- Develop a humble attitude. You are not entitled to a job; you must earn it.
- Be a continuous learner. Graduation doesn’t signal the end of learning to communicate. Practice your writing skills and learn to use new tools.
- Choose face-to-face communication. Eye contact is important! See this recent WSJ article.
- Volunteer. Help a colleague on a project or be on a committee. You will win friends and influence people.
- Read, Read, Read. The best way to stay on top of current events, trends, popular culture, politics, art, international affairs, the environment–and improve your writing–is is to develop a love of reading. Note: Now that you’ve graduated, you’re not stuck reading textbooks so it’s time to branch out.
- Write everyday. Whether it is to your boss, your mother, your best friend or your own journal. Develop the habit of writing every day. At least 500 words. Start a blog and give your opinion. No, I don’t mean Facebook posts.
- Make time to meditate. Take a break from technology each day. No cell phone, tablet, PC, TV, Internet, radio. Ponder your family, career, life goals and what you can do for others.
- Get a hobby. It’s best if it’s physical and you interact with people.
- Develop a solid work ethic. Be early to work. On occasion, stay late until the project is finished.
- Travel. This is a lifelong education.
- Be curious. Learn from people from other cultures. Develop an interest in new subjects.
- Be a good listener. Effective listening means asking good questions.
In the spirit of graduation, I offer up these tips to PR graduates. Congratulations on making it to this point and I wish you all the best.
Piggyback PR 