What Universal Taught Me About Public Relations
If you came in contact with me over the past six months, you likely got to (had to) listen to me talk about my family’s 10-day, bucket-list trip to Disney World over the holidays. Admittedly, the planning of the trip consumed my life (and I loved it!!).
It’s funny that I call it the Disney World trip, however, because the entire family – me included – unanimously agreed we liked the Universal Parks better than any of the four Disney Parks. (Sure, taking the ultimate VIP tour across Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure and then the “standard” VIP tour across Epic Universe helped.)
Knowing I had a post-trip blog post to write the first week back in the office, as I screamed and giggled my way across Universal’s three parks, I started thinking about how I could crowbar some of my favorite rides into a musing about public relations and communications.
And so, here it is: We are PR people are constantly looking for better ways to capture attention, manage momentum, and leave lasting impressions. Some of the smartest lessons are not found in boardrooms or brainstorms, but on the ride tracks at Islands of Adventure and the forthcoming Epic Universe.
Here is my take on four stand-out attractions that offer clear, practical takeaways for PR pros.
VelociCoaster
VelociCoaster wastes no time. The launch is fast, the stakes are clear, and the experience delivers exactly what it promises. For PR professionals, the lesson is about setting expectations. A campaign headline, pitch, or announcement should clearly communicate value and then follow through quickly. Oh, and as someone who has billed every 15 minutes of her life since 2004, I can’t help but have the need for accurate, thoughtful speed.
Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure
This ride is not just about speed or thrills. It is about a story! From the line queue to the final daring drop, riders feel part of a story. PR pros can learn that telling that stories with smart narrative, character, and emotion resonate longer than those built solely on features or stats.
The Amazing Adventures of Spider-Man
Our work in PR has to be about integrity, always. Sure, the Spider-Man ride as insane visuals, multi-media magic, motion, and story. But it tells a story of integrity. As always, with Spiderman’s great power comes great responsibility. As PR people, we have to take on that same sense of responsibility.
Stardust Racers
Stardust Racers is designed to be seen as much as ridden. Its visual scale and kinetic movement make it instantly shareable. PR professionals should think the same way. Is your campaign built to be talked about, photographed, and reposted? Experiences that translate visually matter today more than ever.
