Leaders

In today's era, women leaders are stepping up as key contributors in steering businesses towards success. Among them is Kavya Baburaj, Founder & CEO of Social PR, driven by a passion for storytelling and perceptions. She navigated from Corporate Communication to establishing Social PR, meeting the rising demand for online visibility during the pandemic. Kavya's leadership spans across strategic vision and client relations, as she thrives on challenges, prioritizing learning and diversity. Her journey emphasizes the importance of vision, integrity, and resilience in PR's dynamic realm. Let’s hear more from her.

Could you walk us through your educational history? What motivated you to pursue a career in PR and communications?

I earned my Masters in Public Relations at Stella Maris College, Chennai. I've long been intrigued by communication's ability to mold perceptions and sway choices. The PR and Communications realm is renowned for its dynamic nature and multifaceted hurdles, offering a constantly evolving landscape that captivates someone like me, who thrives on creativity and ongoing education. Its expansive reach and crucial societal impact solidified my decision to pursue a career in this field.

Could you share your extensive professional experience in the PR industry with us? What were some of the most significant lessons you learned during this time?

In my over a decade-long tenure in the PR industry, I've gleaned invaluable insights, highlighting the indispensability of relationship building, adaptability, and effective communication. With the PR landscape continually shifting, embracing ongoing education and staying attuned to industry advancements through workshops, conferences, and staying informed about emerging tools and strategies is imperative. From a focus primarily on media relations when I embarked on my career, the field has evolved significantly, encompassing diverse verticals such as influencer marketing, online campaigns, and brand activations, underscoring the necessity of adapting to these changes to remain efficacious.

What inspired the creation of Social PR? Could you elaborate on the core concept driving its establishment and outline its primary areas of expertise?

After working in the corporate sector, I returned to my hometown of Kochi, Kerala from the Middle East. With the onset of the pandemic, I noticed a surge in demand and began receiving requests from friends and acquaintances, particularly small businesses and startups, seeking assistance with logo design, branding, and social media management. Recognizing the pivotal role of online visibility in today's digital landscape, I initially focused on serving these clients.

Through positive referrals and increasing demand, I formalized the venture as Social PR, registering it as a company and assembling a team to cater to clients' growing needs. Drawing from my experience with global brands like DHL and IHG Group of Hotels, our mission evolved to provide comprehensive digital and PR services encompassing branding, performance marketing, and hosting curated events.

What roles and duties do you undertake in your capacity as the Founder and CEO of Social PR?

In my capacity as the Founder and CEO of Social PR, my responsibilities span setting strategic direction, managing daily operations, and ensuring alignment with our mission. I actively drive business development, cultivate client relationships, and pursue new partnerships. Financial management, nurturing a positive work culture, and fostering team growth are also key facets of my role. Above all, I prioritize client satisfaction and actively engage in delivering top-notch services.

What do you consider to be some of the most pressing challenges faced by PR leaders in today's business environment? How do you approach overcoming these obstacles?

As someone passionate about PR in today's fast-paced business world, I face challenges such as keeping pace with the constantly evolving digital landscape, managing sudden crises effectively, and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion within my team. To tackle these hurdles, I emphasize staying updated on technological advancements, preparing preemptively for crises, and cultivating an inclusive workplace environment that respects and embraces diverse viewpoints.

Could you shed some insight on the most sig­nificant professional milestone you've reached during your career journey? Additionally, what has been the guiding principle behind your success throughout the years?

Venturing into entrepreneurship solo, without financial backing or mentorship, brought numerous challenges. Introducing influencer marketing as a potent strategy in Kerala marked the pinnacle of my career. The enduring and positive response since Social PR's inception has been remarkable. I attribute my success to relentless hard work, strategic planning, unwavering dedication, and resilience. As a female Founder and CEO, prioritizing tasks, making informed decisions swiftly, and maintaining integrity are paramount. Success in this fast-paced industry hinges on embracing one's vision and fostering resilience.

Kavya Baburaj, Founder & CEO, Social PR

Kavya Baburaj is the Founder & CEO of Social PR, pioneering influencer marketing in Kerala's business landscape. With a relentless spirit and strategic vision, she navigates challenges, shaping the company's success. Kavya's dedication, resilience, and innovative approach have positioned her as a trailblazer in the dynamic world of PR.