Public relations professionals establish and preserve a positive public image for a person or an organization. To work in the field, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications or journalism. Once you’ve obtained employment, a few apps will help you achieve success. Five great apps for public relations professionals include:
• Pocket
• LogMeIn
• PRSA Ethics App
• Evernote
• GoToMeeting
1. Pocket
As a public relations professional, it’s imperative to stay current on the news, but when a story breaks, you may not have the time to read the full report. Pocket lets you save news stories so that you can read them later. After the Pocket app downloads a report or a video, you’ll have the option to read it when you have the time, and you can do so without connecting to the Internet. This means that you’ll be able to access reports while you’re traveling. With the app, you’ll have the ability to share articles and videos to social media sites as well as to other applications. You can even send them to a coworker’s email address.
2. LogMeIn
When a major news story is released, it doesn’t always happen when you’re in the office with access to your computer and Internet. LogMeIn will let you take advantage of a media situation after you’ve clocked out for the night. With the app, you can access your office computer from a remote location. It will permit you to check your email, operate programs and open files. These features give you a way to work effectively when you’re away from your desk. Since the app comes with the same encryption system that online banks use, your security will remain intact.
3. PRSA Ethics App
The PRSA Ethics App will help you make ethical decisions during the course of your career. Use the app to check for accidental plagiarism when you’re posting a press release. You can also use it if you’re uncomfortable with a task that your employer has asked you to complete. The app features a description of professional values in addition to details regarding the Code of Ethics provisions and case studies. It will also put you in contact with public relations professionals who can answer your ethics questions.
4. Evernote
Amazing work ideas can come to you at any time. With Evernote, you’ll avoid forgetting them. Evernote is a general storage tool. Use it to record your ideas, catchy concepts or helpful comments made by others. The app is especially effective since you can use it with most computers, smartphones and tablets. When you’re away from your work computer and you have a clever idea, open the app on your smartphone to save it. Then, embellish your ideas later on your work computer. Different feature levels are available. The app’s basic version is free while the plus and premium options come with a monthly fee.
5. GoToMeeting
In public relations, it’s a good idea to check with your team before sending a media message out to the public. Making the time to do so can be tricky, so consider downloading the GoToMeeting app. This program will let you and your team conduct a mobile meeting. By making it mobile, you’ll ensure that everyone on your staff is able to attend to discuss a strategy that you are considering. With the app, you can show them a brief presentation, statistical data and even mockups. When you have your entire team in attendance, you’ll make sure that the best ideas are considered.
Those who work in public relations may also go by the title media specialist or communications specialist. Keep in mind that people who are successful in the industry are usually comfortable speaking in front of a crowd and able to make the most of newsworthy situations. By downloading these five apps, you’ll have help managing your chosen career.