Dr.Samir Kapur
When Vikypedia asked me to pen down my thoughts for budding PR professionals I asked myself what advice can I give to these youngsters who are technologically more savvy than most of the oldies like us. But then I thought I will write down few points that I have lectured over these years to all my students. And the budding PR professionals need to consider this as their bible, read on the learnings:
1. Read, Read, Read – a lot ! and then read more: Read industry blogs, follow PR influencers on Twitter, one or two books on strategy, business and public relations. Read newspapers (online or offline) and magazines. Set up news alerts for your company and/or your clients.
2. Stay up to date with news every day: Apart from the news reading, listen to industry news ( you can log on to AIR while driving; till the time FM news is not allowed in the country). Watch the news in the morning. Irrespective of the approach you choose, it will make you better at your job. See this as a long term investment for your career.
3. Get away from your desk, and walk outside; better still – go on a media round: Well, if you think media relations can be done through emails and phone calls and all of us can be desktop warriors – think again. Nothing replaces f2f ( face to face contact) in these FB driven times. Even if the break is just to walk around the block or grab a sandwich, at some point during the day your brain needs natural light and a whiff of fresh air, and your body needs to stretch.
Author: Dr. Samir Kapur, Sr.VP & Branch Head Adfactors PR