Employee Spotlight: Emily Charles

  • How did you get into PR?

I landed in public relations because when I was in high school, I really liked to read, I was interested in news and I was a strong writer – plus writing was something I always enjoyed. I initially majored in journalism but one of the classes in Temple’s curriculum was “Intro to PR.” One day, the communications director from the Flyers visited our class as a guest speaker to talk about her role and the industry. After taking the class and listening to her speak, I knew PR was what I wanted to do post grad.

  • What’s the proudest moment of your career?

I think it’s something I’m still working towards. In PR, our job is essentially to get to know clients and fully understand the intricacies of their business to help them get their message across. We work in a number of industries at Maven – everything from B2B to real estate to healthcare and arts and culture.

My proudest moments are usually when I’m working with a new client in an industry I’m not as familiar with. There’s a moment where an industry or topic that once seemed incredibly complex becomes easy and fluent. It’s a great feeling.

  • How has the PR industry changed since you started?

The way social media constantly grows and transforms is so interesting. From a PR standpoint, social is great because it provides another medium to keep up with key reporters – what they’re doing, who they’re interviewing and what they’re writing about.

At the same time, the boom in influencer marketing on social (especially Instagram!) has revolutionized the way brands connect with consumers. The influencer market is also getting super saturated, so I’m interested to see how it plays out over the next several years.

  • When you’re not at the office, what can we find you doing?

Eating or reading – or both!

  • What’s your favorite show to binge?

I have too many to name one! Right now, I love The Crown and Mindhunter. I’m also obsessed Skimm’d from The Couch, a podcast interviewing top female founders and executives about how they got to the top and mistakes made along the way.

  • What book are you currently reading?

I just started reading The Secrets We Kept – It’s inspired by a true story and focuses on CIA secretaries turned spies during the Cold War. I can’t put it down!

  • What’s your favorite restaurant in the city?

It’s impossible to pick one! During the fall, I love Suraya – great food and the perfect ambiance.

  • What’s your dream vacation spot?

For my next big trip, I really hope to visit South Africa!

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