By:
Brenna Clairr O'Tierney
M.A. in Strategic Public Relations
For Veronica Navarrete, the word ‘Google’ is much more than a verb or the most popular search engine. It’s a way of life. After graduating from the MSPR program in 2011, she landed a job as a communications associate on the Chrome team at Google’s headquarters in Mountain View, California.
She handles a variety of PR duties. This includes promoting the Chrome browser and developer features and working with the product team. She also works closely with the company engineers to find out what’s new and exciting in order to pitch relevant stories to reporters. In addition, she responds to media inquiries and sets up interviews with specific employees and members of the executive team.
“It’s hard for me to believe sometimes that the girl who didn’t have a smart phone until her second year of grad school is now working in tech PR,” said Navarrete. “Since I don’t have a tech background at all, I scour tech blogs and websites on a daily basis. I have to know it all from the nitty gritty to the consumer messaging.”
While the work is difficult, the Google culture makes her job extremely fulfilling.
“It’s a fun and creative environment filled with a lot of smart people,” said Navarrete. “Everyone is expected to contribute. We all bring something to the table, and executives never hesitate to ask for input.”
What makes working at Google different from working at other companies?
“To be honest, working here is like grad school but with free food,” said Navarrete. “While the slides in the offices, multiple gyms, and a commitment to promoting healthy living are definite perks, the level of engagement and emphasis on teamwork makes me look forward to showing up to the office each day.”
She also mentioned that Google offers several classes for personal development. Courses include public speaking and career guidance, and Navarrete says that the company makes a genuine effort to invest in every single one of its employees.
Navarrete credits the SPR program for giving her the basic foundation to be thrown into any type of position, no matter her background or experience level, and figure out a way to excel.
“I am often asked for PR recommendations, reactive statements, communication plans, etc., and the program definitely gave me the skills that I need to respond to every request not only accurately but with confidence.”