10to1PR Shines at PRSA Phoenix’s 2025 Copper Anvil Awards

How to prepare employees for a deepfake attack


Nearly 200 of Arizona’s top public relations professionals gathered at the Peoria Sports Complex recently for the annual Copper Anvil Awards hosted by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Phoenix chapter. 10to1PR emerged as a standout winner, taking home multiple prestigious awards that recognized the agency’s strategic approach and creative execution across diverse campaigns. The evening also featured a special highlight as Madeleine Williamson received the Up and Comer Award, celebrating her exceptional contributions to the industry.

Award-Winning Campaigns

The agency’s award-winning work spanned multiple industries and tactics, demonstrating 10to1PR’s versatility and effectiveness. The “Bridging States, Elevating Standards” public affairs campaign for IDDHL Compact positioned it as the superior solution for dental professional mobility while maintaining high standards and state authority. This strategic initiative increased legislative awareness and support across multiple target states.

Family Promise of Greater Phoenix’s Legacy Village project, an innovative container housing community for families experiencing homelessness, received recognition for 10to1PR’s community relations strategy. The campaign highlighted how this first-of-its-kind project provides dignified housing while creating a replicable model for faith communities throughout Arizona.

The Phoenix Veterans Day Parade special event campaign honored seven Grand Marshals, including MLB’s Luis Gonzalez, through coordinated media appearances that generated extensive coverage despite competing with election news. The strategic approach attracted thousands of attendees and created meaningful connections between veterans and the community through personalized storytelling.

Strategic Media Relations

10to1PR also demonstrated exceptional agility with DSV IMS, a global inventory management leader, at Manifest 2025 in Las Vegas. The team secured multiple interviews for DSV IMS executives on the conference floor within just two weeks of beginning the client relationship, resulting in valuable trade show media coverage and industry positioning opportunities.

The agency’s work with Rosendin’s new solar building robot revolutionized the construction industry through a focused launch campaign. Despite being limited to drafting only two press releases, 10to1PR secured 140 stories with such impact that Google’s AI overview cited Rosendin when searching for solar robots as late as July 2025.

Chanen Construction’s 70-year legacy in the Valley was celebrated through a campaign that reinforced the company’s contributions to Arizona’s construction industry. Through strategic reputation and brand management, 10to1PR successfully engaged local media, community leaders, and industry influencers, enhancing the company’s visibility.

Rising Star Recognition

A particular highlight of the evening was Madeleine Williamson’s recognition with the Up and Comer Award. Since joining 10to1PR in January 2023, Williamson has established herself as a dedicated PR professional, earning a series of promotions from Coordinator to PR Executive. She now serves as the client lead for three accounts and a campaign lead on another, while supporting two additional clients. Her pursuit of APR certification, mentorship of colleagues, and leadership on campaigns like the annual kids construction camp demonstrate her commitment to excellence.

Building on Success

These Copper Anvil wins reinforce 10to1PR’s reputation as a leading strategic communications agency in Arizona. The diverse range of successful campaigns showcases the agency’s ability to develop tailored approaches that deliver measurable results across industries. As 10to1PR continues to grow its team and client roster, these awards position the agency for continued success and industry leadership in the coming year.

Building Stronger Communities Through Volunteer Work

Building Stronger Communities Through Volunteer Work


Written by Gabriel Estes, Sr. PR Coordinator at 10to1PR

We love giving back to our community, and our recent initiatives proved just how powerful collective action can be. Our entire office building rallied around causes close to our hearts, demonstrating that corporate social responsibility isn’t just good business but the right thing to do.

In September, we launched two community initiatives that brought our team together while making a real difference in the Valley. We partnered with the Arizona Animal Welfare League for a month-long donation drive and sent team members to volunteer with our client Family Promise, painting rooms at their housing shelter.

10to1PR team with collections from the donation drive for the Arizona Animal Welfare League.

The response from our team and building neighbors exceeded our expectations. We designed a flyer that spelled out exactly what items were needed for the animal welfare drive and showed people where to drop off donations around the building. The variety of donations we received showed just how much our community cares about animal welfare. Our collection included tennis balls and fun dog toys, cat and dog food, training pee pads for puppies, sturdy leashes and collars, cat toys and pill pockets.

Meanwhile, several of our team members rolled up their sleeves to help Family Promise with hands-on volunteer work. They spent time painting rooms at the housing shelter, helping create a welcoming environment for families who need temporary housing support. This direct service allowed our team to see firsthand how their efforts make a difference.

Ted Taylor, Executive Director of Family Promise (left) with 10to1PR team members Morgan, Emily, Gabriel, and Lauren.

Corporate social responsibility matters now more than ever. Research shows that 82% of consumers consider corporate social responsibility when deciding what services and products to buy and from where. Similarly, 86% of millennial workers greatly value their companies’ corporate social responsibility programs and would quit their jobs if those programs started to slip.

We’ve seen this play out in our own workplace. Projects like these bring our team closer together. When we work side by side for something bigger than ourselves, we create the kind of workplace where people want to give back to their community. Every donation we collect and every room we paint will make a real difference for animals waiting for their forever homes and families working toward stable housing.

At 10 to 1 Public Relations, we believe that generating goodwill by integrating community issues and social causes into our business operations strengthens our brand’s reputation while making a positive impact. These initiatives reflect our ongoing commitment to building stronger communities through meaningful partnerships and direct action.

See how we help our clients get recognized for their corporate social responsibility and community giving programs.

10 Things You Didn’t Know About 10to1PR

10 Things You Didn’t Know About 10to1PR


We’ve built our reputation on delivering results for clients across multiple industries through strategic media relations and crisis communications. While you may know us for the coverage we generate and the stories we tell, here are ten facts about our Scottsdale-based agency that showcase the personality and principles behind our professional success.

1. We have a pet fish named Drip.

Our office mascot swims around, reminding us daily about the power of consistent communication. His name reflects the PR concept of a drip campaign, a steady stream of messages that builds awareness and reinforces brand messaging over time.

2. We have a monthly marble run.

These aren’t just for fun; they visually demonstrate how earned media builds momentum over time. Plus, they create engaging monthly social media videos.

3. We’re proudly a traditional PR agency.

We focus on proven media relations strategies that deliver real results. Our approach centers on building genuine relationships with journalists and securing organic media coverage.

4. We predominantly work with B2B clients.

Our expertise spans industries from healthcare, construction, professional services, and technology. We understand the unique challenges of reaching business decision makers through targeted media outreach.

5. 10to1PR Day is an official day.

The city of Scottsdale created this special recognition to celebrate our work and community involvement. This unique honor reflects our commitment to excellence and the positive impact we’ve made in the community.

6. The 10-to-1 rule inspired our company name.

Our philosophy is simple: it takes ten good things said about a business to overcome one negative comment. We help clients build their “goodwill bank” through consistent positive media coverage.

7. We serve clients nationally and internationally.

Our reach extends far beyond Arizona borders to companies across the United States and around the world. We work with businesses of all sizes, from startups to established corporations, helping them tell their stories to audiences wherever they need to be heard.

8. We’ve been growing for 13 years.

Since launching in 2012, we’ve expanded from two employees to 12 team members. Our client roster has grown to include companies across multiple industries and geographic markets.

9. Our AI assistant is named IVY.

We named it after Ivy Lee, the father of modern public relations, who pioneered ethical communication practices in the early 1900s. IVY represents our commitment to integrating technology while honoring the foundational principles that define our industry.

10. We specialize in crisis communications.

When companies face reputation challenges, we step in with strategic messaging and rapid response capabilities. Our experience includes handling everything from local issues to national controversies.

Our team brings both expertise and personality to every campaign, ensuring that your story gets told effectively across the right media channels. Contact us to learn how we can help share your company’s story.

Pitch Perfect: Lessons from ABC15 Media Panel

Pitch Perfect: Lessons from ABC15 Media Panel


By Dayja Hernandez-Brown, 10to1PR PR Intern, Fall 2025

Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the PRSA Phoenix x ABC15 media panel with my team at 10to1PR. One of the best parts was getting a behind-the-scenes tour of the newsroom. I was so excited to see where the stories come to life and to meet the people who make it all happen. Hearing directly from reporters and producers gave me a fresh perspective on how stories are chosen, crafted, and shared with the public.

As a PR intern, the event felt like a crash course in what makes a pitch stand out. Here are six key takeaways that have reshaped the way I think about storytelling and media relations:

  1. Lead with the “Why” 

A strong pitch starts with why the story matters, not just what happened. Reporters receive hundreds of emails every day while juggling tight deadlines. If you don’t make the purpose clear right away, your pitch risks getting buried. A compelling “why” shows you understand the audience and the newsroom’s goals. Once you’ve nailed that, layer in the 5 Ws (who, what, where, when, and why) to give the full picture.

  1. Think Local First 

If it impacts the neighborhood, it matters. ABC15 prioritizes hyperlocal stories from everyday people stepping up to community challenges and local trends. In Arizona, for example, weather is a common theme because it affects everyone’s daily life. To strengthen your pitch, tie it to what’s happening in the community or what’s trending that day. Stories that highlight real people and real impact at the local level are far more powerful than chasing broad national headlines.

  1. Positive Stories to Balance the Chaos

News at ABC15 Arizona often focuses on death and destruction. That’s why stories about local heroes, small wins, and inspiring efforts stand out more. Reporters look for feel-good content that brings emotional balance. If a story makes people feel something real, it’s more likely to get picked up.

  1. Offer a Follow-Up Angle

Don’t just pitch a one-and-done story. Reporters love stories that have room to grow. Whether it’s a seasonal twist, a follow-up event, or a community-driven solution, offering a clear “what’s next” makes your pitch more dynamic. For example, if the story starts with a snowboarding accident, the next chapter could explore helmet safety or local policy changes. A built-in follow-up keeps the coverage going and keeps your story top of mind.

  1. Visuals Are Everything

In today’s fast-paced media world, visuals can make or break a pitch. High-quality video, clear b-roll and audio bring stories to life. It’s also important to format content for the right platform such as horizontal videos for broadcast and vertical for digital. In today’s attention economy, a strong visual hook at the start can determine whether a story gets airtime or gets skipped.

  1. Back It Up with Stats

Numbers add credibility. Whether it’s local data, national trends, or original survey results, statistics show why your story matters right now. Reporters need facts to support their coverage, and a strong stat can make your pitch more relevant, urgent, and trustworthy.

This panel reminded me that pitching isn’t just about sharing content, it’s about partnering with journalists to tell stories that matter to the community. I walked away feeling encouraged and more confident about what reporters are looking for and how I can rise to meet those expectations.

As I continue my PR internship, I’m excited to apply these lessons by tying client stories to the local communities they serve, ensuring every pitch adds value to the conversation. Attending this panel gave me practical tools I can bring back to my client work while also pushing me closer to my internship goals of building confidence in pitching and growing my skills in campaign planning. At the end of the day, my goal is to pitch stories that matter to the community, not serve up another cooking segment reporters are tired of seeing.

10to1PR Summer Rewind: Where We Spent Summer 2025

10to1PR Summer Rewind: Where We Spent Summer 2025


Summer 2025 took the 10to1PR team across the map in the United States and in Europe! Our team members explored new places and created unforgettable memories. Here is a look at where our PR professionals traveled during their time away from the office.


Rachael joined friends for a rafting trip on a river in Boise, Idaho. 


Erica traveled with her tennis team to Albuquerque, New Mexico, for the USTA Southwest Sectionals, facing opponents from Flagstaff to El Paso and finishing in third. 


Danielle spent time with family on the Connecticut coast.


Morgan celebrated the Fourth of July in Boston.


Laura explored historic neighborhoods and landmarks across Prague. 


Madeleine held baby sheep in Ireland.


Josh visited Miami and made time for the beach. 


Emily headed to Montana for family hikes and time outdoors.


Gabriel traveled to a small town in Illinois for a family reunion.


These trips gave the team time to relax and recharge ahead of a busy fall and winter for our clients. The team returned with fresh perspectives and renewed energy to tackle upcoming campaigns.

With all our travels, we were still quite busy at the office this summer! See our Summer Spotlight post for client highlights and media coverage from the season.

Building a PR Foundation: My Summer at 10to1PR

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.

The Road Into Public Relations and the Path Ahead

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. 

10to1PR Scales New Heights

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.

Confidence and Career Growth: My Intern Experience at 10to1PR

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!

Insights from 10 to 1 Public Relations’ Pros

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.