New York vs. Los Angeles: The tale of two PR cities

People often ask me how New York and L.A. differ when it comes to the PR agency business. One moment, please, while I get in my car; I’m in L.A. this week.

New York

Home to many of the Fortune 500 companies, the city can also claim that 95 percent of all national media reside within 50 miles of Columbus Circle. New York also takes pride in still having three daily newspapers. It’s the financial heart of America; the advertising and PR mecca; and it’s “on” all the time. In this 24/7 city, there are no 9 to 5 jobs; you can get anything done, anytime.

In New York, walking is a way of life, as is taking the subway or a cab at any location, almost any hour of the day. New Yorkers don’t really do lunch, they grab it. New Yorkers are also a bit more judgmental on academic pedigree and, of course, fashion sense, since it is arguably the style capital of the U.S. The city abounds with energy and vibrancy and the workforce pumps right along with it.

Here, the opportunities for large client programs abound. Despite the still-lagging economy, there’s been a resurgence in technology start-ups. It’s not Silicon Valley, but Silicon Alley has benefited from a steady stream of venture funding, favorable business and real estate conditions, and top-tier networking for tech-based businesses.