Member Spotlight: Q&A with Jeff Corless, MBA
Posted on May. 3, 2023 / Member Spotlight / Subscribe 0
We’re continuing to celebrate members pursuing their APRs! This week please meet Jeffrey Corless, principal of Venture Strategic who is elevating his nearly two decades of PR experience by seeking his accreditation. With panel presentations right around the corner, wishing Jeffrey and all APR candidates the very best!
Q: Please tell us about you! Your job, etc.
I love talking with people! Eighteen years ago, I worked on my first freelance public relations project for a mixed-use development of a big box store and moderate, affordable housing. I reached out to surrounding small businesses to capture their support. Eleven years ago, I opened the doors of Venture Strategic, initially offering communications and media to political campaigns. Based on our experiences, I knew we had a value proposition for companies and organizations. Today, we are a full-service communications, media, and public relations firm servicing privately held and publicly traded companies, startups, government agencies, and non-profits in healthcare, transportation, aviation, retail convenience, and technology. Early in my career, I had the honor of advising several women leaders who broke the glass ceiling, including the former CEO of Hewlett Packard and two members of the California legislature – they profoundly shaped how I look at the world. I am the proud husband of Victoria for 17 years and father of 2 amazing kids. Outside of my crazy work schedule, I attend many little league games and Adventure Princess campouts!
Q: What encouraged you to pursue your APR?
I went to school for business. I earned a Master of Business Administration from Chapman University and a Bachelor of Business Administration (Management, Economics) from Loyola Marymount University. I missed the academic education in communications and public relations. Everything I have learned about this business to date has been through “baptism by fire.” I am pursuing the APR to enhance my knowledge, better myself, evolve my perspective, and learn new insights from my peers. It's one of the best decisions I have ever made.
Q: What’s your favorite piece of advice for PR professionals?
Relationships are gold - treasure them. As humans, we thrive on our connections with others. How we deal with them determines what they mean to us, and what we mean to them. Bring people together. Listen carefully. Decide thoughtfully. Be compassionate!
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