Larry Foster, former Corporate Vice President of Public Relations at Johnson & Johnson, generously shared his career thoughts with aspiring public relations professionals in my Public Relations Leadership course last April. The following advice seems appropriate to share on a day that we remember this legend of our profession: In launching a public relations career I think it is…… Continue reading In His Own Words: Larry Foster’s Career Advice
Tag: career advice
Update Your Resume Now
When was the last time you updated your resume? If you answered anything other than “earlier this year”, don’t procrastinate. Do it now. Case in point: A 30-something agency VP told me last week about her failure to be considered for a significant job with another firm because she didn’t have an up-to-date resume. She…… Continue reading Update Your Resume Now
Graduation Advice For Future PR Leaders
Although DePaul University commencement exercises don’t occur until mid-June, many college graduates already have crossed the stage to claim their degrees. As I began to think about what to write to recognize this milestone, I received a post from friend and fellow blogger Edward M. Bury, APR (aka The PRDude). Edward’s following three points succinctly cover what it will take…… Continue reading Graduation Advice For Future PR Leaders
5 Questions Every Mentor Should Ask
Much has been written, including in this blog, about the importance for first-time job seekers and young professionals to build solid mentor relationships. In most cases, mentees ask most of the questions as they seek answers to the mysteries of job searches and career success. So, I was pleased to find some excellent tips for prospective mentors in yesterday’s…… Continue reading 5 Questions Every Mentor Should Ask
Freelance Advice: Take a Deep Breath and Go!
At my Agency Management class last night, four freelancers discussed the trials, tribulations and joys of taking the bold move of going out on their own. Over the next several weeks, I plan to share their suggestions on how to ensure a successful transition from full-time to freelance. First up is Sylvie Sadarnac, who operates under the…… Continue reading Freelance Advice: Take a Deep Breath and Go!
For the First Three Years, Focus on Building Skills
As a former hiring manager and supervisor, one thing I’ve noticed that’s true of nearly all Generation Y employees is their self-proclaimed “passion.” It’s what I love most about workers in this cohort, and what I dislike most as well. Why? Of course, passion is a great quality. Passion is what separates robotic, cog-like workers…… Continue reading For the First Three Years, Focus on Building Skills
Three Ways to Look Smarter in Fewer Words
What is smart? If you were to call someone “smart” what exactly does that mean? Does it mean memorizing a lot of information and regurgitating on a moment’s notice? Does it mean being quick witted and mentally nimble, being able to respond to anything or anyone at any time no matter what the topic is?…… Continue reading Three Ways to Look Smarter in Fewer Words
Think Before You Ink: Not Everyone Thinks It’s Cool
Tattoos have been on my mind lately—not on my skin, I should point out—but certainly on my mind. What I’ve been thinking about is the number of tattoos showing up on young people of all philosophies and political leanings and how these tattoos may affect their careers. Even a conservative college graduate we know…… Continue reading Think Before You Ink: Not Everyone Thinks It’s Cool
Climbing the Corporate Ladder: Seven Essential Recommendations for 1st-Year PR Pros
If you’re a junior-level staff member at your agency reading this post, you understand that it’s now crucial to work your hardest to prove to your bosses that they made the right decision by hiring you in the first place. With about a year of entry-level PR experience under my belt, I share with…… Continue reading Climbing the Corporate Ladder: Seven Essential Recommendations for 1st-Year PR Pros
A Letter to the Class of 2012
Dear Class of 2012: Are you interested in a challenging, engaging career—one that exposes you to the world and pushes you to grow professionally and personally? Do you want to get in on the ground floor of a dynamic, rapidly expanding industry? Are you intellectually curious, a go-getter, a critical thinker, creative and a hard…… Continue reading A Letter to the Class of 2012