The fast pace of the public relations profession makes it a challenging environment to work; professionals move around, companies merge and workloads increase. Amid the energy and progression of the profession itself, it’s important to take responsibility for your professional development. That doesn’t have to mean changing jobs – it could be as simple as taking a proactive approach to managing your career, starting with your current role.
When thinking about how you would like your career to progress, it is important to remain professional and remember you are part of a team; although some colleagues are also friends, try to avoid office politics and company ‘gossiping’. Having a constructive attitude towards the organisation, and those working within it, will present you as a positive company asset.
Once you start considering your career options, it is crucial to invest your energy correctly. Pushing for the next promotion or deciding to change jobs requires considerable planning, lots of enthusiasm and drive. To help you develop a career path remember to:
TALK
Attending networking events and speaking to your PR peers in different companies and at different levels allows you to compare your role and be inspired by their achievements. Friends and family can also play an important role, often proving to be the most honest and objective career coaches, and you can create a logical picture of what you want to accomplish by discussing career aspirations with them.
LEARN
Experiencing new situations and learning additional skills in and outside of work allows you to become more adaptable and responsive to change, and equips you with a flexible ‘can do attitude’. This benefits your employer and your general career outlook.
RECORD
Briefly noting down feedback from others regarding your professional activity – good or bad – can help you build a realistic picture of your strengths and where further training might be required. Undertaking this activity will demonstrate how ready you are for the next step in promotion terms, and what areas require more investment and development.
BE ASSERTIVE
Most PR employers offer career training, but make sure you agree with the approach. If you believe your manager is overlooking the specific support required for your personal professional development, raise this issue and look for ways to learn independently – if you don’t push your career advancement forward no-one will.
Although staying with a company for a substantial period can offer many security and financial benefits, if you have decided to opt for a change of scenery and new challenge by moving companies, don’t feel guilty about resigning.
Most organisations act in their own best interests, and you are entitled to do this. Remember to remain professional in the excitement and adrenaline of handing in your notice. Follow the formal resignation procedure, offer assistance in the recruitment handover and emphasise your willingness to work over the notice period.
Leaving on a positive note will ensure future references can be sourced and no negative comments will catch-up with you as you progress up the PR career ladder.
By taking control of your career, identifying what you want to achieve and determining the career paths that will take you there, a small investment now will ensure your time and energy helps you reach your long-term career goals.
Paul Cushing is managing director of RPCushing Recruitment – a consultancy specialising in public relations recruitment for client-side and agency organisations, www.rpcushing.co.uk