5 Resolutions Every PR Pro Can Use in 2015

As clichéd as it may sound, making resolutions is a great way to reflect on the past 12 months and pinpoint areas where you can make a positive change in the year ahead. From one public relations practitioner to another, here are some of my 2015 resolutions.

Be (even) more organized. Whether it’s color-coding your inbox or getting to work early in order to map out your daily tasks, organization is one of the most important traits of a public relations professional. Being on top of your work means you’ll be more available to help out a colleague in need or jump on a new project when asked.

Volunteer with local organizations. In addition to being good for the soul, giving back is also good for your health and your career. Whether it’s your local PRSA chapter or a nonprofit whose cause is close to your heart, bump up your involvement in at least one organization this year. An added bonus is that you’ll likely make new friends in the process – something that studies show is tough to do in adulthood.

Give back to PR newbies. Say “yes” to that informational interview with a PR student. Speak at a local university’s PRSSA chapter. Share your tips with new or soon-to-be public relations pros by regularly joining Twitter chats (#PRStudChat is a great one, by the way). Who knows – you may just find your next intern or entry-level employee.

Stop saying you’re “crazy busy.” Everyone says they’re too busy, surveys show. Nowadays, being busy is how we show we’re successful; it has become a badge of honor. But many of us seem to forget that busyness is often a choice. If you always feel “swamped,” figure out ways to free up your schedule. Make 2015 the year you focus on being present rather than being busy.

Put your health first. A blog post on resolutions isn’t complete without this one. No matter how hectic your schedule may be, it’s important for those of us in PR – consistently ranked one of the most stressful jobs – to make time for regular exercise. Hitting the pavement, the gym or a yoga class before or after the workday will do wonders for both your body and mind.

What are some of your resolutions for 2015?