10 to 1 News

10 to 1 Public Relations Named Most AI-Ready Agency by Industry Experts

by Erica

10 to 1 Public Relations Named Most AI-Ready Agency by Industry Experts

Agency Leading The Way With Thoughtful, Secure, and Innovative AI Integration

10 to 1 Public Relations (10to1PR), a leading public relations firm offering strategic communications services, has been recognized as North America’s Most AI Ready PR Agency by the 2025 Bulldog PR Awards. 

Judged exclusively by journalists, The Bulldog PR Awards recognize achievements in the PR and communications industry. 10to1PR’s Gold Award for Most AI-Ready Agency highlights the agency’s human-led approach and use of AI technology to best serve clients across North America. Judges recognized how 10to1PR implemented AI policies, conducted staff training, and developed IVY, a proprietary and custom AI-powered tool that enhances storytelling while maintaining data security.

“10to1PR’s approach to AI is built on creating meaningful outcomes for our clients and fostering trusted collaboration with the media,” said Josh Weiss, President and Founder of 10 to 1 Public Relations. “By blending technology with human expertise and the critical thinking skills of our talented staff, we ensure every interaction reflects our commitment to quality, security, and authenticity.”

Early Adopters of AI

While many agencies are still debating how to integrate AI, 10to1PR took thoughtful and deliberate steps to incorporate it responsibly and effectively, starting in 2023. By integrating AI early and transparently, the company set a new standard for how PR agencies use AI technology to benefit both its clients and the media.

“10to1PR’s commitment is simple: to combine the best of AI innovation with the expertise and creativity of our team to deliver exceptional results,” said Weiss.

10to1PR didn’t set out to become an industry leader in AI.  Rather, it began researching, developing, and implementing AI tools initially out of a sense of fear about how AI would fundamentally alter the business landscape, including how companies might need or utilize public relations agencies in the future.

“The first challenge 10to1PR tackled was in relation to the threat that Deepfake images, audio, and video could pose to companies,” said Weiss. “With crisis communications being one of the services 10to1PR offers, we quickly became one of the first to warn of the business threat that Deepfakes presented and one of the first to set up processes and plans to help companies that unexpectedly came under attack.”

This strategy earned 10to1PR a page one search engine ranking worldwide for the term: Deepfake Crisis Management. 

IVY Powered by 10to1PR

10to1PR also built IVY, the company’s proprietary AI-powered tool that sharpens storytelling and amplifies results. Unlike off-the-shelf solutions, IVY operates as a secure, HIPAA-compliant, SOC 2 Type II certified closed system tailored to enhance a brand’s unique voice while keeping company data safe. Named after Ivy Ledbetter Lee, the father of modern PR, IVY represents the perfect combination of innovation and expertise.

“I wouldn’t call us an AI-first type of agency, we’re more AI-second since the critical thinking of our talented staff is first, and we simply put a lot of effort into building strong processes and support so that our teams can get the most out of our AI tools to benefit our clients,” added Weiss.  

Despite several requests from other PR agencies across the world to “rent seats” into IVY, the proprietary tool is only available to 10to1PR employees to assist its clients. 

The Emergence of GEO (SEO for AI)

10to1PR will soon be adding GEO (SEO for AI) strategies and services to benefit its clients. 

“SEO for AI is still the wild-wild-west right now, with lots of theories but little proof of what will work,” said Weiss. “10to1PR is close to launching several innovative strategies and tools to position our clients among AI search results. While not all of our ideas may work, we’re going to try several simultaneously until we identify what achieves the best results.”

Even with 10to1PR’s soon-to-launch GEO efforts, Weiss shared that earned PR, such as real, organic news stories and traditional press releases, will become even more important in the years to come as AI-based search requests continue to increase, and web-based search engines like Google continue to lose market share.

“AI won’t replace critical thinking and good storytelling strategies from talented employees, but strong, well-thought-out tools like IVY are going to let us take PR to an entirely new level,” concluded Weiss.

For more information about 10to1PR and its services, visit www.10to1pr.com.  To learn more about 10to1PR’s approach to AI visit https://10to1pr.com/our-approach-to-ai/ or to learn more about Deepfake Crisis Management and download a guide for effective preparation and safeguarding against digital deception visit https://10to1pr.com/deepfakes/

10 to 1 Blog

Building a PR Foundation: My Summer at 10to1PR

by Erica

Building a PR Foundation: My Summer at 10to1PR

By Romi Blackstone, 10to1PR PR Intern, Summer 2025

My name is Romi Blackstone, and this summer I had the incredible opportunity to serve as an intern at 10to1PR!

I’m currently a Strategic and Corporate Communication major with a minor in Public Relations at Chapman University. My internship at 10to1PR allowed me to apply the skills and knowledge I’ve gained in the classroom to real-world situations, while also learning new tools that have prepared me for a future career in PR.

From the very beginning, I was introduced to Smart Brevity—a writing style that emphasizes clarity, brevity, and impact. I used this approach in press releases, pitches, and a variety of other client communications. I also received hands-on training in Muck Rack, where I learned how to effectively monitor media coverage, identify relevant journalists, and craft targeted pitches. These foundational tools shaped the rest of my experience at 10to1PR.

After onboarding, I was placed on three different client accounts, each in a unique industry. One that stood out the most to me was the Arizona Builders Alliance, a leading trade association for contractors in Arizona. Each year, they host a backpack drive to collect donations and distribute school supplies to underprivileged children. Under the guidance of the client lead and the rest of the 10to1PR team, I had the opportunity to write media pitches for the backpack distribution, tailoring each one to specific outlets and audiences. Additionally, I created media lists to distribute the pitches to education and nonprofit journalists. It was incredibly rewarding to help promote a meaningful cause while learning how to craft compelling, audience-specific angles. The backpack distribution was the first PR event I have been to, and I enjoyed seeing all of the team’s hard work come together! At the distribution, I collected photos and videos to send out post-event. The Phoenix Independent and Construction Citizen picked up the story and even included one of the pictures I took! Lastly, I had a hand in writing the post-event press release. Writing the post-event press release helped me recognize the impact our PR efforts had on the success of the backpack drive. It also showed me how our work contributed to the overall growth and visibility of the ABA and the impact the organization has on the local community.

Another project I took on was filming, editing, and publishing a video for the 10to1PR Instagram account. I was eager to gain more experience in social media and had a few ideas for how 10to1PR could continue building its online presence. I created an interview-style video featuring team members for the 10to1PR Instagram. This was a great learning experience, as it was the first time both the team and I explored this style of content. In the future, I would only edit the video on one social platform, versus the three editing apps I used. I would try to make the video less formal, and more fun. I walked away with valuable insights that I’ll carry with me when creating social media content going forward.

10toPR consistently provided both me and the other intern with opportunities to strengthen our PR knowledge and skills. We attended weekly PRSA webinars, as well as team meetings called “Lunch and Learns,” where we explored a wide range of topics—from writing effective pitches and connecting with journalists to navigating crisis communication. A “Lunch and Learn” that most stands out is “How to reuse content” where we talked about how we can use the same information in different ways. I learned how to effectively reuse content in social media posts, byline articles, Q&A’s and press releases. Throughout the internship, we were always encouraged to share ideas, ask questions, and actively participate in discussions.

Overall I am so thankful for all of the support and guidance from my manager, Rachael Clifford, as well as the rest of the 10toPR Team!  As I go into my last two years at college, I will start to apply the tools I learned at 10to1PR, such as smart brevity, to all communication efforts in the classroom, and out of the classroom. I now have the tools to understand a journalist’s and/or clients perspective when working on projects at school and/or at work. My goal after graduating is to work at a big PR firm, in either Chicago or New York. I want to continue exploring various sectors in PR, such as B2C. My experience at 10to1PR was invaluable and has helped shape the rest of my career.

10 to 1 Blog

The Road Into Public Relations and the Path Ahead

by Erica

The Road Into Public Relations and the Path Ahead

By Maggie Monroe, 10to1PR PR Intern, Summer 2025

As a summer intern at 10to1PR, this role expanded my understanding of the public relations field and provided guidance for my professional career as a public relations pro. 10to1PR offered countless hands-on experiences, I’ve been able to gain relevant technical skills and build upon my learning. While my academic courses set the basis for what to know about public relations,  my time at 10to1PR provided me with firsthand industry experiences.

During my Junior year at Northern Arizona University, I was motivated to do additional coursework, such as drafting press releases and pitching. This drive to gain more practice led me to apply for the internship at 10to1PR. During the first few weeks of onboarding, I knew that my duration here would enrich my need to learn more about this industry through drafting pitches, performing media monitoring, and supporting client teams. 

Starting at 10to1PR, I was assigned to various teams and helped with supporting their clients. Collaborating with these public relations professionals has contributed to my ever-growing skill set. While my academic courses laid out the foundation of what press releases are and how to manage media relations, this internship presented the true-to-life process of their teachings. 

One of the most memorable experiences for me during the course of my internship was being invited to a media event for a team’s client. Family Promise of Greater Phoenix, a 10to1PR client, received a $150,000 Donation from a construction company to support Family Promise’s Emergency Shelter Program. With the client team inviting various local media to attend the check presentation ceremony, Arizona’s Family (Channel 3/5) and 12News (Channel 12) came to document this special event. The media event was a great angle for the story since it was able to perfectly capture the moment and the people involved in way this story is so worthy of reaching an audience. I was able to learn about procedures and etiquette conducted during these events, such as where to stand and how to correspond with media outlet figures such as camera men.

In addition to the Family Promise media event, one of my client team at 10to1PR was CDCA-WREB-CITA (CWC), an agency which focuses on dental licensure examination standards, was featured on a podcast with one of their spokespersons. I was a bit in the dark when it came to podcast interview procedures but thanks to my teammates, I was able to shadow them and learn the behind the scenes operation with talking points and media training. 

Another standout experience during my internship was being able to attend the PRSA Phoenix Midyear Mixer. I have had limited experiences networking with other industry professionals, besides my professors, so this mixer provided me with the opportunity to connect with a variety of PR pros. At this event, I was able to converse with professionals working B2B, B2C, and even B2G, and receivel of their career insights deepened my perspective of where I wanted to head as an upcoming public relations graduate. The PRSA Mixer broadened my professional circle, connected better to my team members, and provided support being new into the field.

Being an intern for 10to1PR will always be a cornerstone in my journey of becoming a public relations professional. 10to1PR instills fundamental practices such as media relations, monitoring, with PR writing for any professional through their specialized guidance, career development, and team members. 

10 to 1 Blog

10to1PR Scales New Heights

by Erica

10to1PR Scales New Heights

Written by Madeleine Willaimson, PR Executive at 10to1PR

At 10to1PR, we embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, which is why our team recently took on the daring task of rappelling off Papago Park’s iconic butte, thanks to the guidance of 360 Adventures AZ. This thrilling experience parallels the strategic nature of our public relations work. Just as rappelling demands careful planning, equipment checks, and skillful maneuvering, effective PR requires meticulous strategy, precise execution, and the ability to deftly navigate public perception.

In both endeavors, balance is essential—rappellers must maintain their center of gravity, while PR professionals ensure that messaging aligns with organizational goals. 

Just as climbers depend on their gear, we rely on media channels and communication strategies to effectively engage our audiences. Maintaining composure is critical in both rappelling and PR, especially when crises arise. Each requires a blend of courage, skill, and adaptability, emphasizing the value of preparation and the ability to swiftly adjust to evolving challenges.

For 10to1PR, mastering the art of rappelling at Papago Park reflects our commitment to crafting successful PR strategies. As we navigate new heights, we remain dedicated to blending preparation, execution, and adaptability to achieve impactful results.

Join us in our future PR adventures in our new blog series; 10to1PR Adventures: Beyond the Office.

10 to 1 Blog

Confidence and Career Growth: My Intern Experience at 10to1PR

by Erica

Confidence and Career Growth: My Intern Experience at 10to1PR

Written by Kyle McCartney, Spring 2025 PR Intern at 10to1PR

My experience at 10 to 1 Public Relations impacted me in countless positive ways. I came into this internship with a background in sports journalism, social media and content creation. I spent a semester with the Cronkite Agency executing PR campaigns, but as this internship showed me, I didn’t fully understand the ins and outs of PR agency life.

A rigorous onboarding program quickly equipped me with the tools I needed to contribute to 10to1PR’s efforts. I learned about our unique approach to media outreach, press release writing, internal communications, client relations and more.

Once onboarding was complete, I hit the ground running, as I was assigned to four clients from a variety of industries. This allowed me to learn how to quickly become familiar with industries I was fairly new to and how to align PR messaging with a company’s mission and goals. Every client was different, and each had unique challenges that required me to utilize a variety of skills.

Kyle sharing 10to1PR’s monthly wins with the marble run

One of the most unique and beneficial aspects of this internship was the opportunity to be assigned a client as an “intern project,” in which I, along with another intern, acted as the client lead. This client was a nonprofit called Serve the Future, which provides tennis lessons and life coaching to underserved students in Phoenix. I built a great relationship with the main client contacts and am proud of the work done to secure media coverage for an organization that has an amazing community impact.

For the larger clients I wasn’t directly leading, I learned how to successfully coordinate meetings, execute media training, brainstorm ideas for PR opportunities and collaborate as a team on larger campaigns. I never felt like I was being assigned cliché “intern work” that didn’t serve a larger purpose. All client work had a clear goal in mind and allowed me to truly contribute to some of the agency’s top clients.

The professional development tools put in place for interns and coordinators were extremely helpful. For example, the team often hosted “lunch and learns,” where the experienced PR professionals of 10to1PR shared advice on both career growth and PR strategy. One session that stood out was an hour-long discussion in which those who had been promoted within the organization provided tips on “leveling up” in the workplace and held an open Q&A. As a soon-to-be graduate entering into full-time work, this was a great reminder to avoid complacency and always look for ways to contribute beyond daily tasks.

As my internship with 10to1PR ends, I am filled with gratitude for the people who provided guidance, set leadership examples and took a genuine interest in my growth. I leave with exponentially increased confidence in my PR skills, career skills and personal goals. I’m excited to watch the next interns at 10to1PR have similar experiences and grow as PR professionals!

Cross-Industry Success: 10to1PR’s Spring Media Highlights

by Erica

Cross-Industry Success: 10to1PR’s Spring Media Highlights

The Spring season proved to be a stellar time for 10to1PR and our clients. We secured a diverse range of media placements across national, local, and industry-specific outlets. Let’s take a quick tour of some of our top hits:

💼 Business and Industry Buzz

Hospitality Tech highlighted our client’s innovative approach to personalized guest experiences. The Indianapolis Business Journal recognized Brad Vogelsmeier of Milhaus in their prestigious Forty Under 40 list. We dove into the world of private equity with Roofing Contractor Magazine, and celebrated a construction industry leader’s Legacy Award in ENR Southwest.

💡 Tech and Innovation Takeover

PV Magazine USA featured our client’s groundbreaking use of robots in solar module installation. We explored the evolving role of healthcare CISOs with TechTarget, and Smart Cities World covered our client’s automated bus lane enforcement tech in Barcelona.

📺 Local News, Big Impact

Arizona’s Family brought our client’s wearable healthcare tech to viewers across the state. The Phoenix Business Journal announced Hexoskin’s new headquarters, while ReBusiness Online covered a major multifamily property groundbreaking in Ohio.

💰 Financial Insights for the Win

CU Broadcast featured AVANA Companies’ timely webinar series on rising loan delinquencies. Hotel Executive tapped our client for insights on 2025 hotel financing trends, and Middle Market Growth got the scoop on the private credit outlook.

💊 National Health Expertise

Our clients made waves in popular lifestyle publications. Shape Magazine featured one of our clients in their “Best Slippers for Women” roundup, perfect for those cozy work-from-home days. We also got our podiatry experts some love, with WebMD tapping their knowledge on cracked heels and EatingWell showcasing their picks for spring footwear.

From consumer tech to construction, healthcare to hospitality, 10to1PR showcased our ability to secure impactful coverage across a wide spectrum of industries and media types. We’re excited to keep this momentum going throughout 2025!

Want to see your company making headlines? Let’s chat about how 10to1PR can elevate your brand story.

10 to 1 Blog

Embracing AI in PR: A Game-Changer for Efficiency and Insight

by Erica

In the ever-evolving world of public relations, staying ahead of the curve is crucial. One of the most significant developments shaping our industry today is the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into our daily operations. But how exactly is AI transforming PR, and what does it mean for professionals in our field?

A recent blog post by Madeleine Williamson, PR Executive at 10to1PR, published on the Phoenix PRSA website dives deep into this topic, exploring how AI is revolutionizing everything from content creation to media monitoring. Titled “Using AI to Balance Human Insight with Efficiency,” the article offers valuable insights into:

  1. How AI is speeding up content creation while emphasizing the continued importance of human oversight
  2. The transformation of media monitoring through AI-driven tools
  3. The need for PR professionals to adapt and integrate AI technologies to remain competitive

As Williamson points out, “The future of PR is inextricably linked with AI, and professionals who adapt quickly will lead the field.” This thought-provoking piece serves as a wake-up call for PR practitioners to actively explore and integrate AI tools into their daily operations.

To learn more about how you can leverage AI to enhance your PR efforts while maintaining the crucial human touch, read the full article here.

10 to 1 Blog

10to1PR Kicks Off 2025 with Impressive Client Wins Across Diverse Industries

by Erica

10to1PR Kicks Off 2025 with Impressive Client Wins Across Diverse Industries

January proved to be a productive month for 10to1PR as we secured high-profile media placements for our clients across a wide range of industries. From cutting-edge technology to community initiatives, our team’s efforts resulted in coverage from top-tier publications, showcasing the breadth of our expertise and the innovative work of our clients.

💻 Technology and Innovation Take Center Stage

Our tech-savvy clients made waves in various sectors. Fast Company featured a story about an AI-powered hotel coming to Las Vegas, highlighting the future of hospitality. In the healthcare realm, Pharmacy Practice News covered a groundbreaking robotics partnership between Swisslog Healthcare and BD, demonstrating the potential for automation in medical settings. Meanwhile, ENR reported on Rosendin Electric’s deployment of custom robots for solar panel installation, marrying renewable energy with advanced robotics.

🏗️ Real Estate and Development Solutions

The real estate sector saw exciting developments. Scottsdale Progress reported on the opening of indoor pickleball courts, catering to the growing popularity of the sport. Hotel Dive featured an AI lending tool for hotel owners, showcasing innovative financial solutions in the hospitality industry. On the community development front, Good Good Good covered a heartwarming story about shipping container homes for the homeless in Glendale, Arizona, highlighting creative approaches to housing challenges.

🏥 Healthcare and Community Initiatives

Our clients’ commitment to community well-being shone through in several stories. Jewish News reported on local synagogues opening their doors to unsheltered families, demonstrating interfaith cooperation and compassion. Becker’s Dental Review covered a survey revealing patients’ concerns about lowering dental licensing standards, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high-quality healthcare. Arizona’s Family delved into the ongoing fluoride debate in Arizona’s drinking water, sparking important conversations about public health.

👷‍♀️ Driving Economic Growth and Workforce Development

We helped put the spotlight on Arizona’s economic initiatives. The Phoenix Business Journal covered the state’s future research and development investments, pointing to a bright economic outlook. GovTech reported on Arizona’s investment in its cyber workforce, highlighting the state’s commitment to technological advancement and job creation. HR Spotlight featured an article on the importance of DEI and niche recruitment advertising in 2025, reflecting the evolving landscape of workforce management.

These diverse media placements highlight 10to1PR’s ability to secure high-quality coverage across various industries. Our team’s expertise in crafting compelling narratives and identifying newsworthy angles has resulted in impactful stories that resonate with a wide range of audiences. As we move further into 2025, we look forward to continuing our partnerships with innovative clients, sharing their stories, and securing media coverage that makes a difference.

10 to 1 Blog

Otonomus Hotel Scores Big at CES 2025

by Erica

Otonomus Hotel Scores Big at CES 2025

Written by Sofia Ashley, PR Executive at 10to1PR

Otonomus Hotel, the world’s first AI-powered hotel, made a splash at CES 2025, bringing hospitality back to the conference for the first time in five years. Our goal: secure interview opportunities for the Founder and CEO of Otonomus Hotel, Philippe Ziade, at the booth and showcase the future of hospitality.

President Josh Weiss and PR Executive Sofia Ashley at the Otonomus book at CES 2025

Preparation was key. We crafted pre-event, during-event, and post-event press releases, developed talking points, and conducted thorough media training. Our team sifted through over 6,000 media attendees, targeting AI and hospitality reporters to secure interviews.

At CES 2025, we facilitated 15 interviews with Philippe Ziade and other Otonomus Hotel team members, juggling pre-scheduled meetings and impromptu requests from booth visitors. Our on-site coordination ensured smooth interactions with journalists from major outlets like Forbes and Fast Company. We also facilitated exclusive tours on-site at Otonomus Hotel with the BBC and Associated Press.

Otonomus Founder and CEO Philippe Ziade participating in a media interview at CES 2025

The results speak volumes. We completed 15 high-quality interviews, including unexpected opportunities with Vegas PBS and Las Vegas Sun. Reporters showed keen interest in Otonomus’s AI-driven approach to hospitality, setting the stage for extensive post-event coverage, including more than 50 media features and mentions so far. 

This success at CES 2025 highlights our expertise in trade show PR. For more information on how we can elevate your brand at major industry events, visit our trade show services page here.

10 to 1 Blog

Insights from 10 to 1 Public Relations’ Pros

by Erica

Insights from 10 to 1 Public Relations’ Pros

Six months after transitioning from fashion to PR, I sought advice from my 10 to 1 Public Relations colleagues about navigating the industry. Their insights, ranging from new coordinators to the company president, offer valuable guidance for PR newcomers.

Madeleine Williamson, PR Executive at 10 to 1:

How did you know you wanted to go into PR? 

“I knew I wanted to be in the communication industry, so I explored jobs in all different areas of communications, and I kept coming back to PR.”

What other past experiences have led you to where you are today?

“Starting as editor of my high school yearbook, I learned that I enjoyed telling people’s stories. Through different internships, I gained experience in journalism and media production, which have led me to where I am today.”

What advice do you have for someone who is entering the field?

“Embrace learning— don’t be afraid to ask questions when you first start a position. The field is constantly evolving, and asking questions fosters long-term learning.”

What have you learned at 10to1PR?

“10 to 1 has given me a space where I feel confident to lead a client. I feel that everyone on the team has supported me and I learn from everyone every day. I was able to lead clients by watching my teammates successfully lead theirs, and I picked up tips along the way that I apply in my own leadership roles.”

Laura Slawny Vice President of at 10 to 1:

How did you know you wanted to go into PR? 

“I started my career in journalism, and as a producer for an evening news team, we didn’t utilize PR agencies like the morning show did. So it was definitely a shift when I decided to take a coordinator job at a PR agency. I realized at that job that I could get my news fix but in a more stable career. I just wish I had made the switch sooner!”

What other past experiences have led you to where you are today?

“I took a job at an agency that was primarily focused on media relations and sending pitches. I wanted to find an agency that offered more thought leadership, campaign building, and long-lasting relationship building priorities. Then I met Josh and he taught me so much.”

What advice do you have for new pros?

“There is always more than one way to do something. If you hit a dead end, pivot and find a new solution. Also never take ‘no’ for an answer.”

What have you learned at 10to1PR?

“Everyone has a unique skill. You can learn something from each person. Everyone brings something to the table, whether it’s a technical skill that that person has already mastered or a mistake they have made that can teach you new strategies.”

Sofia Ashley, Public Relations Executive:

How did you know you wanted to go into PR? 

“I had different majors in college, I first started in STEM, then Business, but in my Business major we had a class where we created our own fake PR campaign. Getting to be creative after taking so many technical classes was refreshing and I knew I wanted a career path that was the perfect blend of creativity and strategy.”

What other past experiences have led you to where you are today?

 “My social media management background gave me a solid foundation, but it was the experience I got as an intern in PR that solidified it for me.”

What advice do you have for new pros?

“A career in PR/Journalism offers more flexibility than complex mathematical and scientific fields. You can get better over time and learn by experience. Every little moment builds up your confidence, and you shouldn’t underestimate the tools that you have in your back pocket.”

What have you learned at 10to1PR?

“I have learned how to be an advocate for myself. I definitely think I underestimated myself when I was first put in charge to lead clients, but I channeled confidence to reassure them, and I even was able to reassure myself.”

Kaden Ryback, Public Relations Coordinator

How did you know you wanted to go into PR? 

“It was either between PR and marketing, but marketing’s heavy sales focus wasn’t aligned with my aspirations, and after one day at a marketing job I quickly realized it was not the right fit for me. PR was more focused on the human element which was important to me. It satisfied my passion for writing and relationship-building, and I was able to incorporate my videography skills into client campaign production.”

What other past experiences have led you to where you are today?

“My path to PR was not as specific to PR, but more of the communications field. I graduated with a bachelor’s in public relations and journalism, but I got the most hands-on experience at The Cronkite Agency, which combined my video editing, and personal relations skills. I realized after a brief career in marketing, that PR appealed to me more, and that was all I needed to know to make it my career.”

What advice do you have for new pros?

“Research is a bigger part of PR than many people may think. It’s invaluable when you start with a client to know not only the media landscape around the client but also the big stories that the client has had, and the publications that have featured them. Doing your research on the clients that you represent will help you present yourself well,and inform how you will work with them.”

What have you learned at 10to1PR?

“I’ve learned the art of team-oriented work. This has helped me identify the tasks that drive the most value for both the team and the clients. When you work alone on a client, it’s up to you to decide the methodology on how you go about completing tasks, but when you’re on a team, every piece of the work, and knowing the importance of delegation is important. You may not realize the time that you spent researching, when communicated well with your team, can take work off a lot of other people.”

Josh Weiss, President of 10 to 1 Public Relations

How did you know you wanted to go into PR? 

“I started this company to find like-minded individuals who wanted to take a more traditional approach to PR. I also wanted to build a team that specialized in what they’re good at. Everyone here has a unique skill that they contribute and that helps others. The agency itself is known for traditional media relations.”

What other past experiences have led you to where you are today?

“My first job out of college was in the Illinois House Representatives helping elected officials get on their local radio stations. I created radio press releases, combining radio, PR and politics. When I was ready to move on, PR felt like the most steady job opportunity of the three options (compared to politics or radio). After working in several PR-related jobs for the next decade, I eventually decided to start my own PR agency in 2012.”

What advice do you have for new pros?

“Passion and genuine interest are important because actual knowledge of the industry can be taught. Scale the one thing you’re good at. If someone is testing to see if you can deliver a project, knock that project out of the park first, then ask to take on more.”

What have you learned from 10to1PR?

“I’ve learned the different roles of leadership when it comes to managing a team. 10 to 1 is a collaborative agency, and that has taught me to meet people where they are at, and help them get to that next step.”

Conclusion:

During my internship at 10 to 1, I have learned there are different ways to find your place in PR. Some of my team found PR through other professions but were pulled back into it, and some knew they were enthusiastic the moment they entered the profession.

My journey may not have originally started here, but as my team members illustrated there is no one set way to find a job in Public Relations. If you are passionate about Public Relations take steps to learn more about the field you’ll be working in. Any experience, whether it’s an internship or work for another agency will help you develop practical skills that you can take with you. Finding work that is meaningful will help you bring your best to the role and inspire you to stay open to constantly evolving your skills. 

The diverse skills and different paths of my team has shown me that there is no single route to success in PR, but that it is a combination of embracing continuous learning, passion for the career, different variations of skills, and the ability to pivot that makes a PR pro successful. 

A diverse skill set is needed at an agency in PR to adapt to different clients, and specializing at a specific skill can contribute to a team’s success. As I reflect on my growth I’m grateful for the support the team from 10 to 1 has shown me. This experience has confirmed my passion for PR and I am grateful that I am able to continue onto a new career path where I feel comfortable to take my next steps.