Allison Sloan and Gillian Rubin, account coordinators with Levick Strategic Communications, are navigating the bumpy waters of their first "real" PR jobs. They offer some sage
advice for PR NEWS' youngest readers - and some insight for our more veteran subscribers on their junior colleagues. Watch our next issue for a look at innovative methods of
mentoring - and retaining - your most valuable young employees.
1. Deciphering Professional Jargon
A simple instruction to research media coverage on trademarking turns into, "I need a 411 on MSNBC's coverage of the SEC, ASAP."
Our tip: Tell your managers that you want to make sure to do the project the way they want it done. Ask them to run you through the language to make sure you have not
misunderstood anything. Bosses like to see initiative, and you want to send the message that you may be new, but you will pull your weight.
2. The Fall of Ms. Know-It-All
So you graduated top of your class and held two internships at big-time PR firms - not to mention serving on the board of three campus groups. No matter what your background,
it will take hard work to prove your value.
Our tip: If you continually raise the bar, people will reward you. Seek out new areas in which you can excel.
3. Time Management for the Scheduling Impaired
Remember when you thought starting your first full-time job would really open up your schedule? Ah, the delusions of the yet-to-be-employed. Your nights and weekends do become
your own, but you will find PR practitioners tend to work on roller coaster schedules.
Our Tip: Don't overbook your social calendar. Set aside two nights a week to stay in and relax. It's not the end of the world if you miss a happy hour. Whenever possible, watch
your diet and do a little exercise to increase your energy for early mornings and late nights.
4. Hey Lady, Those Are My Credit Cards
Getting a regular paycheck is not an open invite to the champagne and caviar club.
Our tip: Rewarding yourself with treats is a must, but be judicious. Save your receipts and keep a money log. You'll be surprised to find out exactly how much those morning
frappucinos are running you. Once you become familiar with your spending habits, it will be easier to see where you need to cut corners.
5. Showing Your Colors
The syllabus is a thing of the past. You are at the beck and call of your boss - or your client.
Our tip: Set goals for yourself, like joining an organization or implementing a new program or idea, and try to reach a new one every month.
Also, make lists and keep them. When the time comes to ask for a raise or cover your back, you have a record.
6. The Almighty Business Card
Contacts are key, so it's important to branch out and spread your wings.
Our tip: Make your business card your constant companion: Bring it to bars, concerts, and out to dinner - you never know whom you might meet. Keep your contacts organized and
make an effort to stay in touch.
7. Softball is a Job Skill
You never thought to put your ability to hit a mean softball on your résumé, but that just might come in handy at your first PR job. Hitting the winning homerun for your
company's team may not get you promoted, but it won't hurt your status!
Our Tip: Find a non-work-related interest that you share with co-workers and make an effort to coordinate after-hours plans. Just remember you are still unofficially on the
clock - so be responsible.
8. Wearing Sweatpants is NOT Acceptable
At most communications firms today, business casual is the standard, but there are exceptions. Invest in some basic pieces that allow you to mix and match until you can afford
more.
Our tip: When meeting clients, always wear a suit - period. And save the "Sex and the City" duds for after work!
9. When the Workplace Feels More Like Melrose Place
So you thought you'd left drama behind? Think again. The business world is full of diverse personalities. This can help when brainstorming new ideas, but when it comes time to
dealing with each other, things can get sticky.
Our tip: You will not be liked by everyone. Get over it. Thicken your skin when it comes to the workplace.
10. Gaining Respect From People Your Parents' Age
Professionalism will make you stand out from the rest and will give others no choice but to give you your due. And you may eventually realize you have more in common with the
50-year-old receptionist than with three quarters of the people with whom you tossed your graduation cap last year.
Our Tip: No matter how good you are at your job, there will always be those who will dismiss you because of your age. Forget about 'em - some people will never get over the
fact that you were conceived when they were ironing their hair and busting out the bell-bottoms. Prove yourself by doing your best work and by treating others the way you would
want to be treated. Good work has no age requirement.
Sloan and Rubin are currently perched on the bottom rung of corporate America, "but not for long."