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Part 2
In my previous post, I mentioned how important it is to read, read, and read to get a better understanding of what PR is and how you can actually train yourself in the field (without paying tonnes of money on certificates and courses). Now, I am going to share with you my top four tips on how to do so, but before I do, it is very important to understand that having the right personality for PR is THE main key.
I got this tip from a previous client, but never understood how crucial it is until I actually got a mentor. It’s important to note that finding the right mentor means having to spend a lot of time networking (unless you are lucky and have someone within your reach). Your mentor should be someone in the field, but not be your manager, director, or CEO, or general colleague as they might not be able to give you the advice you need at that particular time. Also, you should be able to share anything and everything without restricting words and feelings and that might be hard if it’s someone you work with. You have to make sure it’s a genuine learning opportunity from both a professional and personal standpoint.
Read, read, read. I cannot reiterate enough how important it is to keep reading. Whether it’s tips, infographics, examples, or just articles from thought leaders in the field, trust me when I say that you will learn at least ONE important skill or fact from each of those.
Let’s say you have an interest in healthcare communication. Make it a habit to skim through the health section of all daily newspapers and read up on the latest developments. Are there any new laws or regulations? Did a competitor launch something new or share a report? Read all about it to stay on top of your game.
Personally, I have never had a problem with time management (shocker, I know) but it’s also because I am a self-admitted control freak and revel in things being organised and executed the right way. Always have a notebook and a pen handy to write things down. Did you pitch today? Make sure to schedule your follow-ups. Did you draft a plan for a client? Make sure all-important dates are pencilled in. In fact, I have this superb rule which I cannot end my week without. Every Thursday, I sit down, plan for the week ahead, and create my own task lists and deadlines. Usually, I make sure the first two days of the week are the busiest in case there are any last-minute tasks and requests and things need to be pushed off to a later date.
Rima Al Jareh is Senior Account Executive at Cicero & Bernay Public Relations, an independent PR agency headquartered in Dubai offering new-age public relations consultancy to the UAE and across the MENA region. | www.cbpr.me