Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Welcome to PR ladies and...gentlemen?

Looking around the classroom it didn't take long to notice all the girls. Tables of girls, four to five of them sitting together chatting away. Flashbacks to high school anthropology class filled my thoughts. Having to present to a class full of girls as a nervous, awkward teen...not very fun.

Now by no way I am not trying to be sexist by saying this. I just need to get it out there for those of us who aren't accustomed to a big trend that exists within PR circles...there are women everywhere.

Our classroom is 83% female and 17% male. Sorry to throw out the percentages. PR people really hate math if you didn't know that already now you do. These numbers, are right on with the gender split for those practicing PR in working field, which is about 80% female to 20% male.

So what does it all mean? For starters, knowing how to adapt to your environment, any environment is key. Where would I be if I was still in my awkward shell? Freaked to death by all the girls and not in PR.

Secondly, when you are in a new environment, embrace it, don't run away from it. The PR person who has good relationships with all different types of people whether that be because of their gender or race or whatever, will go far.

Lastly, have fun. Being placed in new situations, although sometimes nerve wracking, present opportunities to turn them into fun, calming experiences. Don't grumble or complain about the situation your in without first trying to make it a little fun, so your personality can shine through.

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