'The best PR career advice I received? Double your fee'

Name: John Wilkinson
Job title and company: Owner, Scruffy Dog PR 
Location: Cardiff, Cymru
Time in PR: 32 years

What does your current role involve?
As interim strategic advisor I add focus, energy and pace to boards and leadership teams facing crisis and reputations under pressure. 

What do you love most about working in public relations?
Well defined and planned PR activity can give a voice to a whole host of stakeholders and partners, to help the organisation listen, learn and communicate. Two ears and one mouth. 

What's been the highlight of your career so far?
Still being in business after the banking crash, austerity, the pandemic, and numerous reboots. Relaunching [Wilkinson PR] as Scruffy Dog and telling our story has been fun too. 

How long have you been a member and what made you join?
I have been a member since 1997 but took a break when the offer in early 2000 was not what I was looking for. I wanted to learn from my peers and meet a diverse group, so the expansion beyond agencies has been crucial to that. 

How does the CIPR support your career?
As a solo advisor, the network around me has been crucial to my wellbeing. I have committed to learning and development, with achieving Chartered status and honoured as a Fellow being the highlights.

Best piece of career advice you’ve been given?
Double your fee. If you lose half your clients, you’re still better off.

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT JOINING THE CIPR  

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