Public Relations is often described as the art of storytelling and relationship-building, and Aabhika Hari is a master of both. With years of experience in navigating the fast-paced and ever-evolving PR landscape, she has successfully blended creativity with strategy to deliver impactful results. In this exclusive interview, she takes us through her journey into the world of PR, shares insights on navigating challenges, and offers valuable advice for aspiring professionals. From her love for communication that sparked her career to her strategies for crisis management and media relations, Aabhika’s story is one of passion, resilience, and authenticity.
Tell us about your journey into the field of Public Relations. What inspired you to choose this career?
Honestly, my journey into Public Relations started with my love for communication. I’ve always been fascinated by how a simple conversation can spark ideas and build connections. Interacting with people—whether it’s clients, journalists, or the public—really inspires me. It’s all about sharing stories and creating meaningful dialogues, and that’s what drew me to this field!
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the PR industry, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges in PR is the need for timely information, especially when events or crises pop up. It’s like being on a rollercoaster! To tackle this, I take the initiative to educate everyone involved about the role of PR. By helping them understand why timely updates matter, we can work together to keep things running smoothly. It’s all about teamwork and clear communication!
Building and maintaining relationships with the media is crucial in PR. What’s your secret to fostering strong media connections?
For me, keeping media relations strong is all about staying in touch and being responsive. I make it a point to communicate regularly and be available whenever they need something. It’s like nurturing a friendship—being there for them, understanding their needs, and just having those casual chats that keep the connection alive. It really pays off in the long run!
What’s your take on the importance of crisis management in PR, and what’s been your most challenging crisis situation so far?
Crisis management is such a vital part of PR, and honestly, I find it kind of exciting! It’s like solving a puzzle with a big team where everyone pitches in their ideas. One of my most challenging situations involved managing a reputational issue for a client. We came together, brainstormed solutions, and turned it around. It was intense but also super rewarding to see how our collective efforts made a difference!
Can you share a memorable success story from your career that highlights the impact of PR done right?
Absolutely! I started my career as an executive and worked my way up to assistant manager focusing on client service and media relations. One of my proudest moments was getting our client featured in major media publications. Building those connections with journalists has been incredible—they’ve become great friends over time! Seeing our hard work pay off with such visibility was just the cherry on top.
What’s your advice to people looking to make a mark in the PR industry, especially in a competitive landscape?
My biggest piece of advice? Be authentic and build genuine relationships! In this competitive landscape, standing out means being true to yourself and really connecting with others. Don’t be afraid to network—go to events, engage with your peers, and stay curious about what’s happening in the industry. Keep learning and adapting, and you’ll carve out your own space in no time!
