Stewardship

Coming into the Public Relations profession, whether you are in an agency or an in-house department can be daunting. Everyone seems to know each other and establishing meaningful relationships can be difficult.

In my position, I travel to various conferences representing the Company. I come in contact with our clients and am responsible for establishing and maintaining those relationships. As a new professional, it is even more important to leave a lasting impression – and a positive one.

First and foremost, listen to what the individual has to say. Let them know that you are interested in them and they are worth your time. Make mental notes of your conversation and this will help you to differentiate them later. Ask questions – everyone loves to talk about something, so find out what excites them. This may be their children or grandchildren, this may be their job or even a unique hobby. Find some sort of common ground.

The process doesn’t stop once the conversation is over. Perhaps the most influential part of this process takes place once you return to the office. Take the time to send a hand-written note. In this day in age, this shows effort leaps and bounds above an e-mail. Refer to a specific topic you discussed with the individual to let them know you were paying attention and that you remember.

“People may not remember what you say or do, but they will always remember how you made them feel.” - Anonymous