Member Spotlight: Taylor Crawley
1. Tell me a little about yourself.
I’m a PR and marketing professional, proud Drake grad and a new mom!
2. What drew you to public relations in the first place?
I enjoyed the classes in college and the type of work really seemed to match my natural strengths, my interests and my personality. I enjoy that every day is different and there are constantly new trends or technologies rising to learn about. Growing up and still to this day, I enjoy news reporting, morning shows and the journalism parallels to PR as well.
3. What has your career path looked like? What is your current role?
After I graduated from Drake, I started off in a more traditional PR role with an agency in Des Moines and enjoyed the opportunity to do a lot of hands-on work with media relations, content strategy and event planning. I then moved to another agency into a more hybrid marketing and communications role, onboarding a new account that would grow to be one of the agency's largest. I learned so much and managed a wide variety of projects, such as product launches, tradeshows, brand campaigns and dealer marketing. I think everyone in communications and marketing should work in an agency environment at some point in their career, as it’s such a good opportunity to learn a lot and try new things. There is so much creativity in our Des Moines agencies!
Now, I lead the marketing and communications for Berkley Agribusiness, located in Urbandale. I’m the first dedicated, specialized resource focused on this work for the company, which has been an exciting challenge to create a strategic direction and have the opportunity to get involved in a lot of projects across our small but mighty organization.
4. How did you get involved with PRSA Iowa?
I was active in PRSSA at Drake and when I graduated it was a natural progression to join the chapter. I’ve also been incredibly fortunate to have employers who have been very supportive of my membership, attending events and serving on the board. I’ve held some sort of leadership role with the chapter since then and it’s been a great way to meet and learn from professionals in our communications community.
Mistakes are inevitable – take the time to learn from them and move forward, don’t let the guilt of the mistake keep you from trying again.
6. What do you like to do in your free time?
I’m an amateur baker and enjoy spending time in the kitchen – right now I’m on a mission to find the best homemade cinnamon roll recipe. We also enjoy spending time outside as a family and the many parks and trails Des Moines has to offer.
