Tim Conway
Due to ultra-competitive job market, aspiring PR professionals must showcase in-demand talents at special events, interviews, on-the-job and community service projects.
The ideal chance for future executives to nurture competencies is on-campus and initial role. The good news is that you can acquire these essential habits with time, effort and commitment.
Professional Demeanor: friendly smile; confident handshake; upbeat attitude; upright posture; formal language; direct eye contact; stylish attire/grooming
Social Manners: be polite; hold doors; unplug electronic devices upon entering building; be prompt for meetings; ask questions; take notes; display patience; send thank you cards; quickly grasp office protocol
Dining Etiquette: chew slowly; be active listener; engage peers in conversation; limit alcohol
Verbal Communication: concise writing/presenting; organized content; persuasive tone; proper e-mail format; proofread for grammar/punctuation/typos; rehearse Personal Pitch using Who, What, When, Where, Why, How
Character: integrity; work ethic; over-prepare; follow-through; build relationships with colleagues/mentors; volunteer for tasks; help others; demonstrate leadership; admit mistakes
Self-Discipline: focus on priorities; sustain energy; control online behaviors; appropriate language; healthy diet; exercise to stay mentally sharp; set short-term goals; track progress
Critical Thinking: analyze facts/data; challenge assumptions; consider “What-If?” scenarios; evaluate options; make recommendations; respect opposing views; negotiate/compromise
It’s Not About Y-O-U: individuals who are hired understand that today’s workplace centers on organization’s audiences (e.g., customers, alliance partners, suppliers, investors). So speak/write with collaborative terms: you; your; us; we; them (instead of “I”, “me” and “mine”)
Entrepreneurial Mindset: observe trends; spot problems; suggest solutions; take calculated risks; be willing to fail; persevere
Global Perspective: be empathetic to different cultures/ethnic groups; pursue study abroad; attain fluency in foreign languages; explore international courses/employment; relocate
Software Proficiencies: financial spreadsheets; databases; graphic design; social media (Linked In, ZoomInfo, Twitter)
Lifelong Learning: monitor current events; read industry magazines/blogs; go to conferences; finish training/certifications
Plus, complete workshops/webinars to refine time management, customer service and personal budgets (credit cards, checking accounts, student loans, apartment/car leases, travel).
Guest post by friend and former colleague Tim Conway, founder of Ignite Young Adults. Tim’s mission is to raise self-sufficiency of twentysomethings through methods such as objective assessments of natural abilities. Tim can be reached at 847-749-1394 (office) or timconway@igniteyoungadults.com