One question that I started off this semester with my students was asking them what made them become Public Relations majors. Some said that they liked the fact that they can multitask and that each day was different.
Others said that they liked the fact that they were able to interact with people and write various documents. I felt the same way – the reason why I got into Public Relations was because it is so dynamic and cutting edge – we have to be on top of the latest trends, issues, and events that could impact our client or our research. Plus, I also liked the fact that I could do creative research and application in Public Relations.
I came across this blog post from David Folkens on what were some of the things that he wished that he knew before getting into Public Relations. Some I would agree with – having a business background (ex. Marketing) and being a life-long learner outside of the classroom. It made me think of some of the things that I would have liked to have known before getting into the profession as well. Here are some of my own additions:
- The public relations profession is just like it was in athletics – but the playing field has changed. Some of the same elements of competitive sports are still at play. We still are competing with others for accounts, job opportunities, and presentations. However, unlike in track, I don’t have to worry about working out to throw a little iron ball really far! 🙂
- Having a multidisciplinary background helps tremendously. To be successful in PR, you have to look at what is happening in other fields and be aware of what others are doing. If we just focus on what is happening just in PR, we are missing the bigger picture.
- Distinguish yourself from others in multiple ways. Being unique and different is memorable – there are many public relations professionals out there – how are you going to separate yourself from the crowd?
- Don’t be afraid to take risks. Sometimes people are afraid to go against what is being discussed or practiced in the field. How can a profession evolve if we are all in agreement? There needs to be discussion on new perspectives and ideas related to Public relations. Just be aware that there are still gatekeepers out there in many forms – if you know this ahead of time, you can be proactive in addressing these for yourself.
- Embrace change. We are in an ever-changing profession – PR today is not like how it was being practiced a few years ago, let alone last year! Try to be adaptive and look at the changes that are happening in the profession as well as in technology. Be a student and teach yourself these new skills to become a better PR researcher and professional.
Overall, I have been very happy in being in Public Relations. I took my first class back in 2002 while I was at the University of Florida, and have been it ever since. It has given me numerous opportunities – I have been able to present at various conferences around the US, but also in other countries (China, The Netherlands, and Greece). Researching, practicing, and teaching public relations has been very rewarding for me.
Anyway, these are just a few of my thoughts on the subject. 🙂 I hope that you all are having a great day. 🙂
Best Wishes,
Karen
0 Comments