Organisation and Enthusiasm in Project Management

One of the most important things I've learnt from studying Public Relations is the value of managing time effectively and organising tasks thoroughly. Without a systematic and methodical level of preparation into any assignment, one can find themselves flailing like a fish out of water. This not only applies to the application of knowledge during studies and assessments, but will also be crucial in future careers.

It goes without saying that students who are adequately prepared for lectures and seminars, are likely to achieve to a higher standard than those who do not. But never has this been more apparent than in Public Relations, when the error of being unprepared can lose not only the business of a possible commissioning company, but also the reputation of the PR Corporation as a whole.

There are several fundamentals that one should be aware of when taking part in a pitch for Public Relations. I found a great article which helps with this, on INC. website…

(Clifford, L. Schlosser, J. ‘6 Tips For Pitch-Perfect PR’ INC. magazine, 2012)

During the mock pitches I took part in as an assignment for Public Relations Organisations and People, the importance of maintaining a knowledgeable, confident, approachable and dynamic image was shown to be vital. One could immediately recognise from the behaviour of group members whilst presenting, which people were comfortable with their campaign and confident in presenting it, and who was a little less so.

In all honesty, presenting has never been a strong point of mine. I can happily chat away with enthusiasm over the most tedious of subjects amongst small groups, but being stood in front of a class of expectant students who are reviewing and criticising your every word and action… That’s a scary moment. 

And I’m sure a lot of people out there are the same. But after experiencing mock pitching and commissioning campaign presentations, I have learnt this… 

No matter how scared or nervous or self-doubting you are - act calm, stay collected and always be enthusiastic! And of course, make sure you know exactly what you’re talking about, not just what your speech pointers have written down. Be prepared for questions or for adding explanation if the audience look confused, and if things muck up, then take it on the chin and carry on with the same level of animation as before.

I like to think that the drive to succeed pushed me to portray myself as confident, enthusiastic and well informed enough to impress. Well, one can only hope!

Thanks for reading, over and out.