|
Donna Michaels was a Finalist in The 2009 American Business Awards for Public Relations Executive of the Year; and in the 2009 Stevie Awards for Women in Business for Best Entrepreneur/Public Relations. Loughlin/Michaels Group has nominated several clients for Stevie Award recognition.
 What book are you currently reading?
Meatball Sundae: Is Your Marketing out of Sync?
by Seth Godin, which is both a practical and a humorous look at how companies can improve their marketing moxie.
What was the last movie you saw, and would you recommend it?
Everyone likes an underdog and the move Crazy Heart is a fantastic film about self discovery and personal triumph. I think these are two traits that make for great leaders in the business world.
What is your favorite sport or hobby?
My son is a gymnast and I really admire his skill and dedication to the sport. There’s a lot of sacrifice made in the gym but it also translates to excellence in academics.
Who is your favorite historical figure?
I admire leaders that have made great sacrifices in their life like the Dalai Lama and Mother Theresa. Their ability to dedicate a lifetime to nurturing others is admirable.
Who is your favorite living person?
This is a tough one, but I’m impressed by the work that former Presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter are doing in the charity, non-profit, and international relations sectors. They have both proven to be extremely valuable in their post-presidency roles.
If you could choose another profession, what would it be?
Originally I was a journalist. I then migrated to public relations, which I think is the ideal career for me. Now I’m spending a great deal of time mentoring the next generation of PR students at various universities and as a result, while I’ve found that I’m a natural-born leader and teacher, I’m also learning a great deal from them.
What quality or qualities do you most value in your business associates?
Integrity and ethics are two qualities that are essential--plus a great sense of humor, which can go a long way to making challenging situations a lot less daunting.
What do you think is the worst bad habit to have at work?
Inflexibility. You must be agile in the work environment: It will prepare you for diverse business situations and make it easier to overcome obstacles.
Is there anything you'd like to improve about your own work practices?
Less email and more in-person meetings.
As someone at the top of your profession, what keeps you inspired or makes you hit the ground running in the morning?
I’m inspired daily by my team of professionals and their contagious enthusiasm for communications, especially in the use of social media. The ability to blend the Internet, video, and social platforms has allowed us to propel our clients’ communications programs forward more quickly.
What do you consider has been your greatest achievement in business?
Starting my own business in a down economy in 2002 was risky, but I’ve been reaping the rewards ever since.
What advice or useful tip would you give to someone who is just starting out in business?
“Risk, challenge, and reward,” which has been my daily mantra.
About Donna Michaels:
Donna Michaels, President & Founder of Loughlin/Michaels Group, is known for her results-oriented PR programs, dedication to her clients, and constant enthusiasm for technology. Both C-level management and venture capitalist have praised her for the innovative public relations programs that have strengthened brands, catapulted companies to market leadership, secured loyal customer following, and driven revenue.
Prior to establishing the Loughlin/Michaels Group in 2002, Michaels spent 17 years directing communications programs for technology firms both on the corporate and agency side. She worked for global PR firms Burson-Marsteller and Edelman Public Relations handling accounts in technology and consumer tech markets. Michaels was instrumental in taking Telebit (Acquired by Cisco), Concentric (acquired by XO Communications), NetManage (acquired by Microfocus), Exodus Communications (acquired by Cable and Wireless), and NetScaler (acquired by Citrix) from start-up to leadership status prior to forming her own agency. Earlier in her career she was a news reporter and editor.
Michaels holds a Master’s in journalism from the University of California, Berkeley and a Bachelor’s in marketing and advertising from San Jose State University. In 2009, the Silicon Valley Business Journal named her one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Business. She is a member of the Forum for Women Entrepreneurs and Executives and serves on the Public Relations Society of America’s technology practice committee.
About the Loughlin/Michaels Group:
The Loughlin/Michaels Group, established 2002, is an award-winning public relations agency specializing in strategic communications that deliver results. The firm has a proven track record of success working with companies at all stages of development, from start up to category leadership. Its proprietary Systematic Communications (SysCom™) approach combines the art and science of influence to quickly yield exceptional results. Through a team of seasoned public relations professionals, the firm offers a full range of PR and social media services with a hands-on approach. The Loughlin/Michaels Group services North America and has strategic partners in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. More information at www.lmgpr.com. |
The Stevie® Awards today issued a call for entries for the Seventh Annual 
