Five Tips Following Graduation -- A Guest Post from Nikki Yourison

The PR Job Coach is now featuring guest posts from time to time from notable people who have important things to say.  This week we have a post from Nikki Yourison a soon-to-graduate public relations novice.  Let us know if you have a point of view that could benefit our readers.

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I am Nikki Yourison, an aspiring PR professional with a passion for entertainment PR.  I work with many organizations and successfully execute events, coordinate philanthropy and manage reputations.  Here is my tip sheet on graduating.  

(1)   Research

In PR, you should know how crucial research is. So why not use it to your advantage when you’re stuck in limbo? Here are (3) things you can research: 

1.    Interest → what do you want to do with PR? 

2.    Locations → where do you want to work? 

3.    Businesses → what are you looking for from your future employer?

(2)   Networking, Networking, Networking

          

Getting to know your surroundings and competition will only work to your advantage in this industry. Unlike a lot of careers, PR practitioners work together and “mutually benefit” each other.

(3)  Broaden your sphere: PRSSA membership on your campus

PRSSA is made up of more than 11,000 students and advisers organized into 300 plus Chapters in the United States and one in Argentina”. If you aren’t yet a part of your campus organization, it’s not too late. An alternative option if you don’t have a campus chapter, (in addition to PRSSA) is to join PRSA as a national member.

 

(4)  Set Your Objectives


As a PR Pro coming up with objectives is basic knowledge, but did you ever think to do this for your future? Be sure to make them S.M.A.R.T.

            
              Specific

              Measurable

            Achievable

            Realistic

            Time Specific

(5)  Positive Attitude

Don’t feel discouraged when someone turns down your resume, just move forward and better yourself. Constructive criticism is a good thing.  

Here are Nikki's coordinates:

Nikki Yourison , President
PRSSA, Walter E. Griscti Chapter
University of South Florida
nyourison@mail.usf.edu
Blog: http://nikkiyourison.wordpress.com/