Change is inevitable but with right mindset & resources, one can thrive: Vineet Handa

February is the month of love in which we often celebrate romantic connections. But it can also be a time to reflect on a different kind of love: the ‘Love for our Profession’. For PR & Corp Comm professionals, this love goes beyond daily tasks and deadlines. It's a commitment to weaving narratives, nurturing relationships, and shaping perceptions that fuel their growth in the industry.

In this special edition, we will delve into the heart of PR and Corp Comm leaders and discover how their genuine love for the field has empowered them to navigate challenges, embrace innovation, and leave a lasting impact on the world around them. Moreover, through their candid accounts, we'll explore their unique paths, the lessons learned along the way, and the wisdom they impart to future generations.

So, this time, we’ll explore the thriving journey of Vineet Handa, Founder & CEO of Kaizzen. He is an efficient leader and a complete package of Marketing prowess, dynamic personality who holds more than 25 years of experience in Public Relations, Brand Communication, and Outreach.

Excerpts:

What moment or experience initially sparked your interest in PR? How has your understanding of the profession evolved since then?

I always say that I stumbled into PR by Chance. So, I ended up joining a PR firm, when my vacation in India got extended during a visit home. There's a saying that our mother is our first teacher, as she lovingly nurtures and patiently guides us. Fortunately for me, when I entered the industry, I was fortunate to work alongside mentors who not only introduced me to the intricacies of PR but also instilled in me a deep love for the work we do. In my initial assignment, I had the privilege of collaborating with Samir Kale. Much of my early interest in PR can be attributed to his guidance and support as I navigated my way through the industry. Throughout my career, I've been blessed to have mentors who have since become industry leaders—Prema Sagar and Ashwini Singhla are two names I must mention here. When mentors nurture, guide, and support you, it's natural to develop a passion for your work, and this holds true across all industries. Like everyone else, I've had to learn some lessons the hard way, but those experiences have only deepened my appreciation for the industry. There are a few subtle messages here for Gen-Z, and I hope they can decipher them and learn valuable lessons as they embark on their careers in this industry.

I began my career when cable TV and private television networks were in their infancy. I used to start the day reading not just one, but a few newspapers end to end with the TV channel playing the news in the background. The voice of the anchor would be only interrupted with the ads playing during commercial breaks. In the evenings we would all sit down to watch our favorite soaps and I would keep my eyes glued for the trendiest ads during the breaks. Today I keep myself updated with the latest happenings instantly via my mobile. All of us watch our favorite programs on our personal devices. Evolution and nostalgia fueled by technological advancement and intervention of AI run hand in hand in our industry. However, amidst this transformation the role of PR remains unhinged.

What are the recent trends of the PR industry you absolutely love?

As an ever-evolving industry, there are various trends, but the ones that resonate with me the most are speed and seamlessness. Speed has become the hallmark of the digital era. In today's world, everything, whether good, bad, or ugly, swiftly finds its place in the digital realm. Seamlessness is equally vital because we no longer rely solely on news agencies and channels for information. Nowadays, anyone can create content. While independent media serves as a crucial pillar of democracy, it's also incumbent upon us to help people discern trustworthy sources from fake news. In an era, rife with fake news and disinformation, the value of earned PR is unparalleled. Earned media not only garners endorsement from impartial, reputable sources but also significantly shapes brand perception.

In addition to speed and seamlessness, I believe relationships constitute the third pillar of the industry. Our rapport with the media remains fundamental, even as PR expands to encompass digital, social, and influencer realms.

The PR landscape is constantly evolving, demanding frequent shifts in roles and responsibilities. How do you navigate these changes while maintaining your passion and love for the profession?

Navigating an evolving landscape of PR while maintaining passion for the profession requires adaptability, continuous learning, and a strong commitment to your core values. After more than two decades in the industry, I still consider myself a student and am eager to learn about any new trends in the industry. These are some things I try to practice regularly:

• Continuous Learning and adaptability: While it may not be possible to keep taking courses there are various materials, sub stacks and MOOCs available online that help me keep abreast of the latest happenings.
• Staying Informed: I keep myself updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in PR through industry publications, blogs, webinars, and conferences.
• Networking and industry events also provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and learning from others' experiences.
• Last but not the least, a Positive mindset helps prevent burnout and allows you to maintain your passion for any work in the long run. It is also important to prioritize and understand the difference between urgent and important.

By incorporating these strategies into your approach, you can navigate the evolving PR landscape while staying true to your passion for the profession. Remember that change is inevitable, but with the right mindset and resources, one can thrive and continue to make a meaningful impact in any filed they choose.

Many PR professionals frequently shift from one company to another throughout their careers. Does this frequent transition affect their overall love and passion for the profession? Share your guidance for those considering or experiencing career shifts in PR.

The relationship between an employee and an employer is perhaps the finest example of a symbiotic bond. It thrives when both parties work in sync for mutual benefit. When an individual transition to a new organization, they encounter a fresh set of cultures, clients, tasks, and a myriad of other experiences. After acclimating to the new environment, they become better equipped to deliver results. However, frequent job changes driven solely by the pursuit of higher salaries can hinder not only the organization but also the individual's personal growth over time.

We've all heard the adage, "slow and steady wins the race." Similarly, in Hindi, there's a saying that translates to, "cook slowly, savor the flavor." This applies to the relationship between an organization and its employees—the longer you stay, the more robust your learning curve and skill development become.

Nevertheless, it's crucial to recognize that individuals are motivated by personal growth and learning, and organizations should strive to provide such opportunities. Similarly, individuals should realize that a genuine passion for the industry or work won't be significantly affected by one unfavorable employer or role.

My overarching message to those entering the industry is that it's a beautiful and inclusive field where growth is inevitable. It's an industry where opportunities abound and the potential for continuous learning is endless—truly a rewarding place to be.

What excites you most about the future of the PR industry?

I am personally thrilled by the enduring nature of our industry. Unlike some technologies that may become obsolete, our industry is where the ‘sun never sets’. We've all heard about the royal announcers from ancient times, before newspapers and television. Messages from royalty were announced in bustling markets and busy areas through drumbeats and the announcer reading aloud. Isn't that the earliest example of PR? From then until now, the evolution of PR tells a beautiful story. While things have changed, the enduring essence and role of our industry remain.

It's wise to acknowledge that technology and AI will become integral components of our field. While the surrounding factors may evolve, the core characteristics and the work we're recognized for will remain unchanged. There may be shifts in platforms and delivery methods, but the fundamental aspects of our industry will endure.