Three Public Relations Skills I Learned From Three Successful Public Relations Professionals

As a Public Relations Major Loyola University Chicago, I have had the privilege of meeting some of PR’s finest professionals. Three successful women in Public Relations - Maureen Jenkins, Alexa Ohm, and Lindley White - spoke during my Public Relations Writing course at Loyola about the tips, tricks, and experiences that have shaped them into who they have professionally become today.

Check out the top three things that stuck out the most to me if you plan on making it big in the PR world.

1. The Importance of Understanding Respect for Others Through Your Writing

Maureen Jenkins, a Corporate Storyteller and Content Development Specialist, redefined the boundaries of respect and clearly explained how respect applies to all aspects of journalism today.

Jenkins, who earned her master’s degree in Theological Studies from Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary at Northwestern University, explained how having a sense of understanding and respect for diverse perspectives of all types is a skill that those who choose to write for the people should understand - master, even. It is clear that her studies at Northwestern University have shaped her compassion and dedication to respecting individuals from all walks of life.

Personally, I learned from Ms. Jenkins to take the chance to expand my knowledge for lifestyles and cultures different from my own. Additionally, I realized that one must always understand that everyone may interpret your writing differently, so it’s vital to view it from another perspective. One trick I’ve learned is to have a friend, a family member, or someone random to read your paper and check for grammar errors and/or unintentional biases.

2. Building Connections Everywhere You Go

Alexa Ohm, Senior Account Executive at Porter Novelli, explained the benefits of staying in contact and building connections with everyone you meet. Ohm emphasized that no matter where you may be in your personal life or professional career, it is always beneficial to stay in touch with people. She pointed out that sending thank-you notes and connecting on LinkedIn (with a note on an invitation) are some of the many skills young PR-professionals can implement to maintain strong connections with people.

Moreover, Ohm emphasized how crucial it is for people to be kind and thoughtful. Ensuring you carry compassion and kindness from all walks of life is a trait that people will not forget about you.

Lastly, Ohm expanded on how employers are not just looking for people that get a job done... They are looking for individuals who care about the client that they are communicating with.

Alexa Ohm opened my eyes and redefined what it means to be a professional communicator in the PR world. She highlighted the things that can set you apart from others - building deeply rooted, professional, and genuine relationships with everyone you meet.

3. Thinking Ahead to Build Present Success

Lindley White, an Independent Communications Consultant, dedicated time during her presentation to focusing on the things she has learned when it comes to time management skills. White elaborated that we, students, should not only focus on a project’s draft due date but instead emphasize the overall deadline.

This calls to mind the importance that future PR professionals should place on establishing sharp time-management skills - specifically knowing, scheduling, and planning time for all events and deadlines.

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Are there any other PR skills you've learned throughout time? Let me know in the comments below! I'd love to learn.