Commanding Respect in the World of Public Relations

Will Armstrong *

Armstrong Public Relations *

Public Relations can be a challenging industry to work in, especially dealing with extreme personalities. From clients to colleagues to bosses, it's easy to feel intimidated and submissive. But as PR professionals, we must take control and command respect. In this blog, we'll explore three ways to do just that: stop over-apologizing, recognize the value of our insight, and learn to say no. So folks new to the realm of Public Relations - this one’s for you. Let's dive in!

1. Stop Over Apologizing

In PR, we are often working under deadlines and high-pressure situations. It's easy to fall into the trap of apologetic language. But instead of constantly saying sorry, try thanking the other person for their patience or expressing your appreciation for their time. This shift in language can help you avoid being viewed as submissive and instead show that you value their time and effort. Plus, it puts you in a more powerful position, commanding respect without sacrificing politeness.

2. Recognize the Value of Your Insight

As a PR professional, you bring valuable insight and ideas to the table. Don't undermine your contribution by prefacing your comments with phrases like, "This might be a dumb question, but..." or "I'm just throwing this out there." By minimizing the importance of your ideas, you're likely to receive less credit and respect in return. Instead, own your insights and put them out there with confidence. Remember, you were hired for a reason - your knowledge and expertise.

3. Learn to Say No

One of the most powerful words in the English language is "no." It's a complete sentence, and you don't always owe anyone an explanation for your decisions. Of course, being a good team player is important, but not at the cost of your own health, happiness, or sanity. Boundaries are necessary, and sometimes, you need to say no to prioritize your own needs or those of your client. While the other person may not be thrilled, they will respect you for sticking to your boundaries.

In the world of Public Relations, we often deal with extreme personalities. But by implementing these three strategies, we can command respect and stand our ground. Remember to stop over-apologizing, recognize the value of your insight, and learn to say no. By doing so, you'll be well on your way to commanding respect and success in the industry. So go ahead, and take on the world!