Let’s put on our white hats, folks. Today we’re talking about important Public Relations lessons learned from the ultimate boss lady herself, along with her team – Olivia Pope & Associates.
1. Build Your Team Wisely
"I'm a gladiator in a suit. Because that's what you are when you work for Olivia. You're a gladiator in a suit. You want to be a gladiator in a suit." - Harrison
It's important to build a team that knows the end goal and is there to fight for it. When everyone is on the same page, you're going to work together to get things done.
2. Train Your Clients to Talk to the Media
"Keep your head still, maintain eye contact. Just answer what was asked of you; if you go off on a tangent, it will look unreliable." - Olivia Pope
Olivia trains her clients on how to speak to the media. She advises them, practices with them, and gives them pointers on how to answer the questions that are thrown at them.
3. Never Stop Working Hard
"You have to be twice as good as them to get half of what they have" - Papa Pope
"I am very good at what I do. I am better at it than anybody else." - Olivia Pope
If you want it, you've got to work at it. To be the best, you've got to put your head down and try harder than anyone else is.
4. It's All About Public Perception
"In a case like this, perception is more than evidence. The truth doesn't matter. He looks guilty, he is guilty" - Olivia Pope
The public is always watching, even when you think they're not. They're watching and judging everything. It's important to remember that - though we like to think they don't - most of the time, looks matter.
5. Stay Calm
"You can't change the choice you made. All you can do is not let it ruin you." - Olivia Pope
Mistakes will happen, but it's how you react to them that show your true character. Don't let them ruin your relationships and career - learn from your mistakes and do better next time.
6. Always Have a Plan B (and C, and D, etc.)
"I'm never out of options" - Olivia Pope
"I always have cards left to play" - Olivia Pope
If one thing is certain, it's that Olivia is never unprepared. Preparation is key, and it's important to be like Olivia and have a Plan B, C, and even D. Always have cards to play.
7. Wear Your White Hat
"Once you take the white hat off, it's gone. You will no longer be you. And the thing is, being a big dog isn't as great as it seems. Be a better person." - Olivia Pope
Think twice about your decisions. You don't want to do something you'll regret. Be a good person. Do good. The rest will fall into place.
We can all take a page out of Olivia Pope's book about how to handle the PR world. Follow her way and you'll become the best in the game.