Lauren joined Douglas Gould and Company with a desire to utilize her public relations experience in the nonprofit sector. As an Associate, Lauren is involved on a variety of client projects including media analysis and placement, copy development and strategic communications planning.
- What brought you to DG+CO?After a life-changing internship in the communications office at my college, I knew I wanted to work in the field. I moved to New York City and spent almost four years at a large public relations firm. It was excellent experience, but the firm’s culture wasn’t a good fit for me. I didn’t fully realize that I could do something I like (communications) for clients that I like (public interest organizations). Finding the job description for my position online was an “A-ha” moment for me. It’s a really good combination of my skills and passion.
- What past experiences do you find yourself drawing on most in your work here?Despite thinking that I wouldn’t use my history degree, I’ve relied on it a lot. Writing well, and turning dense information into readable, compelling stories is key, and it’s something I relied on in college. I’ve also gotten lots of PR skills from my previous job. And, I’m (fairly) cool under pressure thanks to an internship with the Baseball Hall of Fame, working for ABC during the 2008 Presidential debates in New Hampshire, and dressing models backstage at Paris Fashion Week.
- What gets you out of bed and excited to go to work at DG+CO each day?My favorite part of the job is the mission-focused work we do. I love being a partner in creating change for clients. Knowing that a media feature I secured helped get Congressional buy-in for a really important bill is an amazing feeling, and makes the job really rewarding.
- When you’re not in the office, what do you do for fun?
In a word – explore. New places, new experiences, and new things are what excite me most. I spend a good deal of my free time browsing for cheap airfare and planning upcoming and potential trips. But, I also take full advantage of living in NYC. I’m constantly looking forward to trying a new bar or restaurant, visiting a new museum, or picnicking in a new (to me) park. I’ve also been known to cultivate themed tours around the city – anyone up for a Flushing Peking duck tour or Brooklyn oyster tour? - What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given (professional or otherwise), and by whom?
One of my favorite quotes is “Attitude is the difference between an ordeal and an adventure.” It hangs in my office as a daily reminder of the importance of mindset. My other favorite is more of a mantra, but very straightforward – “Work hard and be nice to people.” Always a good reminder!