‘Dos and don’ts’ from my first 30 days in PR
I’m Millie and I started as an Account Executive at Stand Agency in April.
After graduating from the University of Leeds in June 2015, I moved back into my family home with the intention of plunging straight into a career in PR. However, being situated in the remote Wiltshire countryside, sandwiched between two farms and not much else, I was left with limited local options!
I’m sure many graduates out there can relate to the doubt, confusion and little bit of panic which quickly sets in once the warm fuzzy feeling of finishing your degree fades away. So I decided to take action. I packed up and moved to the big smoke of London. This is where I found Stand, who were effectively my knight in shining armor by offering me my first job in PR.
Now one month into my role at Stand, it seemed like a good opportunity to share what I’ve learnt so far. So, in the form of a few ‘dos and don’ts’, here are my tips for those who are also starting out in their PR career:
DO give everything a go: From national sell-ins to helping with research for a new business pitch, be sure to embrace responsibility. Throwing yourself into all aspects of PR is an invaluable opportunity for you to learn, grow and develop your skills.
DO absorb everything: Be a total sponge and be aware of all that’s going on around you. You will learn a lot from colleagues so observe and take note.
DO be confident: Whether it’s sharing your ideas in a brainstorm, or picking up the phone and speaking to journalists, having confidence and having a voice will stand you in good stead.
DON’T panic: Allow yourself time to adjust to your new role and environment. You can’t expect to be crushing it on day one, so just be enthusiastic and do your best.
DON’T be afraid to ask questions: It’s an obvious one but not to be overlooked. It’s much more efficient to flag something you’re unsure of, than spend hours doing it wrong. No question is a stupid question.
Finally, and this one is pretty key here at Stand…
Absolutely DON’T forget to fill the fruit bowl: A banana-less office is no fun for anyone!
I have been welcomed into life at Stand with the extremely wide and open arms. I’ve learnt so much in this short space of time and look forward to all that is yet to come.
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