A native of Columbus, Georgia, Olivia Gunn is a communications specialist who is dedicated to helping businesses and brands reach their full potential. Gunn’s commitment to the field of communications is evident through her continued tenure in the industry. Her goal is to foster valuable relationships and be an asset to businesses and organizations worldwide.
Gunn obtained a Master of Art degree in public relations from Webster University. She also received a bachelor’s degree in communication from Columbus State University and an associate degree in business management from Columbus Technical College. Upon completing her undergraduate studies, Gunn took on the role as digital content producer in 2016 with an ABC affiliate news station in Columbus and has soared in the communications field ever since.
In 2018, Gunn became the host of “Live with Olivia Gunn,” a radio show that broadcasted on urban radio station, Foxie 105 FM, in Columbus until 2021.
Above all of her accomplishments, Gunn recognizes establishing her own business as one of her biggest successes. Gunn founded Olivia Gunn PR and Communications in 2019 where she’s had the opportunity to help multiple small businesses, organizations, and entrepreneurs with PR campaigns, media relations, and communications strategies for their events, product launches, and overall brand.
In addition to her entrepreneurial endeavors, Gunn is also a multi-platform producer at an NBC affiliate news station in Atlanta, Georgia.
A woman of many accomplishments and esteemed value, Gunn is committed to continued growth in the communications industry and enhancing the brands of businesses to come.
We had the awesome opportunity of catching up with Olivia to discuss and learn more about the creativity that went into developing her latest project.
First things first, how did we develop an interest in writing?
I’ve always loved writing. It’s the “one thing” I’ve always been good at. I worked as a digital journalist for years, writing publications for news stations, and decided it was time to publish my own work.
When did you realize you had a story that the world needed to hear?
I knew that I had a story to share with the world after realizing how many people today are entrepreneurs and how my generation makes up a large portion of the nation’s consumer market.
What was the writing process like, did you come up with your title first and build around it or did the manuscript come first?
The writing process started after I obtained my master’s in public relations. I did extensive studying and research in social media marketing and public relations. I felt that the knowledge I gained could help so many business owners. I was well aware of the topic I wanted to write about, but I struggled with the title. So, the title was the final piece.
What is the message behind your title?
The message behind my title is social media is the leading tool, if used effectively, to influence millennial and Gen Z consumers.
Can you share 3 takeaways you would like women to take away from your book?
After reading my book, I want women, especially women in business, to have an understanding of how to expand their brand, convert their audience into customers, and use social media to their advantage.
At any moment during your writing process did you experience writer’s block, what tips do you have for overcoming it?
I never experienced writer’s block, but I did struggle with how much to include in the book and what should be omitted. I wanted my book to be informative, but also “easy reading.” I would encourage writers to put themselves in the position of their audience and create work that you would want to read.
Take me through the first moment you held your book in your hands, what did that feel like for you?
I felt really accomplished after holding my book for the first time. Aside from launching my business, my book is my biggest project thus far.
What would you say was the most challenging part of your writing process?
The most challenging part of my writing process was dedicating time to complete the book. My schedule can be demanding and while writing the book, I relocated from Tennessee to Georgia. So, there were periods where I would go a while without writing.
What key tips do you have for marketing your book and getting it out to the masses?
When working to get your book to the masses, it’s important to make sure it’s easy for people to purchase your book. Determine the best communications channels to reach your target audience and use the channels that will give you the greatest reach for your marketing budget. Remember that marketing and communication is an ongoing process, so be consistent in promoting your book.
What audience is your book written for?
My book is written for business owners, entrepreneurs, and marketers whose products/services with millennial and Gen Z consumers.
Grab Your Copy of “Social Media and Business: Influencing Buying Decisions of Millennial and Gen Z Consumers”
