Marijane Funess October 26, 2012 | 09:35:21
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PR Tricks & Treats

For every pitch that’s exciting and enjoyable, there’s one that’s a horror story.

For every media contact who’s an angel, there’s one who’s dark and intimidating.

For every colleague or supervisor who nurtures, there is one who tortures.

As Halloween approaches, here are a few favorite examples of ways we have been delighted by “treats” in our business and alas some “tricks” of which we were less fond.

TREATS

The “sweet” client who praises and refers!
We’ve been blessed with many clients who are magnanimous enough to compliment AND critique, and generous enough to refer us to colleagues and associates.
The media contact who cultivates an ongoing relationship
Nothing is quite as magical as securing an awesome placement and hearing from the same reporter later, looking for new stories.
The colleague who happily shares the workload and the kudos
In PR, we work long hours, and mutual trust among co-workers is a key to success. It’s a treat to have co-workers (and supervisors) who will not let you down and want to see you flourish.

TRICKS

The passive-aggressive prospect
We’ve all been there – a potential client schedules an agency presentation for, oh December 26, and it’s all-hands-on-deck craziness to prepare a superb presentation. The client appears sufficiently wowed and promises to “get back to you within the week” and then, YOU NEVER HEAR FROM THEM AGAIN. Spooky….and frustrating.
The reporter with “attitude”
OK, this person didn’t like your story pitch, but is it too much to ask that they respond to a follow-up email? And if they do have a problem with the idea, could they explain instead of firing off a nasty missive? Boo to this!
The thieving colleague
This perhaps well-intentioned individual is chronically unprepared and unmotivated, and, like a zombie, steals your time, your ideas, and your support in the office. The good news? Usually you’re not the only person affected, so someone will step in to put a stop to it.

Got any business tricks or treats you’d care to share?

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