Tiffany L. Jones: Shares 3 Keys for Public Relations and Events Planning Success
For Tiffany L. Jones, founder of the event planning and media consulting firm Digital Divas, success was a mixed blessing. After having being laid off from her job at a New York advertising agency, she wasn’t sure what was next for her. “When I walked out of that office, I was walking the streets a little bit sad,” she says. “But I was also relieved.” She admits she was initially apprehensive about whether or not Digital Divas could sustain her full-time. So, Jones put her nose to the grindstone and after moving to Charlotte in to work for Radio One, her events/PR company blossomed and Digital Divas became her primary focus.
She Found 3 Keys For Success In Events/PR
Growing Your Brand:
“Produce successful events, [and use] word of mouth, marketing and advertising. I’m always in the newspaper and magazines. The grassroots marketing [keeps] my name out there.”
Securing Sponsors:
“A lot of times with my events I go into them with sponsors on-board already. I like to go into an event where everything that’s generated is profit. I do a lot of non-profit fundraising so there’s no room to take a loss.”
Organized Billing:
“I always had clients that owed me money. Just trying to get my money from people was such a headache. Now I structure things differently. People have to pay me something up front whether it’s a retainer or half the fee up front. I can’t wait until the end of the work to get my money.”
For Jones and Digital Divas, networking is of paramount importance. She’s worked with; Jonathan Mayo of Avail Marketing, Who’s Who in Black Charlotte, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and is in the process of launching the inaugural Thurgood Marshall College Fund “Distinguished Young Leader” awards, which are sponsored by Bacardi. “It’s all about relationships,” she explains. “It helps to have a reputable organization that you’re working with. I try to be very strategic in seeking sponsors.” – todd williams
