A Lifetime Achievement Winner Looks Ahead

As a member of the Pub Club board, I was privy to many “secrets” before the Bell Ringer Awards. I knew there would be delicious Swan chocolates on every table and that that our departing President would be receiving a special send-off (We’ll miss you, Lauren!). However, the biggest surprise of all – and the hardest one to keep under wraps – was that my boss, Janey Bishoff, CEO of Bishoff Communications, would receive the John J. Molloy Crystal Bell Lifetime Achievement Award. The Crystal Bell has recognized a select group of New England communications pioneers for the past 30 years.

I’ve learned many things from Janey while working at Bishoff Communications – from how to write the perfect pitch to the best shoes to wear to an event (hint: comfortable ones!) – so it was wonderful to be with her on her big night. I heard from many in attendance that Janey’s speech was a highlight of the evening, so I thought I’d share an excerpt for those who couldn’t be there.

In her speech, Janey recognized that the PR profession is enormously challenging and is still largely misunderstood. Janey offered some wise words about creating positive change for the future of the PR industry:

1) “We must come to understand, appreciate, and fulfill our role as educators. We are the ones who must teach our clients, colleagues, and others about the significance and the value of what we do as PR practitioners.”

2) “We must become an integral part of the marketing solution—we need to teach our counterparts in the advertising industry that we are not the tail on the dog of marketing. Now more than ever “Content is King” and we bring the content and expertise to the table that is so needed in a cluttered and competitive environment”.

3) “We must lead by example. Fast is good, but thoughtfulness is better!”

4) “We must continue to advocate for a seat at the table in the C Suite – ever the while touting the benefits of our perspective, knowledge, and skills”.

5) “We must keep telling our own story – that we are serious, not superficial. That we provide service, not spin. That above all else we provide meaning and VALUE.”

6) “We need to support each other and collaborate more. We can learn so much from each other”.  

Congratulations Janey!!

Sarah Grazier

Bishoff Communications

Pub Club Board