We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jennifer Richardson. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jennifer below.
Jennifer, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – walk us through the story?
After serving as a news anchor for a fulfilling 15 years, my life took a new turn when I got married and started a family. Balancing a thriving career with the desire to be a dedicated and present mother became a constant tug-of-war within me. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, it presented a unique opportunity to take a leap of faith and embark on a new venture.
In the midst of the global pandemic, I took the bold step of founding Richardson Media, driven by the unwavering support of my close-knit support network and family. This was my chance to redefine storytelling in a fresh and innovative way. Now, three years down the road, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with numerous clients spanning the entire country, helping them convey their impactful narratives and make a real difference.
The beauty of this journey is that I can choose when to spend quality time with my children and where to dedicate my time outside of work. Every day remains a calculated risk, but sound advice from my daughter during a nerve-wracking moment has really stuck with me. She simply said, “Mom, just do it.” Those words continue to inspire and propel me forward.
Jennifer, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I’m a seasoned communicator with extensive storytelling experience. For nearly two decades, I worked in television newsrooms across the country. I worked with people at their most vulnerable, both in good and bad times. Then, using video and my passion for writing, I shared their stories through ethical journalistic storytelling.
In 2017, I moved from broadcast media to public relations and marketing. I expanded my skill set to include account management, social media, videography, and crisis communication. Today, I specialize in helping businesses make an impact and achieve their goals through clear and engaging messaging for their target audiences. With my extensive journalism background, I also lead seminars on best practices for working with the media and becoming a great company spokesperson.I also teach a media writing and public relations class at the prestigious School of Journalism and Communications at The University of Oregon.
I am an award-winning storyteller focused on delivering the highest quality communications for clients through compelling messaging, audience insights, and powerful videos. Relationships are crucial to having a strong team that collaborates effectively with stakeholders to align goals and deliver on your deadline.
When I’m not working or volunteering, I love spending time with my husband, Brian, and our two children, Hailey and Grant. I encourage others to be kind, take chances, do what’s right for their mind and soul, and, most importantly, make a difference.
I also strongly believe in giving back. I serve on the Board of Directors for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Emerald Valley, and I continue to give back to a number of nonprofits in our community.
I want to work with people who look at the world the same way I do and who are kind. It’s pretty simple. I want to represent brands that are upholding their brand mission, are good to their employees, and who are on this journey for more than just themselves.
I bring my passion into my work. I tell the real stories just like I did as a journalist and I think that’s what sets me apart.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
Building strong relationships is the cornerstone of expanding your client base. It requires a proactive approach of immersing yourself in the community and making your presence felt. This may involve engaging in pro bono work, mentoring, taking on interns, and participating in panel discussions or any platform that allows you to make a meaningful impact and naturally sparks word-of-mouth referrals.
When I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey, I didn’t focus on selling; instead, I positioned myself within influential circles. I willingly took on projects without immediate monetary gain, demonstrating my expertise and dedication to what I do. This allowed me to establish a solid reputation in my field.
It’s crucial to nurture these relationships and be mindful of not burning bridges along the way. When you foster meaningful connections, you create advocates who will organically promote your business on your behalf. Let people become your business’s most effective salesforce.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
Owning a business demands unwavering resilience every single day. I took the bold step of launching my business during a global pandemic, and I’ve never looked back. There are moments when I question if the business will continue to thrive, but each time, it does, thanks to the strong relationships I’ve nurtured.
I have no hesitation in reaching out to old contacts, inviting them to collaborate on new video projects. I constantly seek fresh avenues for creativity and embrace collaborations with new team members to remain relevant in today’s digital landscape.
I’m grateful for how far I’ve come. I press on month after month because I wholeheartedly believe in my mission and remain steadfast in my commitment to powerful storytelling.
Contact Info:
- Website: richardsonmediarelations.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer.richardson__/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.richardson.3939/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-richardson-richardsonmedia/
- Other: I have my personal account and I also have my Richardson media social media pages too https://www.instagram.com/richardson_mediarelations/?hl=en
Image Credits
Jennifer Richardson