Dan Edelman: The Unshakable Optimist in a Rain Coat

The optimist PR professional can learn a thing or two from Dan Edelman about drinking a glass that is half-full rather than half-empty. Optimism is a quality that undoubtedly is valuable in any instance, however Dan Edelman demonstrated the power in “training” positive expectations to implement realistic results and quick actions.

Dan Edelmen was an optimist who carried a raincoat. His preparation for the unexpected was unmatched by any other force in the industry. While many saw innovation and the introduction of the internet and television as a dish that had to be touched first to see how hot it was, Dan reached out with both hands and fearlessly grabbed the new technology without thinking twice. As described in Edelman and the Rise of Public Relations, “One of the great strengths is Edelman is to recognize disruptive moments- and run towards them…Dan had the courage to use television and an understanding of what would play on the tube.” (p. 83).  Dan didn’t just see the new changes and think to himself that great things may come from them, he pounced on a societal disruption as a potential opportunity to better the world of communications.

Dan Edelmen wasn’t about to deny his clients the opportunity to ride the internet vehicle, even if it meant that this could be trial-and-error. Dan also didn’t have to know the ins and outs of the internet to get that the internet was going to revolutionize public relations. It was this very way of thinking that drove Edelman’s success through Richard’s leadership following Dan’s retirement.

The notion of “new and big ideas” is emphasized continuously in the industry to this day. The idea of new and big ideas in public relations is the one aspect that Dan believed would be preserved for years to come. There are continuous growths in the field, and the push for innovative thinking and fresh perspective is not only expected- but required- for young professionals in a world where anyone’s voice can be heard through digital and social media. The smart optimist- like Dan- doesn’t seek shelter in the rain and wait for the sun to appear. The smart optimist puts on a raincoat and continues to find the best solutions in challenging conditions.

Bailey Appleton is a senior at DePaul University studying Public Relations and Advertising with an additional focus on Communication and Media Studies. She is an enthusiast for both traditional and digital PR, and is currently executing her hands-on skills as a publicity representative for Warner Bros. Studio and Fox Searchlight.  You may reach her at bailey8391@gmail.com. To learn more, please visit her professional portfolio.