‘Nobody is responsible for your career trajectory apart from you’

Name: Tariq Peters
Job title and company: Freelance PR consultant and personal branding coach
Location: London, UK
Time in PR: 7 years

What does your current role involve?
I craft and implement bespoke PR strategies designed to empower entrepreneurs, SMEs, and startups. My focus is on fostering meaningful relationships, elevating reputations, and amplifying voices to drive sustainable growth and long-term success.

I work closely with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and early-career professionals to define their unique value propositions, enhance their visibility, and unlock growth opportunities through impactful personal branding strategies.

What do you love most about working in public relations?
What I have always loved about working in public relations is the ability to amplify a client’s story and provide strategic support and guidance that helps a business or individual become more visible to the public. A great product or service can only go so far if people don’t know it exists. PR bridges that gap.

Incorporating my passion for personal branding into this work has been especially rewarding. It’s incredible to help individuals build the confidence to position themselves as authorities in their field, communicate their unique values, and ultimately achieve professional growth.

What's been the highlight of your career so far?    
One of the standout moments in my career was being recognised on PR Week’s 30 Under 30 list in 2021. At the time, I said my five-year goal was to continue helping aspiring PR practitioners while advancing in my career, proving that anything is possible with the right opportunity.

Reflecting on that moment, I’m proud to have stayed true to that path, mentoring early-career talent and helping them take their first steps into the PR industry.

How long have you been a member and what made you join?    
I’ve been a CIPR member since 2022, joining during my time at the PR agency Hard Numbers. The agency’s founders, Darryl Sparey and Paul Stollery, were incredibly forward-thinking in their commitment to professional development. They prioritised up-skilling the team and ensuring those who wanted to thrive in the industry had access to resources like CIPR membership.

How does the CIPR support your career?    
The CIPR has been instrumental in supporting my growth as a PR professional. As an independent practitioner, the organisation’s vast library of resources has been particularly invaluable, helping me refine my skills and stay updated with industry best practices.

Best piece of career advice you’ve been given?
The best advice I’ve received is that “nobody is responsible for your career trajectory apart from you”. Accountability is key. It empowers you to take control of your growth and navigate the steps needed to improve.

When aiming for a promotion or pay rise, it’s not just about being good at your job or likeable; it’s about being intentional. You need to clearly articulate your goals, back them up with tangible evidence of your achievements, and demonstrate why you deserve to be considered. Strong negotiation skills paired with intentionality are essential for achieving career success.

Further reading: Blogs written by Tariq

• Silencing self-doubt: How to overcome imposter syndrome
• Avoid these seven common personal branding mistakes and pitfalls

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT JOINING THE CIPR   

Take the next step in your PR career and become a member. The CIPR is a supportive and inclusive community where everyone can connect, thrive and grow. Join the CIPR today.