We had the good fortune of connecting with Linda Hamburger and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Linda, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I did not set out to start my own business. While that was a hoped-for option, the transition was much slower and less planned. I felt it was best to experiment on myself. Try out different logos, business names, web sites, direct email pieces and events that would gain attention. I called it “pretend” work. While working at a more traditional in-house job in public relations, I also took time for continuing education and to learn software relevant for my field. Gradually, a small client base began to develop as freelance work. I learned how to get a state license, charge for services, take payments and so forth. I also expanded my areas of work to teaching and resume writing. This mixture enabled durability during ebbs and flows of work and variety as well as cross client referrals.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Public Relations is considered a “glamour” career: difficult to break in, hard to succeed and with many perks of free event tickets, celebrity meetings, and a choice of what an employee might enjoy along with the hard work of pleasing clients, employers and constant review of work. My avocation is different from my advocation. I love working on behalf of events, good causes and being a part of the media world. But, it is a love for teaching that inspires me the most. Public Relations is a world of turn-over. Whether that is in terms of clients, employers or projects, the field is fluid. It’s hard to get a firm, long lasting single employer position. It was during one of these lulls that I saw a job advertisement for a college professor. Someone with a Master’s degree that could teach classes in marketing either part or full time. I applied and, just like any other position, was interviewed. The first class I instructed at a local university – I was sick with nerves! Through the years, I’ve been blessed to mentor and teach hundreds of people either through my group the South Florida Public Relations Network, providing resumes and career guidance through On Call Resumes or in a classroom, presently as an adjunct professor at Nova Southeastern University. Instructing is always engaging and challenging. No two classes are ever the same. The students are full of ideas and energy. Presently, I instruct Argument and Debate, public speaking and related courses. At Broward College, my background is even more diverse. At various times teaching workshops in how to buy and sell on E-bay, social media for small business success, and for the summer high school workshops. I highly recommend looking into serving as a community educator.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am involved with a few local Chambers of Commerce and community groups. Depending on what is going on – Florida’s nonprofits and organizations have so many events throughout the year – it’s possible to attend atleast one event a day or evening. What pleasantly surprises my guests most are the fabulous events hosted by the Haitian American Chamber of Commerce (http://haamcc.com). I discovered wonderful monthly jazz events at the Arts Garage in Delray Beach, exciting cultural events, and an introduction to some of the most influential people in Broward County – those who work on behalf of us all. It’s business, sure, but it’s fun Florida style. One event that I look forward to all year is the the Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo (FITCE) held in October – bringing in thousands of businesses and experts from throughout the world together right here in Broward County. This is just one of SoFlo’s somewhat quirky but unique important cultural events without having to travel to see the world! As an invited speaker at this years’ International Women’s Day event hosted by the Romanian Consulate, Miami, I enjoyed meeting some of the highly talented women in South Florida involved in our cultural affairs. This was a beautiful function for providing an introduction to the food, history and people of Romania. I strongly recommend searching the calendar of the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CVB) and similar to select among an endless option of multi-cultural events in South Florida. The list is ever changing: Musicals, Community Events, outstanding restaurants, and festivals such as the outdoor Caribbean Food and Rum Festival that comes around each June with an amazing line up of performers and so much to do!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I was fortunate enough to go to a number of excellent schools and universities. My professors and employers (both positive and negative) shaped my knowledge and career path. In particular, a shout out to Pine Crest Preparatory School in Fort Lauderdale. I remain in contact with many from my high school, some of the instructors, and credit this school in particular for providing an outstanding base for education, lifelong friendships and life skills.

Website: www.oncallpr.com
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindahamburger
Twitter: https://twitter.com/oncallpr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lindahamburger
Other: On Call Resumes www.oncallresumes.biz South Florida Public Relations Network www.sfprn.com