By: Alex Haymaker
I know what you’re thinking. Scary, isn’t it? You are thinking, “I wish I were as talented as ________.” “____________ has way more experience than I do.” “__________ is so good at graphic design, and I can’t even draw a circle.” Been there. Done that. Let me tell you from experience that it’s all trash, so throw it away right now.
Starting out in the PR program can be overwhelming and even completely defeating at times. It seems like all you hear are people talking about how they had three or four internships before they graduated. Your classmates are complaining that they have to take things off their resume’ while you’re still trying to find things to fill yours.
Instinctively, you see people who are “at the top,” and you paint a picture in your mind of PR gods that write press releases while sleeping and plan flawless events when they sneeze. Well, I’m here today with some earth shattering news. The people that you look up to are not perfect, and they are certainly no better than you. They have the same struggles with confidence. They don’t have their entire lives figured out. I’m not kidding.
That being said, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- You have something they don’t. PR is about teamwork, and you have great things to offer. No one can be a master of everything, and you have something valuable. Find your strengths, and don’t be afraid to utilize them.
- You need help. Without a doubt, you will notice your own weaknesses. Find someone that is talented in an area that you lack understanding or ability, and build your skills. Ask for help. It shows strength, not weakness.
- You should do stuff. Put your skills to practice and work to improve yourself. You can only do this by choosing to get involved. Real world experience yields real world results.
My point is this: stop putting yourself down. You have the ability to do great things, and with the desire to learn, grow and get involved, you will do just that.