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August, 2013
As a 16 year old keen to discover more about the world of PR, I arrived at Maxim on a Wednesday morning ready to face the challenges that would be thrown at me throughout my time at Maxim. Firstly I was shown around the office by Sue and introduced to everyone who welcomed me with warm and friendly smiles. After settling in, and being shown to my desk I was set my first task of writing an article about things to do and places to go in Dubai. I dived straight in and began to research the top ten things to do in Dubai (having never been there myself).
After completing this I wasn't left waiting around; but asked to write a press release about Knole in Sevenoaks. At first I was really nervous about such a daunting task as I'd never written a press release before; however with the kind help from Delphine, and careful explanation I rose to the challenge feeling more excited about it. After eventually finishing the press release Mr Jones checked it over with me and helped me correct it. I learnt a lot from him showing me how to improve it and it gave me a much clearer understanding of press releases and how they are designed to interest journalists.
On my last day at Maxim I was asked to collect information about a farmer's application for planning permission. This was a very daunting yet exciting challenge as I knew I would actually be of help to Maxim. Although this task took me a long time I felt a great sense of achievement (as I did throughout all three of my days at Maxim).
The opportunity Maxim has given me has been incredibly beneficial and I have learnt a great deal about the world of PR over my time there. All the Maxim team are really encouraging and helpful as well as giving me good constructive criticism on my work. I really enjoyed my time at Maxim and would like to say a huge thank you to all of the team!
posted in: public relations, students’ views,
Adventure golf putts media management to the test
An ambitious client project saw Account Manager Erica Jones of PR and marketing agency Maxim juggling TV stations and interviews in an intense day of filming. Here she explains why even when the story is effortlessly spread, there’s still a lot of work to be done.
August, 2019 more
University of Exeter graduate Mary Dewar explains her week’s introduction into public relations at Kent-based PR and marketing agency Maxim.
July, 2018 more
To dunk or not to dunk, that is the question
Newcastle University graduate Beth Starke, 22, spent a week getting to grips with the world of PR (and causing a heated debate over whether to dunk biscuits in tea) at the Tunbridge Wells-based communications agency Maxim.
November, 2017 more
Three tips to get the most out of your PR agency
There’s no point employing a PR agency if you’re not going to make the most of them. Erica Jones highlights three things to help you on your way to premium publicity.
September, 2017 more
Good communication is a must for scientific research
Biology student Aoife Cantwell Jones, from Imperial College London, learns how to improve scientific writing through two weeks work experience at Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim.
September, 2017 more
A week at Maxim: An insight into the world of PR
Durham University student Jack Reed, 19, spent a week at Kent-based PR agency Maxim, learning about the PR industry and going out for breakfast with Director Andrew Metcalf.
July, 2017 more
Timing is (almost) everything in media relations
In PR – as in life – timing is not quite everything but it can play an important role in how much coverage a story receives.
May, 2017 more
President Trump’s PR spokesperson - the toughest PR job just got tougher
Press secretary to President Trump, Sean Spicer has just made his life so much harder by not following the fundamental rules of PR. Andrew Metcalf, director of Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim, examines what’s behind the epic media fail and how things might be turned around.
January, 2017 more
Freebies: Good marketing tool or a waste of money?
There’s something about the word free that draws people in, but do we actually need, want or use those items we’ve hastily grabbed? Erica Jones from Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim looks at the benefits or otherwise of the free gift.
November, 2016 more
Public relations and positivity
Public relations focusses on the positive side of your work, explains Erica Jones of Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim.
November, 2016 more
Newcastle University student Olivia McDaid, 19, spent a sunny week at Maxim, learning about the industry and how creativity can be applied in the real world.
September, 2016 more
Charlie 'leafs' Maxim with a sweet tooth for PR
University of Nottingham Student Charlie Crossley, 20, spent a week at Maxim learning about PR and not making very much tea for Andrew.
September, 2016 more
Protecting your reputation in a crisis
Any organisation, no matter how well run, can face a potential public relations crisis. How the situation is handled can make a significant difference to its impact.
September, 2016 more
A week of work experience at Maxim
Emily Yandle, 17, describes her week of work experience at Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim.
July, 2016 more
Shannon Rawlins, 16, spent time with Kent PR agency Maxim to find out more about the industry – and confirm her desire to take a up a career in journalism.
July, 2016 more
Two years of GCSEs condensed into three days of work experience
Katie Cantwell-Jones, 16, spent three days with Kent communications agency Maxim to learn more about the work of PR.
July, 2016 more
A brilliant insight into the world of PR
English Student Jemimah Gilpin, 18, explains her week of work experience with Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim.
June, 2016 more
Politician defends a journalist – shock horror
Does it matter if someone is offended by a reporter’s line of questioning? Andy Rayfield, account director at Kent PR and public affairs agency Maxim, says he believes journalists have every right to ask probing questions
June, 2016 more
Massive response to public consultation
The public consultation into the proposed new Lower Thames Crossing could have a big impact on the future of infrastructure in the South East. Kent PR and public affairs agency Maxim was involved in the campaign to encourage the business to community to have their say.
June, 2016 more
Evie Kennedy, a student at the University of Chester, describes her work experience at Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim.
May, 2016 more
How to prepare to face the television cameras
Being interviewed by the media can be a daunting experience, being interviewed on film can make it even more nerve-racking. Erica Jones of PR and marketing agency Maxim offers some advice to help you get it right.
May, 2016 more
Public relations versus marketing
What is the difference between public relations and marketing? Erica Jones of PR and marketing agency Maxim explains
April, 2016 more
The secret to organising a group photograph
Erica Jones of PR and marketing agency Maxim offers some advice on gathering up important people for that must-have group photograph.
March, 2016 more
University graduate is given an insight into public relations
Psychology graduate Kathleen Santer, 21, explains her week with Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim.
February, 2016 more
Parties, long lunches and the work of entertaining
PR isn’t all late nights and parties, and when it is they’re not quite as glamorous as you’d expect. Maxim PR senior account executive Erica Jones dispels the myths.
January, 2016 more
Volkswagen in reputational car crash
A good reputation is vital when it comes to business. Andrew Metcalf, director of Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim, considers the challenges now faced by Volkswagen’s PR team.
September, 2015 more
Canterbury Christ Church student Michelle Mochi, 20, spent 100 hours with Kent PR company Maxim to learn more about the PR industry as part of her work related learning module.
September, 2015 more
Preparing for public exhibitions
Public exhibitions are relatively easy events to organise: you book a hall, print out an information board or two and wait for visitors. However getting them right involves a little more work. Erica Jones of Kent PR and Marketing agency Maxim offers four tips to help make your event run more smoothly.
September, 2015 more
Student Isaac Dennis, 16, spent a week with Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim to find out more about the world of public relations.
July, 2015 more
FIFA scandal undermines brand of beautiful game
News of arrests at FIFA’s headquarters in Geneva by FBI agents sent the media into a frenzy of activity, calling into question the reputation of the beautiful game. Football fan Andy Rayfield considers some interesting questions.
May, 2015 more
Early engagement improves planning prospects
Getting embroiled in a battle with local residents is both costly and can significantly delay development on site. Developers need to get their community engagement right first time if they are to avoid a lengthy and expensive appeal.
September, 2014 more
Advertising and marketing student spends a week at Maxim
Student James Wilshaw spent a week at Kent PR and marketing agency Maxim before returning to university. Here he shares his thoughts on the experience.
September, 2014 more
Maxim produces tourism newspaper – read all about it
After more than a decade in newspapers Erica Jones thought she’d miss the excitement of a print deadline whooshing by. Then she was given the task of helping to produce The Summer Times – the perfect opportunity to utilise the skills of her previous career for the benefit of a client.
August, 2014 more
My name is Miles Atkinson, I’m 16 years old currently studying at The Skinners’ School and about to go into sixth form, having just finished my GCSEs.
July, 2014 more
What PR lessons can we draw from the World Cup?
Billions of people around the world switched on and saw Germany win the final of the World Cup. When selecting your PR agency there are a few football analogies that you can think about. Andy Rayfield, PR Manager at Maxim and Arsenal season ticket holder, considers the issue.
July, 2014 more
Gaining excellent PR experience for the future
Another summer of providing work experience to students kicks off with Chloe Choudray. Here she shares her thoughts on her week at Kent PR agency Maxim.
July, 2014 more
PR has to be earned - it’s not free
There is no such thing as free PR. Businesses who think that PR is free rarely, if ever, get the full benefit of it as a way of building trust and engaging with their customers.
June, 2014 more
How does PR link with digital?
Andrew Metcalf has recently spoken about the relationship between PR and digital at Digital in Kent and West Kent B2B. Here he outlines the lifecycle of a news story, from first tweeted rumour to full press coverage.
June, 2014 more
Time called on newspaper photographers
As one newspaper group announces it is phasing out photographers it's increasingly important you provide a good quality image with your press release. We offer some tips to get your picture past the editor
February, 2014 more
History Student inspired by Twentieth Century Marketing
History student Lucy Darbon, 20, gives an insight into why she was inspired to apply for work experience at Maxim.
January, 2014 more
How to prepare for a media interview
Imagine you have an interview with a journalist that could have a positive impact on your business, or perhaps mitigate the damage of a negative story – how should you prepare? Kent PR agency Maxim provides some top tips.
January, 2014 more
How to handle criticism on social media sites
Many organisations are fearful of receiving negative comments on sites such as Twitter and Facebook. Rachel Knight, who advises clients on social media at Kent PR agency Maxim, provides tips on how to handle criticism online.
January, 2014 more
Top tips to become a PR agency's perfect client
Over the years I have been fortunate enough to have worked with some great organisations but what makes the perfect client?
January, 2014 more
Marketing student learns more about public relations
Marketing student Amber Henshaw, 20, describes her week at Maxim.
September, 2013 more
A common sense guide to Twitter
Do you need a helping hand with Twitter? Here are a few helpful hints for businesses using the social network.
September, 2013 more
PR industry has own PR problem
Given that PR is all about developing and protecting reputations, why isn’t the industry bathed in glory? Andrew Metcalf, director at Kent PR agency Maxim, looks at the issues.
August, 2013 more
A psychology student's view of PR
Psychology student Megan Laverick-Smith, 20, provides an insight into her work experience at Kent PR agency Maxim.
July, 2013 more
James Eastcott, who has recently completed a degree at the University of Kent, shares his thoughts on his work experience at Maxim.
June, 2013 more
Timely challenge to influence Vatican
When Pope Benedict XVI surprised the world and resigned there was a rare opportunity for Roman Catholics seeking changes within the church to voice their opinions, spark debate and try to influence his successor. Find out how we helped.
May, 2013 more
My week with the wonderful Maxim team
Student Vita Vents spent a day a week with us over a couple of months, enabling her to gain a wider variety of experience than she would have in a single week. She shares her thoughts on her time at Maxim.
March, 2013 more
Findus fiasco is recipe for reputation damage
In the world of PR and crisis communications hindsight is a wonderful thing, especially when it comes to not falling at the first fence, as recently done by Findus.
March, 2013 more
Print versus online press coverage
Do you ever think about where your company news appears? Rachel Knight, Account Director at Maxim, considers the issues of print versus online.
February, 2013 more
Studying PR Vs working at Maxim
A second year public relations student at Leeds Metropolitan University shares her thoughts on how her studies compare to work experience at Maxim.
January, 2013 more
The visit of a government Minister can be a priceless endorsement for a business and help to raise its profile - take a look at recent examples.
December, 2012 more
Appointing a PR and marketing agency: where do you start? The first, and most important thing to do is develop and agree a brief, which is realistic, deliverable and above all is consistent with your company’s broader business plan.
December, 2012 more
Increasing your editorial profile?
Successful media relations isn't just about the news value of the individual story, it's also to do with how you present the story.
November, 2012 more
Survey shines spotlight on news consumption
Nearly a quarter of people (23%) now get their first daily news electronically via a tablet or smartphone.
September, 2012 more
Emma Cole, 20, a student at the University of Reading, has spent two weeks at Maxim learning about the world of PR. Here she shares her thoughts on the experience.
August, 2012 more
Ten questions to ask your prospective PR agency
You’ve spent hours developing the brief, despatched it to a number of prospective agencies, read their proposals and shortlisted the lucky three, or four, for interview – but what questions should you ask them when you see the whites of their eyes?
June, 2012 more
PR and Press - are we really so different?
It's the perennial question asked of journalists who leave the 'sanctity' of the newsdesk to join a PR agency: Why have you sold your soul and turned to the ‘dark side’? With many of the team at Maxim being former journalists we’re very aware of the 'them and us' attitude.
February, 2012 more
'Off the record' - does it really work?
Many believe that verbally agreeing with a journalist that their comments will be ‘Off the record’ means they won’t be quoted, and therefore will be protected. However, that’s not the case in today’s 24/7 news world, and arguably never has been.
February, 2012 more
Crisis comms must have sound foundations
Excellent communication with customers, stakeholders and investors is central to good crisis management. But too often now, poor comms delivery is being used as a smokescreen to avoid addressing much more serious business issues.
October, 2011 more
It is often the case that in business, as in life, the seemingly little things you do can make all the difference. Those who foster good relations with their neighbours or go out of their way to engage with the public are often rewarded with a raised profile and reinforced reputation.
September, 2011 more
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