My First Week of PR

I am finally at the end of my very first ­week of work as the new intern. I don't think I’ve ever truly grasped the concept of ‘TGIF’ until I was thrown into the whirlwind that is PR. I’m truly exhausted, having made the dramatic switch from a full month of lazing around with my friends to the hectic world of press releases, events and media monitoring. Last week, a deck, to me, still just meant a stack of cards...

But alongside this mental and physical exhaustion is this profound sense of fulfillment. In one week, I’ve learnt so much. Though I joined during the final week of preparation, I found myself to be heavily involved in Benzac’s relaunch - an experience that I wasn’t exactly ready for but certainly something I’m grateful to be a part of. It’s been a hectic week and while it could have gone smoother, this has definitely been a major learning experience for me.

Three things I have learnt during this eventful week (pun intended haha):

1. Always double check

After this week, I don’t think I will ever forget this essential practice. It took a crucial mistake for me to really internalize this message. I’m tempted to withhold what exactly that mistake was because it will naturally raise several questions about my intelligence (or rather, lack thereof); but for the sake of emphasis, I’ll come clean.

I was tasked with printing 45 copies of a crossword puzzle. Simple and brainless enough, right? Apparently not. I ended up printing 45 copies of it with the answers. The worst part? I didn’t even realize I made that mistake till the event was right about to start, sparking off an intense panic attack…

Which brings me to point number two.

2. Always remain calm

Yes, things don’t go as planned. Yes, it may not look like what you had envisioned. But to freak out is equivalent to making everything a whole lot worse.  Put aside your disappointment and annoyance and SMILE. Keep your head clear, keep moving forward. It’s the best thing you can do for the sake of the event you’ve been working so hard on. I really hope I’ve learnt my lesson and learn to keep my cool. We’ll see how I do at the next event...fingers crossed!

3. And finally, coffee.

You’ll need it.

Despite these bumps, I’m reasonably pleased with what I’ve achieved and I’m excited to see what else I learn in the coming weeks. Till next time :)

xx Mira