Utilizing PR in the Non Profit Sector

Utilizing PR in the Non Profit Sector by Heather Anderson

Public relations is extremely important for non profit organizations. After speaking with my former internship supervisor, Lindsay Sparks, I learned how she views the this industry while hoping to make a difference to world around her. As the Marketing and Web Coordinator at World Neighbors, an international non profit organization based in Oklahoma City, OK, she knows a thing or two about utilizing public relations skills to not only promote her organization, but educate the public of its cause. She has worked in the industry for 5 years since graduating from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor's degree in Public Relations. 

As we spoke, she gave me some valuable advice on what knowledge and skills I should obtain in order to be successful in PR. Being as current as possible with issues and trends is key to this industry. She said that becoming a member of PRSA was a great way to gain access to this information, as well as a wonderful opportunity to network with other PR professionals. 

In relation to the needed skills while working in public relations, being as capable and creative with technology as possible is the best way to set yourself apart from your peers. Using different networking sites (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, etc.) and other media resources, such as YouTube, will expand the organization's audience and appeal. It is also important to be savvy with the technology required to create publications, videos and websites. I greatly appreciated the insight I received from Lindsay and I plan on utilizing these resources for my professional benefit.