Advancing in the PR industry can seem daunting. But not to worry–we’re here to help! We have insider knowledge on how to successfully change your habits to emulate practices of highly successful PR pros, helping you make noticeable impact in your company and move your career ahead.
To get to the top in an extremely competitive market, aspiring PR pros need to be strategic and adaptable. They’re competing against like-minded colleagues that want a promotion just as badly as they do. In corporate America, there are only so many spots at the top. Below are some pointers on what to do–and NOT do–when dealing with your boss, your customer base or your team that will help you get closer to that position you’ve always aspired to.
Present fleshed out, not half-baked ideas
Offering ideas that are partially thought out can make you look unprepared and stop you from advancing in your career. Remember, not everyone knows what you’re thinking. You could have a fantastic, groundbreaking campaign idea, but if you don’t come fully prepared, what’s the point? Nobody will see your full vision. Fleshing out your ideas beforehand involves brand monitoring, which allows you to examine your competitors and industry. Knowing the competitive landscape is going to help you gain essential knowledge and pitch ideas that will move your company forward–and your career as a result.
Be proactive, not reactive in a crisis
There is no better way to prove yourself than to excel in a difficult moment. Being proactive and preparing to combat a PR catastrophe ahead of time will help your company and make you look good to your superiors. Doing this involves staying on top of your mentions via social listening and other media monitoring. Frequently there are signs long before a PR crisis. One-off comments on social media can seem like no big deal, but they can provide valuable insight into how your company appears in the public eye. Being on top of your target audience will help ensure you are prepared for a crisis. Don’t wait until you have a massive attack on your service or product. Listen to your customers, and it’ll pay off for both you and your team. The more you catch things ahead of time, the more likely it is that you’ll move up!
Work smarter, not harder
A mistake people make repeatedly is conflating working hard with working smart. Many people in the PR profession work themselves to the bone. They think that it’s the only way to get recognition. This might be true at investment banks, but not necessarily in PR. You can still get that promotion you were hoping for without exhausting yourself. In The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, author Stephen Covey talks about “sharpening the saw:” preserving and strengthening your most significant asset–yourself. You can do this by improving your industry knowledge and sharpening your skills. This can also mean asking for help even when you want to do it all yourself. Remember, even if it’s a group campaign, you were still part of the team that hit that home run.
Keep your eye on the target, don’t lose sight of your goal
Almost all motivational speeches have the same underlying message: successful people have goals. This might seem obvious, but it’s a widespread reality that many people lose sight of their dreams. Mortgages, family, and many other obligations can have an impact on losing sight of your professional goals, and that is entirely understandable, but you don’t have to give up on career advancement. If you don’t have a vision for your own career, you’ll appear to be someone who settles for having a minimal impact. Lacking the imagination to envision the future means you’ll struggle to make your dreams a reality, and if your career development is essential to your boss, having a lack of direction won’t get you anywhere. If you want to be at the top of your PR game, you need to continually imagine yourself at the top. Mimic those you admire–your boss, your colleagues–anyone that you think has what it takes. This will accelerate your advancement up the ladder.
Until next time!
Critical Mention
Jolie Shapiro
Passionate about all things communications, Jolie found her dream job as a copywriter with Critical Mention, where she’s continuing her passion for writing and editing. With a background working for high-profile clients in the financial, hospitality and technology industries, she’s excited to bring her experience to Critical Mention. When she’s not writing you can find her at music festivals, hiking or snowboarding.
