Entering the PR industry can be intimidating, especially for recent college grads. After working in public relations for two years, I’ve learned more on the job than I ever could in a classroom. These three tips for entry-level public relations professionals will help you build you professional knowledge and make a good impression in your first career.

Work on improving your writing

Whether you’re a wordsmith or not, writing is a staple of communications careers. You can always become a better writer, which is why it’s important to continue working on improving your writing skills.

Learn new words; keep up with AP Style; and practice writing whenever you get a chance. When your boss gives you feedback, listen so you don’t make the same mistake twice!

Always build relationships

Public relations is a relationship-driven industry. The power of relationships is infinite, whether it’s collaborating with media, connecting with coworkers or meeting industry peers.

Having a connection with media means your story is more likely to get covered, or at least get looked at. Having camaraderie with coworkers means they are more likely to help you out when you get hit with a last-minute deadline. Meeting industry peers not only gives you support in your career, but it also opens the door to new opportunities.

I’ve seen many people find job offers simply by knowing someone in their industry’s professional organization. Joining the Minnesota Public Relations Society of America has been a blast because I meet people from so many backgrounds – entry-level to senior management, corporate communications to agency life.

Get involved with a professional organization, meet new people and always build your relationships.

Keep your drive to learn

The most successful people continue learning well after school is out. Take advantage of the wealth of knowledge around you at work. Offer to take a senior-level team member to lunch so you can ask how they got where they are and what advice they have.

Browse websites such as local marketing agencies, professional organizations and industry trade outlets to explore new topics and hone your skills. The PR industry changes as quickly as technology advances, so continued learning is essential to success.

Improving your writing, building relationships and keeping your drive to learn will help you gain as much experience as you can in your first public relations career.

Do you have a tip that helped you in your PR job? Share it with us @RisdallPR.