Lauren Rich is not like many other PRs. She launched her New York PR agency, RICHPR, straight out of university. In this article, Lauren tells vox-popPRcareers the experiences she had that shaped her career as an entrepreneur in PR.
On what inspired Lauren to start the agency:
Having held a job from a young age (14), I suppose I was bit by the entrepreneurial bug early. I grew up very independent and as a result have always considered myself very career-driven and inspired by those who take the lead. After taking countless internships all throughout school (New York’s Fashion Institute of Technology), I started working with two clients of my own during my last semester. As graduation approached, I decided to take the plunge and officially launch my own business.
Hurdles and obstacles that PR entrepreneurs face:
As a newbie on the PR scene and with limited contacts, the biggest hurdle was working that first year to establish RICHPR and get my name out there. Starting from scratch can leave anyone at a disadvantage, but what I had working in my favor were my drive, perseverance, and a truly amazing support network of friends and colleagues to help me grow.
Why experience is important:
Even though I started my own agency right out of college, I did have 3+ years of hands-on internships under my belt. So, yes. I would definitely recommend those interested in PR, whether they’re current students, recent grads, or seeking a career change, get some experience before going it on your own. Not only will you gain valuable experience and contacts, but you’ll know if PR is the right industry for you. All said, I am a believer you can do anything you put your mind to. If you want it bad enough, you’ll make it happen.
Achieving a work/life balance:
Make time for yourself, and don’t feel guilty about it! Finding that balance between work and personal life is still something I work on daily. I try my best to put a cap on my work day, no later than 8pm, and always give myself at least 1 weekend day to not do ANY work. Most Saturdays I won’t even open my MacBook. Because it is easy to burnout it is so important to set aside that personal time to relax, recharge and remotivate.
How to find your first clients:
Most of my initial clients came via word of mouth, but I also checked job sites like Craigslist every day for opportunities. And of course, networking, networking, networking!
How to overcome loneliness, a common feeling for many entrepreneurs:
I was lucky that I had (and still have!) an amazing support network of friends, mentors and other entrepreneurs to converse and share ideas with. While yes, it is true when you’re not an entrepreneur you can never fully understand what it’s like to start (let alone run) your own business, I think the important thing is to surround yourself with good people who will motivate and inspire you, regardless of occupation.
The career highlight of RICHPR:
The highlight of my career is that it’s still going! When I launched RICHPR over 3 years ago I had no idea if it would last even a few months, let alone 3+ years. While there have of course been standout press hits, exciting clients, etc, the fact that I’m still here and growing is more than I could ask for.
You can follow Lauren on Twitter @LaurenRICHPR and check our her agency’s website here.
