Other Duties as Assigned: Wacky Jobs of a PR Pro
When you study public relations and strategic communications in college, professors don’t tell you about the unique jobs you’ll end up doing as a part of your career. Thanks to some recent quarantine cleaning, I came across some fun reminders of the unexpected roles I’ve played in my nearly 13 years as a marketing professional.
STEM Challenge Project Designer and Judge
Christi helped design and judge a STEM challenge for local second grade students to raise awareness of IFCD’s service in the community.
For our community relations client Irving Flood Control District Section III (IFCD 3), I helped design and judge a STEM challenge for local second grade students to raise awareness of IFCD 3’s services. This role will always be one of my favorite projects because second graders are SO excited to learn new things.
Crisis Drill Actor/Role Player
It is important to include crisis response drills as a part of every crisis communications plan, which is why I’ve participated in several drills over the years. These drills often involve role playing, where I’ve served as everything from a member of the media to a data hacker.
New Car Giveaway Coordinator and Driver
Back in 2013, one of our oil/gas and convenience store clients, ALON/7-Eleven, decided to give away 13 cars in 2013 as a part of an experiential marketing program. Not only did I get to help with the purchase and giveaway presentations of these cars, but I also got to drive a few of them to their destinations.
On-Air Demo Professional
While PR pros are usually in the background, sometimes we step in front of the camera to help get the perfect shot.
One of the reasons I decided on a career in public relations is I prefer being behind the camera to being in front of it. However, that doesn’t mean I haven’t been on the news as a background demo stand-in on several occasions. From a Topgolfer with an embarrassing golf swing to a seasonal shopper at The Shops at Willow Bend, I have a few claims to fame. Anything to support a positive media relations experience!
Prize Wheel Producer and Spinner
When a client wanted a giant prize wheel for an employee communications and incentive program, we found a way to make it happen for them, thanks to our friends at The Graphic Company. We custom-designed and produced a prize wheel and coordinated an employee awards banquet where spinning the prize wheel was the main event. It was SO much fun.
From mascot costume wearer to coffee barista, I could go on and on about the unexpected roles I’ve played, but would love to hear from other PR professionals on this topic. What is the most unexpected job you’ve done so far in your career?