Mastering Effective Communication

Many public relations professionals, myself included, live their lives by lists. Nothing beats the satisfaction of another red check mark in my planner. Our first “Real World Read” combines personal experiences, motivational success stories and a simple list of do’s and don’ts to connect the dots of effective communication.

David Grossman uses powerful storytelling and practices he’s seen in action for notable clients worldwide in his latest book “No Cape Needed.”

photo courtesy of yourthoughtpartner.com

His tips come to life with vivid imagery and examples while using his own advice in the text. Although it will be a great addition to your collection, it’s not one that should sit on a shelf after a first read. It is a resource to help you master the power of effective communication on a daily basis.

No Cape Needed is available online at www.yourthoughtpartner.com/no-cape-needed and on Amazon.

What are your latest reads? Share below.

XX,

Jasmine C. Tate 

Embracing Change

After my quarterly evaluation, I was able to analyze the audience and reach of my blog posts and strategize a plan to build my readership and keep my current supporters coming back.

I’m excited to introduce, “Real World Wednesdays,” a timeline that will embrace the blog’s audience and allow you access to new content on weekdays at noon.  Grab lunch and come on over to the website to review fresh posts each week.

Look out for “Real World Recipes,” Real World Reads” and more advice, news and information from “The Real Me.”

Please subscribe and share any feedback or suggestions for future content below.

There is much more to come… Stay tuned!

XX,

Jasmine C. Tate

Preparing for a New Academic Year

My best friend, Jasmine, and I during freshman orientation June 15, 2011 at Southeastern Louisiana University. 

Summer has almost come to an end; soon will come the days when yellow buses return to the roadways, weekends are filled with football and social media is flooded with #FirstDaySelfies, student complaints and countdowns to midterms, finals, and (of course) graduation.

Five years ago I moved to Hammond, LA to start my journey through college. Today, I reminisce on my days as a student, two short months and a couple degrees later. Here is my advice to students at all stages of their academic careers.

1.       Get involved. I recommend joining a minimum of four organizations including social/service, academic/ honors, religious and career-related. Take your membership a step further by being more than a name on the roster. Accept leadership roles; attend meetings. Make new friends. 

2.       Take advantage of available resources. Utilize access to free gym memberships, tutors, athletic events, counseling services, prints, etc. They won’t always be free and are offered to help you transition and succeed.

3.       Manage your time wisely. It can be hard to balance school, social life, and part-time jobs, but it is possible and necessary. Find a system that works best for you and use it.

4.       Plan ahead. Whether you’re graduating in four months or four years map out your road to success and the steps it will take to achieve your goals.  

5.       Be prepared to work hard and make sacrifices. You will not be able to buy every cute new pair of shoes or attend every dinner party. Remember you’re in college to earn a degree.

6.       Learn how and when to say no. It’s OK; there are thousands of students who can say yes when you want or need to take a pass.

7.       Make memories. Meet your president; attend a football game. Contribute service hours in The Big Event. Build or continue a legacy and develop stories that you can share later in life.

8.       Enjoy the moments. They will pass fast. Don’t let stress steal the spotlight of your college experience. FYI: I haven’t met an employer who has asked to see my transcript, but I’m asked about my experiences with every new job opportunity. They are all more interested in how I started a Chapter of PRSSA, interviewed our most notable Southeastern Alumna, Robin Roberts, and the hectic week I attended a conference in Washington, DC, fulfilled duties as a Homecoming Maid and still made it home in time for the Washington Parish Free Fair.

Your time in college may not be the best years of your life, but it is time you will never be able to get back. Carpe Diem!

XX,

Jasmine C. Tate

Moving Forward

Photo by D'Anthony Jackson

Last week I discussed ten tips for “Facing Rejection” and preparing for interviews. When writing the post, I had no idea I would have to take my own advice this week. I experienced the largest sting of rejection I’ve faced since the start of my job search to launch my career. After an extensive selection process, I learned that the position wasn’t “a perfect fit for me at the time.” 

I felt confident that the position was mine. In fact, I had already written a blog announcing my new role and the end of an emotional journey into a new chapter of my life and an industry of my dreams. I was waiting for an official offer and confirmation. Unfortunately, it didn’t come, and the search continues.

Five things I learned from the process.

1.      Don’t place excessive time and energy into a company or position until you receive an official offer. Because I was extremely excited, I researched every employee of the team, component of the programs and responsibilities and even potential projects, among other things.

2.      Never assume the position is yours, no matter how qualified and confident you are that you nailed your interview(s).

3.      Keep your options open. Continue seeking opportunities and taking interviews until you land a position. Don't let opportunities pass you by waiting for one company. 

4.      Move on. Don’t dwell on the position, analyze every word of your final response or the advantages your competition had over you.

5.      Don’t burn bridges. Keep your composure and always remain courteous. You never know what the future holds and when you may need or work with the interviewers.

I trust God’s plan for my life and believe that his will is better than any roadmap I can develop. Advice from two influential men continued to echo in my head as I overcame the shock and disappointment… while blasting inspirational music, baking brownies and preparing oreo balls. :)

In the midst of the cloud of frustration know that “You’re going to make a great employee for the first organization smart enough to hire you,” and remember, “You’re going to do great things. Just be patient.”

 How have you persevered through difficult processes in your life? Share below.

 XX,

Jasmine C. Tate