HABITS: Andy Polansky, president, Weber Shandwick
Morning ritual
First, try to remember what city I am in. Then two cups of coffee while checking e-mails to see if that jogs my memory. Check in with Carla, my long-time executive assistant, who sets me on the right track every day.
Required reading
The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and then articles and posts from a wide range of other international sources, such as the Financial Times and International Herald Tribune/The Asahi Shimbun on my tablet computer. (I certainly try not to spill coffee on the tablet computer.)
First PR job
An AAE at Bozell & Jacobs Public Relations.
Most distinct aspect of your personal office
The giant stuffed giraffe, of course.
Best career advice you've ever given
Intellectual curiosity is going to take you far, inside and outside any work environment. You need to listen a lot, read a lot, and write a lot. Always take the initiative and have some fun as you go along.
Proudest career achievement
Working with my colleagues from around the world to merge three companies with distinct cultures into one dynamic, collaborative enterprise that will celebrate 10 years as Weber Shandwick in 2011.
Most regrettable career moment
Showing up in a three-piece suit at a southern California construction site where I was asked to write an article about paving equipment. It got a little sticky out there, in many respects.
Person to call in a crisis
My wife and/or my two sons because they all keep me grounded, which is an important thing in any crisis.
Mentor and why
My brother Ron, who introduced me to great music, the New York Yankees, and the New York Giants.
Favorite cities to travel to for business
Beijing and Shanghai. China has a wonderful energy, a fascinating history, interesting people, and great business opportunities.
Ideal job, if not in PR
University professor, longing for the good 'ol days, especially after hearing about my older son's experiences at college.
Morning ritual
First, try to remember what city I am in. Then two cups of coffee while checking e-mails to see if that jogs my memory. Check in with Carla, my long-time executive assistant, who sets me on the right track every day.
Required reading
The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and then articles and posts from a wide range of other international sources, such as the Financial Times and International Herald Tribune/The Asahi Shimbun on my tablet computer. (I certainly try not to spill coffee on the tablet computer.)
First PR job
An AAE at Bozell & Jacobs Public Relations.
Most distinct aspect of your personal office
The giant stuffed giraffe, of course.
Best career advice you've ever given
Intellectual curiosity is going to take you far, inside and outside any work environment. You need to listen a lot, read a lot, and write a lot. Always take the initiative and have some fun as you go along.
Proudest career achievement
Working with my colleagues from around the world to merge three companies with distinct cultures into one dynamic, collaborative enterprise that will celebrate 10 years as Weber Shandwick in 2011.
Most regrettable career moment
Showing up in a three-piece suit at a southern California construction site where I was asked to write an article about paving equipment. It got a little sticky out there, in many respects.
Person to call in a crisis
My wife and/or my two sons because they all keep me grounded, which is an important thing in any crisis.
Mentor and why
My brother Ron, who introduced me to great music, the New York Yankees, and the New York Giants.
Favorite cities to travel to for business
Beijing and Shanghai. China has a wonderful energy, a fascinating history, interesting people, and great business opportunities.
Ideal job, if not in PR
University professor, longing for the good 'ol days, especially after hearing about my older son's experiences at college.
