Imani (Rodman) Goldman
PR Director
Savage X Fenty
Imani (Rodman) Goldman is the PR Director at celebrity brand Savage X Fenty. In her role, she leads PR strategy and execution, which encompasses media relations, campaign development and more. Previously, Imani worked as a Senior Manager, PR and Communications at Bombas where she drove all press and external communication for key product launches and campaigns. Prior to her in-house experience, Imani spent six years working at top NYC PR firms representing a wide range of clients, including Jordan Brand, Tinder, Taco Bell and the British Virgin Islands to name a few.
5 Things I Wish I Knew……
✶A great idea can come from anyone regardless of your level or role
I think there's this misconception that you don't "earn" your place at the table until you get to a certain point in your career - when it comes to collaborative spaces, like brainstorms and internal meetings where ideas are being shared, this can be anyone's opportunity to shine. There's a reason that you're in these rooms and part of these conversations. Feel empowered to speak up and have your voice heard - no matter the outcome, people will take note!
✶ Management goes both ways, and managing up is a critical piece of that process
While it can feel scary to hold your manager accountable at times - for example, following up on the media list you shared last week that still hasn't been approved by the deadline you requested - it's a healthy practice that most managers will appreciate.
✶ Embrace mistakes
Sh*t happens sometimes, and that's okay as long as you learn from them. On this topic, I learned a few years into my career that over-apologizing doesn't help the situation - acknowledge what happened, think about how you can avoid it from happening again, and get back to work!
✶ Reporters are people, just like us
I remember being so nervous to talk to press when I first started my career - I felt like every message had to be perfectly crafted and almost robotic sounding. Spoiler alert: that's weird and probably not the best way to really broker a relationship with them. As I got more comfortable, I very quickly shed that practice and started being personable and authentically myself - taking media to lunch, getting manicures, and more. Remind yourself that reporters can be your friends!
✶ Remember to always have a backup plan...or 10 (lol)
As much as you want the best-case scenario, PR is all about rolling with the punches because things often change - it's important to stay nimble and on your toes for any shifts needed in your execution.