What makes your firm competitive?
CJones PR’s unique background in various aspects of public relations, marketing and journalism gives us an edge. For nearly a decade, I worked in one of the most competitive and fast-paced newsrooms in the nation as a television news reporter. I did everything from uncovering political scandals to chasing tornadoes in the station’s helicopter. I was able to build on this foundation when I transitioned in public relations. I worked for one of the largest agencies in the Southeast that handled very prominent corporate clients. I was eventually promoted to vice president based on my abilities to juggle multiple clients with ever-changing priorities and handle litigation communications and crisis situations. When I launched CJones PR five years ago, we were able to capitalize on my skills and compete directly with other firms. We also focus on our niche services: Corporate Communications; Legal, Financial, and Professional Services Marketing; Crisis and Litigation Communications; and Public Speaking and Media Interview Training
What can a client expect from your public relations services?
What clients first notice about CJones PR are our responsiveness and direct approach. We listen, prioritize, and execute activities efficiently and effectively. While CJones PR strives to exceed client expectations, we are honest and do not make promises we can’t keep.
Which of your professional accomplishments make you the most proud?
One of my biggest professional goals is to earn a national reputation for handling high-profile crisis matters. So far, we have handled communications for the Rothstein, Rosenfeldt & Adler law firm after the managing partner admitted to operating a $1.4 billion Ponzi scheme inside the firm; for actor Gary Coleman’s adoptive parents and former agent following the star’s untimely death; and for the Bahamas funeral and probate court legal proceedings for celebrity Anna Nicole Smith to determine where she would be buried and who would care for her baby.
Another proud accomplishment involves our public speaking and media training seminars. We have provided one-on-one and group sessions with public figures and executives across the country.
Finally, our stand out legal marketing team has worked directly with lawyers on issues from emerging issues in corporate law to major courtroom victories. Recently, we secured opportunities for our clients as legal commentators on the news networks. We are often recognized as a go-to law firm for attorneys.
How important is PR for businesses and brands?
Public Relations is the most essential element in business development and reputation management. However, PR is not marketing and it is more than just free advertising. PR builds relations with the people who can make or break your business. This audience could be new and current customers, potential investors, news media, government officials, etc. PR enhances your marketing plan and reinforces your advertising strategy. In the age of social media, your Facebook and Twitter conservations should be managed and incorporated into your marketing tactics.
As a minority owned business, have you found it difficult to compete with the larger PR companies?
I enjoy challenges. While some people view being a minority as a handicap, I often use it to my advantage because I know I will stand out. With so few Black men in public relations, I understand the fact that I am a representative of my community. I believe it is essential for me to be well spoken and show professional integrity at all times. CJones PR focuses heavily on our core services that transcend race. We also believe people want to hire a PR professional, not a PR firm. Our diverse mix of current and past clients is proof that we do great work despite being small.
Who can benefit from your services?
CJones PR can provide public relations counsel for any individual or company that needs publicity for business development or is caught in a crisis situation that could damage their reputation. We also assist those who want to become better public speakers.
Where you do see your company in the next three years?
We recently expanded our presence in Washington, DC to grow our corporate communications, legal marketing, and crisis communication services. We also gained access to a studio facility to dramatically enhance our public speaking and media training seminars.
What memberships and associations are you affiliated?
National Press Club and National Black Public Relations Society
