Eclectic Shades Magazine September-October Issue 2018 | Page 14

communicating one’s message clearly, honestly and positively as possible to one’s core audience – whether these are fans, supporters, residents of a city, consumers or social media followers. It’s about communicating effectively to those already supporting or following what you’re doing, as well as finding and expanding these audiences by communicating directly to them as well. Good customer service at a store is good public relations; transparency in the government is good public relations; sharing fun news with your fans on social media is good public relations. And overall, it’s about curating your identity at all times, whether that’s in the media, on social media, or in direct interactions with those you’re engaging.

Chris: What skills have you acquired that would help you communicate a clients message?

Michael: I think my best skill is that I listen well. If you don’t listen to your clients, how can you be expected to properly communicate what they’re saying?

Chris: How do you measure results?

Michael: Simply put, we measure results based on a client’s satisfaction. There are various metrics we employ to measure our success on behalf of our clients, but ultimately a client’s happiness is the greatest way of measuring results. If they’re not happy, then nothing else matters.

Chris: What did you find most challenging about getting into this business?

Michael: Finding time to sleep!

Chris: What’s been the most enjoyable part?

Michael:

What I love the most is getting to interact with so many amazingly talented people. My life is blessed as I get to work with immensely creative people across so many industries, whether they’re a prolific filmmaker, talented actor or member of the media, I get to be around so much talent, passion and creative spirit. It fuels me and the passion for what they do is contagious and inspiring. I just love what I do and the people I get to meet on a daily basis.

Chris: What does your average or typical work day look like?

Michael: Every day is different from the next. Some days are filled with meetings or strategy calls with clients, others may involve brainstorming sessions with the team on how best to market grapevine pr; others may include attending events with clients, such as celebrity gifting suites or a red carpet premiere or screening, or taking a client out to lunch or dinner.

Chris: What’s your vision for Grapevine?

Michael: My vision for grapevine is to continue to work alongside the rest of the team to nurture its growth and see it continue to succeed, especially within the worlds of hospitality and travel, from where my particular background resides. I’d like us to move more into the luxury hospitality sector, working with more high profile hotels, restaurants, and tourism organizations, especially here in Austin, as well as surrounding metropolitan areas in Texas like Dallas, San Antonio and Houston.

Chris: Where can our readers learn more about Grapevine?

Michael: They can learn more about grapevine pr and grapevine pr Austin by visiting our official website www.theprgrapevine.com.