PR Glasses
I’m going to start today’s post with a joke:
Q – How do you tell the difference between a PR and a CA?
A – You look at their shoes
Ah yes, a common stereotype of PR’s – they all dress nice. Or do they? Well, I don’t know since I’m not actually out in the PR world just yet, but let me ask you this: Who else would have a Hot PR Guy competition?
I’m in no way poo pooing this idea. PR’s tend to be in the public eye a little more than other business types, so why not dress nice? Personally, I’m looking forward to it.
This past week I took my first steps into the PR fashion world by purchasing a new pair of glasses. Now, I’ve worn glasses since I was in Grade 5 and let me just say it hasn’t always been a positive experience. Those Junior High years are always awkward enough, the last thing you need is a big round set of lenses sitting on your nose. However, as I have grown older I have come to appreciate my handicap a little more by turning it into a bit of a fashion statement. I started with nerdy, Grade 5 glasses (Milhouse Glasses), moved up to awkward Junior High glasses (complete with braces and awkward voice change), then slightly less awkward high school glasses, and finally graduated onto semi-sophisticated University glasses (”Do these make me look like Sean Lennon?” glasses).
What would my next stage of visual impairment be? Two words: PR Glasses.
Based on my recent blogging experience, I’ve been exposed to a couple of different versions of PR Glasses. I know of at least a couple of well known Toronto PR bloggers that rock PR specs……so why not me?
I wanted something that edged on ‘hipster’ but was still professional. Take Rivers Cuomo and add a dash of Josh from Season 4 Apprentice, and you’ll know what I mean.
It was my girlfriend that ultimately spotted my new PR glasses. After much debate, I settled on Guess Model 1305. Unfortunately, glasses don’t come with cool names or descriptions like the clothes at Abercrombie and Fitch. But if they did, Guess Model 1305 would go a little something like this:
“Perfect for the young professional and academic alike. Guess 1305 lenses are hip yet sophisticated – just as comfortable at the college pub on homecoming weekend as they are in the front pocket of your champlain valley oxford shirt just minutes after you’ve finalized that merger. These frames are so cool they don’t even have to try.”
Now, don’t get me wrong. I know the PR profession isn’t all glitz and glam…..especially for interns. I’ve done my research and I’m ready to jump into the trenches and do whatever it takes to establish myself as a well respected PR.
But I’ll tell you this, wearing these glasses makes me feel like a million bucks. And I know that when I’m walking into my first PR class in January, going to my internship interviews at the end of next summer, or pitching to a board or potential client somewhere down the road, these glasses are going to give me that extra bit of confidence.
Say what you want, but PR glasses are the sweet.
November 30, 2006 at 2:08 pm
Appearance is important in any business and clients don’t want to see the experts they hire to do their public relations looking like slobs. Good news about your glasses, I am sure you will look quite chic in your interviews. Say hello to Kaleen and let her know about my blog.
November 30, 2006 at 4:09 pm
Well put.
What’s the point of hiring a PR if they look like they just rolled out of bed? Actually, what’s the point of hiring anyone if they look like they just rolled out of bed?
Thanks for the comment
December 1, 2006 at 2:29 pm
Those will suit you nicely! Very grown up I’d have to say. That look seems to be really popular in the big cities…people sporting it seem to be very “put-together”.
December 1, 2006 at 4:58 pm
PR glasses….hmmm…..well I can’t say that I would have ever of thought an accessory, such as this could be put into classifications for specific genres of people. But the more I think about it – you’re right. Those glasses are mighty sexy with an air of professionalism and sophistication. Natalie obviously has great taste. PR people do have a very distinct look and image which they choose to maintain, but then again, why wouldn’t you? When you head to the office in the morning, even on the worst of days and have the possiblity of ending up in the media, who looks like an ass if you look like a slob? And in the reality of PR, make an ass of yourself once and it could be detrimental to your overall professional career. Good glasses choice…one more step away from being victim of the PR image failure.
December 27, 2006 at 12:37 am
I’m an aspiring CA and I think your joke is quite funny. I have no doubt that Scott’s shoes are much nicer than mine. Further, I’m willing to bet that he has more pairs than I. I’m at 1 thinking of going to 2. Scotty, any suggestions?
December 30, 2006 at 12:55 pm
Beasson,
I have 2. That’s all. And I’m a student with no job.
You on the other hand – since you have full time work – have no excuse. I thought KPMG outfit their employees with new shoes? I could have sworn I remember you sending in your shoe size.
January 7, 2007 at 6:23 pm
Hahaha, right you are! Those were running shoes however. Hey good luck in Toronto, make sure you send me your updated contact info. I’ll likely give you a call sometime.