Oftentimes, we find ourselves overwhelmed with how competitive the communications/public relations field is. Being a Scripps kid, we are always pushing ourselves and each other to work harder and have greater successes. We like to feel like we are one step ahead.
Throughout the past four years, I have learned a lot from my friends and mentors about growing professionally, even when we are not in the classroom, in an organization or at an internship. I have put together a short list of resources that I, as well as my friends and mentors, use to stay up-to-date on the latest public relations happenings and tools that are out there.
Adweek
Every day, I get an email called Adweek Morning Digest, a daily newsletter that tells me about the most important events and on goings in the world of public relations that day. If one ad firm acquires another, this is where I find out about this. Staying relevant in public relations news is essential in understanding the professional world that we are going into.
Reading the News
Just as you should be staying up to date on the latest advertising trends, you should also be reading the news every day. Knowing and understanding current events is one of the most critical aspects of being a public relations specialist. You cannot pitch the news if you do not listen to it. You cannot post on social media without it either. The news is everything. Although it seems obvious and an afterthought, this is your greatest resource.
Certifications
Taking the time to get certified in several online programs will make you a stand-out candidate when in the application process. Certifications like HubSpot or Google Ad Words are both skills that you can list on a resume that many of your fellow colleagues won’t necessarily have. It can take some time to get these, yes; but so worth it in the end!
Surfing LinkedIn
The final tool that I use incredibly often is simply searching through LinkedIn to find people who work at companies that are super interesting to you. Reach out to these people, especially if they are Bobcats. Bobcats are always willing to help Bobcats, and if you find someone that you can form a connection with and has a job that excites you, let them know that. They will most likely be happy to help.
Each Scripps kid is incredibly talented and driven – you are no exception. If you are looking to grow your professional persona, try these things and I promise that you will always be one step ahead.
Sadie Newman is a senior majoring in journalism strategic communication. She is also the 2018-19 Executive Vice President of Scripps PRSSA. Follow her adventures on Twitter @RealSlimmSadie