As the Vice President for QuinnThomas, Erin Krug visited with our cohort last week to discuss her career journey, boutique agency life and her advice for future professionals. Erin has spent 15 years in Marketing Communications and Public Relations.
Krug affirmed something I had learned only recently in my own experience; people, and professionals for the matter, are not only more willing to assist in the cultivation of skill sets and talents, but are wanting to provide themselves as a trustworthy resource in the field. The simultaneous transfer of knowledge between both parties is a great benefit to each of their personal agendas, wether it be growth or networking. Krug believes that because of this multi-dimensional relationship, introverts and extroverts alike have the potential to succeed in the public relations sector.
Integrated communications has been one of Krugs’ many focus’ over the past several years, and just like many other things in this world, it begins with research; roughly 90% of the initial research Krug conducts starts with understanding her audience. The idea of understanding an audience should not be anything new, however. From the perspective of a communicator, nothing is more important than the certainty of a message and that it is heard and impactful. After preparations have been complete, research leads to brainstorming and digital storytelling, then to creative and digital strategy planning; the final step in the process is mapping out when and where a message will be disseminated, or the strategy behind the communication of a project or idea.
Krug went on to touch a very important point, discussing with our cohort how to properly chart the path forward in our careers. In an article published by Forbes, Joseph Liu summarizes the importance of personal branding which align with Krugs’ ideal.
- Say yes to relevant opportunities
- Speak at a conference
- Ask one question at every meeting you attend
- Network internally beyond your immediate team
- Share your voice with influencers
It is absolutely imperative we allow purpose to grow from passion. Productivity is most efficient when it exists in a happy and healthy environment. Krug also discussed the importance of a balanced lifestyle and the positive impact that has in the workplace. Forbes contributor Deep Patel touches on the subject here, and his points are summarized as follows:
- Better mood and energy levels
- Better time management
- Better image and reputation
Krug’s lecture was a great reminder on the importance of casual networking and a healthy lifestyle. No one should ever settle for less!