Launching a new Connecticut business in the early 1990s was not for the faint of heart. The state was descending into a deep recession from which, some would say, we have not yet — even 20 years later — fully recovered. Yet my partners, Pat Sullivan, Paddi LeShane and I, were undeterred.
We were convinced that we had a new model for public relations that potential clients yearned for – a pure public relations firm (not the weak step-child of an advertising agency) that was savvy enough, respected enough (and yes, connected enough) to manage high profile public issues. We also knew that there was a market for a firm that was strategic enough to deal with a full-blown media crisis. We hit the ground with lots of energy, high hopes but no clients.
Thankfully (for me and my young family) the model worked and clients came on board. Throughout the ensuing twenty years we have been in the thick of the action – helping to manage the communication issues of the crash of the CT State Lottery’s online system, the stalled Iroquois Gas Pipeline, the introduction of casino gaming to Connecticut, changes to the state’s healthcare system, the balance between affordable energy and the environment, the success of aerospace manufacturing in Connecticut. It’s been an exciting ride.
At the same time, we have been on the front lines of some of the past two decades most difficult stories — sexual abuse of minors by clergy, a tragic nursing home fire, a horrific workplace shooting, misuse of public funds and others.
At the center of all these activities, is the need for those involved who deal with these issues to speak quickly, clearly and truthfully to all of their audiences. As a result of the revolutionary changes that have occurred in the media, the importance of timely, accurate communication is more important than ever.
Twenty years ago, the news cycle was still defined by daily newspapers. News developed slowly and wasn’t “official” until the newspaper deadline of approximately 10 p.m. The Internet coupled with social media has demolished that comfortable standard and smart phones have only added to the frenzy. Today, news is omnipresent and has become a beast that must be respected and tamed. The best in our business must now monitor the flow 24/7 to keep our clients in the loop and respond immediately to negative or erroneous coverage. A client’s public reputation is more vulnerable than ever and must be protected in real time. It is indeed a brave new world.
Fast forward 20 years, I still spend some time with the Hartford Business Journal print edition every Monday but I am laser focused on their daily e-mail alerts. My clients expect immediate notification of news that includes or affects them. I salute the HBJ for their ability to evolve and remain relevant through what has been two decades of rapid change and am thankful we have been able to do it together.
Here’s to 20 more.
Gene Sheehan is managing partner at Sullivan & LeShane Public Relations in Hartford. Reach him through the website at CTPR.com.g
