The Council of Public Relations Firms of Hong Kong recently interviewed FleishmanHillard Hong Kong’s Managing Director Rachel Catanach on her experience and advice for young professionals. Here is the conversation:
1. How did you get into the PR industry?
My first job was as a professional violinist; I then worked as a journalist on a business paper in New Zealand for a couple of years before joining the PR profession, working in-house at an insurance company and a state-run electricity marketing company before moving into the consultancy world. It’s a move I have never regretted.
2. What do you find most exciting about the work you do now?
I love the variety of working with clients in different industries and in multiple markets; I love the challenge of creating ideas that transcend channels and cultures; and I love being able to develop a business based on working with the best professionals in the industry.
3. What three skills do you think are the most important for young professionals joining the PR industry?
One: Empathy – an ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes. Two: Curiosity – the desire to constantly learn and ask the right questions. Three: The power of persuasion – the ability to construct an argument and persuade in both written and verbal communications.
4. What three pieces of advice would you give for an individual considering job relocation?
One: Be bold in what you eat and what you see – chicken’s feet are really quite tasty! Two: Be open to new ideas and be prepared to learn – things may look the same, but there are usually many differences and unwritten rules of engagement. Three: Show you are part of the team – really roll up your sleeves and help where help is needed.
Original article: http://www.cprfhk.org/2015/03/meet-the-board-series-3
