Coffee With: Hélène Harriet, Founder and Owner of Elektron Presse
Q. Can you introduce yourself and tell us about Elektron Presse?
A: We’re a media communication agency based in Paris (we are in the heart of Paris on Rue de Paradis in the 10th arrondissement).
Established in 2005, our agency specialises in B2B sectors, focusing on new technologies, cybersecurity, human resources services, and telecommunications. We help our clients navigate complex markets by providing tailored media strategies that align with their goals and ensure high-quality service delivery.
We also have a sister agency called Skoop for consumer products and B2C communication.
Q: In your daily role, do you work directly with clients, or is it more about managing the team?
A: As the founder, I supervise all agency activities. This involves defining our overall strategy, managing human and financial resources, and ensuring that the services we provide meet our clients’ needs. I stay close to all the agency’s clients and I’m still passionate about working with the media. Above all else, I’m committed to Elektron’s long-term success!
Q: It’s impressive that you’ve been running Elektron for 19 years! What keeps you passionate after all this time?
A: The industry is always evolving, which keeps things exciting. Each year brings new challenges and opportunities, and I love that my job never feels the same. I thrive on the changing tech world.
Q: Can you tell us about the origins of Elektron Presse? Was it a planned venture or a spontaneous decision?
A: I had always wanted to be independent, and a colleague suggested starting the agency together. It felt like the right moment, and we decided to take the plunge. The initial bond was based on friendship and shared professional aspirations.
Q: Starting an agency certainly requires courage. Looking back, how do you view that decision now?
A: It was definitely a brave step! While it felt daunting at the time, I’m proud of what we’ve built. The challenges only made me more determined to succeed.
Q: Reflecting on your journey, what would you say was the best year for Elektron Presse?
A: Elektron was founded in 2005, the best years were the first ones, because I created my own agency, which was euphoric, even if it was a little scary. After my partner left, managing everything alone was tough, but the last few years have been fantastic as well, especially post-COVID, thanks to my dedicated team and our new international perspective.
Q: What type of clients do you usually work with? Do you have a preference for startups, scale-ups, or larger companies?
A: We don’t have a specific preference regarding company size. We work with startups, scale-ups, and large tech firms. What’s most important is understanding each client’s unique goals and how we can help them achieve their communication objectives.
Q: Can you tell me about your team?
A: Our team is small and human-sized, which fosters collaboration. Everyone is involved, and while we don’t have specific roles, everyone shares contacts and insights. It’s important that we work together flexibly and creatively. At the agency, from the outset, there has always been unfailing support for each other.
By the way, if you come to the agency, you’ll be treated to a cup of coffee and Parisian pastries!
Q: What’s your company culture like?
A: While no one else founded the agency, I encourage an entrepreneurial mindset within the team. Everyone contributes to sales and client relationships, and we support each other in operational tasks. The team also has a strong “customer satisfaction” focus, because clients are all unique… you have to be flexible and creative for each and every client.
Q: Finally, what message would you like to convey to technology companies about Elektron Presse?
A: Elektron is a very good agency that listens to its clients to ensure a positive image in the media.
If you need help with international or global tech PR, please do get in touch and signup to our newsletter.
