Tom Garrity, the owner of The Garrity Group PR, spoke as the keynote for Public Relations Student Society of America 2013 National Assembly (#PRSSANA). I enjoyed his topic of PR in movies because it was captivating and very true. I’ve summarized his list of movie quotes and why they relate to PR. What movie quotes would you add to the list and why?
“If you build it, they will come” –Field of Dreams
Always be ready for opportunity! We all seem to be obsessed with these big cities. Many people think those are the only places to find PR jobs. However, that’s not the case. “Big PR doesn’t happen in just big cities.” Take Cincinnati for example, a home to Procter and Gamble, other huge companies, and handful of PR agencies.
“Houston, we have a problem.” –Apollo 13
….But do you have a solution? Be ready for anything! Danger can turn into opportunity. As we’ve learned from this week, danger can strike at any moment. Be prepared with a crisis communication plan. “Crisis in Japanese is written with two characters, danger and opportunity.”
“I’ll be back” – The Terminator
It’s all about persistence. Whether you’re on the search for a job, working to win over a client, or getting your client some press.
“I see dead people.” – The Sixth Sense
Oh, the dreaded job search! Here are a few tips to help it run a little smoother:
-Leave what you want to be in your cover letter, not in your resume
-Bring writing samples
-Work on your presence!
“You can’t handle the truth” –A few good men
“PR is an opportunity to be a truth teller.” It’s all about your integrity and the integrity of your client. “We need the opportunity for people to be bold about public relations. We need ethical torchbearers.” Don’t feed the bad rep that PR sometimes has, tell the truth.
“Mama always said, life is like a box of chocolates..” –Forrest Gump
Make sure you have a good balance. Know how to release some stress. Go for a run or a night out with your friends. Take an hour break from your Smartphone and/or computer. Get away… at least for a little. Take deep breaths and imagine your perfect vacation spot. De-stress or you’ll be too stressed!
“Toga, Toga!” –Animal House
Celebrate your success! Got an Internship or Job? Celebrate! Signed a new client? Celebrate! Your event or campaign was a success? Celebrate! You’re client made it into major media spot? Celebrate. Get the idea? You work hard, so treat yourself. In return, it acts as stress reliever.
Rebecca Potzner 
Great post! Very creative way to frame some important PR lessons. I love the reminder to keep a healthy work/life balance.