Editor’s Note: In celebration of Katie’s first year as a PR Associate with ROAM, we asked her to share her learnings over the last year in hopes it reminds us all about our early days in communications. Congrats, Katie!
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As I reflect on my first year at ROAM Communications, as well as my first full year post-grad, I am struck by how much I have learned and how quickly time has passed. The past twelve months have been filled with a range of experiences, from writing press releases to pitching stories to helping our clients win prestigious awards. In this blog post, I will share some of my key takeaways from my first year in public relations.
I had never considered public relations as a potential career path for myself until my final semester at The University of Tulsa. I originally went to school for nursing, as I was (and still am) passionate about health and wellness and helping others. After changing my major to Media Studies in 2020, I wasn’t sure where I would end up or where I would find my purpose with such a catch-all major. A professor of mine shared a job posting for a Public Relations Associate with a boutique agency, and I applied out of sheer curiosity. Little did I know that curiosity would lead me to write this blog post today.
One of the most important things I have learned is the importance of attention to detail. As someone who breezed through school, having to slow down and be meticulous has been a challenge that I have welcomed. Whether it's proofreading a press release or double-checking the spelling of a reporter’s name, accuracy is of the utmost importance. While I have always considered myself very organized, I feel that I have reached a new level of organization in the past year. There are always multiple projects and deadlines to juggle, and staying on top of them requires careful documentation, planning and prioritization.
Another important lesson I have learned is the value of adaptability. Public relations is a constantly changing field and it's important to be able to adjust as needed. Whether it's a change in a client's goals or a shift in the media landscape, being able to adapt quickly is essential for success in this industry. I love that no one day is exactly the same and I have the opportunity to be a lifelong learner in this ever-changing field. With this experience, my passion for public relations has grown immensely, and I am eager to advance my knowledge and skills.
Finally, I have learned to be an out-of-the-box thinker. It’s easy to check off tasks and go through the motions of our day-to-day work, but the real value of a public relations professional is in the ability to provide innovative and creative solutions for your clients. In today's highly competitive market, clients need fresh and unique approaches to stand out and capture the media’s attention. By thinking outside of the traditional PR program, you can develop strategies that go beyond the typical press release or media outreach, helping clients stand out and succeed in their respective industries.
In conclusion, my first year at ROAM Communications has been an incredibly rewarding experience. I have learned so much about the industry and myself, and I am excited to continue growing and developing my skills in the years to come. Whether it's building relationships with the press or re-working a pitch for the fifth time, I know that the lessons I have learned in my first year have set the stage for an exciting career!
