As public relations student, the most crucial skill I need to master is writing effectively. And, trust me, I have yet to master this necessary skill.
The truth is that we, as writers, will never be satisfied with our skill level, and that is something we simply have to accept. Yet, for me, as a communcation student, it is a whole different ball game because I am not only trying to better my writing, but I am learning multiple writing styles each with their own techniques at the same time. That can be a mess.
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For example, when you write an article for a newspaper as a reporter you are required to write differently than you would if you were writing a news release for a newspaper as a public relations practitioner. Those styles of writing differ from writing a classic paper for a general education requirement and the research paper you are required to complete for the very specific research class on your schedule. Even the classic paper you write now is different from the way you wrote a classic paper in high school.
I am retaught how to write consistently on daily basis. That can be the most discouraging fact some days. To be honest, I get frustrated and upset at every piece of writing I complete. Because I am aware that it could have better, that I could have spent more time on a piece, and that I do not know what I am doing most of the time.
The point in all of this is to say that writing can be detrimental to a student. More specifically, writing with all of these rules can be a hazard because it slowly beats the creativity out of you.
This past week I spent some time with seasoned public relations professionals and other communication related professionals at the Public Relation Student Society of America's National Conference. It blew my mind when multiple practitioners said that they have reteach every new hire in their companies. This could be for a variety of reasons, but the reason that stands out in my mind is that we, as students, have lost our creativity. To not be creative in the public relations field in is like not knowing how to swim when you are a lifeguard. It will kill you.
When you want to write, you cannot let the discouraging feelings get in the way. Do not let an editing session or your frustration with a class assignment make you believe that you are unable do it because you can. It will take work, but you can. And, you can do it well if you do not lose that creativity. Make someone pry the creativity from your cold, dead hands.
Don't lose what makes you unique. Learn the rules. Know when to apply them. But, find your voice. When you find your voice and when you aren't afraid to take risks with your writing and in your everyday life, you will become an effective writer.
I am not the best writer by any means, but I strive to be effective in how I write and the means by which I am presenting it. I strive to maintain that positivity even when it is the most difficult barrier I face. I strive to be creative and to find my voice and to not let it go.
It's hard sometimes. Trust me. But, that won't stop me and it should not stop you either.
