Latoya Chambliss

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Q. Thanks for Interviewing with us. Tell everyone who you are and where you’re from?

I am Latoya Chambliss born and raised in Tallahassee, Fl currently residing in Atlanta, GA. I am one of the proud co-owners of Bliss Consulting Services and a graduate of FAMU with a B.S. in Public Relations.

Define Public Relations in your own terms?

Public Relations is truly what you make it. It’s an art and science by definition but it can birth so many other areas of expertise. The art and science fuses together creativity in finding unique opportunities and developing pitches, strategic development of messaging and tactics, relationship building, brand and image consulting, management of public image, marketing and support through organization. Not to mention the energy you pour into it!

What or Who inspired you to be a Publicist?

Wow, I would say once I saw Terrell Owens show years ago and saw his black communications team, I was inspired! Throughout my time at FAMU in the Public Relations program, I was so inspired by many of my professors (Gina Kinchlow, Yanela McLeod, Dr. Bettye Grable, and so many others). Representation truly does matter, and those minority women all inspired me to dominate the field of PR and do it MY way!

What are the main skills needed to be in PR?

Being a communications professional/publicist means being equipped with the ability to write, effectively communicate verbally and non-verbally, understand all types of communications styles, be confident in counseling organizational leaders and have the ability to tell stories. You must be able to adapt to all situations and be very strategic in your approach.

Tell us what made you start the company “Bliss Consulting Services”?

I have always wanted to be

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an entrepreneur, knowing that ownership was always the goal for myself. The company was created through a beautiful co-creation of the minds with my partner Nakita Gibbs (serial entrepreneur). While attending college, both of us experienced challenges as minorities in the Communications field and we set out on a quest to gain different experiences in the field. It’s always been a dream to combine our creative minds and mentor young professionals and provide opportunities along the way. We both utilized our life experiences to navigate the industry and leverage opportunities for advancement. We have vowed to create opportunities for underserved communities and operate in business from a place of bliss!

What do you find to be the most challenging in being in PR?

In my opinion, one of the most challenging things as a communications professional is the work that we do being undervalued.

What are some of the things you love about being in PR?

Being a PR practitioner really brings me joy. I love helping clients to clearly find their voice and collectively brainstorm ideas to increase their brand awareness and visibility. I love connecting with genuine clients who appreciate the time and energy that’s put into the work that we do. I also LOVE clients who recognize their agencies! When one wins, we all win!

What sorts of clients do you find to be most interesting?

I love clients who are passionate about their art, clients who listen and are humble, have good business practices, willing to invest in themselves by seeking knowledge and understanding of the value of the services they are seeking.

Are there any new projects you are working on?

Yes, the agency is working on a few virtual events (not yet announced) this Fall and so excited to give the community

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something positive to look forward to amid COVID-19. I personally will be hosting a virtual event with the women’s group I founded, Queens LinkUh, and beginning to pen my first book! did I just say that aloud... (*squeals like a little girl)

What advice can you give to others that want to be in PR?

My best advice is to stay focused on your vision, no one else’s but yours! Understand that there is groundwork to be done and not to rush the journey because you will learn so many valuable lessons along the way. Don’t forget to brand yourself, too! Be firm and direct when dealing with new clients so there is a clear understanding before bringing them on. Manage expectations. Enjoy the work that you do, always! Most importantly, GET PAID WHAT YOU DESERVE!

Where can the audience follow you at?

Our agency can be found at www. bcsbliss.com and on Instagram + Facebook @bcsbliss on Twitter @bcsb_bliss. I can personally be found on IG @l.bliss.

“ Being a communications professional/publicist means being equipped with the ability to write, effectively communicate verbally and nonverbally, understand all types of communications styles,... ”