Tennis and Public Relations: Surprising Similarities

May 28, 2023

Ever since I was a young child, my adoration for the game of tennis has run deep. Starting at a tender age, I competed fervently and proudly represented Barbados on multiple occasions during my formative years, even earning a couple of CARIFTA medals along the way.

Before the end of my teenage years, my passion for the art of communication and storytelling began to take shape. Over the years I served as a sports reporter, foreign correspondent, United Nations correspondent, communications consultant, news anchor, talk show host, nonprofit communications director, airline and event communications advisor, columnist, and now, full-time public relations consultant.

Intriguingly, there are notable parallels between these seemingly unrelated realms, similarities that reveal the significance of strategy, delivery, and respecting boundaries.

Just as athletes must limber up before stepping onto the court to be match-ready and prevent injuries, professionals in the field of public relations must establish a clear strategy and agenda before diving into assignments on behalf of their clients. By investing time to assess the situation and devise a well-thought-out plan of action, they can navigate their work with heightened effectiveness and minimize the likelihood of unnecessary mishaps.

Once play has begun, the concept of favoring high-percentage shots in tennis aligns seamlessly with the approach employed in public relations. On the court, it often makes sense to opt for shots that have a higher probability of success, rather than attempting risky, low-percentage shots. Similarly, in the world of PR, professionals strive to create messaging that is most likely to resonate with their target audience. By prioritizing clear communication and focusing on building meaningful connections, public relations practitioners can amplify their chances of achieving the desired outcomes.

An invaluable lesson derived from tennis that directly translates to the field of public relations is the importance of keeping the ball in play. Players aim to avoid hitting the ball out of bounds, which results in a lost point. In PR, it is paramount to maintain control over the narrativeand refrain from making statements or taking actions that could backfire or inflict reputational damage. By operating within the boundaries of professionalism and integrity, PR pros can establish trust, nurture positive relationships, and effectively represent their clients or organizations.

Both tennis and public relations demand meticulous preparation, an emphasis on solid connections, and a focus on achieving the desired outcomes. By recognizing these parallels, professionals in the field of public relations can draw inspiration from the principles of this “gentleman’s sport” to enhance their performance and achieve more wins for their clients.

As we enter a new week of challenges and opportunities, whatever your field of endeavor, serve up and unleash some winning strategies!