PR and Hospitality: How Eating Together Nourishes Our Connections
/Mei Antonio
If you are ever invited to a Filipino home, you are likely to be greeted as part of the family and offered something to eat. Whether you have already eaten or are not hungry, you will be given a meal, snack or beverage – even if it is your first time meeting.
As a Filipino myself, I was raised valuing hospitality which is all about how we treat our guests.
At Walt & Company, I’ve learned that hospitality is just as important in PR. When preparing and hosting media events or meetings, a meal, snack or beverage can provide a warm welcome. The act of breaking bread together with our clients, media contacts and colleagues provides an opportunity for us to connect not only on work matters but also on a personal level. That’s one of the things PR is all about – making lasting connections.
I recall managing a media tour in NYC. Since this was for a new product launch, a team of engineers from Japan flew in to help with shipping and setting up the products to demonstrate during our editorial meetings. Wrapping up the tour, the PR team invited our client product managers and the engineers to dinner and karaoke. While the language barrier hindered communication at times, the delicious food and common interest in music allowed us to bond. We ended the night with a celebratory cheers.
During my 15+ years with the #WaltCrew, there has never been a lack of hospitality. The time spent bonding over a delicious meal with clients and great company have made us a close and well-connected team.
Cheers to your next meal together.
