Public relations can be a tricky business to be in. You are tasked with the job of persuading people about something you know about. It’s hard work if you want to be successful in this industry. Here are five traits you should have if you want to be one of the best PR’s.
Truthful
While some news may be unpleasant to tell a client, it is important that you always tell the truth. When delivering news though, try to find a bright spot in the conversation. Positively say things, showing others that good can always be found in a situation. Push others to be positive and move forward no matter how bad the unexpected outcome was.
Balance
You have to figure out what is important and what is not. Determine when you should drop something for something else, and when you should stick with the story you are going after. Don’t get so bogged down in things that you do not realize what else is happening. Opportunities could appear from out of nowhere, and you need to be available whenever they arrive. PR firms may be far away from the action, but they are not afraid to get to it as soon as possible.
Adventurous
A good PR finds new ways to obtain information and share it with the world. While the traditional methods still work, going outside your box may give you a bigger hearing. Come at things from a difficult angle and show others different interpretations. Promote your material through social media outlets and podcasts. There may be some risk going outside of the norm, but you have to be willing to take a chance.
Interested
If you wish to succeed, you need to keep up with what is going on around you. Your sense of curiosity should be constantly on alert. Don’t pretend to keep up with the world around, truly do it. Learn how to approach others with a genuinely, interested mindset. People will be able to tell if you truly care about what is happening or not.
Thorough
Before giving your final story, make sure your story is complete and true. Check and recheck your facts, sources, and stories. Add in as much detail as you can to show the readers you have done your homework on the project. Your stories should be filled with so much content, the reader is immediately engaged in the situation.
Some of these characteristics may be things you need to work on. Don’t get discouraged if they don’t come naturally to you, they are things that can be practiced and learned.
