Laura Taylor is President and Founder of Silverline Communications, which won a Bronze Award for “Most Innovative Agency” in the 2017 Stars of PR Awards, and a Gold Award for “Cleantech Agency of the Year” in the 2016 Stars of PR Awards. Bulldog’s 2018 PR Awards are now open, with more categories—and more ways to win—than ever. Enter now!
Length of PR career (so far): 20 years
Your most memorable campaign: Cree’s LED City campaign, which ended up winning a Silver SABRE for best B2B campaign.
Most poignant professional moment: I am extremely passionate about helping and mentoring young professionals. I am moved every time I receive a thank you card or a quick note from a mentee who expresses their sincere thanks and their promise to pay it forward in the future.
Favorite journalist to work with: One of my favorite journalists to work with was Matthew Wald at the New York Times because he was always quiet the contrarian.
Number of 2 a.m. calls from a client this month: None. Clients have no reason to call us at 2 am because we get our work done on schedule!
Biggest complaint about social media: That it harbors and nurtures trolls and negative discussions at a time when we need more positivity.
Best thing about working at your agency: My staff.
Last time you didn’t do any work all weekend: Certainly, there are times on the weekend when I work, but having a work-life balance is extremely important at Silverline. We make sure we optimize and prioritize our time during the week in order to accomplish our goals and tasks. Those are the kind of clients we work with as well, those who understand and appreciate that balance.
Most misunderstood thing about PR: It’s an art, not a science
What got you interested in a PR career? The mentoring and confidence building that I received from other female executives in the field who have continued to push and challenge me throughout my career.
Most interesting thing about your job: The variety—no two days are the same, nor are two conversations. I talk to different people all day long and get to creatively solve their biggest pain points.
Your nightmare client in 3 words: Unresponsive, egotistical, and closed-minded
Best advice to a PR student: Get your hands dirty and get an internship early to really learn what it’s about and what is expected.
What do you read daily? The AP, BBC, Washington Post, and a variety of industry newsletters
Worst PR crisis in the news this year so far: Ongoing issues in the White House
Favorite non-work hobby: I’ve recently started acrylic painting! I also enjoy spending time and nurturing my toddler, Michael.
Last book you read: Column of Fire by Ken Follett
Cocktail of choice: Miller Light in a bottle—I’m from Buffalo!
Your first “real” job: Cashier and occasional witness for shoplifting at Fay’s Drugstore in Rochester, NY
Three people you’d love to invite to dinner: Leonardo DiVinci (FOR SURE), Queen Elizabeth I, Susan B. Anthony
