Meghan Markle will head to Australia this month with Prince Harry for the first time since their 2018 trip — a visit that is reportedly by far one of their most scrutinized events, especially compared to what they faced eight years ago. The Duchess of Sussex, in particular, will allegedly face scrutiny in every appearance. Everything from what she says on stage to how she handles the situation outside the room has to be watched, according to an expert, and she must balance throughout.
PR expert states Meghan Markle’s messaging at the retreat should be accurate
The Daily Express reported that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have planned many days of private business and charitable engagements on their trip to Australia. Harry will speak in Melbourne at the InterEdge Psychosocial Safety Summit, where he will focus on workplace mental health. Meanwhile, Markle will headline the “Her Best Life Retreat” in Sydney.
PR expert Renae Smith, founder of PR agency “The Atticism,” told the Express, “If I were advising them, I would keep it very clear.” Smith suggested Harry should stay with the work people already associated with him, saying, “Harry should keep doing exactly what he’s doing. His lane is established, and it works.” Moreover, she continued, “Consistency over time in the humanitarian space will continue to build credibility for him.”
However, Smith said, “For Meghan, I would be far more measured,” explaining, “If this is about testing the Australian market, it needs to feel observational rather than promotional. Less ‘here’s my brand,’ more ‘I’m here to understand the audience.’ The more she tries to push, the more resistance she’s likely to meet.”
Besides, Smith suggested, “There is also a tone risk,” warning that the retreat must have “substance” behind it.
The Australia trip is thus like a test for Meghan Markle and Prince Harry — but if the expert is right, the stakes are higher for Markle to avoid anything that looks staged.
