Ketchum UK's Inclusion Council 'spotlight series' with Taran Ahluwalia

Ketchum UK’s Inclusion Council returns with another ‘spotlight series’, this month featuring Taran Ahluwalia, Senior Account Executive, who sheds light on her journey into PR and her role at Ketchum.

Describe yourself in 5 words or less. 

Foodie who loves a conversation.

Describe your role within Ketchum in 10 words or less. 

Supporting clients with media relations, sustainability programmes, and brand campaigns.

How did you get into PR/comms?  

Often common with South Asian families, my family are all in STEM professions. I was lucky that my parents encouraged me to pursue a creative career (maths is not my strong suit), so this led me to PR. Before university, I wasn’t actually sure what PR was, but it was thanks to my love of pop culture (Samantha Jones, anyone?) that I first found out about PR and this led me to exploring internship opportunities as I progressed through university.

What energises you most about your role?  

You’ll hear this a lot from comms professionals, but it’s the variety. I absolutely love that no day truly is the same. I work across three core accounts – including P&G Fabric & Home Care, Iceland Foods and Head & Shoulders UK. It’s brilliant that each of these accounts bring something completely different to the table, which not only keeps things interesting, but constantly challenges me in new ways.

What skill(s) do you think every person in comms/PR needs to nail? 

Collaboration – PR is a team sport and it’s really important that you build trust with not only your colleagues, but are also able to work as a team with your client.

Dedication is also a big one – you really need to be committed to what you do. Not only will you enjoy it, but it really does come across and service the clients, and team morale, a lot better.

What skill(s) are you building right now?

I’m really looking to build my strategic counsel skills and am fortunate that Ketchum will be offering a Strategic Champions scheme which I’m really looking forward to being a part of. I think critical thinking is definitely a skill we all possess to some degree, but I’m working on refining this to really hit the needs of each client.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?  

Be yourself, and put that best version of yourself out there. This means celebrating the unique aspects that make you, you, and putting your hand up for every opportunity. I’ve been in PR for just over three years, and I cannot reiterate enough how valuable it’s been to take every opportunity you can.

What are your top 3 tips for getting into the industry?  

Try and get experience where you can, whether this be applying for work experience or internships, or offering up some freelance work to a brand you love. The joy of social media is that it’s much easier to get networking.

Being positive is another important one – this includes being resilient. The industry is very reactive to society, and there’s no sugar-coating the hard-hitting stuff. If you try your best to maintain a positive attitude, you’ll be better equipped to dealing with the unpredictability the industry can often bring.

Similar to the above, be yourself and value yourself! Your judgement on PR, whether this be sharing ideas for a comms campaign, or advising your client in a tricky situation, is important. Of course, it’s important to check in with senior team members when things are more serious, but with so many voices in the industry, you need to remember that yours is just as important, and diversity in thought is key.

What can the sector do to encourage diversity?  

A key one here is making an impact, early. This means going into secondary schools, particularly those in areas where students typically wouldn’t consider a career in PR, and making young people aware that anyone can be part of the industry. Teenagers make decisions about their potential career so early, as decisions begin to be formed when we choose our GCSE options as young as 14. Teenagers need to be made aware that no matter what your background, the PR industry is now one that embraces thinkers from all walks of life.

I also think the sector needs to be more vocal not only on why diversity is important, but what they are doing to encourage this. It’s great that companies across industries champion diversity, but more needs to be done in discussing what it is that companies do. This will drive inspiration amongst industries, and make those who identify as a social minority, feel welcomed.

My favourite work perk is….  

The amazing people I get to see every day. Ketchum has a fantastic atmosphere in the office, thanks to the brilliant people in it.

When I’m not at my desk you’ll find me… 

Eating at a restaurant – trying new food (but also returning to old favourites, like a seafood linguine of some sort) is my favourite thing. I’m a big socialiser and love to balance my work with catching up with friends. With that being said, I love a good book and reality TV binge watch too – I told you I like variety!