On the most recent episode of “Women in Motion,” hosted by Lee Kantor, Allison Monette Cordova shares her journey from being a one-woman-band reporter to leading a successful PR and digital consulting agency. This post delves into her career evolution, insights on PR’s changing landscape, and her involvement with WBEC-West.
From Newsroom to Boardroom: The Birth of Cordova Creative
Allison Monette Cordova’s career began in the fast-paced world of journalism. Starting as a news reporter at an NBC station in eastern Washington, she was a true “one-woman-band,” handling everything from editing to reporting and shooting her own stories. This immersive experience in storytelling laid the foundation for her future ventures in marketing and public relations.
“Storytelling has always been at the core of what I do,” says Allison. This passion for narrative eventually led her to transition into PR, working initially with nonprofits before expanding her expertise across various industries. Today, as the CEO of Cordova Creative, she helps brands grow and reach new audiences through strategic, cost-effective marketing efforts.
The Evolution of PR: From Traditional Media to Social Media
The public relations landscape has changed dramatically over the years. As someone who has been in the industry for two decades, Allison has witnessed these shifts firsthand.
“PR used to be about getting coverage in print, TV, and radio,” she explains. “But now, social media is intrinsically tied to PR efforts.” In today’s digital age, even a television interview needs to be shared across platforms like Instagram and Facebook to maximize reach. The advent of social media has not only expanded the avenues for PR but also the strategies. For instance, collaborations on social platforms can significantly extend the visibility of a brand.
The Art of the Pitch: Tips from a Seasoned Pro
With her extensive background in both journalism and PR, Allison offers insights into pitching to traditional media and influencers. She emphasizes the importance of visuals and the human angle in storytelling.
“Sometimes, it’s not the CEO who should be interviewed,” she advises. “Reporters want to hear from the people directly impacted by your work, making the story relatable and engaging.” This approach not only humanizes the brand but also makes the pitch more compelling to the media.
She also highlights the importance of media training. Whether it’s a live interview or a pre-recorded segment, preparation is key. “Having your talking points ready and practicing with anecdotes can make a significant difference,” she says.
Leveraging Awards and Recognition: A Strategic Advantage
Awards and recognition play a crucial role in building a brand’s reputation. Allison discusses how winning an award can provide a multitude of media opportunities, from pitching to local news to gaining traction on social media.
“Once you’re recognized, the waves it creates on social media and other platforms can significantly boost your visibility,” she notes. However, she cautions against paid awards, suggesting businesses focus on earned media opportunities that truly reflect their achievements.
Involvement with WBEC-West: A Strategic Partnership
For Allison, joining WBEC-West was a natural step in her entrepreneurial journey. As she ventured into creating her own business, the resources and connections provided by WBEC-West proved invaluable. “I’ve been really blessed to be connected with some great people,” she reflects, highlighting the importance of such networks in fostering business growth.
Connection
Allison Monette Cordova’s journey from journalism to becoming a successful entrepreneur is a testament to the power of storytelling and strategic communication. Her insights into the evolving world of PR, the art of pitching, and the value of recognition provide a roadmap for anyone looking to elevate their brand. Through Cordova Creative, Allison continues to help businesses tell their stories and reach new heights. To connect with Allison, visit cordovacreative.com. Listen to her full journey on Women in Motion now: https://businessradiox.com/podcast/women-in-motion/elevate-your-brand/
About Women’s Business Enterprise Council-West (WBEC-West)
WBEC-West is a regional partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC), a coalition of corporations, WBEs, and regionally focused women’s business organizations. As an affiliate organization, WBEC-West implements the certification standards of WBENC throughout Arizona, Colorado, Southern California, Utah, Wyoming, Nevada, Hawaii, and Guam. WBENC is the largest certifier of women’s business enterprises in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners, leaders, and entrepreneurs. WBENC certification is nationally recognized and accepted by more than 10,000 major corporations. We also support corporations in their efforts to include WBENC Certified WBEs in their supply chain.
