Claire MacDonald's PR Blog

Jobs Jobs Jobs!

2009-04-15T09:55:00.003+01:00

The media is full of doom and gloom right now. It's almost impossible to open a news paper or switch on the news without hearing tales of woe regarding unemployment and dissatifaction.

When all this recession business began flooding the media, I thought that the hype was true and that the job situation in Britain was truly dire. After working with recruitment search engine Job-Job.co.uk however, I've discovered that marketing jobs, brand management jobs and brand management jobs London are everywhere!

Now, whenever I meet anyone looking for a job, I send them straight to Job-Job, the site is really easy to use and the vacancies it provides are brilliant!

A Good Old Search

2009-04-09T17:30:00.002+01:00

I've been pitching away this week for lots of different clients and as a result, have been doing a fair bit of research into google search terms and which job searches come out on top - recently it has been marketing jobs and brand management jobs in particular.

Did you know that one of googles' most frequently searched terms is brand management jobs london?

Also, I've found out that the average person works 44 years in their life? the ststistics I've found out this week are loopy!

So It's Been A While!

2009-04-01T14:24:00.003+01:00

Well I've been a lazy blogger of late and as a result, have much to report!
We have started work on lots of exciting new clients and taken on three new members of staff.

When I started at Punch last August, I walked into a lovely team of people and I'm pleased to report that the team is still just as lovely, there's just a few more of us!

One of Punch's new clients is online recruitment search engine Job-Job.co.uk and I've had a bit of a root around and it is definately the place to go for PR Jobs and Marketing Jobs - it's going to be massive.

Phew!

2009-01-14T17:45:00.001Z

We've had a busy week in the Punch PR company so far.

Kath and Pete are off to Sweden as part of the CTEK campaign, Phil is in London most of the week and so Ben, Abbie and I have been holding fort at the office.

Ben has been doing lots of website work for Perspective and Abbie and I have been pitching the Pre-loaded iPods on Past Perfect - so far we're having great success - long may it continue!

A New Year Already?

2009-01-06T17:29:00.002Z

Well we have officially entered 2009 and I know I'm not the only person wondering where last year rushed off to as everyone seems to be saying the same thing!

This year i have plans - yes all the usual resolutions but there is one I am determined to stick to. I want to be able to speak Spanish by this time next year!

I was given a "Teach Yourself Spanish" kit over Christmas and although I'll admit that it has not been used yet - I have big plans for Sunday afternoon.

It seems I'm not the only person thinking about Resolutions - today Kath, Abs and I have been pitching the New Year resolution press release for Karacha. Over 39% of Scottish people dream about learning to play the Guitar - I can't say I'm one of them, I think I'd prefer to play the piano if I had the choice.

But anyway - I wonder if I am successful in learning Spanish this year then next year I might be heading up the European side of our PR company!

New Year - Same Old Me

2008-12-18T10:24:00.005Z

With just days left to go before one of the most anticipated days of the year is upon us, talk has turned to New Years Resolutions in the Punch PR company office.

In my opinion, January is a depressing enough month without having to think about how you are going to "change for the better". I don't have any figures to support this but i think the most popular new years resolutions have got to be:

Lose weight/join a gym
Quit smoking
Drink less
Save money

Now while I can see that each of these are indeed good things to stive toward, I think it seems a little bit sad to chose a dreich month like January to do it in.

For one thing, think of all the left-over food, doesn't it seem wasteful to ge rid of it all? And call me crazy but I think a nice glass of wine is in order to ease yourself back into the daily routine of work after an extended holiday in December. And with all the January sales on, you're bound to save money whilst shopping!

I say make the most out of everything Christmas has to offer and worry about it in your own time, not the second January the 1st arrives!

"Would You Like That Gift Wrapped Madam?"

2008-12-10T10:53:00.004Z

I've said it before and I'll say it again. I love Christmas. I love mulled wine, Cliff Richard, Santa, I even love all the garish decorations in shops as soon as they appear in September, but there's one thing I cannot stand.

I know it makes me sound like a bit of a Scrooge but I hate Christmas shopping.

Don't get me wrong, I love the act of giving someone a gift, but I hate standing in lines that snake around the shop over and over again, wrapping the gifts and trying not to lose the receipts for everyone's gifts.

Every year I promise myself I'll get it started nice and early and every year I curse myself for not doing so. If only I could have a magic fairy to do it all for me - I'd even pay her for her help!

The only thing I have been prepared for this Christmas is making sure that gift guides are well aware of the pocket friendly presents to be found on www.Karacha.com - at least in this PR company, we were prepared enough to be thinking about gift guides way back in October; perhaps next year I'll remember writing this blog post and make like a Boy Scout (and be prepared)!

A Bit of a PR Specific Musing

2008-12-09T10:11:00.002Z

I'm in the middle of my day but already I'm wondering what a PR Company needs to do to stand out from the competition.

Public Relations is a competitive game, agencies are contantly pitted against each other pitch for campaigns, to write the best proposal, even to be found first on Google; so in order to be successful, a PR agency must work together.

I know it's an old cliche but there really is no 'I' in team.

I hate spouting all those cheesy lines but in some case I'm afraid I have to agree with them.

A PR Nightmare!

2008-12-05T16:55:00.002Z

During my daily browse of the online version of one of the national papers (today I chose The Times Online) I came across the strangest story about Boy George.

He was today found guilty of false imprisonment of a a male escort and beating him with an iron bar - the details are detailed here and it certainly makes for some interesting reading.

Kath, Abbie and I have discussed the stresses famous people are put under when they choose to make a their life public property but I find it pretty distressing to see what happens to some celebrities after a life and career where they can do whatever they please - I feel sure that this sort of atmosphere breeds unhinged behaviour - exhibited by Boy George.

I know not all celebrities go down the depraved route but it is true to say that some show bizarre behaviour compared with regular people!

The saying goes that "There's no such thing as bad PR" but I think in this case, the Punch PR company disagree!

Where Have All The PR Tarts Gone?

2008-12-04T17:34:00.002Z

It's been pretty quiet in the Punch Offices this afternoon.

Abbie, Pete and I have all been studiously working away, occasionally stopping for a cup of tea while Kath, Ben and Phil are all AWOL.

Well, not AWOL exactly, Kath and Ben are on a day of Press meeting with Punch client White Knight and Phil has ditched the PR company for the slightly warmer climes of Dubai.

I have to say, its pretty rare for the Punch team to all be in the office at the same time these days, I think that's pretty usual for a team of PR tarts (as Pete would say)!

A Driven PR Company is Hard to Find

2008-12-03T10:09:00.004Z

Today I am entering the pitching arena of CTEK!

For the last four months I have listened to colleagues Ben and Kath discuss the different merits of the CTEK Smart Chargers with quite alarming passion and wondered why they both got so excited about the range of CTEK packs available.

Last week, quite accidentally, I joined their ranks when exclaimed with excitement over the fact that the CTEK XS 7000 has the ability to charge car batteries at a faster speed compared with the Multi XS 3600.

My elation was short lived however when I realised that my excitement meant that I had become one of them - and was officially ready to talk to like minded individuals about the wonders of CTEK!

My time in the Punch PR Company has taught me that eventually, you will become passionate about things that pre PR, you might never have given a second thought.

All in all, I think it's pretty great that this job provides me with so many opportunities to work in a varied environment.

Oh Baby It's Cold Outside!

2008-12-01T13:31:00.002Z

Winter is now biting at my heels each time I step outside so why is it that I am now looking at my shoes and sandals with longing?

I recently bought a beautiful pair of winter boots in anticipation of the big chill and up until about a week or so, was perfectly content to wear them daily, nightly, even to bed I loved them so much!

So it seems to make very little sense that I am now longing for the sun to come out so I can display freshly painted toes and release myself from the contraints of having to wrap up every day.

I am wondering if perhaps I am having holiday envy - Phil goes off to Dubai on Thursday. I bet he gets to wear flip flops too - I think I'll just keep saving up for next years sun and remain wrapped up in the UK!

Santa x5!

2008-11-27T17:44:00.003Z

Today the Punch PR gang did a Secret Santa!

We don't know who each other has and we have a very tiny spending limit but already I have planned my gift - if there were prizes being given out, I'm quietly confident that I would win.

All I can say is that my recipient is very lucky!

December officially begins on Monday and I couldn't be more excited if I tried!

A PR Twitter

2008-11-19T08:58:00.002Z

We all enjoy a bit of a Twiiter in the office and now we are practically shouting about it as the best new way to ensure that the world knows what the team behind our PR Agency are up to and looking for.

At first I thought it was just another geek thing that entering our lives but I'm actually starting to understand the benefits of it with regard to making contacts within the PR world - along with keeping up to date with journalist requests and news.

In terms of the ways that a PR Agency can keep up to date with the latest trends I really think things like this is the future - so get on it and Twitter away!

A Right Brummie Knees up!

2008-11-17T17:19:00.002Z

I'm back from my long weekend in Birmingham and although i did not dine in Chez Jules, I popped in to see what Birmingham Parties might be like there and I believe they would be rocking!

A Birmingham party is not complete without good music, good wine and plenty of atmosphere and this Birmingham restaurant has it all in abundance - particulary with the Frankfurt market just around the corner!

I will definatly be recommending that everyone checks out Chez Jules if they are going to any Birmingham parties this year!

Birmingham Parties - Here I Come!

2008-11-12T17:20:00.003Z

After a busy week I'm off on a bit of a jolly for the next few days!

However, work never really stops for a PR and i'm going to nip by Punch client Chez jules and scope out the location to see if it might be suitable for a series of a Birmingham Parties for my favourte PR company...

Punch and Subtrakt - Dream Team!

2008-11-11T17:04:00.002Z

PR Company extrodianaire (I may be biased here) has been recognised by Birmingham based Web Branding Agency Subtrakt and we now have weblinks between our two sites!

They even have a case study about Punch up - click here to check it out!

A Complete Bargain!

2008-11-10T14:08:00.003Z

Birmingham restaurant of the moment - Chez Jules has announced a fantastic Tuesday night menu, three courses with a half bottle of wine and all for the bargain price of £15 per person!

I've had a look at the menu and now my mouth is watering at the thought of the salmon with coconut and chilli and the panfried chicken supreme - the menu choices really are outstanding!

It's terrific that a quality restaurant like Chez Jules can cater to all pockets without compromising on the high standards French food is famed for, I've been saying this since I saw the menu, but I'm off to Chez Jules this weekend, to sample its delights for myself!

I Will Take That - Thank You!

2008-11-06T16:57:00.003Z

I know I've mentioned Christmas a few times in this blog but today it has well and truly arrived.

No, it's not snowing. No, I've not bumped into Santa, and no - I've not even has a sniff of mulled wine, but... I have recieved my first (and most exciting) Christmas present of the year!

The Punchettes (Kath, Abs, Emma and I) are going to see TAKE THAT!

The boys released tickets for their 2009 Circus Tour last week to an instant sell out and we will be there, Wembley on the 3rd of July!

Cue endless Take That on my iPod over the next 6 months and a fair few excited squeals from the girls in the office on a daily basis.

I'd like to announce to both Pete and Emma that I'm so excited - Thank you so much!

I'm Having a Fashion Moment (Darling!)

2008-11-05T15:06:00.002Z

Yesterday Kath and I headed for London - with all guns blazing (and business heels clacking) to introduce movie inspiration site Boxwish to London's media!

Together, with MD of Boxwish - Tim Aikin we went on a whistle stop tour of some of London's most significant buildings - namely the offices of Heat, Look, Empire and The Daily Mirror.

As this was my first day of journalist meetings, I was so excited and nervous I found it hard to keep my cool as we signed in at each reception and were led into the offices to have a chat and coffee.

I managed to hide my excitement - but only just!

To my relief, the day went really well and all the journalists were really friendly and welcoming - hopefully we will get some great stuff out of the experience!

I'm actually in the middle of researching how we can get hold of Natalie Portman for one of the guys at Empire - wish me luck, i've heard she's not readily available!

A 'Jule' of a Restaurant...

2008-11-03T13:43:00.003Z

Punch client Chez Jules is one of the top destinations for Birmingham Parties, particularly in the run up to Christmas!

The Punch team are in the process of arranging our festive celebrations and, having had a look at the Christmas party menu - I cannot wait to try out the Chez Jules take on classic French fayre and of course, a few gorgeous glasses of wine to accompany all manner of nibbles.

Chez Jules is in the Hub of Birmingham city centre - a prime location for anyone looking to grab something tasty to eat before heading out to paint the town red or alternatively the location is perfect for intimate dinners, lingering over glasses of full bodied red wine and talking for hours.

In short - I think Chez Jules is a winner in all catagories for festive celebrations, it's a bit of a shame that as I write this, it's 2.30pm on a Monday and I'm in Market Harborough - off to Birmingham next weekend though...

Too Much Hype?

2008-10-29T15:41:00.005Z

After thousands of complaints relating to "Sachsgate" the BBC has attempted to quell the mounting furore by suspending Johnathon Ross and Russell Brand after their lewd comments about Sachs' grand-daughter were broadcast on Radio Two.

Today's suspensions almost certainly mean that BBC1's Friday Night with Jonathan Ross, the presenter's Saturday morning Radio 2 show, and Brand's Saturday night show on the same station will not be broadcast this week.

In terms of outrage levels, I think that everything has been taken a little out of context but I do wonder why the BBC broadcast the show after it had been pre-recorded.

I think this is fairly telling mistake in that big name BBC players like Brand and Ross have the freedom to do whatever takes their fancy in the name of fun - I don;t think they thought that their joke might cause distress but the BBC has had to take the complaints seriously and act accordingly.

Brand is believed to be considering resignation - I'm quite interested to see how this pans out from here on!

Bond Mania

2008-10-28T17:41:00.002Z

Bond Mania is everywhere!

Quantum of Solace is released on Friday and every where I turn I see adverts for the film and the stars seem to be popping up everywhere on varous programmes plugging the film.

www.boxwish.com was featured in Reveal today as an ideal way for readers to "Get The Look" of the Bond girls Gemma Arterton and Olga Kurylenko - I must say they both look stunning in the film stills I have seen so far - that's enough incentive to convince me to try and get the look myself.

Although I have to admit - the blonde James Bond doesn't do it for me - although he's about the same age as my father, I'm firmly in the Pierce Brosnan camp for Best Bond!

8 days and Counting

2008-10-27T17:19:00.004Z

There are just 8 days to go until the race for the new US President is over and figures indicate that Barak Obama is in a strong position to be the first Black President, however, there is still a chance that McCain may still pip him to the post.

This concerns me for the singular reason that with McCain, comes Sarah Palin; and the image of Palin in the White House is one that does not fill me with huge amounts of confidence.

Palin has been described as taking significant steps toward shattering the glass ceiling facing women in positions of power but I fail to understand how an anti-abortion activist who actively petitions for creatitionism to be taught in schools can be the powerful and enigmatic Vice President that America needs.

The Guardian has a page dedicated to Palin quotes and one of the stand out ones (to me) reads: (On what got her into politics) "I'm one of those people, y'know, I see a soldier walk through the airport and, y'know, my heart does a little double-take" (2008)

Theses words do not reflect an intelligent woman ready to take one one of the most important roles in history, but instead portray a distant arrogance, I feel that she does not have the foresight to see past her own firm beliefs - and that is one of the most scary things about her.

Although our two contries are far apart, they have a close bond and i fear that with Palin in a position of Power - things could go badly for both countries.

Bonjour!

2008-10-24T15:12:00.000+01:00

We have begun work on the Chez Jules campaign this week.

Chez Jules is a Birmingham Restaurant specialising in French cuisine and set in a beautiful bistro setting in Birmingham's city centre.

The menu is full of tempting treats to tickle our tastebuds and the venue is a brilliant place for the offices of Birmingham to hold all their events and Christmas parties.

I'm venturing into Birmingham this weekend so shall make it my business to pop in, I'm sure it will top the restaurant list!

A Lifelong Ambition...

2008-10-23T16:01:00.004+01:00

As I write this I'm shaking with excitement because in two weeks time, I am going to...Heat Towers!

Our client www.boxwish.com is embarking upon a day of press meetings with several Journalists on the 4th of November and we have arranged a quick chat with one of the style team at Heat.

I've been an extremely avid Heat reader since it began and have always wondered what Heat Towers is like. In my minds eye, I imagine it to resemble topshop combined with the best make up counters at boots and a gaggle of celebrities and streaming through the doors on a constant basis.

The reasonable part of my brain tells me that it will probably be a little like our own PR office - mostly tidy and a lot of ringing phones and active printers going on.

Anyway, I'm off to London, to buy a Heat magazine!

The Sweetest Music!

2008-10-22T15:42:00.003+01:00

We start the PR campaign for one of our latest clients, Karacha - next week and in preparation I'm checking out the website for reference and ideas.

www.karacha.com is an online musical instrument retailer aimed at selling to schools and parents and it stocks some of the coolest instruments I've ever seen!

I absolutely love music, and have done since I was old enough to sing along to the lyrics to the hits of Boyzone - my first boyband love (well it was the 1990's)! When I was younger I turned my hand at a number of different instruments but the only one to stick was singing - I have to admit though, the colourful selection of violins and guitars on Karacha makes stringed instruments so much more appealing, I'm seeing them in a whiole new light!

So the activity for Karacha begins next week when the newly musical PR Agency Kuracha team (myself, Kath and Abs) make our way over to Oxford, I think I'll make us a compilation CD to listen to on the way - all in the name of research you understand!

I Wish For... Boxwish

2008-10-21T17:09:00.003+01:00

I'm doing some further research into the festive season today and I can feel the jolly season getting closer!

Punch client, Boxwish have found some really gorgeous dresses in tune with the upcoming party season and I'm checking out the site and putting together a press release about the hottest Little Black Dresses to wear this Christmas.

It's pretty cruel putting a shopaholic like me on this PR account as every time I log on, there seems to be something else to encourage me to open my purse once again!

I see it all in the name of research and if I need to buy another black dress (as research) - it's all in the call of duty after all.

Driving Driving in my Car

2008-10-20T16:18:00.004+01:00

Today I drove to work.

A normal occurance for the majority of the working world but alas, I am still a learner driver. This learner status has caused me great shame for years but finally, I am getting a grip behind the wheel and have booked a driving test!

Working in a PR company and not being able to drive is a bit tricky - I can't go out on the sandwich run, I can't pick people up from the station - basically I'm a bit useless if anyone needs anything further than walking distance!

But, joy of all joys, this is all set to change. Today's journey to work was a bit of a landmark for me as my poor long suffering mother has now vested enough trust in me to allow me to whizz around the busiest roundabouts and junctions in her beloved car!

If you can drive and it came naturally to you at the age of 17, then you won't understand my pain, but for those of you, like me who struggled - this is a giant step forward!

Now I just have to wait for petrol prices to go down again...

A Double Win!

2008-10-17T14:22:00.003+01:00

There's a celebratory theme in the Punch office today as we have won two new accounts this week.

We'll be setting to work on two very different accounts soon, one is a company supplying Musical instruments to schools called Karacha (Don't get me started on singing the song...) and the other is a French Restaurant in birmingham city centre called Chez Jules, who we will be assisting during the run up to Christmas.

In typical PR Company fashion, we celebrated with a lunch time trip to Marks and Spencer (or Magic and Sparkle - as Kath has taken to calling them) and next week have planned a team night out.

I've not been on an official night out but something tells me it'll be done in true Punch style and there may well be a few sore heads in the office next Friday - look out Market Harborough!

Topwish

2008-10-15T17:57:00.003+01:00

My two recent obsessions have joined forces...

www.boxwish.com has teamed up with Topshop to offer a £150 card to one lucky winner. To win all you have to do is fill out a short survey and wait.

Each time my email goes "ping" I hold my breath in anticipation - have i won the vouchers to my favourite shop? i wonder - and each time I'm disappointed. ah well, fingers crossed - perhaps i'll just have to keep visiting the site for thair latest news and offers instead.

Fingers crossed!

A Watermelon Refresher

2008-10-13T17:57:00.003+01:00

Now I know I usually write more topical posts but I'm so delighted with my idea I have to share it!

My vodka task has consumed quite a lot of my thought time over the weekend and when I was reminiscing over the cooling drinks I enjoyed in Brazil and suddenly it hit me (inspiration that is - not Brazil).

Watermelon vodka! I'm on my summer kick and will be pouring the vodka inside the watermelon to keep in the freezer and slice up for the team to enjoy! with added points for presentation and originality - I think I'm on to a winner!

This PR agency won't know what hit them!

A Model PR Agency

2008-10-10T16:11:00.003+01:00

Emma has been taking snaps of us all over the past few weeks and today we were presented with the finished result!

Galvanized is an exhibition of photography opening on 20th October and will be held at the Leicester Creative Business Depot and perhaps best of all - is starring Punch!

Emma dreamed up a concept of a line of female reactions to a man whistling at his dog and shouting "here girl" and the women mistakenly believe he is whistling at them.

As she had an untapped resource of beautiful people (The Punch Team), Emma used Phil as the whistling man, I am looking coyly out at him, Kath looks shocked, and finishing it off - Abs is brilliant at looking disgusted (perhaps it was Phil's beard that did it?)

The photo will be unveiled shortly and the Punch team will be revealed in all our glory, we'll just wait for the modeling contracts to come rolling in.

I'll Have a Thai Curry and Tonic - No Ice

2008-10-09T16:05:00.005+01:00

In between pitching the fantastic Boxwish to the media today we have managed to fit in some time to discuss the various ideas everyone is coming up with in relation to our vodka task.

So far Ben has planned a mince pie theme, Abs is thinking about Apple Pie and I am going for ice cream.

We all seem to be heading down the sweet route and I was starting to feel ok about the prospect of sampling lots of vodka in a short space of time - Until Kath decided that she would flavour hers with the ingredients of a Green Thai Curry.

Now call me small-minded - but that just seems wrong to me!

I'm now looking to the vodka tasting with trepidation - perhaps with some sort of bribe I can convince her to change her mind and settle for a more traditional fruit-based flavour - wish me luck!

On another sweet note, my mother gifted us all with a home-made carrot cake today - she knows how to keep a PR Agency happy!

An Absolut Challenge

2008-10-08T13:32:00.004+01:00

Pete set us all a little task this morning...

The Punch PR Agency Christmas party is planned for Mid December and in preparation for this we have each been given a bottle of Absolut vodka to add flavour to as we see fit.

One of my previous guises (pre-PR) was as a mixer in a cocktail lounge so I'm particulaly excited about creating a new (and tasty) flavoured vodka.

In the past I've had success using Dime Bars, Black Fruit Pastiles and Fresh Mint Leaves but unfortunately I've also had misses with Mars Bars (They just make the vodka freeze - I think it was the cream) and skittles.

I have tried Skittle vodka where the Skittles merely infuse the flavour by sitting at the bottom so I thought I'd combine the Skittles and vodka in a blender.

Cue one broken blender, a wasted bottle of vodka and a very cross bar manager!

So this time I'm on the search for innovative, classy and delicious ingredients ideal to infuse my Absolut with.

Any ideas welcome!

Click and Buy

2008-10-07T11:25:00.003+01:00

As I've touched upon briefly in this blog, my latest obsession is an online movie inspiration site called Boxwish. Since they recruited Punch as their PR Agency I've been on the site every day checking out their latest spots and jotting down ideas for the campaign.

Today however, I've hit a problem. My problem is that I am now looking at the site not only as a PR professional but as a potential customer and my own personal wish list is growing larger by the hour.

Research tells me that 60% of online shopping is carried out by women and I have to say, my spending online has grown significantly over the past few months.

Websites such as Boxwish make online shopping so easy, it's a matter of 'see it, want it, get it' - what could be more fun than that?

Perhaps the appeal is that I can do clutching a glass of wine whilst wearing my slippers?

A Pink Ribbon of Hope

2008-10-06T17:05:00.006+01:00

One of the top stories on The Guardian home page today is about a topic that is sadly close to far too many hearts.

Breast Cancer currently affects around 1 in 8 women and the number diagnosed each year is rising. Scientists have invested massive amounts of time and money in formulating medicines and better drug treatments but there is unfortunately not much done on prevention of the cancer in the first place.

Thankfully, this story demonstrates that this is no longer the case and now it seems that enough is known about the cause of breast cancer for scientists to begin agressively searching for a solution, simillar to the vaccine introduced to help protect against cervical cancer.

Stories like these demonstrate the medical communities' strength and commitment in searching for prevention over cure. My PR research brings me to read and learn about many different topics and it's not often I wish for something I read to be true but in this case, I will pray for a light at the end of the tunnel and raise my hat to the people braving their way through cancer and salute those seeking to put an end to it.

October is Breast Cancer awareness month and donations can be made online at www.breastcancercare.org.uk.

What's in a Name? Well, Lots Actually!

2008-10-03T16:43:00.002+01:00

Today, Abs, Kath, Pete and I popped to our local public house for a cheeky glass of the good stuff and some Friday banter.

As Pete is expecting his second child in the near future, talk turned to names for his baby girl-to-be. This got me thinking about how important a 'good' name is. I have a fairly generic unremarkable name and although I don't dislike it, I suspect that there are nicer names out there.

I believe William Shakespeare's characters has become one of the finest baby-name inpirations around but I'm afraid I'd have to disagree with his famous and poetic line "What's in a name that which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet."

Although I understand the sentiment, we are defined by our names and as a result of this, the market for changing a name by deed pole is huge- So the pressure is on to get the best name first time.

In terms of female heroines especially, Shakespeare created terrific names - Opheila paints an image of a frail beauty, Portia a hard and polished veneer and Viola rolls of the tongue in the musical way it was intended.

I think that a person lives up to their name and their personality is shaped somewhat around this. Can you imagine an elegant Ermintrude or a graceful Gertie?

In light of this, I always wonder why celebrities name their children such appalling names - Fifi? Sunday? Moses? Call me old fashioned, but I think Shakespeare had it spot on!

How Much?!

2008-10-02T17:11:00.004+01:00

I was absolutely aghast to learn that author JK Rowling can now lay claim to a personal fortune of around £560 million, she has enough disposable income to donate £1 million to her friend Gordon Brown without batting an eye lid.

I'll put my hands up - I quite enjoy the Harry Potter books, but are they worth that obscene amount of money? I'm not sure.

All we have been hearing about recently is the Credit Crunch - for some of Britain's most wealthy, this might as well refer to a new brand of biscuits sold exclusively at Harrods.

This discovery has led to discussions in the office over the wages of the rich and famous. In my own opinion, it is footballers wages that cause the most consternation but I am forced to admit that perhaps I feel like this because I have no vested interest in footballers, although, to be fair I am interested in models, singers or actors whose wages are of a similar dizzying height.

I do enjoy reading gossipy magazines and am interested in the day-to-day lives of famous people I do not know, nor am ever likely to meet and yet, despite buying into their "brand" I still become irritated by their extreme wealth.

Perhaps when I become cross at the significant fortunes others have amassed, I should look to my own conscience and consider if I've contributed in any way to this.

As I grumble over the designer clothes that my favourite models and actresses wear and discard as if by magic - am I not contributing to their wealth and profile each time I buy a magazine with their profile on the front page?

I've come to the conclusion that we are all responsible for the wealth of others in one way or another. After all, if there was no demand, they would simply not exist.

The First Lady of Introductions

2008-10-01T14:11:00.005+01:00

The British media coverage of the US election is mounting day by day and, as the UK remains tightly connected to events happening across the pond - it's only natural that we take an interest in the state of politics in both countries.

It appears Sarah Brown is doing just that and is now following the lead of the American 'wannabe first ladies' and has set about creating her own (very) public profile. A move mirroring that of both the US electoral candidates' wives (Mrs Obama and Mrs Cain are now as recognised as their husbands are).

Marketed as a last minute surprise, Sarah Brown introduced Gordon Brown at the Labour Conference as: - "My husband, the leader of your party, your Prime Minister". A move that has already gained mixed reviews from the British media.

Sarah was an accomplished PR professional before she retired to become a mother in 2001, but perhaps she wasn't aware that her intended surprise and demonstration of loyalty toward her husband might be met with cynicism and questions regarding her motives.

There have been conflicting opinions of the introduction spanning across the media questioning if Sarah did it out of love and respect, if it was her own idea or if she was intended to act as a shield for Gordon.

Both Sarah Brown and David Cameron's wife Samantha have come under intense media scrutiny and are now judged not only on their actions, but on their appearance and poise under pressure. Sarah Brown has been described as "incredibly self-possessed" and a genuine asset to Gordon. Samantha Cameron is beautiful and elegant and has given David a sense of kudos when he steps out with her in line and therefore made his persona a little cooler and more relatable.

In a world where everyone in politics is commented upon, it is starting to look as if the similarities between the UK and the US are growing day by day and do not look set to slow down - at least if the wives are involved.

Fashion Fun!

2008-09-30T17:18:00.003+01:00

Today my research has brought me to a place where I feel most comfortable...fashion sites!

Our latest client - Boxwish acts as the go between helping people like me find the items as seen in the latest film releases. I've been hankering after a pair of the black gladiator heels Carrie wears in the SATC film and thanks to my vigourous research - I know exactly where to find them!

I've mentioned before how much I enjoy my job, but getting to browse sites like www.boxwish.com really is the perfect way to spend my work day!

Wishes Can Come True...

2008-09-29T12:50:00.004+01:00

Have you ever been watching a film and spotted a bag, or perhaps a watch or pair of shoes that made you wish you could get them for yourself? I know that when I watched the Sex and The City Film, my wish list was as long as my arm and I really wanted to know where I could get some of the clothes and accessories myself.

Short of dashing over to the States I'd pretty much resigned myself to searching on ebay for copies. During another unsuccessful attempt, I was delighted when I found out about a website that helps you find what you are looking for - www.boxwish.com is the answer to all my film wish list dreams!

The team at Boxwish endeavour to find 'objects of desire' in responce to requests from members of the site and they find objects and then provide links to stockists - so the desired object can be yours in a mere moment!

Today I'm looking at all the films the site covers and I'm very impressed as the list is huge! Now all I need to do is watch them all and decide what I want from them - oh the PR life is a tough one!

Crunch Time?

2008-09-26T15:26:00.003+01:00

Today my Research has led me into delving into the murky depths of the much publicised Credit Crunch.

The Credit Crunch has been reciving almost as much publicity as Peaches Geldof's marriage, but is everything as the media would have us believe?

I've read so many conflicting reports about "The Crunch" - so conflicting in fact, that it is becoming increasingly difficult to know what the real situation is like - and where we stand in terms of financial crisis.

I think when it comes to situations like these, sensationalist journalists can be guilty of "cashing in" on these topics and perhaps making the (admittedly real) problem seem far worse than it really is.

News like this, a problem where everyone will feel the effects is the dream situation for all types of media (bloggers like myself included) and there are bound to be conflicting arguements over the situation. In terms of gaining a clearer and more objective understanding of what is going on, I believe the best way to understand the situation is to take a look around and see the real effect of what is going on rather than believe everything that the various types of media say verbatim.

Social Media is the Way Forward!

2008-09-25T09:56:00.004+01:00

I've been busy distributing Press releases online this week and I find it really interesting how quickly they are picked up by various outlets.

Yesterday I posted a release about five of Punch's clients attending the AD:Tech event in London this week and already, it has been picked up by online PR network "That's..." and I'm recieving alerts about various other places it is appearing.

Since I begain woring in a PR Agency I have learnt a lot about social media and the benefits of online distribution - for both an agency and a client. I think it's great that these mediums are so readily available to us.

We all use social media in one way or another, keeping up to date with friends, airing our opinions and distributing news. In fact - several of Punch's clients are based within the online sector, so up-to-date knowledge of the latest happenings is paramount to us as a Digital Agency.

I have to say, I dont know where we would all be without it!

Not Quite Christmas Time (and I love it)!

2008-09-24T17:37:00.004+01:00

We've been talking about Christmas again today.

I think it must be because the weather has been so up and down and now it's well and truely (to use Phil's words) 'Parky' outside!

Abs has admitted to getting so excited about Christmas last year that she had a small panic attack and as for me - I'm looking forward to a Christmas break as during my pre PR life, I was a holiday bar worker (on my breaks from University) and worked all of the festive hours I could!

We're now discussing how we should decorate the Office for Christmas, which order we open our gifts in, and how many units we think we drink on Christmas Day.

I don't mind admitting that all the festive chit-chat has got me well and truely out of my Scrooge like state of mind of last month and I'm now counting down the days - 91 to go!

Green - The Height of Style

2008-09-23T15:05:00.003+01:00

It’s official – Green is the New Black.

I’m doing some research into environmental issues today and it seems that eco friendly green is the new buzz word in fashion and culture today.

Green bloggers are all over the internet, Green fashion labels such as People Tree are no longer a well kept secret and are becoming more mainstream while High street brands Topshop, New Look and online shopping site ASOS are also getting in on the green bandwagon by stocking sustainable organic ranges which are and are commercially available alongside the regular ranges.

No longer are green followers cast into the hippy stereotype, in fact, it seems that consumers are more often than not choosing the greener alternative where they can. It appears that everyone wants to do what they can and feel good about the choices they make.

Even supermarkets are in on the act, offering reusable bags, pushing for a higher percentage of recyclable packaging for products and encouraging customers to re use their crumpled carrier bags (I know every house has a drawer full of old bags “just in case”) by charging for new ones.

I found all this information really interesting, in fact - I think the level of research my job requires is one of my favourite parts of working in a PR Agency like Punch, I go home having learnt something new every day - and today it looks like the tips I have picked up may do a tiny bit towards saving the earth – or at least reduce my carbon footprint!

Little Grains of Truth

2008-09-22T16:55:00.004+01:00

This weekend I stumbled upon something unexpected and thought provoking in a little-used warehouse tucked away in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.

Of All the People in All The World is an installation art exhibit staged by Stan’s Café. Stan’s Café is a group of innovative artists whose work usually falls on the more theatrical side of art. I had heard about a new show they were putting on reflecting shocking statistics and world figures.

As we walked into the venue we were each given a single grain of rice (which we were told, represented us as an individual) - the grain we held was intended represent us as an individual and was supposed to help us understand what we would see in front of us.

At first I inwardly smirked at the earnest faces of the people handing us our rice grains and thought that this would be a slightly ridiculous piece, that the people involved were a little too self important and that this would not really make much of an impact -I’d like to point out here that before joining Punch PR Agency, I was a drama student – I am used to seeing over-the-top performances labelled ‘art’ and am not adverse to them (on the whole) but even this sounded too much for my liking.

We walked in and saw piles of rice.

I started to wonder why we came, but as we walked around we saw that the rice had been used to help the audience understand numbers. Each pile of rice had a statistic written on it and were arranged in shocking ways.

I realised as we walked around, it is simple to look at a large number on a page and forget it quickly, but when you are faced with a huge pile of individual grains each representing one person, the image stays in your mind and becomes much more real.

I know it sounds a little bit ‘luvvy’ but Stan’s Café have made an avant-garde installation piece into a relevant and provocative study of past and present society and honestly, it is really worth seeing.

The show is in Birmingham until the Fifth of October and all I can say is that it’s a shame that it takes place in a back hall in Birmingham instead of the Turbine Hall of the Tate Modern.

Language Barrier

2008-09-18T15:39:00.008+01:00

I'm in the middle of doing some research into an event happening in Germany next month and have been looking into German publications; lucky for me, the websites I’m looking at all have an English Language option available - so I can understand what I am reading instead of wading through a series of unfamiliar words hoping to miraculously understand.

While clicking once again on the "UK version" option, I was struck by how ridiculous it is that, despite having undertaken years of French and German lessons and spending three months in Spanish-speaking countries, the only thing I can confidently do in each language is order my lunch, ask where the bathroom is or question where the nearest supermarket is!

Whilst travelling I met many other backpackers from various countries, no matter where they were from, the one thing they all had in common was their firm grasp of English.

To be honest, I'm ashamed that I cannot speak another language when the rest of the world is fluent in several.

To this end I think I will make it my mission to try and learn French, German or Spanish (as I have a vague bank of words in each language) and working in a public relations agency, you never know when it might come in useful!

I think I will think of this an early resolution for 2009 - I'll keep you posted!

Sniff Sniff

2008-09-18T15:39:00.005+01:00

I've been feeling a bit poorly this week, I'm the last out of the office to be feeling run down (there has been a bit of a domino effect here) and this has got me thinking about how many offices across the UK will be full of coughing, spluttering and (yes i'll say it) very unattractive red-nosed people like me.

I do like living in Britian, we have a lot of things going for us as a nation, but I really do take issue with the fact that as soon as the sun goes in on the 31st of August, it's time for us to bundle up in scarves and chuck hundreds of vitamins down our throats in order to help us ward off that ever so common cold.

In fact, the cold is so common, I think there's something mysterious and dark behind its power... I might be alone in thinking this, but could it be that there is a sinister link between the drop in temperatures and the significant increase in tissue and lemsip sales?

I'm starting to wonder if perhaps the leading cold and cough medicines are in cahoots with the weather people in order to make as many people ill as possible - either that or I've become delirious after having drunk too much of the blackcurrant variety!

Hello Mum!

2008-09-17T15:46:00.005+01:00

When I got home from work last night, both of my parents had already read my blog post about Technology Rage - and were all set to comment upon it having experienced something similar themselves.

This has made me think about how all types of people are online every day - unlike when the internet was first available; office workers were the only people online and had to wait half an hour for the connection to be made and a telephone ringing would wreck the entire online process!

Although my own parents are young and (fairly) technology literate, I've noticed that pretty much everyone is online now, for example; I have a great Uncle who is a complete whiz on the Apple Mac and regularly emails us about what he has been up to - he is in his 80's and is better on the machine than I am!

My Uncle is not alone in this, in fact a recent survey by Offcom found that 16% of the over 65's regularly use the net and spend (on average) 42 hours online -this is a higher percentage of time spent online than any other age group.

I guess it just goes to show how important the internet is in everyday life now, for personal entertainment value as well as keeping up to date with the latest state of play in Public Relations.

I'd best pop this in - (just in case she's reading this) Hello Mum!

A Bout of Anthropomorphism - by - Proxy...

2008-09-16T13:34:00.005+01:00

I've had a spot of computer bother today.

Like most workers in a Public Relations Agency, I depend on computers, email and internet to get things done - so imagine my dismay when all three of these decided to go on strike for no apparent reason this morning!

I cajoled, I begged, I promised things would be better between us if I could only get online - but still my computer was cold and unyielding. Short of taking it out to dinner, I didn't know how else to coax the thing back to life.

I began to get angry - eventually forcing myself to step away before I did anything I might regret.

It sounds ridiculous but I'm not alone in my dysfunctional computer relationship - technology rage is a growing phenomena across the UK and a recent survey said two-thirds of people in Britain had dumped electrical goods in frustration without any attempt to repair them and that almost a third of people had physically attacked a computer, 67% experienced frustration, exasperation and anger and more than 70% swore at their machines!

I have a love/hate relationship with mine but can't help but be tickled by the Anthropomorphism sweeping Britain's offices and I'll be keeping a look out for broken keyboards littering the sides of the roads from now on!

Sock it to Me!

2008-09-12T11:49:00.006+01:00

Right.
That's it.
Only early September and it's absolutely freezing today! We seem to have completely missed the end of Summer and beginning of Autumn and instead, we are rushing into Winter headfirst - talk has turned to cosy nights in front of the fire, cheeky glasses of red wine "to keep us warm" and comfort food - roast dinners, mashed potato, massive dishes of steaming hot pasta are discussed with a reverential hushed tone while in the corner, the radiator has shrugged off last years dust to become the most used appliance in the office (excluding the kettle of course...)

Although we complain about the cold temperatures, I think we all secretly enjoy the chilly months and getting wrapped up warmly - I've overheard several (detailed) conversations between Kath and Pete praising all manner of sock styles for keeping their feet toasty - thus firmly establishing where their Winter clothing priorities lie.

Now i'm not really a sock wearer but i'll admit that Winter is really the time of year that socks shine, to this end I'll be keeping an eye out for Pete's "executive socks" - only at a Public Relations agency!

I before E except after C?

2008-09-10T16:00:00.005+01:00

Success in a public relations agency relies on close attention to detail.

I'm in the middle of my sixth week at Punch Communications and every day I learn a little more about how the small things that we all easily miss can make a massive difference to how we are perceived.
Everyone makes typos or accidental spelling mistakes when writing – it’s a simple human error but it is important to look for these mistakes and fix them before they are made public.

Taking particular notice in the “small” things such as spelling, grammar and punctuation will make a significant difference in creating the right impression of both you and the company you represent while increasing levels of professionalism – a sure route to success.

Snow is (almost) Falling...

2008-09-09T16:00:00.010+01:00

It's official.
We have 16 weeks to go until Christmas.

I know it's barely September but already we are discussing the big day with colleagues, journalists and our bank balances ( although so far, mine seems to be in denial).

Abbie referred to the PR run up to Christmas in her Punch blog and now as I hum along to myself, I realise too late that I am singing along to Slade and Wizzard, surely it's only a matter of time before I'm singing Cliff Richard's Greatest Hits!

These festive thoughts are creeping up on me in quite an alarming fashion, at this rate I'll be wearing novelty earrings and digging out my stocking at the end of next week.

Pete's daughter came in with home made biscuits earlier, I was munching away before I spotted that they were shaped like Angels and Stars - and I realised, the fast approach of Christmas is beyond my control - perhaps I should just go with it and get on with Decking the Halls...

Hungry?

2008-09-08T16:59:00.001+01:00

Last week Pete discussed his ideal bacon sandwich on his blog, starting mutiny between the Punch team - we were split over which way was best, each trying to convince the rest that their individual method was superior and everyone else was wrong.

It’s not only our PR Agency getting involved in food fights however - on Tuesday night, a friend and I got into quite a heated debate over curry sauce on chips. I think it’s a travesty to put anything on your chips other than salt, vinegar and ketchup; but he was adamant that I was missing out on an untapped resource and urged me to try it, I refused on principle (curry sauce - yuck!) and after a long night he eventually gave up in defeat.

This got me thinking about how passionate people can get about food; in the Punch office we face agonising daily decisions over what to have for lunch, we go round and round in circles from 11.00am - until someone cracks and goes off clutching an office order for posh sandwiches and crisps.

Talking of crisps - Abbie recently discovered some new ones and now the whole office is in on it, sampling different flavours and debating which is best! Now even three year olds are getting involved in the food fanatical behaviour - on her trips in to see us; Annie greets chocolate biscuits like the long lost friends they are!

This got me thinking, wouldn’t it be great if our next client was food related - think of the fun we could have doing the research...

What Not to Wear Part Two

2008-09-08T16:57:00.000+01:00

In response to my earlier question - a quick poll around the office tells me that at Punch, we like the chilled out casual look on a day to day basis, but for meeting clients or drumming up potential business it’s time for the polished and professional look to come out - sharp suits and spiked high heels to show we are a PR Agency who mean business - and that’s just the men!

What we wear is an important part of how we are judged by others so it can be tricky to create the right balance when choosing a working PR wardrobe, anything too tight or revealing is a definite no and is sure to create the wrong impression. Slobby and crumpled clothes are also a no-go area – the office may be casual - but looking like you’ve just rolled out of bed is not going to do you any favours!
To strike a happy medium, the best thing to do is to access what the day will bring, decide on the image you want to project – and dress accordingly.

Hmm, just to be safe – I think it’s time I popped out to the shops!

What Not to Wear

2008-09-08T16:53:00.000+01:00

Work place wardrobes can be a tricky one to get right, for almost every work environment, there is a different set of norms in place, making it difficult to know what the right dress code is.

As a student, I had a few jobs that required a uniform – this was pretty hassle free (providing it was clean and ironed) as getting dressed required no thought and there was never any chance that I would be inappropriately dressed for the day. Luckily I do not have to wear a uniform anymore, but the question of what to put on instead is just as perplexing as the memory of having to wear a hair net every day!

With companies circulating memos left, right and centre over clothing issues, denim regulations and outlining their policy on trainers – it seems that there is no answer to this never ending dilemma. Everyone agrees that it is important to “look the part” - but what does that mean?

In the exciting world of a public relations agency, where everyone has several parts to play, wardrobes vary depending on what the day may bring. The team at Punch Communications are quite a funky bunch (if I do say so myself) and today, we are dressed in a combination of jeans, shirts, designer jumpers, cosy ugg boots, smart brogues and cool trainers – perfect for the relaxed office environment. But what do we do if the day demands a bit more effort?

Working Hard or Hardly Working?

2008-09-08T14:02:00.000+01:00

We all agree that it is important to turn up to work with a positive attitude and a good work ethic, ensuring that at the end of the working day, goals are achieved and the clients are well served - but how do we strike a happy medium between all day work and all day play?

Working at a public relations agency relies heavily on flexibility. As no two days are the same, give and take between staff can make the day go much smoother. In the Punch Communications office, a heavy work load can mean working through lunch is sometimes the norm or perhaps a particularly busy week might mean working longer days. But in recognition of this, perks such as pub lunches, hassle free time off and champagne to celebrate a promotion demonstrate acknowledgment of the teams’ flexibility and provides a time for banter and catch up chats. This give and take means we work in a happy environment and we all get a little extra back.

Give and take is the real secret behind successful business. It is important to recognise that staff need a bit of something to recharge their batteries throughout the day, providing unrestricted internet access is one very simple way to do this as it allows a bit of personal time and evokes an element of trust between employer and employee not to take advantage .

Striking the balance between work and play can be tricky – it involves trust, motivation and respect. I guess these are tools we should all equip ourselves with while at work – otherwise, what’s the point?