When did you know you wanted to get into PR?
I was initially on a track to get into broadcast journalism and took a course in public relations 101 and loved the idea of storytelling for brands. From there, I focused on getting a degree in public relations and taking internships to keep me on that course!
What was your first job?
My first job in the industry was working at a creative agency where I was able to work on media campaigns for brands like bebe and Skyy Vodka. I remember we did a campaign with Mischa Barton when she had just ended The OC. I thought I had totally made it.
What made you want to start your own business?
I wanted to take my expertise in traditional media and pair it with more digital methods to be able to services brands from a 360 approach. I was always an idea person, I think of something new almost every week... being an entrepreneur is my creative outlet. I love it.
Do you have any mentors?
Advice that helped push you to start Be Social? I was lucky to have an extremely supportive family with varying skill sets, such as an accountant, sales and teachers. I took a bit of advice from each of them as I grew this business. I wish I had a mentor in my particular industry and I always tell people it’s a must-have that I wish I had.
What are some things people don't know about your industry?
It’s stressful! It might look fun and glamorous on social media, but the majority of our work is behind a computer.
Favorite memory from the early days of Be Social?
Ha... there’s so many. In the beginning, I didn’t know what I was doing half the time and was so young... there was a lot of mistakes and hard lessons, but the ups and downs have allowed me to get to the place we are today! Most of my favorite memories involve a big client win or a large new sign... the process of pitching new business is such a rollercoaster and when you land the client, it is such a rush!
What is some advice you'd give your younger self?
Live in the now and stop worrying about the future.
Who do you look up to in your Girl Gang and why?
My team! Whether an assistant or a VP, they challenge and teach me to be a better boss, entrepreneur and person. We really treat our organization like family and have a collective goal we are all excited about achieving.
Quote you're currently living by...
Old ways won’t open new doors.
Advice to females that want to pursuit a career in PR?
Internships! Absorb all you can. It’s a competitive industry with a lot of talented people involved, so you are going to have to stand out with tangible experience.
Where can people learn more about Be Social and connect with you?
Head to our website which is current BeSocialPR.com, but we are soon to rebrand to BeSocialGroup.com (eek!) and on Instagram: @besocialgroup @aligrant