| In this article we're going to go over some tips for | | | | very well save you from saying something that could |
| those who are considering a career in public relations. | | | | seriously hurt your career in the long run. |
| If you are a student who has taken up public relations | | | | Another thing you have to learn how to do is learn |
| in college and it's fast approaching the time when | | | | from your mistakes. Mistakes happen to everyone but |
| recruiters are going to be coming to your campus, | | | | the key is not to make the same mistake twice. |
| there are a few things that you are going to want to | | | | Handle your mistakes as professionally as possible and |
| do in order to assure yourself of the best chance of | | | | take all criticism that goes with them just as |
| being hired by a public relations firm and then the best | | | | professionally. |
| chance to hold your job once you get it. Public relations | | | | Public relations is not a nine to five job. You won't be |
| is a highly visible profession and not one where you | | | | expected to work long hours but if you want to get |
| can easily hide behind a desk. Any weaknesses you | | | | ahead and be on top of the game you're going to |
| have are going to stick out like a sore thumb. Which | | | | have to be prepared to put in some very early |
| brings us to our first tip. | | | | mornings and some very late nights. Do this willingly |
| When confronted by a recruiter, show confidence. | | | | and with enthusiasm. |
| You absolutely must convince this person that you can | | | | Study the industry as much as possible. Read all the |
| handle any assignment that comes your way. The | | | | books on the subject. Study past public relations |
| same is true once you land the job itself. Don't be | | | | campaigns. Read the latest magazines and journals. |
| afraid to give your opinions in meetings. You may | | | | Also, attend seminars and join professional groups. |
| come up with some stupid ideas but if you show | | | | This will keep you one step ahead of the game and |
| confidence, they may still be considered. However, | | | | greatly impress your boss. |
| don't appear arrogant. This can work against you. You | | | | Remember that there is a lot to learn. Coming out of |
| have to find the right balance between confidence and | | | | college, you've gained a lot of book knowledge but |
| arrogance. This is not always easy, especially for a | | | | public relations is more than book knowledge. Gain as |
| young person. | | | | much experience as you can. Study assignments done |
| Once on the job, hook up with a mentor, someone | | | | by others in the firm and see if you can learn anything |
| who you feel you can learn from. All the confidence in | | | | from them. |
| the world doesn't make up for experience and | | | | By doing all of the above you can almost guarantee |
| knowledge. A mentor can get you through that rough | | | | yourself a very long and successful career in public |
| first year by giving you sound advice and also by | | | | relations. |
| acting as a sounding board for your opinions. He may | | | | |