Embrace Your Inner Pilgrim

photo creds: Flickr

Every time I watch the movie Accepted it gives me a sense of urgency. It brings feelings of a want and a need to do something that I believe in. Not necessarily something that is along the lines of normalcy. Why? Because I want to be that guy that lives his dreams. Not the fabricated lines of conformity and “safety.” Here are a few quotes that give me chills every time I hear the character Bartleby during the closing speech

Bartleby Gaines:  “Just because you want us to be more like them when the truth is we’re not like them. And I am damn proud of that fact.”

Dean Van Horne: “Your curriculum is a joke, and you, sir, are a criminal.”

Bartleby Gaines: “You know what? You’re a criminal. ‘Cause you rob these kids of their creativity and their passion. That’s the real crime!…

…Life was full of possibilities. And isn’t that what you ultimately want for us? As parents, I mean, is – is that, is possibilities.”

Why do these quotes mean anything to me? Or you, the reader? They make me really think about where I wanted to be when I was 8 and where I am now. It’s a totally different path than what I wanted. The younger we are, the more creative and unconventional. We don’t live life with limits.  We dream big and aspire to be great, until we are told otherwise, unfortunately.

I tend to think about things in this manner. The only limitations that I live by is the day I was born and the day I’ll die. That’s it.

So when you think of crazy ideas that are potentially life changing, DO IT. When people question you or your idea, ask yourself, does that really matter? Am I living for myself or am I living for you?

Think back to when we were  kids; the creativity in our dreams, the outlandish yet equally realistic aspirations. Just because we’re older and are in the “real world” it doesn’t mean we can’t live a creative and fulfilling life.

The English probably thought that the Pilgrims were crazy too.

Follow your dreams and your passion to make your own opportunities and possibilities.

Post Without a Title

I’ve met countless people through social networks; all for the betterment of my life and theirs. But there is one connection that stings. It hurts a lot more than one would think, thanks to social media.

It happened in the summer of 2009. I was at a friend’s house sitting on his couch. I noticed I had a friend request on Facebook…

It was my father. This was the first time in my life I’d ever made a connection with him.

A lot of people would find this as groundbreaking; social networks connecting long lost family members and rekindling the values of family relationships. Well, I say to hell with that. I went through a full range of emotions, and the occasional humor cover-up.

Why does it suck? I wasn’t looking for the movie themed reunion, but I would have loved a traditional letter, phone call, or the best, meeting him in person. Facebook basically ripped the reunion to pieces. Throughout most of our messages I couldn’t feel emotions from him or myself. The messages were cold and lifeless.

I’m still dealing. It’s tough, I’m talking to my REAL dad, I’ve never heard his voice and as a kid I’ve only seen one picture. I feel like I’m talking to a complete stranger. I have the opportunity to meet him since he lives around Boston, but I feel like Facebook stole my curiosity.

I’ve never valued face-to-face interactions more than I do now. My story is one that no one should experience. The feeling of a handshake, hug, or kiss is something that shouldn’t be replaced by emoticons and acronyms.

If my interaction could have been reversed, I think the foundation of our still-growing relationship would be a lot stronger, not one that I question.

New York Fashion Week 2010 Recap

Fashion week just ended and unfortunately it was the last time at Bryan Park. Factory PR championed events all last week. None were in the tents but regardless, it was an experience I’ll never forget. I was involved in the Eryn Birnie presentation, and my favorite, Commonwealth Utilities fashion show.

To make this post one of learning and reflection, there was a valuable “lesson” from my short time in fashion PR and living in the city. Creativity is everywhere.

Cliché once again, but I’ll elaborate. The Eryn Brinie show was in their store on Broadway. They took their retail store and transformed it into an elegant space for their presentation. The space was created into a casual, loung-esq space where everyone in attendance could take pictures, view the clothes and have a drink while mingling amongst others. Talk about a soothing relaxing atmosphere, while still presenting an incredible line of versatility and style. Their idea to use their own space rather than renting one worked well. Why not present your clothes in the same place they are sold.

The Commonwealth Utilities show was my favorite. They took a completely mid-construction location and made it into a great venue for their show. Their show was held at the Nomad Hotel. To give you a description it had exposed dry wall and brick, both were not for aesthetic purposes. We were closing doorways and window openings with duct-tape, cardboard and industrial strength, black, trash bags. The hotel was very grungy but it created an atmosphere that focused on nothing but the clothes

For me, I think it created an amazing contrast for the show. The line was clean and well presented; the theme was an officer & a gentleman. Where as the venue was dark, dirty, and half finished, the line was crisp with unique styles. I snagged some video of the show. I filmed everything but the final walk of all the models and the designer, but regardless it was insane. To be in the city less than a month and take part in fashion week was incredible.

Commonwealth Utilities Spring 2010 from patrick johnson on Vimeo.

Social Media Week = Awesomesauce

This past week was by far my best week in New York City. Thank you, Social Media Week.

The week was filled with different panels covering a variety of topics in the online space and how socialized web is effecting current and future media. Listening to panels and going to the insanely awesome after parties was amazing.

My greatest memory was working the door for the Digital Somethings event.

It was the VIP party for SMW on Monday night. Needless to say you needed an invite, and it’s pretty obvious I didn’t get one. Thankfully Damien messaged me asking if I would man the door. I gladly said yes.

What did this do for me? I feel like I showed some important people I’m willing to work. I hope they feel the same way too. Damien is a great guy, who gave me an awesome opportunity. That one doorman gig landed me endless handshakes and introductions. I met Jeff Pulver. JEFF PULVER!!

“The Future of Journalism” was my favorite panel. Thinking about the future of journalism and what it will bring newbie’s and veterans will be interesting, Vadim and Sree created a fantastic presentation that made me question my previous change from journalism to public relations.

All the nights were equally fulfilling, I learned so much from each panel and the people I was lucky to meet. Here is a shout out to all that I met. Why? Because they don’t realize how much this means to a lil’ ol’ college kid like myself. So thanks, to:

Damien Basile

Digital Somethings

Brian Solis

Leora Israel

Oz Sultan

Phil DiGiulio

Rachel Kay

Scott Beale

David Trahan

Adam Ostrow

Sree Sreenivasan

Nick McGlynn

Stuart Tracte

Elisabeth Rosario

Zeb Dropkin

Jeff Pulver

Kyle Studstill

David Spinks- thanks for hanging with me most of the week.

Heather Damico

Seamus Condron

Teresa Cantwell

Vadim Lavrusik

Daniellesaid

Amy Vernon

Sharon Feder

Tameeka Time

These are just a handful of people, so if I forgot to mention you on the list. Please know that your presence still made an impact. Thanks again!

#nowplaying: First Week of NYC

Recently I posted #nowplaying: Soundtrack to My Life. Music plays a huge role in our lives and should be taken into consideration when we reflect on life and events. After rereading my tweets, these are the songs that sum up my first week in NYC:

Mute Math – Electrify – Sort of encompasses NYC — crazy, frantic, fast paced and will fry you if you’re not careful. It has been an intense first week here. When the melody streams into my ears I move quicker and get a nice kick for that morning walk to work. It’s comparable to caffeine for coffee addicts.

Wale – World Tour (feat. Jasmine Sullivan) – I’ve traveled more in the past few months than I have ever before. To top it off, I’ll be doing even more travel in March to attend SXSW. Three different states and eight cities later I’m here in NYC. I’m not quite a world traveler, but I’m getting my fair share of the states.

Lupe Fiasco - Turnt Up – Sort of like Lupe’s “I’m-back-and-harder-than-ever” jam. For me, he comes with the hard stuff, and it’s good. I like the sound and attitude of this track. I feel like I’m Turnt Up with a new attitude since my recent transition.

Mute Math – Progress – A nice mellow tune that sends me back into reality. It is a song that I can wind down to. I can always count on Mute Math to give me great music.

La Roux – Bulletproof - The title is self-explanatory. I’m not saying I’m invincible, just bulletproof; or at least that’s my attitude. Nothing will stop me from achieving my goals.

What songs are you listening to? I want to know. Plus, I love new music, so shoot me some suggestions!

How I Dominated My Internship Search

In a previous post, I discussed how students should pick an internship that is right for them, rather than apply to the masses and go wherever they can. The things I spoke about in the post I used and it got me four interviews: three agencies and one clothing line. Here is how I did it.

Before I began my search, I decided what industries or areas I wanted to work in. I knew I wanted to work at an agency with multiple clients or in fashion. So I applied at 3 agencies, all of which have multiple clients and one in-house position for a clothing line, it also fell in the realm of fashion PR.

I did my research, both on the companies and the people with whom I’d be sending my letters and resumes. I became familiar with each company, their focus, and their clients.

After choosing where to apply, I catered my cover letter to those positions. Read the description and requirements for each position and made separate cover letters for each. All of my cover letters had the same idea: Why I am the ideal candidate.

I didn’t want to send in the “I’m writing to express interest in ________ position.” Employers read those everyday. Figured I’d spice it up.

I told them why I’d be great for the position. I didn’t just write my experiences, but how my experiences would help their company and how I can be beneficial, even as an intern. I hit them with the good stuff and I made sure it was seen first in my cover letter. I made sure that my cover letter and resume were relevant to one another, but didn’t cover the same stuff entirely.

After a little waiting, I received follow-up e-mails from all four places. Interviews were schedule and the ball was rolling.

I noticed one question that came up in each interview was, “What do you expect out of this internship.”

I was stumped at first. When are we ever given the opportunity to say what we want? The perception is that we have to climb the ladder, and that means doing the work no one wants to do.

My response? “I don’t want to be a coffee runner. I want to work. I want to be used. I’m free help I want to be taken advantage of, in terms of working with clients and assignments. I’m here to learn; I’m eager to take in everything.”

After all is said and done two places offered at the end of the interview. The other two are still making decisions. I have accepted a position with Factory PR, based on what I will be doing and possible opportunities after my internship.

Even though I won’t be working with the other organizations I responded with an e-mail asking to keep in touch and to consider me for future projects. I let them know I was available for volunteer, freelance, or contracted work as needed.

One thing I believe helped was this Web site. I gave them more options in terms of understand me. It gave employers an opportunity to see who I am, how I speak and any work related documents. The Web site added another dimension to my overall appearance.

Oh yea, none of them asked to see my portfolio.

Related post: The Right Internship for YOU

Passion: A Driving Force for Life

Think of your own passion as a bottle of coke. It sits calmly until provoked. Once shaken, it builds and builds, until it bursts.

What makes your passion explode? What life events or situations make your passion scream out of you at full force?

What’s my passion?

After contemplating the topic and a conversation with @tmcantwell it’s clear to me that I’m a passionate about competition. At first I thought about how I could be passionate about something that isn’t necessarily tangible. It’s not like music, writing, painting or things that can be made physical.

My passion is competition. I don’t care about what the person next to me is doing but what I CAN do at my best. Kanye West sort of embodies it best in these quotes from his book.

“Know your worth”

“Would you rather have 100% from an average person or 10% from someone who is outstanding”

-Kanye West,

Thank You and You’re Welcome

Knowing your own worth is important. As a person without limitations, I know that I can achieve anything I want. I am passionate about being competitive with myself. I want to force the best out of me.

For me, passion isn’t about loving what you do, but rather, a driving force.

Competition is my driving force to be successful. Competition with myself will create the best Patrick and professional I can be. I know what I can do. I have the world at my fingertips and I will utilize it to the fullest.

What are you passionate about? What drives you to be the best? Is your drive your passion?

#nowplaying: Sound Track to My Life

This post stems from a recent piece I read from Josh Morris and a Q&A session with Kanye West during his Storytellers piece for VH1.

On Twitter we use the hashtag #nowplaying as a life soundtrack of sorts. Even though we might not listen to music 24/7, there are songs and CDs that can provide a foundation for emotions or events within our lives. Currently, my favorite song has been Empire State of Mind by Jay-Z featuring Alicia Keys. Yes, it is a huge hit for everyone across the nation but it hits a little harder for me lately.

I leave for New York City on Sunday and I know it’s going to be far more than just an “experience.” It will be a life lesson, inspiring and hopefully, a place I’ll be residing in the near future.

The looping piano keys, vibrant rhymes and emotions in Empire State of Mind are chilling. Knowing that I will be in a city that can make or break me physically and mentally is scary. This could be the biggest opportunity I’ve ever had.

After watching the Kanye interview I started playing some of my favorite songs. Touch the Sky was first on the playlist. With his personality shining through the lyrics and beat, it makes me feel like I can achieve anything. I feel like it’s in my DNA to Touch the Sky. His Storytellers version is far more intriguing than the original. The difference, you can feel his emotions in the song. And yes, Kanye has emotions, sometimes.

Songs play an integral part in all of our lives. They tell stories and express feeling. Some songs move people to do amazing things, while others resonate within us.

I want to know what songs you play to get amped up? Which songs inspire you? What songs sum up how you feel right now?

The Right Internship for YOU

If you’re like me, you’re still on the hunt for an internship. As public relations students, it’s imperative that we have experience under our belts prior to graduation. Without this experience, we won’t know what really happens in firms or corporate PR. As experience-hungry students, do we just take any internship we can get? Or do we have some say in it too?

While at a tweetup in San Diego, I had the chance to talk with Sarah Evans. She mentioned something about how, even though we are students, we should still take control over our internship hunt. It shouldn’t be about getting placed anywhere, but rather being somewhere that you want to be. I guess it goes with the quality vs. quantity argument.

TO SEND OR NOT TO SEND

One thing that I think works best is sending out custom cover letters and resumes.

I know this gets talked about often, but it isn’t utilized enough.

We all want the best internship out there, but what makes one better than another? Yes, a huge corporation might look great on a resume, but you might get more experience at a smaller company.

In internship postings, companies write down what they are specifically looking for by asking candidates to meet certain requirements. To make it easy, if you don’t meet the requirements don’t apply. Save your time and theirs. Instead, focus on writing an awesome, custom cover letter for a few internships rather than every posting.

RESEARCH & STUDY, NOT LIKE AN EXAM

In terms of public relations internships, anyone can memorize the client list and the services provided. What might work better for the position and your efforts are with in-depth research.

Once you’ve found one or two internships that you want, study. Figure out how large the organization is. Does it have hundreds of employees or just a handful? How much money does the company bring in per year? Who are the bigwigs, where did they go to college, what is their image in the community and industry?

SOCIAL MEDIA AT ITS FINEST

When you search for all the information listed above, there isn’t a one-stop shop. You’re going to have to dig. It might take a long time before you hit oil or you could strike in 30 seconds.

Google

Search the company, figure out the basics: company info, bios, CEOs, clients, etc.  Don’t stop there. Use that info to help you dig further. Also, use sites like Hoovers to figure out the size, gross income and additional information about the company.

LinkedIn

Search the contact person provided on the internship listing. Understand their previous employment. Are they are new to the industry or someone that has previous experience? Search their co-workers and their bosses. See where you might have commonalities with these people. It all helps to get the internship.

Twitter

Search the company and their employees on Twitter. They may be hugely into social media or not at all. If they are on Twitter, read their tweets. Who do they converse with? Who are they following and who is following them? Just because they have less than 100 followers certainly doesn’t mean you cannot benefit from the position. If you are into social media, then offer it as experience you can use to assist the company.

Blogs

With an increase in bloggers, every one has a voice; or at least the opportunity for one. This is your chance to dig for the dirt. You can find out what people are saying about the company. This will help you figure out the nitty gritty and find out if you really want to be an intern at that organization.

You are probably thinking, “How can all this help me before I even get the job?” It can, it all goes back to what Sarah Evans said about your fit. The more you know about an organization the better you can write a cover letter and resume for that position. Ultimately, you don’t want to be at an organization you don’t like.

If you don’t like the organization, don’t apply. When you do find one you really like, the additional research will help you land the internship and succeed while you’re there.

Make Friends, Not Contacts

Lately I have had several opportunities to attend networking events. Whether in the form of a mixer, tweetup or conference it has always been in my best interest to attend. These events give me the opportunity to interact with professionals in the field while meeting new people and gaining useful advice.

But I hate the concept of networking events. The stigma of going to an event with the sole purpose of trying to get a handout from a stranger irritates me. It’s like asking a complete stranger to give you a job. As a person who stands behind the idea of building long-lasting relationships, this method of meeting people is not valuable.

The connotation of “networking” makes me cringe. Instead of going to networking events to make contacts that will propel your future, why not make friends? Instead of trying to get a handout, try to meet people for the sake of getting to know the person, not their profession.

Personal vs. Professional

At networking events, I make the atmosphere as social as possible. Thinking you’re in a room with all your friends helps to ease the tension. Here are some ideas I keep in mind while speaking with professionals:

Get to know a person before the professional

Your friends are more willing to give you a contact or lead about a job. So why would you expect someone you just met to do the same thing? Make a legitimate effort to understand their personality. Professionals may have more experience, but they have personal lives too. Learn about their dreams, goals, families and discover your similar interests.

Make a personal connection, not a professional contact

It’s OK to have a conversation with a professional without an end result in mind. Don’t worry about landing a job or internship. Make a successful connection with a person based on your personality. Don’t focus on making another “contact.” At the least you’ve made an acquaintance, hopefully a friend.

Don’t start off with your career goals

Since you aren’t asking for a handout don’t be the person at the mixer spitting out the same elevator speech to every professional you meet. Don’t ramble about the industry. Showing your knowledge and speaking intelligently will take you farther than “what I wish to accomplish after graduation.”

So what does the term contact really mean?

You just met a great person and they happen to have your dream job. Naturally you want to know how they got it and what you can do to follow in their footsteps. Hopefully, you’ve exchanged contact information, not just business cards, and now you are ready to follow up with a phone call or e-mail. So what do you say or write?

This seems obvious, but a lot of people still don’t do it right. Keep the e-mail or phone call in the same realm as the ideas mentioned earlier. Remember, friends are more willing to assist you than a stranger, so help them help you. Instead of seeking out an internship position, continue to build your relationship. Go out to lunch or grab coffee; learn what makes them tick. Once you understand the person, hopefully you’ll develop a mentor and friend that is eager to help you achieve your professional goals.

Instead of making contacts, make friends. Create personal connections rather than professional ones by leaving a lasting impression. Worst comes to worst, you don’t have that job you wanted right out of college. But know you have tons of friends in the field who should be willing to help a fellow friend.