Speedos, Twerking and Jimmy Carr. It struck me this week
that client-agency-media relationships can be formed in the most unlikely
places.
It’s an obvious statement, but being able to foster strong
relationships with clients and media contacts is often the key to PR success.
This has resonated with me particularly over the last seven days, having been
involved in two very different events for our client ADEY Professional Heating Solutions. Having worked with the magnetic filtration pioneers for three years,
Target has built up a really strong client/agency relationship.
I am, however, relatively new to the account and was asked
to be part of their six-strong team taking part in Cheltenham Triathlon last
weekend. Having never done a triathlon before, I was nervous but accepted the
challenge!
Although it was tough, I thoroughly enjoyed the day and it was great
to be part of Team ADEY. While swimming, cycling and running falls outside the
usual remit of our retainer, there was a huge sense of achievement once we’d
all crossed the line and a real team camaraderie.
Fast forward a few days and I found myself invited to the
Energy Efficiency & Renewables Awards of which ADEY was a sponsor. We were
guests of Installer Magazine which is a key trade title for us.
Dolled up in
our best frocks, we had a really fun evening which mostly involved discussion
about Twerking and trying to second guess what songs the DJ was going to play
(with a little bit of live stand up from Jimmy Carr thrown in for good measure).
Not a features list in sight, it was a great opportunity to get to know some
key media contacts in a more relaxed setting over a glass of wine.
Against a backdrop of ROIs, KPIs and making sure we provide
a high level of service for clients, I think we can sometimes forget that
behind the grandeur of job titles lies a person just like you and me. The
ability to get along together in a personal as well as
professional capacity can pay dividends.
Lycra and laughter is a great
leveler.
Bethan Simkins
Account Director
