Entering the field of public relations without a deep understanding of its intricacies is common, especially in Nigeria. While effective communication and writing skills are crucial, other vital aspects include strategic planning, media relations, relationship building, expectation management, and stakeholder engagement. Both entry-level professionals and seasoned PR practitioners need access to the right support and resources to thrive in their roles. Having organisations that provide this support is indispensable.
The availability of learning resources tailored to public relations and communications in developing economies like Nigeria is severely limited. When such materials are available, they tend to be highly theoretical, lacking practical insights into the day-to-day realities of the profession across various industries.
If you are in the field of PR and in need of support, organizations like Nigerian Women in PR offer comprehensive resources and support to help you advance in your career. Through their initiatives, NWiPR ensures that professionals have access to the necessary tools and guidance to excel in their roles.
Nigerian Women in Public Relations (NWiPR) aims to bridge this gap by offering programs, training sessions, and resource materials that are specifically designed to meet the needs of public relations professionals in Nigeria. NWiPR collaborates with experienced practitioners to develop relevant resources that reflect the practical aspects of the profession.
PR professionals can get the support they need by;
- Joining Online Communities; By joining specialised online communities like NWiPR closed LinkedIn group, female professionals can exchange insights, seek advice, and form connections within the Public Relations industry.
- Physical and Virtual Events; Attending events has become increasingly popular and impactful allowing professionals to connect with others worldwide without geographical constraints. Attending LinkedIn live events, X space, webinars, and industry events such as Experiencing Public Relations(EPR). These events offer a rich platform for connecting with like-minded professionals and growing your PR network and pool of contacts.
- Joining PR Associations: Consider joining PR associations such as the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Nigeria Women in Public Relations(NWiPR), or the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR). These organizations offer networking opportunities and resources.
- Provide Value and Contribute: Getting support and resources is a two-way street. You as a PR professional can offer your expertise and support to others in your network. Whether it’s engaging in communities, sharing relevant articles, making introductions, sharing contacts, and providing insight.
- Volunteering: One of the benefits of volunteering is the impact it can have on your career growth. Volunteering allows you to connect to a greater goal, meet new people, expand your network, and boost your soft and technical skills. NWiPR has different programs that PR professionals can volunteer for.
In the dynamic field of public relations, having the right support and resources is essential for success. Organisations like Nigerian Women in Public Relations (NWiPR) play a crucial role in bridging the gap by offering tailored programs, training sessions, and practical resources.
By joining online communities, attending events, becoming part of professional associations, providing value to your network, and volunteering, PR professionals can access the support they need to thrive. Embracing these opportunities not only enhances individual careers but also contributes to the overall growth and development of the PR industry in Nigeria. You can access complementary resources from NWiPR, here
About Nigerian Women in PR
Nigerian Women in PR, established in 2019, is a social impact professional organisation set up to advocate for and provide growth resources to, Nigerian women working as public relations and communications professionals across the world. Through our programs, initiatives, and strategic partnerships, we provide a resource hub for the learning and professional growth of our members; promote the continuous relevance of members as the Public Relations and Communications profession evolves; platform the RESULTS of Nigerian Women practising in the profession; and promote the understanding and value of the public relations profession.