Last weekend, I ran the 10-mile Broad Street Run here in Philadelphia. This was the first year that I did not yearn to be trampled by the masses so that I could peacefully succumb to an overwhelming exhaustion. Where I’m typically ready to give up at mile 9, I actually felt ready to tackle mile 10 with vigor. With college graduations in full swing this time of year, the run got me thinking of my nine years post-undergrad and the things I’ve learned that have prepared me for this 10th year of my public relations career, my mile 10.
1. Reporters Don’t All Run at the Same Speed. I never pitch two reporters the same way. Reporters not only have specific beats, interests and nuances dictated by their outlets, but they also have quite distinct personalities. One reporter may enjoy a humorous anecdote while another might prefer two-word exchanges. Having this type of knowledge is like winning a gold medal.
2. Wave to Your Cheering Section. It’s important to keep your network fresh. While you should always be meeting new business contacts, I think it’s even more important to maintain an open rapport with folks in your current network. When I was laid off many years ago, I reached out to almost everyone in my Rolodex (LinkedIn wasn’t mainstream back then!). The most meaningful response I got was, “I’m more than happy to help you because you’re not the type of person who only reaches out when you need something. You always keep in touch.”
3. Bump into 40,000 of Your Closest Friends. Public relations is a crowded field, and it’s only getting more congested. I realized early on that it was crucial to find ways to distinguish myself. When first out of school, I started doing pro bono PR work for an arts group to gain more experience, and most recently I’ve earned my MBA and concluded my term as president of PRSA’s Philadelphia Chapter. It’s important to look at what your competition is doing, and figure out how you can stay a few paces ahead.
4. We All Got a Medal. At the Broad Street Run, everyone who finishes gets a medal. While it’s nice to have that symbol of success hanging around your neck, it’s important to realize that everyone else has one, too. Remember to always stay humble. No matter how much success you might achieve, no one likes a big ego. The most successful people I’ve ever worked with are brilliant at their jobs, but are highly respected because they are not braggarts.
5. Ask Where All the Porta-Potties Are. I was so afraid in the beginning of my career that asking questions would let people in on the little secret that I did not know the answers. I’d have so much more useful information in my brain right now if I hadn’t been so fearful. As a young pro, you’re not supposed to have all the answers.
6. The Old Man May Smoke You. Every year, there’s an older gentleman who runs carrying a giant American flag. He’s rather small, elderly and carries a 30-lb flag, all while fighting wind resistance. Every year, he beats me. I like to remember this because time and time again people underestimate me based on my looks (I have a bit of a babyface). But I keep reminding myself —this gives me extra room to surprise and “wow” people with my performance.
7. Run It for the Fun of It. PR can be many things—rewarding, grueling, gruesome—but sometimes I like to remind myself that it’s also fun. Maybe this is because I find a good challenge to be fun, but if you are not enthusiastic about the topic you are pitching to a reporter or the event you’re coordinating, then why should anyone else be? Over time, I’ve also realized the importance of having colleagues who I respect, like and learn from. Office culture is just as important as the work you’re doing. Have fun, and it will seem less and less like a job.
8. Keep Your Eyes on William Penn. Atop Philadelphia City Hall sits a massive statue of William Penn. He marks mile 6 on the course. When beginning the race up in North Philly, you cannot see the finish line, but you can clearly see Mr. Penn. It’s important to remember important benchmarks along your path or you might lose sight of the finish line.
9. Encourage First-Time Runners. While awaiting the bang of the start gun, I chatted with a few first-time runners. They were concerned about getting a poor time, getting too tired, and that the course was going to be too crowded. Since I’ve run it for eight years straight, I was able to ease their fears. I think this is essential in public relations—to mentor our new pros. New grads are nervous, just like we were when we first started out. Be patient and be generous with your time and knowledge.
Bring on Mile 10.
Blair – great post. One of the things I always say is “Don’t be afraid to ask the stupid questions.” If your client or co-workers think less of you because of it, that’s their problem – you’ll win the race, because you’re not afraid to keep learning. Cheers, David
I find this insight not only very humorous but filled with wisdom. Sports, most notably races, provide many real life analogies and I was impressed by the real world (work) connections that you found in this race. It seems clear that you not only have ran the race multiple times but you prepared equally well. From what I read and hear about your work, Buchanon PR is lucky to have this blogger!