February is the month of love in which we often celebrate romantic connections. But it can also be a time to reflect on a different kind of love: the ‘Love for our Profession’. For PR & Corp Comm professionals, this love goes beyond daily tasks and deadlines. It’s a commitment to weaving narratives, nurturing relationships, and shaping perceptions that fuel their growth in the industry.
In this special edition, we will delve into the heart of PR and Corp Comm leaders and discover how their genuine love for the field has empowered them to navigate challenges, embrace innovation, and leave a lasting impact on the world around them. Moreover, through their candid accounts, we’ll explore their unique paths, the lessons learned along the way, and the wisdom they impart to future generations.
So, this time, we’ll explore the thriving journey of Mrinall Kanti Dey, Vice President & Head – PR & Corporate Communications, MobiKwik, a seasoned corporate communications professional and a strategic planner with over 25 years of diverse work experience across various fields.
Excerpts:
What moment or experience initially sparked your interest in PR? How has your understanding of the profession evolved since then?
I still remember that day when I got interested in PR. It was way back in 1998 when I was working as a sub-editor at the Press Trust of India, I had once gone to meet a friend of mine who used to work for a PR agency, LinOpinion. I was made to sit in his office as he was busy with a client call. While I was waiting I observed the way his colleagues were working. It was one of the buzziest offices I had seen (not that I used to visit many PR agencies back then). But it was so fascinating to see someone writing a press release, another person pitching a story to a journalist, and someone else speaking to her client about a media query. It was really that moment that piqued my interest in PR. I loved the energy, the creativity, and the immense patience they showed while handling their over-demanding clients and the “acting pricey” journalist over the phone. I knew back then that once am done with journalism, I would move to this fascinating world of Public Relations. It was in 2004 that I finally made the transition when I joined Airtel in Mumbai as a Corporate Communications manager!
PR has undergone significant transformations since I first experienced it at my friend’s office. It has adapted to the evolving media landscape and technological advancements. In the ’90s, PR primarily relied on traditional media channels such as newspapers, television, and radio. Press releases, media pitches, and events were the main tools used to disseminate information and manage public perception. With the rise of the internet, PR professionals began to explore digital platforms for communication. Websites, email newsletters, and online forums provided new avenues to reach target audiences directly.
The early 2000s witnessed a shift towards online platforms like blogs and social networking sites. PR professionals leveraged these platforms to engage with audiences in real time and participate in conversations. The advent of social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter (now X), and LinkedIn revolutionized PR. These platforms enabled brands to interact with consumers directly, fostering transparency and authenticity in communication.
In today’s digital age, PR has become more data-driven and interactive. Data analytics tools help PR professionals measure the impact of their campaigns and tailor messaging to specific audience segments. Maintaining a positive brand image has become crucial in PR. Brands actively manage their reputation online, responding to feedback and addressing issues promptly to build trust with consumers. User-generated content, including reviews, testimonials, and social media posts, has a significant impact on PR. Brands monitor and engage with user-generated content to shape public perception effectively.
What are the recent trends of the PR industry you absolutely love?
One recent trend in the PR industry that I absolutely love is the increasing focus on authenticity and transparency. In today’s digital age, consumers crave genuine connections with brands and organizations. PR professionals are embracing this by prioritizing honest communication and storytelling that resonates with their target audiences.
Another trend that I admire is the growing importance of diversity and inclusion in PR campaigns. Companies are recognizing the need to reflect the diverse communities they serve, both in their messaging and in the makeup of their teams. This shift towards inclusivity not only leads to more authentic representation but also fosters a sense of belonging among consumers.
Additionally, I’m impressed by the rise of digital PR strategies, including social media engagement, influencer partnerships, and online reputation management. These approaches allow PR professionals to reach audiences directly, engage in real-time conversations, and adapt quickly to changing trends and consumer preferences.
Furthermore, the integration of data analytics and AI technology into PR practices is revolutionizing how professionals measure and analyze the impact of their campaigns. By leveraging data-driven insights, PR teams can make more informed decisions, optimize their strategies, and demonstrate tangible results to stakeholders.
The PR landscape is constantly evolving, demanding frequent shifts in roles and responsibilities. How do you navigate these changes while maintaining your passion and love for the profession?
Navigating the ever-changing landscape of PR requires adaptability, resilience, and a continuous commitment to learning and growth. To maintain passion and love for the profession amidst these changes, I try to do the following:
- I stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices through ongoing education, professional development courses, and networking opportunities. This helps me adapt to new challenges and opportunities while expanding my skill set.
- I approach changes with an open mind and a willingness to pivot when necessary. By staying flexible and agile, I can quickly adjust strategies, tactics, and priorities to align with the evolving needs of the organization and industry trends.
- I remind myself of the underlying purpose of PR – to build meaningful relationships, tell compelling stories, and drive positive change. Keeping sight of this purpose fuels my passion and motivation, even during times of uncertainty or transition.
- I actively seek collaboration with colleagues, mentors, and industry peers to share insights, exchange ideas, and support one another through change. Building a strong network of professionals enables me to navigate challenges more effectively while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.
- I also try to celebrate milestones, successes, and achievements, no matter how small. Recognizing progress and accomplishments reinforces my dedication to the profession and motivates me to continue making a positive impact.
Many PR professionals frequently shift from one company to another throughout their careers. Does this frequent transition affect their overall love and passion for the profession? Share your guidance for those considering or experiencing career shifts in PR.
Frequent transitions between companies can indeed impact the love and passion that PR professionals have for their profession. However, with the right approach and mindset, these transitions can also be opportunities for growth and renewal. Here’s some guidance for PR professionals considering or experiencing career shifts:
Reflect on your Motivations: Before making a career move, take the time to reflect on your motivations, values, and long-term goals. Consider what aspects of PR you’re most passionate about and whether a new opportunity aligns with those passions.
Seek meaningful Opportunities: Look for roles and companies that offer opportunities for meaningful work, personal development, and professional growth. Consider factors such as company culture, values, and the potential impact of the role on your career trajectory.
Build transferable Skills: Focus on building a diverse skill set that can be applied across different industries and roles within PR. Transferable skills such as communication, strategic thinking, relationship-building, and problem-solving will serve you well regardless of where your career takes you.
Maintain a positive mindset: Embrace each career transition as a chance to learn, grow, and expand your horizons. Adopting a positive mindset can help you navigate change with resilience and optimism, fueling your passion for PR even during challenging times.
Stay Connected: Maintain relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry peers, both within and outside your current organization. Networking can provide valuable support, guidance, and opportunities for collaboration, even during times of transition.
Embrace adaptability: Recognize that the PR landscape is constantly evolving, and adaptability is a valuable skill in navigating career transitions. Embrace change as an opportunity for growth and innovation, rather than viewing it as a setback.
Prioritize self-care: Take care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being during career transitions. Prioritize self-care activities that recharge and rejuvenate you, ensuring that you have the energy and resilience to sustain your passion for PR in the long run.
What excites you most about the future of the PR industry?
What excites me most about the future of the PR industry is the potential for innovation and creativity. As technology continues to advance, PR professionals have unprecedented opportunities to engage audiences in new and exciting ways. From leveraging AI and data analytics to personalize communications to harnessing the power of virtual reality for immersive storytelling, the possibilities are endless.
Additionally, I’m excited about the increasing emphasis on authenticity, transparency, and purpose-driven communication. In an era where trust is paramount, PR professionals have a unique opportunity to build genuine connections with stakeholders by prioritizing honesty, integrity, and ethical practices.
Furthermore, the evolving media landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for PR practitioners. With the rise of social media, influencers, and digital platforms, there’s a greater need for agile and adaptable communication strategies. PR professionals who embrace change and stay ahead of trends will thrive in this dynamic environment.
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