Do’s and Don’ts when working in the fabulous world of Public Relations…
When you are a PR girl, it’s safe to say no two days are ever the same. From pitching editors, press breakfasts and coffee with journalists to product launches, assisting stylists and client TV show appearances- there is a lot that we have to do so it’s important to be aware of these simple pointers, that should make a busy day in the office just that much easier!
Do’s
1. Do your research on a media outlet, editor or blogger before pitching your client to them. Look at previous articles they’ve published and find out what they plan to in the future so you can cater your press release specifically to their needs. They will see you’ve put in the effort and will be more willing to work together.
2. Do keep on top of your workload by making a note of everything you need to do. Whilst you may think you’ll remember that editor’s name in a few hours, the chances are you’ll be called by a client having a crisis last minute and then completely forget about anything else. Make to-do lists and write everything down, it will certainly help you out!
3. Do stay in touch with everyone you meet. Having a large network is very important for PR girls, with media relations being key and its always handy to have someone to call in for a favour if need be. Planning for that new business pitch or press day will be that little bit easier if you have some go-to contacts.
4. Do have plan b, plan c and even plan d for events. You never know what could happen on the day and just in case there is a problem with the caterers or printing the invites you will be ever so grateful to be able to say ‘that’s not a problem, I already have an alternative working on it!’
5. Do check, check and check again! Proofread everything before you send it over, whether it’s an email, press release or simply a quick hello. Reputation is everything and as PR girls we are expected to have excellent writing and communication skills. Being concise and able to adapt to different audiences is vital. Mistakes are easily made when busy, so it’s worth spending a few minutes proofreading.
Don’t’s
1. Don’t forget about smaller media publications such as local and regional press. They may have a huge loyal readership and who knows where some publications may be in a few years time! The contacts you make at local and regional papers may also end up moving up and onto bigger things, so keeping up a good relationship with them could be great for the future.
2. Don’t ignore deadlines. This is especially important when pitching client stories. Journalist’s work to extremely tight deadlines, being aware of them and ensuring you have contacted them in good time could mean the difference between gaining coverage and being ignored. Keep to your own deadlines too, especially when working towards a client meeting or event.
3. Don’t ignore your colleagues. You will all be spending a lot of time together, working closely on project together for months at a time. That being said, its important that you put in the effort to get to know each other. As a result you’ll know their strengths, weaknesses and be able to support each other – leading in a more successful PR career for everyone!
4. Don’t forget about Social Media. Your social media accounts can be a great resource of information from breaking news stories, tips from other PR girls and, celebrity updates and the latest beauty tips – twitter has it all! It’s as a great way to connect with journalists, bloggers and industry professionals.
5. Don’t forget to de-stress! PR has been named as the 5th most stressful job, so it’s important to take some time out for yourself to do things that you love. Go for long walks during the weekends, take a long bubble bath or indulge in some retail therapy. It’s all about finding the right balance between work, health and your personal life.
