MikeWorldWide: Public Relations Agency Spotlight
Published on November 29, 2021, at 6:25 p.m.
by Evvy Lusco.
Based in New York City, MikeWorldWide is an integrated public relations agency with a network of partners and talent hubs across the globe.
MikeWorldWide was founded in 1986 and is among the “world’s leading independent public relations agencies.” It has nine offices located throughout the United States and the United Kingdom. As noted by PRovoke Media, the mission of MikeWorldWide is “igniting influence and impact to help organizations matter more to those who matter most.”MikeWorldWide was ranked one of the most innovative and strategic firms of 2021 by PRNews. This is the second consecutive year MikeWorldWide has been featured in PRNews Annual Elite Top 100 List.
The agency’s rebrand from MWWPR to MikeWorldWide in 2020 was “a tribute” to Michael Kempner, founder and current CEO, who created the agency to “[challenge] industry convention and always [prioritize] cultural needs and client service.” According to a PRovoke Media article by Diana Marszalek, since the name revitalization, MikeWorldWide has been focused on “improving its digital capabilities.” This focus led to its December 2021 acquisition of “influencer and social media firm” Everywhere Agency.
Jennifer Rainess, director of talent acquisition for MikeWorldWide, stated that she is in charge of “sourcing and vetting candidates for all open job positions, screening all candidates prior to interviews and following through the entire interview process.” Rainess said that the agency seeks out employees who are “hardworking, team players and passionate.”
Rainess added, “Everyone is there to do their best work. Public relations, in general, is a fast-paced environment — one where you need to bring your A-game every day. All opinions and ideas are welcomed.”
Anjelica Jones, human resources director for MikeWorldWide said the agency also looks for “passionate, smart, creative, fearless and out-of-the-box thinking people who love what they do.”
As HR director, Jones’ overall focus is to “help improve the employee experience as we continue to evolve as a company. This includes training and development opportunities, company culture, employee relations issues, conflict resolution and much more.”
On a day-to-day basis in the workplace, Jones noted she spends most of her time “building great relationships with our people and helping them thrive throughout their career journey here.”
In the public relations industry, there are many different firms and agencies; therefore, it is essential for MikeWorldWide to establish its own unique brand. When asked what sets this agency apart from others, Rainess commented that “we genuinely care — not just about the work — but the people who are doing the work.” Rainess also added, “I have been with MikeWorldWide since July 2021. I love working here. It’s a true family. Everyone supports each other, and it is a very collaborative environment.”
In addition, diversity, equity and inclusion are a high priority for MikeWorldWide. The firm aims to respect the uniqueness of individuals by creating an environment that celebrates different cultures, voices, backgrounds and experiences.
For Jones, what differentiates MikeWorldWide from competitors is “the culture. What I love most about us is that we are driven by feedback. We listen to our employees and try to create new policies around their needs.”
MikeWorldWide prides itself on dedication to not only its areas of expertise but also to its internal culture.
By “investing in [its] people,” MikeWorldWide is able to maintain a workplace environment that fosters growth and development from the beginning of one’s career.
