Interview with Corene Hippolyte-Newman, Founder and Director of Pink Hippo London PR
Read our interview with Corene Hippolyte-Newman, Founder and Director of Pink Hippo London PR.
What’s your career background?
I graduated from Middlesex University with a degree in Journalism and Media / Cultural Studies. I have been working within the PR Industry for over 10 years now. I have freelanced, as a Consultant for other PR Agencies, but always preferred to run my own agency, on my own terms.
How did your career change after having your child?
It took a sharp turn, and I really hesitated about having a baby, because I was in the height of my career. But you know what, having my daughter, also gave me a newfound clarity and direction that I never knew I needed. I worked all the way through to my third trimester.
When my daughter was three months old, I rested, for a bit and then was back at it, trying to organise an event for Beyoncé’s Dance Captain, which didn’t go ahead (but that’s another story)
Where did the idea for your business come from?
I wasn’t getting any traction from jobs I was applying for. I probably applied to over 100 jobs and got nothing. So, I put myself forward, for a few internships, one included John Lewis Press Office.
I soon realised that if I wasn’t going to get anywhere with little experience, I would have to rethink what I wanted to do. So I decided to set up my own PR agency and we are still here today…..And, we’ve just picked up our first International Client, which is massive for us.
How did you move from idea to actual business?
It was surprisingly very quick, and as soon as I had the idea of doing a PR agency. I planned to do a joint venture with a friend, but it didn’t work out. So I went it alone. I would say that, I had my first client, within the first three months of launching.
What’s your USP? We are female owned and the clients have access to me, more so than if they were with a bigger agency. I treat all my clients like my family, with love.
Who’s your target audience?
Everyone from small business owners to multinational companies.
How do you spread the word about what you do?
Nine out of ten clients have come through word of mouth, right from the start and still now. Your reputation always precedes you, and I’ve been fortunate enough to build a good rep around my business, as well as for other people.
What’s been your most successful marketing strategy?
Collaboration is key. I collaborate where and when I possibly can.
What’s been the biggest obstacle you’ve had to overcome?
I would say, knowing now, that you can’t control everything, even though you may have planned it to a T. Things change and that’s ok, ultimately, it’s how you pick yourself up from those situations.
And your proudest moment so far?
I have a few, ones that stands out, and one of those was working with Beyoncé’s dancer and the very next day, I attended the concert and seeing them all on stage, it felt like a full circle moment.
Why is work so important to you?
I truly enjoy it; people work so hard to get a job that they thoroughly enjoy. I get to help others, as well as make money for my family. Ultimately, I want to leave a legacy behind, not for ego purposes, but just to continue putting my family on the map, for doing things. I come from a family of doers and game changers.
Who inspires you?
Myself – I’m very conscious and self-aware, when it comes to my limits and boundaries, and I will push myself continuously, to become the best version of myself.
How do you balance your work with your family?
It’s a constant battle! I don’t think I’ve truly got the hang of it; However, I always make sure my daughter comes first and just try to work around her needs. Getting a Child minder was the best thing I’ve ever done. I’m sure I will get better with time.
What are your three top pieces of advice for someone wanting to do something similar?
- Do as many internships or shadowing jobs as possible, learn from PR professionals. This helps with understanding and knowing not what to.
- Try to meet other PRs and form a support group, where you can help each other with future endeavours / get advice…etc
- Continue to learn new skills to add to your knowledge, because the Media Industry is always changing.
Find out more about Pink Hippo London PR.
