What defines your PRofile?

Similar to many aspiring college students and professionals in any field, we question our chosen career path at some point. I began doubting my majors’ (public relations) direction earlier this year, skeptic of my capabilities and believing happiness was somewhere else. As a positive and confident person, this created an existential dilemma. That was until earlier this week when I realized that the “treasured” field I yearn for exists within me.

Heart: Passion is crucial when reaching your fullest potential. Whether it be tackling an assignment or maintaing a relationship, your heart has to be in it. For my PR ladies and gents, we know PR is constantly moving, with no one day being the same. Clients push for more and deadlines are pressuring, but continuing a fervor work ethic is promising. You owe it to your company and yourself to do what you love.

Mind: “No two minds think alike” goes without saying. Too often we are influenced by negativity and discouraged by colleagues (or friends). Our thoughts and ideas make us who we are and should never be quieted by outsiders. PR requires fresh, creative ideas daily. Be proud and speak of your visualization, it can be very encouraging. 

Soul: We meet new faces regularly, network as often as possible and work to build a social group, never finding ourselves in one place for too long. The only thing that is permanent in our travels is the impression we leave behind. The soul is your highest self being, emulating who you really are. Allow your soul to radiate; we are all parts of a greater entity. 

Just a few days ago I saw the light in my major; myself. All 3 of these things need to be a part of our career (and life) choices. Give your undivided self to all you that you do. 

I am proud to continue forward in my public relations major using these 3 things to define me. What’s defines your PRofile? We would love to know!

This guest blog post was written by PRowl Staff Member Caitlin Kummeth.

Why You Should Be Evaluating the Interviewer Too

The night-before jitters strike. Picking the perfect outfit and making sure you are well prepared for your interview are common behaviors. The moment you have been waiting for arrives and you’re ready to go. But what happens when your interviewer appears to fall short? Unfortunately, there are many components of a faulty interview. A meaningful understanding of the interview provides a foundation to determine your future working environment. Take into consideration the following telltale signs after your interview. 

1. “Tell me a little about yourself, I haven’t had a chance to look at your resume” - If that is the case, run. This is a negligent approach to an interview. It shows little thought and lack of interest of a prospective employee. After all, you’ve done your research on the company, so it is only fair that they reciprocate.
2. Easily Distracted - The interview has been scheduled for a specific time. Lunch and snacks should have been taken care of, and the utmost attention should be present by both the interviewer and interviewee. If the interviewer continues to look around, answer emails, or complete other tasks, then it is clear that they are inattentive.
3. “I’m not sure.”- The interview is reaching the end, and it is your turn to ask a few questions. The last response you want to hear is “I don’t know.”  If an interviewer or outside resource cannot give adequate answers to your questions, then it shows that there is a lack of familiarity and knowledge within the company.

Reflect and evaluate your first encounter with your potential employer as soon as you leave an interview. If you do not feel comfortable or satisfied, write a pro and con list to assist you before reaching a decision. The internal communication and culture of an organization or company is ultimately the most influential component in cultivating your future productivity, teamwork, and overall happiness. 

Share your favorite interview story with us!

This guest blog post was written by PRowl Staff Member Caitlin Kummeth.

Eat. Pray. Love: A Healthy Balance for PR Pro’s

Many of us are familiar with the 2010 hit movie Eat, Pray, Love starring the beautiful Julia Roberts on a journey to balance the crossroads in her life. Successful careers often require a “give-all” attitude at any hour of the day. In the round-the-clock field of public relations, maintaining the drive to balance both professional and personal life can be challenging. Fortunately enough, there are ways to master an  award-winning performance of one of life’s greatest challenges: the balancing act. 

EAT For the on-the-go professional, smart snacking between meals is important. Snacking on healthy foods stabilizes blood sugars, fuels energy and evokes “positive” thoughts. From personal experience, if you’re in a hurry, Fiber 1 Bars do the trick because they provide 30% of your daily fiber. Grab that box of almonds, bag of dried cranberries,bananas or any dried fruit, and a tablespoon or two of chocolate chips to create your own personal brand of trail-mix. Your creation will be irresistible to colleagues and clients. 

PRAY Take a moment at the end of the day, week or month to reflect on your hard work. Writing it down, privately or publicly, is a great habitat to fall into. Reflection forces you to utilize your down time to recognize mistakes, set future goals and build on the millions of ideas you have running through your mind. Once you free your mind and recognize everything that you have accomplished, be proud of your time and effort. Rightfully earned success is something to celebrate. 

LOVE We never work a day in our lives if we do what we love. This outlook requires us to love what we do both in and out of the office. Quality time with family and friends is important and adds relaxation and excitement to our schedules. Love is a key element to strengthening relationships with those people who are dear to us. Sunday night rolls around, and you think about the week in front of you. Just remember to eat, pray and love and know that happiness and success will come your way! 

This guest blog post was written by PRowl Public Relations staff member Caitlin Kummeth.