Teddy Phillips

A report I need everyone in PR, Marketing & Communications to read is One Step Forward, Two Steps Black. This report was recently released by UK Black Comms Network (BCN), founded by Kamiqua Lake, to increase the number and seniority of Black professionals in the UK PR and communications industry, which straddles over to influencer marketing and the work we do at SevenSix Agency. The report reveals that over 68% of Black and Mixed-Black professionals have considered leaving the PR industry. Black talent don't plan to stay in the industry and this needs to change. Download the report using the link below to find out more on the stats revealed. https://lnkd.in/e7YkmGYa

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Would adopting a pitch 'code of conduct' make a difference in our industry? I shared my thoughts with PRWeek UK (thanks Siobhan Holt for the opportunity): https://lnkd.in/gNDfvR_r From experience, there are many foundations for winning and here are just a few...  1. Ensure briefs and Q&A responses are clear and insightful. 2. Include a realistic budget, clarifying what's in and out of scope to prevent second-guessing. 3. Sufficient time and interaction with key stakeholders throughout the process is vital. ("This was the first time we met the client, pitched, and won the business" - said no one ever) 4. Adopt a partnership mentality from the start. 5. Ensure there is a chance to act on feedback during the process. We’re a relationship-led business, but we won’t unearth everything about a client’s culture and working practices through one brief. After all, it’s our process too. #pitching #businessdevelopment

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When I’m introducing LLPR to a new client or prospect, I often talk about the benefits of being sector-agnostic. One of those is the discipline we implement to ensure every client has a PR strategy that is highly tailored to that business and its needs. What would be the point in unique selling points if we didn’t sell what was unique, and take a unique approach in doing so?! Samuel Bird talks about this in more detail in our latest blog post below 👇 #PRagency #bespoke #PRsupport

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Likely we are all aware of the trend within PR for agencies pushing for more days in the office - this is something that, as a part of hiring industry, I can only advise against. I can appreciate that firms want to feel like they getting use out of the pricey London offices - but one of the top reasons why candidates reach out to me is a change to their working environment. The more flexible an agency the better quality of people they can hire - the majority of my placements this year have been with remote/flexible hybrid agencies. I personally benefit greatly from the flexibility in my current role, it inspires company loyalty, increases employee satisfaction and reduces burnout. (plus the more time with my cat the better!) #PRagencies #HealthcareComms #HealthcarePR

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If I was graduating this year or simply looking to start fresh in the Digital PR world, here’s what I’d be doing right now 👇 … 📲 Optimising my social media Social media can be one of your best friends in the PR world. Take time to build your network and connect with professionals in the space. This gives you access to insider knowledge, tips and expertise, as well as any potential job opportunities. LinkedIn and X are great platforms to do this. Tip: don’t be shy to reach out to people! 🧠 Gaining transferable skills and knowledge The truth is, that the DPR landscape is full of professionals who come from all different backgrounds and many without a degree. So if you are interested in making a career switch or entering the PR industry, gaining relevant PR skills can be a great step forward. Listen to podcasts, sign up for newsletters & webinars, and complete online courses. ✨ Saying no to my comfort zone Whether you're seeking a role that's entirely different from your field of study, or venturing into a completely new industry, it can be a scary experience. When I was in university, I studied politics, and when it came to deciding where to take my career, I felt nervous about trying something new and I almost didn't accept my first PR job offer. However, the truth is that stepping outside of your comfort zone is where all the magic happens. Don't be afraid to take the leap! 💼 Being open to internships or assistant roles We all have to start somewhere, and sometimes taking an internship or assistant role provides you with the stepping stone you need. 📝 Spending time revamping my CV It sounds cliche, but future employers need to know who you are and what value you can bring. Take time to craft a good ‘about’ or ‘introduction’ section of your CV - talk about your passion for the industry, what skills you bring to the table and what you're looking for in a role. Is there anything else you would add to this list? #Digitalpr #LinkedIn #Graduate

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We’re on the Up 🛫 We’re dead chuffed to share that Viva PR has climbed the ranks to secure a spot in the Prolific North Top 50 PR Agencies 2024. This year, we’ve jumped from 39th to 29th place — not bad eh? 😀 The list highlights the biggest and best agencies across the North West, showcasing what a dynamic and vibrant industry we’re part of. And here’s a fun fact: we’re the only agency from #Rawtenstall to make the cut. That’s something we think is pretty cool! We’re proud to be flying the flag for Rossendale and Lancashire.🌹 Given the challenges the PR industry — and our little corner of the PR world — have faced, this recognition feels even more special. It’s also our first year as an Employee-Owned business, and we’re convinced this milestone has played a big part in our success. Check out the full list here: https://lnkd.in/egCJzzaD Here’s to even bigger things ahead!🙏 #ProlificNorth #Top50PR #VivaOnTheUp #PRSuccess #EmployeeOwned #Rossendale #Lancashire #FlyingTheFlag #PRIndustry #TeamViva #PRRecognition #NorthWestPR #PRGrowth #agencylife

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So… things are changing again as they do, and the adventure continues. Currently studying for my MA in Marketing & Digital Communications, which I embarked on in January this year with Falmouth University I am a freelance marketer working on exciting projects, and I support my family as a mother, grandmother, friend, and business coach. Some exciting plans for this year and in month 6 I can clarify that a lot has changed and a lot has happened since 2023! Watch this space for updates #marketing #globalmarketing #masterdegree

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Did you know brands use “outrage” as a marketing strategy - justified for the sake of brand awareness? Consider the timing of recent controversy… at the start of Black History Month and moving into peak season for FMCG brands. Coincidence 😒? By reacting, are we playing into their hands? I won’t give free PR to a brand that has the resources and creative minds to create impactful, thoughtful storytelling…unless controversy was intentional. We live in an era where harm, ridicule, and division are often exploited for attention. Sadly, many brands have mastered using our outrage, especially during moments like Black History Month. The recent controversy is a stark reminder of this, as distasteful narratives are pushed to spark conversation and visibility. But here’s the opportunity - instead of amplifying harmful messaging, we can use our platforms to spotlight positive, empowering stories that truly make a difference. This BHM, I’m choosing to amplify causes and brands so far this month that uplift the Black community. From Black Skin Directory x La Roche-Posay Laboratoire Dermatologique, Macmillan Cancer Support The Health and Care Professions Council to Nellie Robert —a few people and organisations we’ve had the pleasure of working with rewriting positive narratives around Black people and their health, instilling confidence, and saving lives. Let’s spotlight the stories that are making a difference. I’ll be sharing more across the week. Which other organisations or brands are on your radar that deserve attention? #PurposeDrivenMarketing #BlackHistoryMonth #EmpowermentThroughStorytelling #PositiveRepresentation #MarketersForGood

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Why work with a small PR consultancy? There are so many reasons but here’s a few…. I am a PR consultant who specialises in helping small brands reach their potential via effective communications strategies and years of experience! Like me, follow me, suggest me, contact me!!!

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Thanks to We Are Social, I just caught up on all things social so far this year - trends, behaviours, and predictions. Lots to think about when it comes to how brands show up, connect with communities and serve fandoms eg: - "social media - once a place that enriched the lives of users - now exhausts" - "how do you sell to an audience increasingly averse to buying?" - "When did we lose the "social" in social media?" Register for the #ThinkForward2025 report here: https://lnkd.in/eFBqCTXH

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This post made me so happy. PR pros LOVE to overcomplicate pitching. (🙋‍♂️ Guilty!) We’re convinced there’s a perfect subject line formula, pitch length, format, time to pitch, personalization method, etc. But then you see this and you don’t know whether to laugh or cry. (I did a little of both.) How many times do journalists have to tell us that they want short pitches that get straight to the point before we believe them? It’s not a crime to send an email with just a few sentences that simply says what the story is and what you’re offering. We feel like it can’t really be that easy. But oftentimes it is. Save the details for the conversation. For some reason, it takes more guts to send a short email instead of a long one. So be determined to be gutsy and pitch like this more often.

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PR Week asked me to provide an instant reaction to today's UK budget announcement. Here it is. Link to the PR Week story in the first comment. Labour has said from the beginning that they wanted to prioritise serious policy-making and responsible governing. But since taking office, their communications approach has made their policy workings appear chaotic. As a result, this budget has been a particularly gruesome exercise in public sausage-making. Having finally reached the formal red box moment, the resulting sausage looks edible, and even enticing. Delivered with confidence, the Chancellor found means to invest in key areas of the UK economy, provided funding to stabilise the NHS, and support substantial capital initiatives. Still, much of the burden of rising taxes falls on business. Increased employer NI and a significant increase to minimum wage will make it harder for businesses to expand payrolls. She’s been careful to reassure gilt markets, and the price of UK government debt dropped substantially during her speech, although it has ticked upwards this afternoon. Follow-on analysis will focus on whether Labour over-egged its doom and gloom messaging in the run-up and whether the economic strategy goes far enough. But considered in the round, the Chancellor’s proposals read as reasonable and responsible given the UK’s fiscal realities. She has also projected a greater degree of certainty and predictability. And with global upheaval and unpredictability sure to surge following next week’s U.S. election, this budget might help position the UK as a bastion of relative calm and normality in a messy geopolitical landscape.

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Some interesting insights from Chris Bignell.

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Really proud of this PR activation. Great brand awareness but more importantly it actually makes a real difference: https://lnkd.in/egAKM_r3

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As much as I’m interested in PR, adverting and consumer behaviour are also areas of interest to me. 💡 This billboard is located outside Blackhorse Road station in north-east London and it grabs commuters’ and local residents’ attention due to a number of reasons: - Lloyds bank has done enough research to understand that there’s a station that resonates well with their brand’s logo and therefore works exceptionally well in terms of placing an OOH ad outside this station specifically - The green colour entails growth, friendliness and harmony, it also stands out both during the day and at night - Simplicity is the key to success; one sentence with a clear call to action is enough to stimulate a person to at least consider taking action. Overall, Lloyds Banking Group has demonstrated an ability to create compelling ads that are sleek, timely and are placed at the best location possible. PS I am not a Lloyds customer! 😁

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👏 Today PRWeek x People Like Us shared the results of their fourth gender and ethnicity pay gap study for the PR sector. They secured their highest number of entrants to date, though with a notable continued resistance from the largest agencies to take part. With the help of Labour’s plans of new legislation to make ethnicity pay gap reporting mandatory, they may not have a choice. Good. Well done to Sheeraz Gulsher, Mike Levaggi and John Harrington for their tireless push to help make our industry more inclusive. 👀 We’re so proud to be a part of this initiative to allow agencies to demonstrate their yearly progress. We like to be transparent so here's how Shape History did: - Gender: Women are paid 100% of the mean average, and account for 68% of senior staff and 67% of the workforce. This has given us a 2024 score of 100/100, compared to 97/100 last year. - Ethnicity: Those from ethnic minority backgrounds are paid 96% of the mean average, and account for 37% of senior staff and 43% of the workforce. This has given us a 2024 score of 96/100, compared to 97/100 last year. Transparency around pay gaps is such a crucial step in addressing race and gender equity in the workplace. If you want to chat/brainstorm about any of this - initiatives that can help or challenges and how to overcome them - let me know! https://lnkd.in/eZPjUKmb

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💡 TOP TIP THURSDAY 💡 No.2: It's not a sales pitch. Pitches to journalists should be crafted with the intent to inform and engage, rather than sell. Journalists want stories that provide value to their readers, offer fresh perspectives and/or deliver important information. When a pitch comes across as a sales pitch, it can actually diminish the credibility of the story so make sure it focuses on relevance, timeliness and authenticity. The media relies on us/PRs/brands to be a source of credible and newsworthy information, so provide just that. When pitches are disguised as sales efforts, it can erode trust and damage relationships. A well-crafted pitch must highlight the story's news value, providing context, data and/or expert insights that can enrich the journalist’s work. Prioritise the journalist’s needs over a direct sales agenda. Good luck 🍀

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Do awareness days feature in your social media content calendar? From joining conversations on important topics to injecting some fun into your feed, awareness days can be a useful tool when it comes to your brand’s social media content. (One of my personal favourites takes place tomorrow - May the Fourth be with you!) So, what can incorporating awareness days do for you? 1️⃣ Connect with your audience: Awareness days provide an excellent opportunity to engage with your audience on topics that matter to them. Whether it's #WorldEnvironmentDay or #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth, tapping into these conversations shows your followers that you care about the same issues they do. 2️⃣ Boost brand visibility: Participating in awareness days can help increase your brand's visibility and reach. By joining relevant conversations, you can attract new followers and amplify your message to a wider audience. 3️⃣ Showcase your values: Demonstrating support for important causes can humanise your brand and showcase your values. It's not just about promoting products or services; it's about making a positive impact and contributing to meaningful conversations. 4️⃣ Inspire action: Awareness days often come with calls to action, providing an opportunity for your audience to get involved. Whether it's raising awareness, donating to a cause, or participating in a challenge, you can inspire your followers to take meaningful actions alongside your brand. It’s important to note that you should be selective about the awareness days you decide to be a part of. There will be ones that don’t align with your brand - look for awareness days that have a connection with your audience. 

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