Being a Public Relations Pro is much more than landing a media placement in a top-tier publication. It is about finding a brand's voice and conveying a story that is relatable to their customer's needs. As a PR pro, you are the bridge between your client and the public, constantly crafting and relaying messages that shape public perception. To thrive in this fast-paced and ever-evolving industry, there are certain skills and mindsets that are essential.
Here are five key elements that will help you build a highly successful career in public relations:
Communicate clearly: The world of public relations is all about communication. From writing a direct but enticing media pitch to leading client calls, communicating effectively is the number one skill I believe all PR pros should have and continue to fine-tune. I learned early on that “frustrations are unmet expectations.” The better you are able to share with others — from a client’s messaging to team processes — the more confident you will feel in your career.
Writing skills: Fine-tuned writing skills and style are unavoidable as they’re such a huge aspect of the job. Emails, press releases, talking points, morning show guest sheets — the list could go on. There are tools such as Grammarly that you can install on your laptop to avoid silly grammar or spelling mistakes.
The ability to adapt: The media industry is constantly changing with the times and your communication strategies should as well to maintain relevancy and secure earned coverage for your brand or clients. As big of a believer I am in face-to-face connections, one change I love post-pandemic is Zoom interviews. I’ve found it so much easier to schedule interviews, prep the journalist and the client, and allow me to attend more interviews to support my clients.
Loves research: Being a publicist can be very glamorized for those not in the industry. People can think it’s a ton of big events, grand openings, and red carpets. While that is a portion of the job, it’s also a small percentage. I always find that interns or entry-level employees tend to be shocked by the amount of research and critical thinking that can go into crafting a media angle for a client, including staying up to date with the media cycle, keeping tabs on industry journalists, and predicting upcoming trends.
A positive mindset: This sounds simple, but I truly believe a positive mindset is key in almost every job. Others want to work with and be inspired by people who are optimistic, accepting, and mindful.
Remember, the journey to a successful career in public relations is a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace the challenges, continuously hone your skills and stay passionate about your work. The rewards of earned media coverage igniting conversations that inspire brand curiosity and building strong client relationships make every effort worthwhile.
コメント