Kalika Hastings has elevated many of your favorite brands, artists and business alike, landing features with major media outlets across the country. Her expertise extends far beyond public relations, offering an extensive range of services to help build and develop your organization in several ways.
There are so many aspects of the entertainment industry. What was it about public relations that interested you?
I love the fact that I get to be in the action but still behind the scenes at the same time. I’m a huge advocate for the clients I work with and I love to watch them shine and share their gifts with as many people as possible and to be able to leave an impact. The more they succeed, the happier I am.
How did your career as a publicist begin?
After completing my Bachelor’s degree in Communications Studies, I went on to pursue a Graduate Diploma in Public Relations and Communications Management. While completing that program, I was offered a position as an account executive at a PR agency in my city (Montreal). It was a great experience, and I learned a lot. I’ve always wanted to be an entrepreneur, and I got my first experience as the co-founder of my first business, a creative agency called B Scene Media Inc. Once the pandemic hit, I decided to launch my own PR agency, KHPR. Today, I work with notable influencers, artists and athletes, as well as senior executives and CEOs across Canada and the United States.
Who are some of the people and brands you have represented?
I’ve been fortunate to work with some incredible people. To name a few, A$AP 12vy from A$AP Mob, American businesswoman, actress and socialite Shantel Jackson, Shoe Gummi LLC., Canadian-Nigerian R&B Pop singer Stephen Voyce, R&B Pop singer Pisceze, rising Atlanta rapper J. Lock, celebrity hairstylists Ted Gibson and Jason Backe, a sports marketing and talent agency called Playmaker including their executives and athletes on their roster such as Nate Robinson, Xavien Howard and NBA legend Tracy McGrady also used my services.
Public relations is a very misunderstood field. What are some services you offer?
Today’s public relations landscape is so versatile. As an entrepreneur and publicist, I wear many different hats. The roles I take on are unique to me and my particular strengths. Other publicists may or may not offer the same services. I do everything from media relations, business development, branding, speaking and awards management, social media and digital marketing, partnerships and event bookings.
Even public figures like Jay-Z and Beyoncé have publicists. Do you think everyone should have representation?
Hiring a publicist can be extremely beneficial to getting your story out to the public, but also connecting with your audience and helping with your brand reputation. It’s important to remember that PR makes up one part of the larger branding and marketing initiatives that any artist, influencer, entrepreneur or athlete should consider developing. A publicist will help get you the recognition you deserve. We are actively looking out for media and business opportunities on your behalf. We are here to help strategize your rollout and plan for upcoming projects and events.
Have you ever had to turn a potential client away? If so, why?
Yes. Sometimes it’s simply because of my bandwidth, but as I expand my team, we’ll be able to take on more clients. There have been times where I felt they weren’t ready for PR and should focus instead on their professional development. Other times, our values or personalities don’t align. I’m big on energy and I can tell early on if we’ll be a good team or not.
What are some things an artist should have before hiring a publicist?
They should have a great work ethic and a good body of complete work that they’re ready to share with the world. They should have some direction in terms of their marketing strategies for their single/album release and be active on social media working on building an organic and engaged fanbase.
Describe the number one rule in reaching out for media coverage.
The number one rule would be to do your research and find out what topics the journalist is writing about before sending them a pitch. Also, polite persistence is an important aspect of effective media relations. Sometimes a journalist has too much on their plate at the time you send them a pitch so they don’t reply or sometimes they simply aren’t interested in covering your story. By following up a few days after the first pitch, you can find out whether there might be an opportunity in the future or not.
Would you like to offer any advice to any aspiring publicist reading this interview?
My advice would be to work with clients who you genuinely like and believe in. Do your research in terms of the business components of PR. Understand your pricing models and how to charge for your services and the value you bring. Also, do more than expected whenever possible.
How can anyone interested in obtaining your services contact you?
I’d love to hear from you! You can reach out on Instagram @kalikahastings or by email media@kalikahastings.com.
Be’n Original
