Infographics are definitely a popular tool for public relations professionals when it comes to communicating data and statistics, explaining a particular process, or even present information from a timeline format. There are some really fancy info graphics out there by some pretty fabulous design companies, and there are others that can use some work.

I’m going to be presenting on the topic of infographics in a couple of months and teach a social media class at the University of Louisville next semester, so I wanted to try my hand in creating an infographic.  Deciding what topic or issue I would like to use for my first infographic was tough – but then I realized I should do one for my CV.

So, after working on my CV for a couple of hours, I finally finished my very first infographic.  Here it is:

Here are some of the lessons I learned in the process of creating an info graphic:

  • Define your goals and objectives for the infographic:  What is the purpose of this graphic?  Who is your audience and how are you going to present this information?
  • Content is definitely key – but personalize it with appealing visuals:  Think about what you want to share with your audiences in terms of information.
  • Look at other infographics for inspiration:  Check out Pinterest or even Visual.ly to see what you like, what you think is pretty cool, and what are some techniques you can do yourself.
  • Don’t stress if you are not a graphic artist:  My sister Karla is definitely the artist in the family for sure. 🙂 What you have to realize with infographics is the fact it takes time and practice to perfect them.  This first infographic for me is a start – but I hope to learn more techniques and design skills to improve my future infographics.
  • Become a student of infographics:  Look at online resources and books (like “The Power of Infographics”) to help you improve your skills and knowledge when it comes to infographics. This way, you will be able to pass along this knowledge to your students, colleagues and friends, and fellow PR professionals.

I hope you all are having a wonderful day!

Best Wishes,

Karen