Tiffany T.N.A.M Kuffour’s Post

"One month answered three years of questions" After several Internship opportunities in PR, including government sectors, private companies, and startups, I became certain and wondered: What does it take to be a skilled public relations specialist with all the required skills? I was particularly fascinated by PR Agencies and wondered about their inner workings and the specific responsibilities of each team member. What impressed me even more was how someone could manage multiple client accounts and meet their needs? How do they create different strategies and employ different tactics for each client? How do they monitor and adjust their approaches? How do they handle reports, RFPs, market studies, competitor analysis, and Crisis management strategies? I had some knowledge about these aspects, but I doubted whether these were the right ways. So, I asked and observed professional specialists who carried out these tasks. It's been a month, but there have been dozens of questions and inquiries that occupied my mind over the past three years. I was desperate for answers. Of course, one month was not enough to learn everything, but it was enough for me to find out what I lacked and direct me towards what I wanted, just as I knew what I wanted to choose in the future. In the coming period, I hope to immerse myself in learning and practical experience in the world of PR agencies. One crucial lesson I've learned, as my manager told me, "is that real-world experience in this field comes from years of work, facing challenges, making mistakes, and learning from them". This also took me to learn about several markets that I was not aware of and see what is going on around them such as Fintech, Real estate, Electric cars, Outsourcing, Finance and CX. The month enabled me to develop some of my technical skills, such as Research and Analysis skills. This is what made me have an initial view of any company, knowing its direction in CSR activities, How much its strength in media coverage, the tactics it follows, and what it lacks in working on.. So, I'm committed to continuing my journey over the next two years. In the upcoming year, I'll be available for full-time work anywhere, without specific salary demands or job titles until I reach my desired goals. You can see my LinkedIn profile and see what roles I've held, what skills I have, and what certifications I've earned If you have any opportunity for me, feel free to reach out at any time on my phone number or my Email . 😊 mahmoudsobhy2482002@gmail.com 01551531267 #PR_Intern #PR_Student

Breaking into PR: A Journey Worth Taking 💫 As someone who's been in the PR game for a whil now, I can confidently say that it's an incredibly rewarding (and sometimes wild!) industry. But let's be real, getting your foot in the door can feel like a daunting task, especially when you're fresh out of college or making a career pivot. I still vividly remember the days of scouring job boards, crafting endless cover letters, and feeling like a tiny fish in a vast ocean of applicants. But fear not, my friends! I'm here to share some insider tips that helped me break through and might just give you the edge you need. 1. Network, network, network! Attend industry events, connect with PR professionals on LinkedIn, and don't be afraid to reach out for informational interviews. Building relationships is key in this business. 2. Gain relevant experience through internships or volunteer work. PR agencies and companies love to see hands-on experience, even if it's unpaid. 3. Develop a strong writing portfolio. PR is all about storytelling, so showcase your writing chops with blog posts, press releases, or even creative writing samples. 4. Stay up-to-date with industry trends and news. Follow PR publications, blogs, and thought leaders to demonstrate your passion and knowledge. 5. Tailor your application materials. Research the company or agency you're applying to and highlight how your skills and experience align with their needs. 6. Don't get discouraged! PR is a competitive field, but persistence and a positive attitude will take you far. Remember, breaking into PR is a journey, and every step counts. Embrace the hustle, learn from setbacks, and keep pushing forward. Who knows, you might just be the next PR rockstar in the making! Feel free to drop a comment if you have any specific questions or need advice. I'm always happy to lend a helping hand to fellow PR enthusiasts. Wishing you all the best on your PR pursuit! 🚀 #PR #PublicRelations #CareerAdvice #PersonalBranding

5 Tips to Break into PR for Recent Graduates 🎬 Breaking into the public relations industry can feel like a daunting task. However, with the right strategy and mindset, you can position yourself for success. Here are 5 tips to help you get your foot in the door: ⭐1. Gain relevant experience. Look for internships, entry-level roles, or volunteer opportunities that will allow you to build your PR skillset, whether it's media relations, event planning, content creation, or social media management. This hands-on experience is invaluable. Consider applying to graduate schemes at leading UK PR agencies like Hotwire, Golin, or FleishmanHillard. ⭐2. Expand your network. Attend industry events (like Ingenuitys PRLink), join professional organizations like the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) or the PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATION LIMITED (PRCA), and connect with PR practitioners on LinkedIn. Building relationships can lead to informational interviews, mentorship, and even job opportunities down the line. ⭐3. Develop a strong personal brand. Showcase your writing skills, creativity, and PR knowledge through a personal website, blog, or active social media presence. This will help you stand out to potential employers. You can even use your LinkedIn to showcase something you've learned that can inspire others. ⭐4. Stay up-to-date on industry trends. Read UK-based trade publications like PRWeek and PRmoment, listen to PR podcasts like Stories and Strategies, PR Roundtable and the PRovoke Podcast and follow thought leaders. This will demonstrate your passion and commitment to the field. ⭐5. Be persistent and patient. Breaking into PR takes time and effort. Keep applying, follow up, and don't get discouraged. Your dream job is out there - you just have to keep pushing forward. The PR industry in the UK offers so many rewarding career paths. With the right preparation and mindset, you can turn your PR aspirations into a reality. Any questions for those that have just graduated or those potentially looking to get into PR, my inbox is always open, so don't hesitate to drop me a message. ☕ #PRCareerUK #PR #MondayMotivaton #PRTips

If anyone is interested in developing their skills in Public Relations, a quick thought based on my experience that might be helpful. 💬 Here are some tips for developing this skill: Developing skills in public relations (PR) requires a combination of knowledge, experience, and practice. Here are some steps to help you improve your PR skills: *Education and Training* 1. *Take online courses*: Websites like Coursera, Udemy, and edX offer PR courses. 2. *Attend workshops and conferences*: Industry events provide opportunities to learn from experts and network. 3. *Pursue a degree in PR or communications*: Formal education can provide a solid foundation. *Practical Experience* 1. *Intern or volunteer*: Gain hands-on experience in PR by interning or volunteering with organizations. 2. *Join a PR club or organization*: Many cities have PR clubs or organizations that offer networking opportunities and professional development. 3. *Participate in PR projects*: Collaborate with others on PR projects to build your portfolio. *Key Skills to Develop* 1. *Writing and communication*: Develop strong writing, editing, and verbal communication skills. 2. *Media relations*: Learn how to build relationships with journalists and pitch stories. 3. *Crisis communication*: Understand how to handle crisis situations and develop effective communication strategies. 4. *Social media*: Stay up-to-date with the latest social media trends and best practices. 5. *Research and analysis*: Develop skills in research, data analysis, and measurement. *Networking and Professional Development* 1. *Join professional associations*: Organizations like the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) offer networking opportunities and professional development. 2. *Attend industry events*: Stay current with industry trends and network with professionals. 3. *Read industry publications*: Stay informed about the latest PR trends and best practices. 4. *Seek mentorship*: Find a mentor who can provide guidance and support. *Building a Personal Brand* 1. *Establish an online presence*: Create a professional website or blog to showcase your skills and experience. 2. *Engage on social media*: Build a strong social media presence and engage with industry professionals. 3. **

My Journey as a PR Intern BlackHouse Media (BHM) As a Public Relations student, I always wondered what it would feel like to work in an actual PR firm. Honestly, I thought it might be boring compared to the flexibility of advertising, which offers both conventional and unconventional creative avenues. However, I realized that the best way to challenge my perceptions was to dive into the PR field myself. My journey began in April 2024 when I applied to Black House Media with a resume that showcased my skills, despite lacking any real-life PR experience. Thankfully, my theoretical knowledge, thanks to my lecturers, equipped me in areas such as research, media relations, and crisis management. After an interview with Iretomiwa, the Regional Manager for West Africa, I expressed my goals for the internship. I started my role on May 6, 2024, joining a PR team that handled the Honeywell Group and The Macallan account. Here, I gained hands-on experience tracking and monitoring brand mentions and analyzing competitors. I also learned to compile reports, including daily updates on brand-related news and detailed reports post-campaign or event launches. Later, I was transferred to a different team focusing on MultiChoice, Showmax, and Sky Girls. Tiarhan, my team lead, and my senior colleagues were fantastic mentors who guided me on my journey to becoming a proficient PR practitioner. Throughout my internship, I learned the depth and importance of PR and communication, including: The crucial role media relations play in effectively conveying messages. The importance of proactivity and anticipating outcomes. The need for meticulous attention to detail. As an intern, I contributed to several projects: Created an update report for The Macallan’s A Night On Earth event. Tracked and monitored mentions for The Macallan, MultiChoice, Sky Girls, FCMB, and their competitors. Assisted in rolling coverage and PR reports for the Big Brother Naija campaign. Collaborated on the Nigerian Idol PR report Compiled daily reports for Honeywell Group Ltd and weekly/monthly reports for MultiChoice. Compiled several contact reports for The Macallan, FCMB, and MultiChoice. This experience has truly transformed my understanding of PR, and I’m excited to apply everything I’ve learned as I continue my career in this dynamic field. A heartfelt thank you to everyone at Blackhouse Media for their support and guidance.

A Communications major at my Alma mater recently asked me about the top things I wish I'd known before entering the world of public relations and corporate comms. And while the industry has changed significantly since my first days in the workplace, I believe several key pieces of advice remain true. ✔ Embrace Continuous Learning: PR is a dynamic field that evolves with trends, technology, and societal shifts. Stay curious and keep learning—whether it’s mastering new digital tools, understanding emerging AI-driven solutions, or keeping up with industry news. The more you know, the more valuable you become. ✔ Build Strong Relationships: Relationships are the backbone of PR. Whether it’s with journalists, clients, colleagues, or mentors, take the time to build and nurture these connections. Be genuine and reliable, and always look for ways to add value to the relationships you develop. ✔ Be Resilient and Adaptable: PR is fast-paced and unpredictable. You’ll need to think on your feet, manage multiple priorities, and sometimes handle challenging situations. Stay calm under pressure, learn from setbacks, and be open to change. ✔ Hone Your Writing Skills: Writing is at the heart of PR—media pitches, print and digital content, press releases, talking points, social media content and more. Focus on being clear, concise, and compelling. Good writing can set you apart and is essential for effective communication. ✔ Understand the Big Picture: PR is more than just media relations; it’s about shaping perceptions and driving business goals. Take the time to understand the industries and organizations you work for. This will help you create strategies that align with broader objectives and demonstrate your strategic thinking. ✔ Be Ethical and Authentic: In PR, your reputation is everything. Always be honest, transparent and ethical in your work. Building trust takes time, but it’s the foundation of a successful career in communications. ✔ Seek Mentorship and Networking Opportunities: Don’t hesitate to contact experienced professionals for advice and guidance. Attend industry events, join PR associations and connect with peers. Networking can open doors and provide invaluable insights as you grow in your career. What early career advice still sticks with you today? #PublicRelations #PRCareer #Communications #CareerAdvice #PRTips #DigitalPR #MediaRelations #PublicRelationsStrategy #ProfessionalDevelopment #IndustryInsights #CommunicationSkills #Networking #CorporateCommunications #FutureofPR #Leadership #CareerGrowth

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Today I had the privilege of joining the PR careers panel discussion, with final year Media and Communications students at University of Surrey, organised and chaired by Dr Robyn Muir PhD. Alongside Silvia de Candia, director of PR and Communications at Accor and Scarlet Payne, PR and Content specialist at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, we answered students' questions about how to get into PR; how to prepare for interviews; what employers look for; what the main differences are between working in a PR agency, in-house, and as a freelancer; what our day-to-day tasks involve; how to move up the career ladder; how many years' experience are required before becoming freelance; and the evolving role of influencers. As Robyn had shared the students' questions in advance, I also shared them with my former agency colleagues, Paul Stallard and Peppa Sheridan, MCIPR and Gina Hough to get their perspectives and provide the students with a broader view. There was a clear consensus on the first question: 'What do you enjoy most about working in PR?' Answer? Seeing positive coverage in the media. I've been working in this industry for 25 years (most of the students weren't born then, I know this because I asked them 😊) and I still get a real buzz from seeing a client's article or comment published in our target media. The other aspect of PR is that it provides multiple opportunities to meet and learn from some incredible people: clients, journalists and colleagues, some of whom will become lifelong friends. This is a people business after all. That led on to one of the other questions, 'What advice would you give to someone seeking a career in PR? All of my colleagues advised students to select the sectors that truly interest and inspire them, find companies that serve those sectors, then research the firms that they are applying to, read the company blogs, see what the media have reported about them, and understand their USPs. Silvia da Candia talked about the value of transferrable skills. Candidates may not have held a PR role, but if they've successfully organised, promoted and hosted an event, if they've written to their local paper about an issue that they're passionate about, or if they've hosted a podcast, written a blog, or worked on hospital radio, they can draw on these experiences and learning points. When asked about the qualities that are most valued in PR applicants, the colleagues I'd quizzed ahead of the panel mentioned adaptability, a strong work ethic, a can-do attitude, and resilience. Knowing them all, and how much they've made me laugh over the years, I'd add that a sense of humour is a vital quality in this business. Ultimately, PR is about communicating with people. Being able to use words and images to raise awareness, support, a smile, or an eyebrow will stand these students in good stead. With thanks to Dr Robyn Muir and the students of University of Surrey Wishing you every success in your careers..

If you are an entry-level PR professional, this is for you‼️ Recently, I participated in a Public Relations collaborative article here on LinkedIn. The topic was; What do you do if you want to maximize growth as an entry level PR professional? It touched on areas of interest such as building skills, networking, mentorship, etc. As I contributed to this article, I couldn’t help but reflect on my journey as a PR professional. I vividly recall the uncertainties and challenges I encountered as an entry-level professional. Through this collaborative article, we had the opportunity to empower the next generation of PR professionals, guiding them to navigate the intricate landscape of our industry with confidence and success. This has prompted me to share insights and strategies with fellow PR enthusiasts on LinkedIn based on what I gathered from the article. 1️⃣Sharpen Your Skills Continuous learning is your best friend. Stay ahead of the game by keeping up with industry trends. Whether it's through reading the latest publications, attending webinars, or enrolling in an online course. Remember, the best way to learn is by doing. Don't hesitate to jump into internships, volunteer work, or freelance gigs to gain hands-on experience and build your confidence. 2️⃣Expand Your Network In PR, it's not just about what you know, but who you know. Embrace every opportunity to network, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone. Networking opens doors to new opportunities and provides invaluable insights. Take it from someone who struggled with this in the past, “the hustle is worth it”. 3️⃣Embrace Mentorship I can't stress enough the importance of having a mentor by your side. Their guidance, insights, and career development support can accelerate your growth in ways you never imagined. I personally didn't fully appreciate this until I had a mentor myself, and now I can't imagine navigating this journey without one. 4️⃣Stay Informed, Stay Curious Research, research, research! Don't settle for surface-level knowledge. Dive deep into topics, explore beyond the headlines, and conduct thorough research to stay informed and ahead of the curve. Curiosity is your best friend in PR. 5️⃣Face Challenges Head-On Challenges are inevitable, but they're also opportunities for growth. Instead of shying away, embrace them with open arms. Don't be afraid to seek help when needed, but never back down from a challenge. Overcoming them will only make you more equipped. 6️⃣Reflect and Refine Take the time to reflect on your journey regularly. Celebrate your successes, but also learn from your failures. Use these reflections to refine your strategies and approaches for future projects. After all, growth often requires looking back to relearn/unlearn before moving forward. As we wrap up this discussion, be reminded of the power of collaboration and knowledge sharing in our field. Keep watching this space for more insights. #happymonday #publicrelations

Agency PR land is a teaching profession. In a big, full-service agency like pead every year we have new graduates, new interns and new students through our doors to teach the craft of PR, digital marketing and communications consultancy. So, in that spirit of teaching, to celebrate yet another great year of Auckland University of Technology's shadow a leader programme I've jotted down my tips for getting your first job in agency. 💡 Build Connections: Connect with professionals on LinkedIn and ask people if you can have a coffee with them. You'll be surprised how many will say yes. That helps you stand out, but you'll also learn a lot about the personalities and the kind of work in the industry. 💡Attention to detail: Read and then re-read your cover letter and CV. I've lost count of the CVs I've received that are addressed to the incorrect agency or to Louise! But it's more than that, your cover letter and CV showcases your writing skills, so use it wisely! 💡Research, Research, Research: Dive deep into the PR agencies you're interested in. Understand their clients, specialties, and company culture. Follow them on social, read their websites, read industry news about them and tailor your applications to showcase how your skills align with their needs. 💡Email: No matter how you apply for the role, find a way to email or send a LinkedIn message to the people who are hiring the role. Sometime this takes some sleuthing, but it’s worth it. Introduce yourself and share why you think you are right for the role. 💡Storytelling: Answering interview questions is your chance to showcase your verbal storytelling skills. Think about how you want to introduce yourself and other common questions. 💡Ask questions: In your interview ask questions. It shows your thinking skills and helps you know what you are applying for. Oh and I personally love when people offer to take their glass to the kitchen at the end of the interview!