Public Relations Survival Guide

"BEEP! BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!" 

It's another Tuesday morning. The sun is shining on your window pane, birds are chirping sweet harmonies, and the coffee pot is brewing as you tame your bed-head hair. However, this Tuesday morning is a little different than most. It's your first day on the job as a Public Relations professional. You may think, "I've had three internships! I am so ready for this; it can't be much different!" This is where you are wrong. As a PR worker, you will be thrown countless curve balls and learn much more in a few months on the job than you have your entire life. Scary, isn't it? Fear no more though. I'm here to give you seven tips from The Hoohirewire on how to hit these curveballs right out of the park. 

1. Read the news:

Whatever form this qualifies as for you, read the news. Whether it be with some coffee and a paper, or just skimming through the news tab on your iPhone in a traffic jam, be aware of what is going on in this world. It is your job to be informed of latest events and trends so you're able to solve issues and take advantage of opportunities when they present themselves.

2. Quick learning is key:

You should definitely spend time learning in the office and outside of the office, especially with a lack of experience. The best way to learn the quickest is to put in the time, ask relevant questions, and schedule time for personal training. Keep up on these too; nobody is to blame besides yourself for the lack of experience. 

3. Understand the industry:

Know what you're talking about, why you're talking about it, and what comes of it. Work to understand the business's product and all the aspects that go with it. That way, you can start to train yourself to promote the product to audiences which is what most firms are going after.

4. Socialize in person:

Step away from the keyboard and speak with the clients. Although most of the socializing work can be done online, force yourself to make a personal impression! This can be as simple as a clarifying phone call, or self-delivery of a message. Brush up on the skills now so you have them when you manage your own accounts.

5. Don't be afraid to voice your opinion: 

The first few months can definitely be intimidating when it comes to speaking up and stating your opinion. Don't let it get to you though. Engage yourself, make it seem like you want to be there. You may have more validity than you believe you do.

6. Learn to balance priorities and responsibilities:

It's going to get hectic with all the tasks you'll have to juggle. Everyone is going to consider themselves your first priority, so you'll need to develop a system to meet deadlines and cater to the client's needs. It will take some time, but work at it every day so you make the most of your time and complete what needs to get done that day.

7. Propose your personal brand:

Most workers tend to leave their employers in five years or less, so if you plan to go beyond PR jobs, track what you do. Start a page online that future employers can access so your name can start to be known. 


With all seven of these tips combined, you're sure to hit that home run every PR worker desires to hit during their first level entry job. Tune back in next week for more information regarding the magnificent field of Public Relations!

-Grace