A trailblazer in the realm of Marketing & Public Relations, Lisa Elkan. With a wealth of experience spanning over fifteen years, Lisa is the founder of Lisa PR, a company she established in 2012 to address a specific need in the industry. A proud UCLA graduate, Lisa specializes in legal marketing, showcasing her unique skill set and unwavering commitment to her clients.
Lisa’s journey began with a dream job at Guthy-Renker, a prestigious infomercial company, where she delved into marketing and product development in the health and fitness department. This experience laid the foundation for her multifaceted expertise. Later, she seamlessly transitioned into the legal marketing niche, working for two successful boutique Los Angeles law firms. We at CIO Global, are proud to have Lisa Elkan as one of the Influential Women in PR, 2023.
Driven by a passion for her craft, Lisa recognized a growing demand for her skills as professionals sought her expertise in marketing and PR. In response, she founded Lisa PR in 2012, a decision that marked the beginning of her entrepreneurial adventure.
Lisa Elkan’s impact in the field has not gone unnoticed. Her clients, featured in esteemed publications from the LA Times to The Wall Street Journal, have garnered numerous accolades. Notably, Lisa herself has received prestigious awards, including the 2023 Los Angeles Times B2B ‘CEO Visionary’ and the 2023 NWR’s Legal Elite Awards ‘Best Law Firm PR Specialist’ in California. Her recognition extends to the 2023 UCLA ‘Bruin Business 100’ honoree and the 2022 San Fernando Valley Business Journal’s Women’s Leadership Awards ‘Women to Watch’ Finalist.
“The merging of my personal and professional values and goals is what makes me unique.” – Lisa Elkan’s recognition of the intertwining of personal and professional elements in her career highlights her authenticity and distinctiveness in the competitive field of marketing and PR.
Lisa’s influence extends beyond her professional achievements. She has been invited to speak at various prestigious events and institutions, sharing her insights on growing businesses through marketing and PR. Her audience includes USC Law School Alumni, UCLA Anderson School Alumni, and the Beverly Hills Bar Association, among others.
“At Lisa PR: Our Business is Getting You Business” encapsulates Lisa’s firm’s commitment to achieving tangible results for clients. Her personal motto, “Always do your best and be a good person,” reflects the values that drive her professionally and personally. The integration of these values sets Lisa apart, making her a unique force in the competitive world of marketing and public relations.
Family Values and Early Influences:
Lisa Elkan’s journey is deeply rooted in family values and early influences. Her parents, who celebrated over 50 years of marriage, instilled in her the importance of education, hard work, kindness, and reaching for the stars. Lisa’s connection to UCLA, her alma mater, is not just academic but familial, with her parents having met there. Their unwavering support paved the way for Lisa’s pursuit of excellence. During her time at UCLA, Lisa found inspiration in a mentor who played a pivotal role in shaping her career path. The late Art Wrubel, then Professor of Marketing at UCLA Extension, became Lisa’s guide, sparking her interest in marketing and eventually leading her journey into the dynamic world of PR.
Advice for Aspiring Women Professionals:
For aspiring women professionals eyeing a career in PR, Lisa offers practical advice based on her own experiences:
Internships Matter: Secure internships early on to gain hands-on experience and explore diverse facets of PR.
Seek Mentors: Find a mentor or shadow someone in your desired position. Alumni networks can be a valuable resource in this pursuit.
Network Actively: Join industry-related networking groups to expand your knowledge and connect with professionals in the field.
“At Lisa PR: Our Business is Getting You Business” – Lisa Elkan’s firm tagline reflects her unwavering commitment to achieving tangible results for her clients, showcasing the essence of her professional ethos.
Balancing Act:
Acknowledging the challenges of balancing a fast-paced PR career with her personal life, Lisa finds satisfaction in the flexibility of being a business owner. Crafting her own schedule empowers her to be present for her daughters, engage in self-care through activities like Pilates, and meet work demands as needed. It’s a delicate dance, but one Lisa has mastered with grace.
The Future of PR:
As a forward-thinker, Lisa anticipates the integration of AI in PR practices. While recognizing its potential for streamlining tasks, she cautions against full reliance. Lisa emphasizes the irreplaceable value of human touch, particularly in the realm of public relations. The personal connection, the expertise, and the careful crafting of messages are elements that AI cannot replicate. As PR professionals, understanding this delicate balance and harnessing the benefits of technology while preserving the human touch will be crucial for success in the evolving landscape.
Lisa Elkan’s journey stands as a powerful testament to professional success, emphasizing the significance of family, mentorship, and adaptability in the dynamic field of PR. Her ongoing navigation of the industry with resilience and innovation serves as a guiding light, offering valuable insights for aspiring professionals, particularly women, as they navigate their paths in the world of Public Relations. Lisa’s story showcases the transformative power of passion, dedication, and a profound understanding of the ever-evolving marketing and PR landscape. As she continues to inspire waves in the industry, Lisa remains a beacon of inspiration for both emerging professionals and entrepreneurs alike. Stay tuned for more wisdom from this trailblazing leader, unveiling the secrets behind her sustained success.
“Always do your best and be a good person.” – Lisa Elkan’s personal motto encapsulates the values that drive her both professionally and personally, underscoring the importance of integrity and excellence in all endeavors.