What I Learned From PRowl Public Relations

I'm allowed to get a little sappy for my last blog post, right?

Interviewing for PRowl was the best decision I made in my four years as a Temple Owl. I have met the most amazing people, learned more than I ever imagined possible and had the greatest experience I could have hoped for. PRowl helped me grow and be confident and try new things. Being a part of Temple's first and only student run firm not only solidified my knowledge that I chose the right career path, but it also taught me a lot and I've listed some of the most important things below:

1. We're all just trying to find our way
From freshman year through until graduation, we're all just trying to be the best we can be.

2. Your "competition" are also your biggest supporters
Yes, you'll be competing with your peers for jobs; but they're also going to be the ones you call when you get your dream job. Don't burn bridges.

3. You can learn as much from your peers as you can from your professors
Everyone has a unique perspective and their own expertise. Learn from those around you.

4. No challenge is too big or too small
You can handle anything with the support of the right team. Remember, you're not above anything.

5. People are inherently good
Your peers, your professors, the community and everyone in between wants you to succeed and are more than willing to help you get their if you're willing to make the effort.

Thank you to each and every member of PRowl, past and present for making my college experience amazing. I can't wait to see the firm grow and succeed even more.

What "Friends" Taught Me About PR

In honor of the 10 year anniversary of the series finale of Friends tomorrow, I've decided to list all of the public relations lessons our favorite friends taught me.

1. Think before you speak. Rachel taught me that just as it's not a good idea to talk about your ex with your current boyfriend, it's also not a great move to speak prematurely on a delicate situation. When representing a client, or even yourself, make sure you're fully prepared to answer any questions that come your way.
2. Always be aware. Ross taught me the power of unagi, also known as salmon skin roll. Basically, he taught me the principal of always being knowledgeable about what's going on around me. In public relations, it's important to stay on top of current events because, whether you realize it or not, it all has some impact on your own life. 
3. Fake it until you make it. Joey taught me that if you aren't sure of what you're doing, pretend like you are. Although we would prefer to have all the answers, in PR, sometimes that simply isn't possible. Remain calm, do your research, and come back prepared with a brilliant plan. 
4. Being controlling isn't always a bad thing. Monica taught me that a little anxiety may actually be helpful. Public relations professionals have a reputation of being control freaks, but that just means we like to get things done efficiently. Just remember to let your hair down every once in a while like Mrs. Geller-Bing to relieve some of that stress. 
5. Laugh about it. Chandler taught me that not every failure has to end in tears. Pitch didn't get picked up? Client hated your campaign idea? Life goes on and so does your career, so keep pushing! Pick yourself up and smile about that amazing press release you wrote instead.
6. Be flexible. Phoebe taught me to go with the flow. Despite her tumultuous life, she still managed to move forward. In public relations, there are going to be crises and obstacles but a great trait to have is flexibility. It shows that you are adaptable and a strong critical thinker, and those are great assets to have. 

Although the sitcom may be gone, the lessons Friends has taught me will live on. Hopefully, some of these lessons will help you as well!

2013 Taught Me

With just a day and a half left in 2013, I think it's pretty important to recap what we have learned as PR professionals throughout this year. Otherwise, we might just make the same mistakes in 2014.

1. PROOFREAD! If we have learned nothing else, I hope this blog and all of the mishaps we have covered have taught us all to read very carefully before clicking 'post.'
2. Twitter is actually 120 characters. That's right, not 140 characters. If you want your followers to be more interactive, leave them a little room to interact!
3. Some social media platforms are just trends. With new social networks and applications launching everyday, it can be difficult to determine which ones to invest your time in. Besides, in a few months they may just be swallowed up by an even bigger powerhouse. Simply stick to the needs of your client and its audience and choose platforms based on their needs.
4. Relax. Of course this easier said than done. Of course we will probably have a few breakdowns in 2014. But, at least we're going to make an conscious effort. Right?
5. Stay true to yourself. Yes, I am going to end this list with a corny cliche, but this corny cliche is definitely relevant. It's easy to lose yourself in your client, workload, tweets, and Instagram posts. But the best thing you can do for your client is to remain true to your standards. After all, that's why they hired you.

What are some lessons that you learned this year? We would love to hear about your experiences. Comment below!

5 PR Lessons from Classic Disney Movies

I recently took a family vacation in Disney World and relived many of my childhood memories. Seeing all of the attractions based on these very familiar Disney characters was such an amazing experience.

Early on in childhood, Disney taught us many life lessons. I learned that a dream is a wish your heart makes and that sometimes you’ve just gotta say “Hakuna Matata.” However, little did I know that some of the lessons from my favorite Disney films also inadvertently taught me a lot about PR. Standing in Disney World's Magic Kingdom I realized that I have been PR my entire life. Turns out, Walt Disney and Disney Corporation have produced movies for decades to help educate children and adults on how to be effective public relations professionals!

Here are a few very crucial PR lessons from five of my favorite classic Disney films:

1. Cinderella - Be Timely

2. Pinocchio - Be Transparent

3. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs - Rely On Your Network

4. Pocohantas - Passion Drives Results

5. Little Mermaid - Take Risks

As Walt Disney has taught us, every story has a lesson that can be applied to our lives, both personal and professional. PR pros should consider heeding every warning this classic films have given to us. What other PR lessons have you found in Disney films? We want to know!