Strive Notes

This quote has been stuck in my mind since I read Stuart Bruce’s post over the weekend. There are so many differences in the way PR is conducted in the UK and US, as I discovered during my stint in DC. 

American PRs spend less time writing copy than their UK counterparts. They spend more time on the phone to journos too.  There is a stronger focus on strategic messaging in the US, but that’s because PRs do less of the writing.  When I was in DC, there we put a bigger emphasis on broadcast media than I was used to in the UK, but with the growing number of channels here, that trend is evening out.

Stuart’s post focuses on networking and here the differences are subtle, but important. I’ll never forget the first ‘work do’ I attending in Washington.  I was determined, as the new girl, to buy the first round. I raced up to the bar ordered my G&T and then turned to the others to see what I could get them.  It was Diet Cokes all around, despite it being a Friday lunchtime.  I was red-faced over that one.  American Strivers must remember this…you teased me all afternoon!

Paul Holmes recently touched upon this too. He thinks fear of litigation is behind American’s reticence to party with co-workers.  It could be true.

I feel privileged to have work in both markets, and I think this blend of experience adds a dimension for Strive Public Relations’ clients.  What do all you Strivers think?

UPDATE 21.00 31 May 2006 — Hold the phone!  I just found another British blogger that shares his opinions on the cultural divide.

Filed under: public relations