This document summarizes the top 10 things learned in a public relations practicum course. It includes tips for creating resumes, cover letters, networking on social media, interviewing, and using word-of-mouth marketing. Specifically, it outlines the importance of customizing application materials for each job, including relevant samples in a portfolio, following up after interviews, and using Twitter to stay informed about industry trends. It also discusses word-of-mouth marketing and the five factors that influence how messages spread between people.

1. Top 10 Things I Learned in Public Relations Practicum By: Stephanie Rachman PRCA 3711/4711 Final Exam

2. Beginning your job search… Creating a 1. Resume2. Cover letter 3. Reference page Type a resume, cover letter, and reference page on a computer for your potential employer. Use the same header on all so that they coordinate. Send the resume “packet” in a large envelope with the address typed.

3. Creating a Resume Customize resume to specific position applying for. One page resumes are preferred. List experience starting from most recent and start each bullet point with an action verb. Use terms that pertain to your industry. Include GPA if it is over a 3.0 Incorporate class projects that are relevant to the position. Offer links to personal blogs, LinkedIn, or Twitter if they contain interest to potential employer. Use quality paper of a neutral tone that smells like paper (not any outside smells ex. Perfume, smoke, etc.) Include a cover letter and reference page with resume. a positive first impression

4. Cover Letters and Reference Pages Provides additional information about your experience and skills. Includes why you are qualified for the job you are applying for. Explains reasons for interest in the specific organization and your most relevant experiences. Should be addressed to the specific employer or interviewer. Try not to use “I” and “my”. Sign it! A resume reference page lists people familiar with you and their contact information. List past employers, teachers, or anyone who can give you a positive reference. Ask their permission before listing them as a reference. Have at least 3 or more contacts. Include name, title, company, mailing address, e-mail address and phone number.

5. Getting Connected…4. The benefits of Social Media Twitter, LinkedIn, PROpenMic & blogs

7. Good source as an online resume.

8. Read, write, or edit an online journal.

10. Portfolios Several samples of your best work comprised in a professional portfolio. Use a professional 3-ring portfolio with samples of your work in plastic sleeves so they can be easily accessible. Only include work that pertains to your skills in the particular industry. Prior to the interview, pick at least 3 work samples that you think are the “best” to share and have a copy of each to leave behind with the potential employer. Include your resume and business card.

11. Job Interviewing… Guidelines to help you make an impression in your interview. What to do 6.Before 7.During 8. After an interview

12. Dress Professionally Men should wear solid colored suits with ties that you tie and socks with dress shoes. Women should wear pants or a skirt or dress with hosiery, closed toed shoes, a jacket, and nothing low cut. Both genders should have limited non-distracting jewelry, go easy on the perfume/body spray or aftershave, carry a briefcase (or handbag) or just the portfolio, and cut/manicured nails.

13. Prior to the Interview Create a leave behind for the interviewer, with a copy of your resume and business card. Research the interviewer/company and know some basic facts. Practice answers to questions so you don’t have to take time to think about them during the interview. Be prepared to tell the interviewer about yourself and reasons why you would benefit their company. Turn cell phone on silent or do not bring it in.

14. During the Interview Make eye contact with the interviewer when you are talking to them. Avoid saying phrases such as “um” and “like”. If there is more than one interviewer make sure to acknowledge all of them. Use portfolio to highlight your skills and tell them briefly about the work and why it is significant, focus on results. Use action verbs and adjectives that pertain to the company. End the interview, telling them how you want them to remember you by. Thank them for their time.

15. After the Interview Leave a thank you card and stamped envelope in your car, so right after the interview you can write it and send it to the interviewer. E-mail the interviewer right after the interview thanking them for the opportunity. Follow up with the interviewer/ company by calling a couple days after. Also, formally thank the person who got you the interview.

16. Informational Interview…9.Tips I learned from a PR Professional I interviewed Stephanie Booker, a publicist for Beck Media & Marketing, an entertainment and technology public relation firm located in Los Angeles, California

17. PR Tips from a PR professional From my interview with Booker, I realized the value of Twitter. She stressed that Twitter is a very important tool in keeping up with PR. I hope to improve my skills using Twitter, so I will be prepared. Also, from her I learned that PR is all about experience and networking. Stephanie Booker

18. PR Trade Book…10. What I learned from Word-of-Mouth Marketing By: Andy Sernovitz

19. Word-Of-Mouth Marketing How Smart Companies Get People Talking The 5 Ts of Word of Mouth Marketing There is no specific formula for great word of mouth, mix and match until something works for you. Talkers: Who will tell their friends about you? Topics: What will they talk about? Tools: How can you help the message travel? Taking Part: When should you join the conversation? Tracking: What are people saying about you?

20. THE END PR Practicum was a useful class that gave me an insight into public relations in the “real” working world.