Last updated on Jul 10, 2024

Here's how you can master communication with your boss in a Public Relations role.

In the dynamic field of Public Relations (PR), effective communication is not just about crafting the perfect press release or pitch—it's equally about the rapport you build with your boss. As a PR professional, your ability to convey ideas, report on progress, and manage expectations can make or break your career trajectory. Mastering communication with your boss means understanding their communication style, setting clear expectations, being proactive with updates, learning from feedback, and navigating difficult conversations with finesse. By honing these skills, you can ensure that your voice is heard, your work is recognized, and your professional relationship with your boss is strengthened.

1 Understand Style

In the realm of Public Relations, adapting to your boss's communication style is crucial for a harmonious working relationship. Pay attention to whether they prefer detailed reports or succinct summaries, face-to-face meetings or emails, and adapt accordingly. If your boss is hands-on, they may appreciate regular updates and opportunities for input. Conversely, if they're more hands-off, they might prefer you to take initiative and come to them with solutions rather than problems. Mirror their communication preferences to build trust and ensure that your interactions are both comfortable and effective.

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Joanna M.

PR Manager and games lover at Kwalee
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Sure, adapting to your boss's communication style is important for a good working relationship. But I think it's also key to share ideas and have healthy debates to get the best results. While it's crucial to follow your boss's preferences, don't be afraid to propose different solutions. Pushing yourself and your boss out of the comfort zone can lead to growth and better outcomes. It's all about balancing respect with constructive feedback.

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Vanessa Fagundes

Comunicação Corporativa | Relações Públicas | Assessora de Imprensa
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O trabalho de Relações Públicas exige adaptabilidade e flexibilidade. O melhor caminho para ter uma comunicação assertiva e alinhada com seu chefe é entender a forma que ele prefere conduzir o trabalho, a frequência que deseja ser atualizado e de que forma prefere ser acionado em diferentes situações. Ao entender esse estilo, você consegue adaptar sua forma de comunicação com ele, definir o melhor caminho para reportar as tarefas e torna o trabalho muito mais harmônico, além de transmitir confiança para seus superiores.

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Eddie Tabakman 🎙️

Eddie the Media Trainer 🎙️
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I would make the argument that if you're the less senior person - regardless of which industry - it is on you to understand your bosses communications style and adapt. And if you're the boss / senior person, it is on you to help make your employees feel comfortable and confident in the workplace. As the junior person, obviously this will take time to figure out. But the sooner you do, the better your experience in your job will be. Also, consider reading the books "Managing Up" and "Surrounded by Idiots".

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Alexandre Guilherme AG

Comunicólogo, Comunicação Institucional, Assessor de Comunicação, Revisor e Editor Textual, Formador Certificado pelo CENFOR and Marketer.
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No âmbito das Relações Públicas, adaptar-se ao estilo de comunicação do seu chefe é crucial para uma relação de trabalho harmoniosa. Preste atenção se eles preferem relatórios detalhados ou resumos sucintos, reuniões presenciais ou e-mails e adapte-se de acordo. Se o seu chefe é prático, ele pode apreciar atualizações regulares e oportunidades de entrada. Por outro lado, se eles são mais práticos, eles podem preferir que você tome iniciativa e chegue até eles com soluções em vez de problemas. Espelhe suas preferências de comunicação para criar confiança e garantir que suas interações sejam confortáveis e eficazes.

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2 Set Expectations

Clear expectations form the backbone of any successful PR campaign and the same applies to your interactions with your boss. Early in your role, initiate a conversation about mutual expectations. Discuss reporting frequency, project goals, and preferred methods of communication. By establishing these parameters, you avoid misunderstandings and create a structured environment where both you and your boss know what to anticipate. This clarity allows you to work more autonomously and gives your boss confidence in your ability to manage your responsibilities effectively.

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3 Proactive Updates

In Public Relations, staying ahead of the curve is key, and this applies to your communication with your boss as well. Be proactive in providing updates before they have to ask for them. This shows that you are on top of your work and value their oversight. Share successes as well as challenges you're facing, along with potential solutions. By keeping them informed, you foster an open dialogue and can receive timely guidance to steer projects in the right direction, avoiding last-minute surprises that could jeopardize your campaigns or your credibility.

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Eddie Tabakman 🎙️

Eddie the Media Trainer 🎙️
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As someone who as managed people before, I always appreciated proactive updates. And if I wasn't getting them from staff, I would do my best to gently build it into our regular cadence. As a boss, you don't want to come across any surprises. So, proactive updates help give peace of mind. If, as the junior person, you understand this, you'll substantially improve your relationship. On top of that, if you have a major win at work, make sure people know that! If you're not going to celebrate your successes, no one else will...

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4 Learn from Feedback

Feedback is a goldmine for professional development, especially in Public Relations where strategies and tactics constantly evolve. When your boss provides feedback, listen actively and show that you value their expertise. Ask questions to clarify points if necessary and demonstrate how you will implement their suggestions. This learning attitude not only improves your PR skills but also signals to your boss that you're committed to growth and excellence. It also encourages a culture of continuous improvement within your team.

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5 Difficult Conversations

Navigating tough discussions is part and parcel of Public Relations work. When you need to have a difficult conversation with your boss—whether it's about a sensitive project issue or professional boundaries—approach it with tact and professionalism. Plan what you want to say, choose the right time and setting, and express yourself clearly and respectfully. By managing these conversations well, you show maturity and problem-solving skills that are invaluable in the PR industry.

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6 Build Rapport

Finally, in Public Relations, as in any other industry, building a strong rapport with your boss goes a long way. Take the time to understand their goals and pressures. Show appreciation for their guidance and support. Engage in occasional small talk to foster a more personable relationship. When your boss views you not just as an employee but as a trusted colleague, communication flows more naturally, and collaboration becomes more productive and enjoyable.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Daniel Maximilian Da Costa

CEO en Latin American Quality Institute | Certificaciones | Responsabilidad Total
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Desarrolla una capacidad excepcional para escuchar, comprendiendo las necesidades y preocupaciones de tus públicos internos y externos. Perfecciona tus habilidades de escritura y oratoria para transmitir mensajes claros, coherentes y persuasivos. Sé proactivo y anticipa posibles crisis, preparando respuestas estratégicas. Cultiva relaciones sólidas con medios y stakeholders, basadas en confianza y transparencia. Usa datos y análisis para medir el impacto de tus comunicaciones y ajustar tus estrategias. Mantente actualizado sobre tendencias del sector y tecnologías emergentes. Demuestra empatía y autenticidad en cada interacción, reforzando la imagen positiva de la organización.

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Here's how you can master communication with your boss in a Public Relations role.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand Style

2 Set Expectations

3 Proactive Updates

4 Learn from Feedback

5 Difficult Conversations

6 Build Rapport

7 Here’s what else to consider

Public Relations

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Here's how you can master communication with your boss in a Public Relations role.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Understand Style

2 Set Expectations

3 Proactive Updates

4 Learn from Feedback

5 Difficult Conversations

6 Build Rapport

7 Here’s what else to consider

Public Relations

Rate this article

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