Progressions

PRSSA/PRSA Relationship Month

It’s easy to forget how large PRSSA is. It’s even easier to forget that PRSA makes our network even larger. That’s why October is PRSSA/PRSA Relationship Month. During this month, we encourage you and your Chapter to build your relationship with PRSA to improve your Chapter.

So, what’s in a relationship? As the definition of public relations suggestions, relationships should be mutually beneficial and both sides should foster that relationship. In other words, PRSA and PRSSA should be working together to advance the profession. Our goals are the same and by sharing our resources, we can create a better public relations profession.

Here are some ways for PRSSA Chapters to build relationships with PRSA Chapters:

• Check out the PRSSA/PRSA Relationship Manual. Written by incoming PRSA Chair Gary McCormick, APR, Fellow PRSA, you’ll find a guide with a variety of suggestions on how you can build a relationship with your PRSA Chapter.
• Attend the PRSA Chapter meetings and board meetings for the month. Many PRSA Chapters extend this courtesy to their student counterparts, so make sure to take advantage of these opportunities to learn about what your PRSA Chapter is doing. If you need help getting in contact with your PRSA Chapter, e-mail me here.
• Begin a mentoring program between PRSSA and PRSA members. Although it may seem like a daunting task, your Chapter Professional Advisor will be able to assist you. Later in the month, there will be a post on successful mentorship programs and how to execute them — stay tuned.
• Host a networking event and invite local PRSA professionals. Whether it is a structured event such as speed networking, or a less formal gathering at a restaurant, getting to know professionals on a personal level can be extremely beneficial.
• Set up tours at local agencies, companies and organizations to see public relations professionals in action. Taking your Chapter members to see what it’s like to work in an office setting can benefit students, but it’s also a great way for PRSA members to meet potential interns and describe the internship process.
• Organize a job shadow day so PRSSA members can follow a PRSA member at work. Work with your Professional Advisor to find several professionals willing to take on a PRSSA member for the day and show them what they do in their job.
• Visit local companies with several PRSSA members and offer help for an afternoon. Many small agencies can use some extra help — whether it be administrative assistance or help with public relations projects. By offering to help, you’ll build a relationship with professionals at that company that can help with Chapter programming or career fairs.

If your Chapter has successfully hosted a program or event and would like to share it with the Society, submit it to Chapter News.

How has your Chapter built a relationship with PRSA? What kind of activities or events do you find the most beneficial? Any advice on how to keep the relationship going?