TIPS FROM, AND FOR, A PR INTERN

Being a public relations intern may seem scary, but it is a lot of fun! You get to be a part of a team of PR professionals who really want to help guide you in the right direction and give you a great perspective of the industry.

While interning for the Las Vegas Public Relations firm Vox Solid Communications, I have accumulated some simple, yet very important, tips for every PR intern.

Here are 5 tips from, and for, a PR intern:                                                                         

1. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification…

If you’re confused about a project, ask questions! You’re not expected to know everything. You’re an intern for a reason… to learn! Asking for clarification when needed will not make you seem uninformed but will show that you genuinely want to make sure you’re completing the assigned project correctly.

2. Sharpen up your research skills…

Don’t moan and groan. Research is not boring. It is a critical part of PR and can be a big part of being an intern. In fact, most of the research you conduct will be interesting and you’ll become very familiar with programs that will assist you in your research (big shout out to Cision, Meltwater and Google!)

3. Go to every event, press conference and meeting that you’re invited to…

There is no better way to learn more about the PR industry than being right in the middle of it by attending events and meetings. These are a great way to experience the industry first-hand. You’ll meet important people and know all about an upcoming project long before the public hears about it. Meetings are also a great way to listen to how situations are handled. From handling a crisis, to how an event is being promoted, meetings involve a lot of interesting information that you won’t want to miss out on.

4. Brush up on your time management skills…

Procrastination is your worst enemy. Be sure to make enough time to complete your schoolwork and your internship projects in a timely manner. There’s nothing worse than rushing through a paper for school and remembering you have an internship project that you haven’t even started, due the same day. Time management will be your best friend. If you find yourself overwhelmed, let your colleagues know, they won’t be unreasonable because…

5. Your colleagues are people too…

Yes, your colleagues have worked in the PR industry for years and they know you’re new to this. Remember that your colleagues do not want you to fail. They’re there to assist along the way and to make sure you get the most out of your internship. They know what it’s like to be in your situation and genuinely understand if you’re unable to take on another project.