By Simone DiNota
BU PRSSA had the opportunity to hear from Kelley Chunn and Anthony Harrison at a DEI panel this past Wednesday. Chunn is a current professor at BU and the founder and principal of her PR agency, Kelley Chunn & Associates. The agency places an emphasis on the use of PR to progress social causes. Harrison is an active BU alum and a self-described “PR Swiss Army knife,” as he has engaged with every aspect of the industry. He is also the founder and principal of his own agency, Sprauve-Harrison Communications.
The PR experts were interviewed by PRSSA’s very own Traci Walcott. Traci’s questions ranged from Chunn’s and Harrison’s experiences as people of color in the PR field to the industry as a whole. The two spoke about their accomplishments and offered advice on getting started in Public Relations through the lens of identity.
Here are some of the main takeaways:
Storytelling has always been at the core of Public Relations. The ability to recognize and articulate a good story is what sets PR professionals apart.
Reshaping how various communities are covered in the media can have a tangible impact on real-life attitudes and opinions.
Being unapologetically yourself is vital in assessing the environment of a workplace. If your workplace is uncomfortable with your authentic self, then it may not be the place for you.
Being grounded in your values always allows for more effective communication.
Look for allies. There is power in numbers; keep an eye out for affinity groups.
Be an ally. Find opportunities to stand up for others; embrace the discomfort of these conversations.
Reputation isn’t everything. A company could look good on paper but still lack a positive work environment.
Looking to start your own PR business? Here’s what to consider:
What’s your angle? What unique speciality do you bring to the table?
Having a partner is always helpful– even better if you each have your own area of expertise.
PR is a demanding field– be intentional with your time off.
DEI is slowly waning, so rely on your observations to assess whether or not a company is right for you. What representation are you actually seeing?
Are you getting back what you’re putting into your job? This question is the key to deciding if your work is truly fulfilling.
Thank you to Kelley Chunn and Anthony Harrison for their incredible insight and to Traci Walcott for her engaging questions!
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