We are in week four of the semester and for most of my students the next two weeks will include some interesting guest speakers (Greg and Chuck) and exams. What I find most interesting is the amount of engaging conversation that takes place the closer we get to test time. I am glad for the conversation, I love Public Relations and love talking about it, whether it is about the news of the day, and how it was created, or what will be on an upcoming test.
When the conversation ends I always feel... not right (how's that for effective communication). I feel like I have only shared part of the answer, given the answers that will get my students past the next two weeks with a bit less sweat on their brow. If they were my daughter, someone whose future I was responsible for, I would add this - Every day you should be engaged in conversation, asking questions, sharing information, learning about your profession, teaching others, helping others, and just plain communicating. It is what you, as PR Professionals, do or should do.
If we aren't communicating, as we know, we are still communicating. "No comment" comes in many images, actions, efforts, etc. and by not being engaged, that is our answer. Unfortunately, in the process we send the wrong message and the right media picks it up and toss it out for others to talk about. Fortunately there are people and organizations willing to engage in that conversation and stand up for those that aren't willing to do the same. Hopefully the future of our profession (for the students reading this, I am talking about you) will learn from this and lead the next wave.
One last message to my students - beyond going to class, what are you doing to promote and ensure the future of your profession? And, if you aren't doing anything, why is it your major?
Stepping down from my soap box now.
