How to Succeed After CollegeWhat I learned in PR Practicum

Sara DavisPR 3711

November 30, 2009

Resume Writing• The most important skill that I

learned in PR Practicum was how to improve my resume writing.

• I learned that “action” adjectives help give future employers a look at my abilities and accomplishments.

• I also learned that my resume needs to show my accomplishments & how I will benefit the company.

Job Interviewing•Another important thing that I learned in PR Practicum was how to improve my job interview skills.

•I learned that I should create a “leave-behind” to leave with the interviewer.

•I gained confidence after doing the “mock” interview and portfolio review. I feel more prepared to interview for my future career.

Creating & sharing my portfolio

•I learned that my portfolio should contain an array of my accomplishments, instead of just one type. •I also learned that my portfolio should contain tabs so that everything is easier to find when in an interview. •In addition, I learned to choose two or three of my best pieces to show the interviewer. These pieces should be from different genres, such as print and web work.

Writing a Cover Letter• In PR Practicum, I learned how to

improve my cover letter writing skills.

• When writing a cover letter, I should describe the skills that I have that will benefit the company.

• I learned that I should express a knowledge of the company’s history when writing my cover letter and make sure it is specific to the job that I am applying for.

Social Media is Key•In order to succeed in the Public Relations field currently, I must be skilled in social media, such as Twitter and facebook.•Social media is a great way to promote and to network.

Staying Current• It is important to stay up to date on

what is going on in the Public Relations field.

• Reading trade magazines and using google alerts are great ways to learn what is new in PR.

Tips from a Professional

• I learned numerous things from the PR professional that I interviewed. One of the most important things that I learned was that technology is extremely important in Public Relations.

• I also learned that I need to be proficient in design programs, such as Adobe and Microsoft Publisher.

The Benefits of LinkedIn

• LinkedIn allows you to connect with other people in the PR field.

• In addition, LinkedIn provides employers with your resume and a list of your accomplishments.

• LinkedIn is a great way to network and to promote yourself.

Trade Book• The trade book that I

read discussed networking.

• I learned that networking is extremely important and often times you will meet a future employer by networking.

• I learned that networking can be done in unexpected places, such as a hair salon or even a gas station.

Searching for a Job• Finally, in Public Relations Practicum I

learned that there are numerous ways to search for a job.

• LinkedIn, job search engines, and career services are great outlets for job searches.

• I also learned that connecting with people is a great way to find a job.