The importance of being AUTHENTIC in PR

Authenticity is defined as the quality of being genuine or real. 

I've learned that by choosing this career path that it is of the most importance to put your most authentic self forward. People will often see through individuals that are 'trying to hard' or not truly caring about others. One of the guest speakers that we had in our class was Mr. Jay Robb, who was a Mohawk College employee that was Director of Communications and is now working for McMaster University as a Manager of Communications. His presentation really resonated with me as he spoke about  some communications do's and don'ts, along with what he would have done differently as a young communicator. The section of his presentation that I took the most away from was something he coined as the 'airport test'. 

In part, he describes the 'airport' test as an individual, in this case a young communications professional is stuck in the airport with their employer. You can only successfully 'pass this test' if you are able to having meaningful interactions and conversation with your employer during the times you are stuck at the airport together. 

The way you ace this test is simple, be your authentic self and be KIND. Jay stressed this, as there will be many 'airport tests' in your career. Whether it's an informational interview, job interview,  or simply having positive interactions with teachers, classmates, colleagues  and executives; it is extremely important to make conscious efforts to be your true self in a variety of situation and circumstances. 

So, with Jay's advice, I have crafted 3 main things to do during an 'airport test' in hopes to create positive interaction that can lead to no missed connections and a smooth flight.

1. Be a good listener 

• It is only natural to want to jump into a conversation with individual view points, but it is of the most importance to listen to the other party. If you don't agree, respectful approach the subject -- do not dismiss another option,  but  you can  express that you have a difference of opinion. Still stay true to yourself in a way that is authentic. 

2.Know the difference between sympathy and empathy 

• This is a big one. Many don't know the different. To be sympathetic is to claim that you  'feel their pain' or feel as though you have gone through similar and you can relate. BUT empathy is the act of not claiming to have gone through the same experience, but rather express that you are their to support them. Being empathetic is at the root of most healthy relationships and connections. Therefore this is key in a career in communications as interacting with a variety of individuals is what our job entails on a daily basis. Being empathetic correlates with being your authentic self in all situations you are put in. 

3. Simply, be KIND 

• No explanation needed. Kindness is contagious. 

I'll leave you with this quote by Theodore Roosevelt, it seems being authentic and caring about others is what will get you far in not only your career, but in your everyday life. 

" The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people" 

-Theodore Roosevelt