Morris Denton, Executive Vice President at Edelman
This week, Tower was pleased to have Morris Denton from Edelman at our meeting. Denton is currently the executive vice-president and general manager of Edelman Austin. He received his bachelor’s in advertising and public relations from Texas Christian University and a master’s in journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder. He has worked for various employers including, IBM, Leopard Communications and Cunningham Communications.
Edelman is the world’s largest independent public relations firm that generates nearly $500 million in fee-based revenue worldwide and employs more than 4,000 people in 60 geographic locations. Denton says the firm has been successful because of employee’s creativity and diversity. He says that ideas and stories are very important to driving coverage and consumerism to their clients. He says, “When we win, we win because of ideas.”
Below are a list of tips Denton shared with our associates:
Find an industry or market that you are passionate about. Denton says a lot of time and effort is required in order to be successful in the public relations industry. He says it is a lot easier to put in the long hours when you’re genuinely passionate about the product or brand you are working for.
If possible, seek companies or agencies that has a diverse client portfolio. Denton says that working for a diverse organization has its perks. He says it exposes you to different industries and the ways in which that industry’s public relations differs from others. Denton suggests working with various clients (or accounts) to see which industry interests you. This is a great way to gain experience and expand your area of expertise.
Determine how the company or agency will help you achieve your career goals. Denton says that you should always think ahead with regards to your career. In other words, how is your current job (or the job you are interviewing for) fit into your career goals? Often, one’s first few jobs determines the area and the trajectory in which their career heads. “It’s important that you think like a chess player,” says Denton, “You need to be thinking two moves ahead.”
Before the intervier, do your homework. Always come prepared for the interview. Coming prepared for the interview means thoroughly researching the company and the position for which you are applying. Denton says it’s important to know the company’s clients, objectives and competitors. He also states that one should always come prepared with questions for the employer, this shows knowledge of the company and the industry.
Once again, Tower would like to thank Morris Denton for attending our meeting. We appreciate him sharing his industry insight with us.
Kaitlyn Williams
Social Media Officer
