Team Spotlight: Meet Laura

Laura Porter is a communications professional with over 20 years of industry experience. Living in the Washington, D.C. area, she has worked extensively with government and private sector clients on public relations, marketing, social media and change management projects. As our resident hype woman at Kirkpatrick Group, she brings her positivity and enthusiasm to everything she touches, tackling even the most challenging problems with spirit and skill. Let’s find out more about what makes Laura such an amazing person and teammate. 

1. What led you to a career in communications?

I declared my major at the last possible second in college. I was interested in psychology, education and communications, but what ultimately made up my mind is that communication involves all of those things. To be an effective communicator, you need to understand people and what motivates them, which is related to psychology. A lot of writing and training is a form of education. I’m happy I found a career that blends all three of my interests and keeps every day exciting.

• Are there any misconceptions about our line of work that you wish you could dispel?

People think communication is just giving people information, but it should be a two-way street, and involve active listening, empathy and action. Organizations need to try to discern what people actually need to know versus what they think they want to tell them.

• What is a cause you’re passionate about? 

I’m passionate about children and animals because they can’t speak for themselves. I was a preschool teacher at the beginning of my career, and I still love working with children when I can. I also love books and reading, and I’m active on the board of our local friends of the library non-profit organization.

• What is your theme song and why?

As a child of the ‘80s, my theme song is “Break My Stride” by Matthew Wilder. Something about that beat, melody, and message to keep on going no matter what always inspires me to get out of a rut.

• Do you have any hidden talents?

I love karaoke. I was even asked to join a karaoke circuit!

• Do you have any pets? What are they like?

I have a dog and a cat, Alfie and Eve. They are the real-life Garfield and Odie. Our cat is smart and sneaky and constantly torments our dog.

• What is the craziest thing you’ve ever done?

I once offered pizza to Katie Couric in an elevator. She was very gracious and said no thanks, but the next day, the gossip columns reported that she was spotted eating pizza later that night. I’d like to think I inspired her.