At The Fearey Group we believe everyone has a story to tell. Each Friday we shine the spotlight on one staff member helping them share their stories and give insight into what makes our firm truly “fearless.”
For this week’s installment of Fearless Friday, we shine the spotlight on the newest Account Coordinator on our Consumer & Lifestyle team, Mark Parrott!
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Mark Parrott: Let’s see, in 10 years I will be 33 so if 10-year-old Mark had a choice I would be playing in the NBA or the MLB. However, my mom kind of ruined my chances at playing in the NBA (she is barely 5 feet tall) and as it turns out everyone playing little league wants to make it to the pros someday. So, sticking with that sports theme, in 10 years I would love to be the Head of Marketing or Communications for either the Seahawks, Mariners or Sonics.
If you could dine with anyone living or dead, who would you choose and why?
MP: If I could dine with anyone it would be former UCLA basketball coach, John Wooden. Ever since high school I have LOVED reading books by him—I am pretty sure I own anything he has ever written. Every aspect about the way he lived his life is something I try to emulate whether it is personally or career wise.
What are your top five favorite movies?
MP:
- Elf
- The Santa Claus
- How the Grinch Stole Christmas
- A Christmas Story
- White Christmas
I think those might all have a connection somehow but I cannot put my finger on it…
What is your favorite thing about the Pacific Northwest?
MP: I love that it has a little bit of everything. Growing up on the westside of the state I was always a 10-minute walk from the water, 1-hour drive from the mountains and a 30-minute drive from the city. Then as I got older and went off the college I was able to experience the open land of the Palouse. Oh, and GO COUGS.
What does a day in The Fearey Group office look like for you?
MP: A day in The Fearey Group office really just depends what is going on with our clients. I love that no day is ever the same. Working in public relations, so many things can happen throughout the day that can change your focus from one thing to another. However, I will say a TYPICAL day for me (where nothing pops up) usually includes a lot of media monitoring, updating coverage trackers, creating media lists, thinking of new story ideas to pitch and reaching out to reporters.
What do you think is most important when working in the public relations world?
MP: It might sound cliché, but I believe communication and time management is most important when working in the public relations world. You have so many different tasks to complete throughout the day and learning to manage your time well is so crucial. Additionally, if you need help you cannot be afraid to pass anything off. Just be sure you are communicating exactly what you need done.
If you could invent a social media app what would you invent and why?
MP: If I could invent any social media app I would invent something that makes it easier for a group of friends to plan something. Every social media app out there is so similar and centered around keeping in touch while actually getting together with a group is always such a chore. As you get older, everybody has different and busy schedules which makes it difficult for a group of friends to hang out so I would probably invent something that simplifies that process.
Which part of your work at The Fearey Group are you proud of? Why?
MP: I have been a part of The Fearey Group since December when I was hired on as an intern and through that time I have been a part of so many big wins for this firm and our clients. However, if I had to pick a part I am most proud of I would say being offered a full-time position after my internship was through.
Any tips for newbies entering the public relations field?
MP: Show up early, work hard and do not forget to network.