Adam Denison

By Andrew Adams
Adam Denison’s eyes were set on law school at an early age. After graduating from BYU, jumping right into the law seemed to be the next logical step.  A distinguished career in public relations was the last thing on his mind.  Yet in 2010, Denison found himself returning to BYU as a distinguished public relations professional, sharing invaluable career insights with communications students.

After graduating from BYU in 2007, Denison heard about an interview for the new General Motors internship.  Denison saw it as an opportunity to practice his interview skills and pursued the offer. Little did he know that one interview would evolve into a career in corporate communications.
Just three years later, Denison found himself as the assistant manager in Chevrolet communications at GM’s headquarters in Detroit.  Last November, he became a manager in the GM OnStar communications division.
Denison was born and raised in Louisiana.  After a mission to California, Denison transferred to BYU and continued his pursuit of a law degree.  He enrolled in Communications 235, got involved in PRSSA and the Bradley Agency. As he learned more about public relations, he came to find that he really enjoyed it. He joined the GM internship program and quickly transitioned his position into a full time job.
During his first year at GM, Denison headed a social media team, synchronizing company efforts to incorporate mediums such as Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and blogging.  Denison curved GM into a leader in the social media world.
“Perception becomes reality,” Denison said.  As GM changed their social media tactics, Denison rose in company recognition.
After seeing Denison’s talent, GM entrusted him with increased responsibilities.  They involved Denison in projects including “Volt Unplugged Tour,” the launch of an all-new Camaro and multiple grassroots projects for the Corvette, Aveo, Impala and Corvette. With his public relations expertise and strategic planning talents, Denison has helped GM re-establish itself as a top public company once again.
Denison recently returned to BYU and visited with communications students about his adventures in his public relations career.  He spoke on many of the lessons learned so far in his career.  One of the lessons, which was the gateway to his success, was an obscure interview with GM.
Denison gave five crucial interviewing tools for public relations students to use:

1. Know the Company: It is crucial to understand what your potential employer wants.  Researching and understanding company intricacies is the foundation for a successful interview.
2. Ask Questions in the Interview (“never say no!”):  When asked if you have any questions, never say ‘no!’  This implies an uninterested attitude in the organization.  Be prepared with quality questions.
3. Talk about Yourself (“It’s not pride if it’s true!”): Let your interviewee know your strengths.  There is no need to feel that doing so is prideful if it’s truth.
4. Practice Beforehand:  Come up with a list of potential questions beforehand and practice your responses.  Practice makes perfect.
5. Evaluation: Ask what you could have done better!  Improvement is always important to progression.

Adam Denison continues to enjoy his time in the field of public relations in Detroit with GM.  He is currently studying at Wayne State University, seeking an MBA.  He enjoys spending quality time with his wife and their two little girls.