Do you want to know what it's like to work with Prince, on the set of "Desperate Housewives" or with the San Diego Padres? This panel of public relations professionals shared their experiences of doing just this.
The panel consisted of the following three members:
- Karen Lee, Media relations Consultant, W&W Media Relations
- Warren Miller, Director of Media Relations, San Diego Padres
- Nicole Y. Marostica, Director, ABC Entertainment Group
According to Lee, one of the main things to understand about the entertainment industry is it is not a job, but a lifestyle. Do not sign up for something unless you're ready for it.
"It is imperative to know who you are and your relationship with your client," said Lee.
It can be easy to be intimidated when working with celebrities. After all, how many people would really be brave enough to tell Eva Longoria she can't have something she specifically requested? This is what sets the professionals apart from the fans.
"I want them [celebrities] to know I'm not a fan," said Marostica, someone who works with celebrities such as Eva Longoria and Sally Fields. "I want them to know I'm there for them."
As always, social media and media relations were two main topics the panelists all discussed. Technology can be a friend at times, and an enemy at other times.
Lee joked Twitter was not her friend. This is because it can be difficult to make clients understand the importance of what they post. It is hard to put an emotional response aside, but this is exactly what needs to be done at times. Once something is posted, it can't be taken back.
Miller explained that win or lose, the media was allowed into the players' clubhouse for ten minutes after a game. This is a time that the players must remain professional no matter what kind of mood they are in.
"A bad sports franchise will be around for a long time unlike a bad t.v. show," said Miller.
Marostica used the example of Isaiah Washington's incident with the television show "Grey's Anatomy" to explain how technology has affected her industry. After the incident occurred, people knew about it five minutes later. There may be times when the media knows about something before an actual PR professional. This is why having strong relationships with the media is important.
All in all, the entertainment and sports industry is exciting and fast-paced.
"Our hours don't fit into a box," said Marostica. "We are paid how we are because we don't have a normal life. We have to always be prepared and be there for our clients when they need us."
- Sarah Frantsi
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