to do once I graduated, I was honest about my work experience plans falling through due to COVID and not having anything lined up. They offered me the Hoffman internship programme which I excitedly accepted and have remained at the agency ever since!
Who is your dream client and why?
The ultimate dream would be Nintendo. Everything from the first DS to the Wii, and the entire franchise, it’s been such a huge part of the joys of my childhood and I still actively use Nintendo devices now, being able to have them as a client would be a full circle moment and essentially a dream!
How do you remain up to date on news and trends?
During work hours I tend to start the day with media monitoring, looking at what the top stories are related to my clients. This consists of looking through the national titles, utilising google alerts, Muck Rack and media request on Twitter.
What has been a highlight in your journey or one of the most memorable experiences so far?
There have been so many highlights but if I had to pick, it would be our Work-Away-Week where we flew out to Lisbon with other members of our global team and enjoyed the sights, food and activities as well as being able to work side by side with people that I’ve either never had the chance too before or don’t get too very often.
Something or someone that motivates you or inspires you in your current role?
Something that motivates me is keeping track of my personal development, noting the moments when I’ve conquered objectives. The realisation that I’m truly progressing in my abilities and career is exactly what I want out of my job and so seeing that in writing is very fulfilling.
A piece of advice for the next generation of emerging talent?
Be aware of and utilise your areas of speciality however, do not be afraid to dive into new areas and try new things, you’ll be amazed at what more you’re capable of.
What is your favourite media or social media platform and why?
My favourite social media platform is a tie-up between Twitter and TikTok as these platforms have educated me on a wide variety of topics and communities that I’d otherwise not know about. But most of all, much of my time on these platforms is spent laughing at pretty hilarious and relatable content. Who doesn’t enjoy a laugh?
