Samantha Frontera – Founder & CEO of Exclusive Public Relations

 

I would say do the things that you fear the most. That is one concept that will get you the farthest in life.

Samantha Frontera is a lifestyle expert and founder/CEO of Exclusive Public Relations (EPR). She is an expert in all things video, press, and media relations and has been in the industry for several years. She is also a contributor on local Chicago outlets including WCIU & Fox Morning Show.

Where did the idea for Exclusive PR come from?

Exclusive PR was an idea that came from wanting to offer affordable services for startups. I wanted to create a company that works with local small businesses in Chicago and global brands as well.

What does your typical day look like and how do you make it productive?

My typical day is having my coffee first and then going through social media, news feeds, and e-mails regarding my clients. Then I write my to-do list. I examine what we need to do for our clients and then divide up tasks.

How do you bring ideas to life?

I bring ideas to life by collaborating with others. Running ideas by my peers, industry insiders, and also by ensuring that I let my staff and interns assist with the creative process.

What’s one trend that really excites you?

Video is a very exciting trend as we are seeing it more and more. I believe that soon in PR, we will send video pitches to journalists instead of actual e-mails.

What is one habit of yours that makes you more productive as an entrepreneur?

One habit is that I never give up. No matter how many bumps I have hit in my career, I always get back up. Sounds easy but not an easy task.

What advice would you give your younger self?

I would say do the things that you fear the most. That is one concept that will get you the farthest in life. When I was 24 my dad and I went on a road trip as I was determined to become a broadcaster. I actually ended up getting a job in Missouri in market 201 and then advanced to other markets. However, if you know anything about TV-that is starting small, but it was something I should have done when I was 21 or 22. Fear held me back.

Tell us something that’s true that almost nobody agrees with you on?

That giving the younger generation a chance is your best asset at success. Most people in the market think a 19 or 21-year-old, do not know anything but those that are younger than me are the ones with the best ideas.

As an entrepreneur, what is the one thing you do over and over and recommend everyone else do?

If you cannot go through the front door, go through the side door. Specifically, for what I do, there is always a way to get a client coverage, you just need to be creative about it. Also, where there is a will there is a way.

What is one strategy that has helped you grow your business? Please explain how.

I joined women’s forums and a co-working space, and they started to recommend me quite a bit. This was a great way for me to become well-known in my network. I suggest whatever your industry is, join Facebook groups and forums and start connecting with others.

What is one failure you had as an entrepreneur, and how did you overcome it?

When I first launched, I really wanted to have all my ducks in a row. Well- that does not always happen typically when you launch a startup. Therefore, you need to create a master plan and stick to it. I overcame it by falling on my face. That is how life is…we try something and then we fall head-first into failure. Failure is something that is fine as long as you get back up. I overcame it by re-calculating my steps and taking a break from my own business and coming back to it with a ‘master plan.’

What is one business idea that you’re willing to give away to our readers?

I think a business geared around a community that offers everything at your fingertips will continue to rise. We see them in retirement homes but not in an actual modern community. When I want to go to my gym or grocery store I spend hours traveling in the city — it is a nightmare. Communities that have a grocery store, gym, classes, office spaces, and more literally two feet away will become more popular in the future.

What is the best $100 you recently spent? What and why?

I spent it on my sister for her birthday and it made her happy. Making others happy before your own happiness is sometimes the best route to go, but never forget yourself in that process.

What is one piece of software or a web service that helps you be productive? How do you use it?

I love Asana — it helps you organize your tasks but not in an annoying Basecamp sort of way.

What is the one book that you recommend our community should read and why?

I would say “Girl Boss”.. This is for all my females out there. We need as much support if not more from our peers and men.

What is your favorite quote?

“If you don’t believe in yourself who will?” Just something I blended from a few other quotes. I think it is important to have confidence and lead with that. Many people will try and bring you down in life, but you simply cannot let them.

Key Learnings

• I would say do the things that you fear the most. That is one concept that will get you the farthest in life.
• No matter how many bumps I have hit in my career, I always get back up.
• Making others happy before your own happiness is sometimes the best route to go, but never forget yourself in that process.
• If you cannot go through the front door, go through the side door.

Connect:

www.exclusive-pr.com
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Exclusive Public Relations on twitter: https://twitter.com/eprchicago