On Monday during my public relations seminar, two speakers gave a presentation on some of the things they wish they would have learned in college.
Natalie Ebig Scott is the communications manager for Project GREEEN at Michigan State University. Eric Lingaur is a senior account executive at MS&L Detroit.
Here are some pointers they feel future PR pros should keep in mind.
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Never be above any task. Just because your boss asks you to file papers or take the lunch orders doesn’t mean they think you aren’t capable of greater things. The way in which you respond to such tasks says volumes about your attitude and work ethic. Show eagerness (even if you have to fake it a little) no matter what you are working on, and you will earn greater responsibility and respect from others.
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Keep your own “ego” file. There are going to be times when something you do goes unnoticed. However, there also will be times when you receive praise for a job well-done. Keep a file where you can store thank-you notes, client evaluations, praise e-mails and other documentation of your accomplishments. These materials come in handy as a nice pick-me-up on a bad day, or especially when it comes time for annual reviews.
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Be travel savvy. There may be a time when you will have to travel for your job. Whether it is once a week, once a month or once every five years, knowing how to travel quickly and lightly is valuable. Know what the packing “essentials” are and stick to them. If you are flexible, you might have an opportunity to see many great places. Oh, and if you don’t have a passport yet--get one!
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Start building a corporate wardrobe now. Sure, you may eventually end up in a job with a casual corporate culture. However, there are always going to be occasions such as interviews, guest appearances and fundraisers that require professional dress. It is important to have a variety of appropriate professional attire readily available. Shop the sale racks and clearance centers. Don’t wear the same suit/outfit to your first and second interviews. Oh, and ladies--if you wear heels, always keep a pair of tennis shoes at your desk. You never know when your day may be turned upside-down and all you can think about is how badly blistered your feet are going to be.
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Don’t be the stereotype. PR isn’t about celebrities, glitz and glamour. To avoid sounding like you have no idea what public relations is, never say the following statements in a PR interview:
- “I’m a people person”
- “I love planning events”
- “I have a lot of friends”
- “I’m good at talking”
Although these may very well be true, find other ways to express them that incorporate more relevant job skills.
PR professionals: What do you wish you would have known before entering the job field?
PR students: What advice has guided you in the right direction?
