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Each month we’re going to showcase some of our valued members in the Company of Communicators.
This month, we’re speaking to Jon McLeod, who is based in London. After reading Russian and French at Cambridge, Jon became a journalist following which he moved into PR. He is currently a partner at DRD Partnership, but has worked at Brunswick, Weber Shandwick and Grayling. He sits on The Company of Communicators Court as Middle Warden and is currently seeking election as a councillor in the City of London.
How long have you been in Communications?
“Since 1994! So, this is my 30th year as a communicator.
How did you came to Communications?
“I’d been working as a journalist specialising in finance and the law. Then a friend, who was a director at a boutique lobbying firm in Westminster asked me if I could service a key client – the Bar Council – and so, he persuaded me to cross over to ‘the dark side…”
What has been a highlight of working in Communications?
“I think the best bit of working in communications has to be the opportunity to be a witness to key events in the country’s economic and political history… but probably a real highlight was advising the late great George Michael – definitely not something I thought I’d do.”
Quick fire questions!
What tip would you give to a journalist and why?
“Beware of false advice.”
Should you put funnies in speeches?
“Yes definitely. When we’re giving speeches, we’re centre stage and generally talking to a topic we’re respected on. Those first few lines determine whether your speech is remembered or not, you need your audience to listen, and funnies are a superb tool to get your audience engaged. You then need to deliver the message before concluding on something they’ll remember… ideally humour.”.
Is it better to say too much or too little when it comes to communications and why?
“Less is certainly more. It’s tempting to over-communicate, because you want to explain journeys, influence, impact, balance – but it’s a fine line, you don’t want to have to move into justification mode. Keep everything tight and focused. Say what you need to say – and always sense check it.”
Jon sits on the Court and the Company Leadership Team and Charity (as Chair) Committees. To connect, here is his Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-mcleod-8382096/
If you would like to learn more about how to join the company, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the clerk, Dr Ian Wingfield, who can be reached on email - clerk@companyofcommunicators.org
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