Embracing Authenticity: The Journey of a Publicist Who Breaks the Mold

Katrina Owens invites us to rethink titles, challenge stereotypes, and embrace the authenticity that makes each of us unique. It’s not just about being a publicist; it’s about being a publicist who defies expectations, leads with warmth, and inspires others to do the same.

In the dynamic realm of public relations, titles carry weight, but for Katrina Owens, the founder of Knockout Directive, they don’t define her. In an exclusive narrative, Katrina shares the nuances of her journey, unraveling why being labeled a ‘publicist’ never quite captured the essence of who she is.

Finding My Path: Defying Publicist Stereotypes

I remember the first time a potential client referred to me as a ‘publicist’, and my immediate reaction was to correct her. I didn’t, because she was actively looking for public relations services, and that’s what I offered. I didn’t want to confuse her and lose her business, after all, I was passionate about the work. But I couldn’t relate to the title, and often opted for ‘consultant’ instead.

I fought against this title simply because I couldn’t relate to the very distinct ‘publicist’ image that had been cultivated in my brain since I first discovered PR when I was 16. I grew up watching The Hills and The City on MTV, and pictured publicists as leather jacket-wearing, aggressive, and even a bit mean, beings, and I couldn’t be further away from that persona (although I do love a great leather jacket). 

Beyond Titles: The Authenticity of a Consultant

While disciplined and determined, I take pride in defying the industry’s fast-talking expectations. My consultancy is a haven for passionate service providers and lifestyle brands seeking a unique market position. Yet, I hesitated to embrace my own uniqueness, caught in the conflict between authenticity and the lingering image of a stereotypical publicist.

You see, by not using the word ‘publicist’ to define myself, I didn’t have to pretend to have the qualities that I thought you needed to successfully do the job. While I’m extremely disciplined and determined to achieve results for my clients, I take pride in my warm energy and friendly demeanor —  it’s what I’m known for. But the fast-talking media industry can often leave you feeling like your energy needs to match the expectation. 

Breaking Through Fears: A Coach’s Revelation

My Consultancy is founded on helping passionate service providers and lifestyle brands define their unique position in the market. I literally help other women define what makes them different, and strategize how they can use these traits to amplify their business. But while I can so easily coach others on harnessing the power of their differences, I shied away from mine. My inner 16-year old was still hoping I’d layer on the black eyeliner and drop a few f-bombs the next time a pitch didn’t go my way. I thought there was no way the feminine and bubbly consultant could be taken seriously as an actual publicist.

When I work with my clients on their publicity strategies, I notice that most of their fears of pitching themselves to podcasts and publications are rooted in imposter syndrome, or feeling like they aren’t established enough to speak on stages. For every woman I work with, I know this to be false, as we live in a BIG world, with countless opportunities available for everyone. The stumbling block is finding the confidence to say: “this one’s for me, and here’s why.”

Leading with Authenticity: A Resolution for the New Year

So as we kick off a new year, for once, I’m taking my own advice. If I want to continue to empower women to release their fear of self-promotion and publicity, then I must lead by example and nurture my brand based on its distinctiveness too. We all do things a little differently, and we all have a unique story to tell. Mine comes from the perspective of a Publicist – just one that’s not like all the others.

To find more about Katrina and her work, visit: www.knockoutdirective.com