The Career Boost: PR Strategies with Aquila Mendez-Valdez

The Power of Public Relations: A Woman’s Perspective

In a world that is constantly buzzing with information, the ability to communicate clearly and connect meaningfully is more important than ever. This is where public relations (PR) comes into play, acting as a vital force behind brand identity, reputation, and visibility. When PR is led by women, it transforms into something more than just a strategy—it becomes a powerful narrative.

Aquila Mendez-Valdez, founder of Haute in Texas, has spent over a decade building a full-service PR and marketing agency that empowers female founders. Her journey offers valuable insights for anyone looking to make an impact in their field.

1. Your Story is Your Strategy

At the heart of PR lies storytelling. It's not just about crafting a good story, but about telling the right story to the right audience in the right way. Haute in Texas helps clients curate their narratives across all platforms, from social media content to press outreach and event planning. This approach is known as "community programming," which blends PR, event management, and platform-building.

This lesson applies beyond traditional PR. Whether you're pitching investors, building a personal brand, or applying for a dream job, your ability to communicate who you are and what you stand for is crucial. PR reminds us that storytelling isn't just fluff—it's a form of leverage that can shape perceptions and open doors.

2. Women Thrive in PR for a Reason

PR is a field dominated by women, and Aquila explains why they bring something unique to the table. Emotional agility, intuition, and adaptability are key traits when managing relationships, handling clients, or responding to crises. Women are often able to navigate different personalities and mold themselves to meet client needs effectively.

“We're part therapist, part social media manager, part strategist,” Aquila says. “Women are naturally great at fulfilling that kind of multi-purpose role.” This insight highlights how skills like empathy and emotional intelligence are not just soft skills—they are critical assets in any career.

3. Opportunity Favors the Fearless

Aquila advises young professionals, especially women, to be bold and assertive. It's easy to fall back and be passive, but taking initiative is essential. She encourages pushing for the "yes" in negotiations, whether it's for a big contract or simply putting your name forward.

Her own achievements, such as winning the NAWBO Women Business Owner of the Year Award, were made possible by courage and confidence. Visibility is earned through bold steps, and PR teaches us that being seen requires taking risks and stepping out of comfort zones.

4. Complacency Won’t Build Your Career

For those starting out, Aquila emphasizes the importance of internships and going above and beyond. Young professionals should seek out opportunities to take on more responsibility, showing that they are not just meeting expectations but exceeding them.

She references the book The Ideal Team Player, which highlights the qualities of humble, hungry, and smart individuals. These traits are essential for success, especially in a competitive field like PR. Breaking free from complacency is what sets people apart and opens the door to new opportunities.

5. Words Can Make or Break You

A common mistake among new hires is poor writing skills. Aquila points out that even with a college degree, many still struggle with basic grammar and spelling. Clear, polished writing builds trust and shows professionalism. It's a skill that should be practiced regularly.

Whether it's a social media caption, email, or press release, strong writing shapes how others perceive you. Reading widely, staying informed, and continuously improving your writing are all key steps to success in any career.

The Takeaway for Every Smart Girl

At its core, PR is about people and the stories we choose to tell. Aquila reminds us that careers are intentionally built, not stumbled upon. Being bold enough to take up space, humble enough to learn, and hungry enough to keep pushing forward are essential qualities for success.

From crafting your narrative to avoiding complacency and mastering the power of words, these lessons offer a roadmap for anyone looking to make an impact. In a noisy world, the Smart Girl who speaks with purpose stands out every time.

About Haute in Texas

Haute in Texas is a full-service PR and marketing agency dedicated to helping female founders build and curate their presence both online and in person. Founded over a decade ago, the agency thrives on telling great stories for wonderful people. Their services include organic social media management, digital marketing, and earned media outreach.

They also offer community programming, helping clients plan events, reach the right audience, and get into rooms they want to be in. Through their work, Haute in Texas continues to empower women and elevate the power of storytelling in the business world.