In Conversation with Christina Zervanos
Tell us about your background:
I am an established public relations professional specializing in brand messaging, storytelling, and copywriting. I prioritize connecting the dots of the brand story across verticals (trade, business, lifestyle) to create a story which resonates and is remembered. I pointedly leverage my expertise to create and execute press initiatives, thought-leadership programs, and marketing strategies. Throughout my career, which has spanned agency to independent consultancy, I've worked across fashion, beauty, health/wellness, design, travel, and tech. Essentially, my passions in life mirror my professional portfolio.
I live an international life (NY, Paris, Milan, Lisbon, Dubai, Mumbai), which has been a great motivator in the markets I wish to pursue, the stories I strive to tell and the creatives and thought-leaders I prioritize working with. My pursuit of cross-cultural understanding between markets (western and eastern) is paramount and pivotal when working to introduce brands to foreign markets.
I am deeply committed to raising the profile of women in business, women of color and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I've completed a gender and diversity training certification as well.
What do you wish you’d known when you started out?
I wish I knew and appreciated earlier on that conforming makes you less interesting. Sure, there are common denominators of success, of storytelling, and certainly tried and true method in building your network. However, finding that common thread, nurturing genuine connection, is what will keep you top of mind. Lean into your personal attributes. It is your unique background which offers distinct perspective. It is yours, and yours alone, and therefore harnesses powerful insight.
Best career advice you've ever received?
I was encouraged to use my inherent empathy and emotional intelligence to help successfully identify the touch points of any brand and/ or founder story. I was reminded my international life, and therefore broad cultural understanding, is uncommon and therefore promotes a natural propensity to think universally in message development, campaign conception, event curation, international pitching and influencer relations.
What leadership qualities are important to you?
Showcasing respect, interest, intention, follow-through, out-of-the-box thinking; being a good listener, direct and constructive.
What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?
A reckoning with the lack of deep appreciation for artistry when it comes to commercial appeal.
And for fun, what is your favorite wardrobe staple?
Silk slip dress.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-zervanos-8805bb20/
Website: http://www.christinazervanos.com
Instagram: @christina_ameera
