As 2016 approaches, it’s time to set those New Year’s resolutions. According to Nielsen, the most popular New Year’s resolution for 2015 was to stay fit and healthy. Surely, those are important focuses, but instead of following the crowds that pack gyms in January, I’m dedicating some of my resolutions to becoming a better PR professional. Here are a few resolutions all PR professionals can aim to keep.
- Perfecting your media lists before pitching: When pitching, it’s easy to fall into the trap of using a database to create a media list and mail merging to everyone on that list. However, this often leads to problems, such as incorrect emails, media contacts on the list who no longer work at the outlet, or pitching reporters who aren’t a fit for your story idea. Not only is it annoying for the reporter to receive a pitch that is clearly misdirected, but it also wastes the PR practitioner’s time. In 2016, take the extra steps to make sure your media contact list is accurate and that you’ve read each journalists’ recent coverage to make sure he or she is the appropriate contact for your pitch.
- Stay up-to-date with social media: While “favorites” on Twitter may have disappeared, social media is not going away anytime soon. So make one of your 2016 resolutions to stay updated on the latest social media trends, and don’t be afraid to test out a new platform. Nobody is expecting you to find the next Facebook, but you may stumble upon a new tool that could benefit you and your clients. Social media is a great way to engage with colleagues, build credibility and get the latest news, so use it to your advantage and make the most out of this wonderful and free tool.
- Take more time for yourself during the workday: Being in the public relations field is stressful, making it even more important to take time out for yourself during the day. Make it a point to take breaks during your day, to take a walk, or do something else that you enjoy and can give your mind a rest. Not only will this help you unwind and recharge, but it will clear your head, which could lead to a new idea that could help you on an upcoming project. At the end of the day, taking some “you” time will help you to do your job better.
So here’s to a successful and fulfilling 2016! Fellow PR professionals, what are some of your PR resolutions in the New Year?