One of EAST VILLAGE.’s latest recruits is George who joins the team as a PR & Communications Trainee. In this 60 Seconds With, he shares how he was introduced to the world of PR, his takes on the industry and his advice for anyone who wants to get their foot in the door.

• How did you get into PR?

I first got into the PR industry with an internship at the New Welsh Review magazine in Aberystwyth – it was a placement as part of a university module. As part of my role, I was helping the magazine gain publicity and traction online for an upcoming fundraising event that they were holding. I enjoyed the fast-paced environment so much that I decided to pursue a career in PR after I finished my degree.

• Tell us a bit more about your role!

Research is at the core of my role at EV, I carry out coverage analysis, map current PR trends and pitch opportunities for our clients. I love the varied nature of the role and the fact that no day is ever the same.

• What is your favourite part of the job?

The wonderful EV team! They have been so so welcoming and are an absolute joy to work with everyday.

• What’s your go-to coffee order?

Iced Blonde Roast Latte with Almond Milk and Sugar Free Vanilla. Don’t judge, it’s very Fiat 500.

• Here’s a divisive question… dogs or cats?

Doggos 100%

• What are your top three marketing tools that you can’t live without?

Twitter: Although its arguably fading from relevancy in some circles, I personally find the platform invaluable for keeping up to date with breaking industry news and current affairs.

Box: Being able to actively share and collaborate on live documents is so important.

Canva: It is so user-friendly, allowing anyone to quickly create professional documents and graphics.

• What is one top tip that you give every client about PR?

Embrace and keep up with new platforms! The landscape of marketing is currently so fast-paced and ever-changing meaning it is vital to have knowledge of the latest digital trends. A notable case is Tik Tok’s rise to prominence as a major social media powerhouse; it is now impacting everything from the music charts to fashion.

• What is your PR trend prediction for 2021 and beyond?

I personally think that we will see more social vocality from brands in 2021. We’re seeing more and more brands entering into progressive discourse on pressing societal issues that would once have been seen as wholly taboo. From Ben and Jerry’s refusing to stock in Israeli settlements to Merriam-Webster clapping back to homophobes on Twitter, brands are growingly refusing to be silenced on social justice issues.

• Who would your dream client be and why?

Pangaia. They’re a fast-growing slow fashion social enterprise that makes use of innovative eco-friendly and sustainably produced materials (a notable example being banana and seaweed fiber). I’m absolutely obsessed with their brand transparency vis-à-vis their production and personal environmental footprint.

• Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to get into the industry?

Just go for it! It can be very intimidating, but you never know if you don’t try. Even if you don’t know everything, most employers will be happy if you’re enthusiastic and willing to learn.