Founder, WordsWork Communications Consulting Co-chair of Sports Committee, FICCI
Let’s Get Inspired
In Conversation with Neha Mathur Rastogi
– Preeti Juneja
Q. What motivated you to pursue a career in PR? Tell us your story.
I was always fascinated by the power of the written word. I wanted a career that was both creative but also with exposure to the corporate world. After narrowing my interest largely to mass communications, I did a couple of internships during my undergraduate to narrow my interest in PR. From there on, I chose to specialise in PR for a postgraduate course and have never looked back for over 20 years. To a certain extent you need to be built to suit this industry.
If you thrive in building connections and have a knack for being a people person, this career would be ideal for you.
Q In your view, how is PR and Digital Marketing related?
As the communications industry evolves, the lines between PR and digital marketing are definitely getting blurred. There is an inherent symbiotic relation between the two, and hence, it is wise to align both to build a holistic communications strategy.
Q. What are the best practices for posting news on social media?
The most critical aspect of news in social media is that it needs to be highly current and relevant. Beyond a particular shelf life, news loses relevance on social media very quickly compared to traditional mediums.
Typically, when we post news on social media, a link back to the story if on a digital medium is suitable; a carousel of high-quality and legible print stories is also an excellent way to do a ‘media watch’ format post. We also do Linkbacks to the publication’s social media handles.
Q. Do you have a role model within your industry who has inspired you? How has that person influenced and inspired you?
Ms Prema Sagar has been a long-term influence in my life. I am impressed by her ability to balance an incredible career with grace and dignity. Additionally, I am super impressed with Mr. Madan Bahal from Ad Factors. Building such a formidable independent firm quietly and growing beyond global standards is extremely impressive.
Q. What advice would you offer to young individuals interested in joining this profession?
If you’re someone who enjoys a healthy balance between creativity and a corporate environment, PR could be the perfect career for you. In this industry, we value people with fortitude and a can-do attitude. While media knowledge, writing skills, and client management capabilities can be acquired, those with excellent people skills have a distinct advantage.
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Do you have a question for Neha Mathur Rastogi ? Write to us at preeti.juneja@dreamwebindia.com
About Author
Neha Mathur Rastogi
Neha Mathur Rastogi, the Founder of WordsWork Communications Consulting, brings over 18 years of expertise in public relations, corporate brand communications, and media planning. As the strategic and content lead for all WordsWork clients, Neha excels at client service and consistently exceeds expectations.
She established WordsWork in 2009 and has quickly led impactful communications campaigns across lifestyle, corporate, public diplomacy, and sports sectors. With a strong background in sports, Neha has represented the Indian Olympic Association and several national federations, including those for Hockey and Football.
Her extensive experience includes managing public diplomacy efforts for the Embassy of the Netherlands – Foreign Investment Agency and the Embassy of France. She has also directed thought leadership campaigns for Thomson Reuters and the PHD Chamber of Commerce.
Neha’s public relations career began at Genesis Burson-Marsteller in India and continued with Burson-Marsteller in London.