It’s always fun to peruse my Google Analytics account and see what search terms bring you to FlackRabbit. Lately, quite a few folks have landed here after Googling variations of “how to be successful in PR.” Well, since you’re asking, I’ll offer up my top four PR pointers:

1. Choose strategy over reaction: don’t ever let someone–no matter how brilliant; no matter how much you fear them–pull you into a communications death spiral. While the news, situation or crisis is churning and burning, you must be the voice of reason. You must be the PR person who keeps a level head and a strategic mind. This takes practice and poise. And people will often look at you like you have no soul, but it’s worth it. And they’ll usually thank you for being such a purposeful control freak when it’s over.

2. Learn to write well, under pressure: frequent FlackRabbit-ers know how I feel about this one. Public Relations is so much more than social media, event planning and “liking people.” Can you turn out a thoughtful, relevant, well-written piece on a moment’s notice? If so, fabulous! If not, start practicing. The good news: writing and grammar are a totally learn-able skills. So grab you a copy of Eats, Shoots & Leaves, sign up for a blog and get to it.

3. Leave each client better than you found it: keep your work transparent and teachable. At the end of the day, your client/boss should be a more effective, confident communicator because he has met you, not rendered speechless by some secret “guru” sauce.

4. Say “no” and offer up a solution: there’s something just plain awesome about a person confident enough to say “no” when a product is flawed, a message is indefensible or a time line simply isn’t realistic. I love folks who care enough to say “no”; I love AND want to hire folks who accompany a “no” with a solution. Saying “no” respectfully and/or appropriately expressing disagreement with your peers and superiors takes guts and maturity. It ain’t easy but, when done well, it sure makes you stand out.

What am I missing? I’m sure you have success tips of your own! Express ‘em in the comments–ya know, for the Googlers.


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