What do you do if your boss undermines your expertise and ideas in Public Relations?

1 Assess Impact

When you feel your expertise in PR is being undermined, first take a step back to assess the impact. Determine whether this is a one-time occurrence or a pattern that's affecting your work and morale. Consider the consequences of the undermining on your projects, your team, and your professional growth. By understanding the scope of the issue, you can decide on the best course of action, whether it's a direct conversation with your boss or seeking support from others in your organization.

2 Open Dialogue

Opening a dialogue with your boss is a critical step. Approach the conversation with a mindset to understand rather than confront. Express how you feel in a way that is respectful and professional, focusing on specific instances where you felt your expertise was not considered. Provide examples of how your ideas and skills have positively impacted past projects. This conversation should be a two-way street; listen to your boss's perspective to gain insights into their actions and expectations.

3 Seek Allies

Finding allies within your organization can provide you with additional support and perspective. These allies could be colleagues who value your expertise or mentors who understand the dynamics of PR and workplace relationships. They can offer advice, advocate for you, or even mediate discussions if necessary. Remember, it's not about rallying troops for a battle but about building a network that recognizes and supports your professional contributions.

4 Refine Approach

If direct conversations and seeking allies don't lead to a resolution, consider refining your approach to presenting ideas and expertise. Sometimes, it's not what you say but how you say it that makes the difference. Tailor your communication style to your boss's preferences—whether they respond better to data-driven presentations, storytelling, or another method. By adjusting your approach, you can potentially increase the likelihood of your expertise being recognized and valued.

5 Professional Development

Continuing to invest in your professional development is crucial. Enhancing your PR skills through additional training, certifications, or networking can not only boost your confidence but also solidify your expertise. This continuous growth can make it harder for others to undermine your ideas and can provide you with more tools to effectively communicate and execute your PR strategies.

6 Plan Forward

If all else fails, it may be time to plan forward. Consider if the current workplace environment is conducive to your professional growth in PR. Sometimes, the best course of action is to seek opportunities elsewhere where your expertise will be valued and your ideas can flourish. Making a move can be daunting, but it's essential to be in a role and company where you can make a meaningful impact with your PR skills.

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?