Staying ahead of the curve has become very competitive and challenging for many businesses and professionals in the 21st century. The current status of the economy has created an environment where everyone is looking to see how to establish themselves as a leader and separating themselves from everyone else.
Whether it is pitching to a client for an account or interviewing for potential jobs, understanding where you stand in terms of your own creativity, strategic nature, and understanding of your current status is key. In other words, we all have to be aware of where we stand in our own personal “S Curve.”
S curve image from Indiana University
So, what exactly is a “S curve?” I had the opportunity to chat with and hear Doug Lipp give his keynote speech at the Colorado Ski Country annual meeting, and this was one of the points that he communicated regarding his experience working with Walt Disney. It was a very interesting and relevant presentation with some great key summary points to take away from – thanks Doug!
There are times where professionals and businesses have to be constantly working on managing their reputation, products and services, and creatively in order to maintain their innovation and presence in the field. There are many companies that have really worked hard over time to be the best of the best in the business – Under Armour and Apple are two that come to mind for me.
However, when you are looking at universities – there are examples here as well. USC has been one of the leaders in setting the standard for public relations education and practice both in the classroom and providing students with real-world experiences in working with leading PR firms and giving graduate students the opportunity to do an internship in PR abroad. The IMC program at WVU just announced a partnership with the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), which is an indicator of the trend to focus on Integrated Marketing Communications for PR professionals in the future.
This got me thinking – what would be some of the recommendations I would give for PR professionals (and upcoming PhD students) in maintaining their relevance and creativity, while being marketable in this tough economy? Here are a few suggestions that come to mind that I would like to share with you all:
- Think 360 degrees: Professors today have to be strong in research, teaching, service, and in the professional field. We have to wear many hats and be able to work across areas in our profession.
- Be a student for life: Explore what other disciplines are doing, branch out to other researchers for ideas and collaborations. Take every opportunity to learn and grow as a professional in the field.
- Don’t be afraid of doing something unique: and going against the curve: While it is key to make sure that you fulfill the traditional expectations of what it means to be a professor or PhD student, you have to be willing to explore other possibilities that are relevant to what you are interested in. Whether it is online teaching or having a blog to name a few – it really all depends on how you see your overall reputation.
- Have your own voice: While it is key to have a mentor or individuals in which you have done work with (professionally or with research) – you will eventually have to be on your own. Collaborations are great – but you are also expected to work independently as well.
- Be a forward thinker: Make sure to take breaks in your research and teaching opportunities to do something fun – whether it is working out or traveling or hanging out with friends. Creativity comes in many forms, and some of the best ideas come from taking these mini breaks. Keeping up with the latest technology on a daily basis is absolutely key as well – look at what is coming out and look at its potential from a critical standpoint.
- Work hard, win easy – train yourself like you are in the Olympics: The day of getting tagged on articles or projects without putting an ounce of work are over. Working hard on multiple projects is the way of the future – whether it is in research or teaching or consulting – you have to work hard consistently and keep your eyes on the prize. Doing a bit each day helps – and having the focus, determination, and commitment of an Olympic athlete is absolutely necessary in today’s economy.
- Shift the professor image paradigm: One thing that will get you recognized is if you go against a traditional image or perception of your role slightly. There are of course certain images of what constitutes as a professor – but I say that in order to be relevant and innovative in the field, you do have to be active in activities and projects that does separate yourself from the rest of the crowd. Get active in professional conferences and organizations in specific industries as well as in other disciplines.
Hope you all are having a great day!
Best Wishes,
Karen
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