President’s Message – October 2024

Tammy Vineberg, APR

I’m assuming that all public relations professionals get stuck at one point in their career about shifting their mindset from tactical to strategic. I admit that I have been through it, especially since I have been a team of one for the majority of my career. I’ve had to flip between the tactical and strategic hat and, at times, the lines become blurry. 

When I heard the podcast episode about adopting a growth mindset from Robin McCasland’s Torpid Liver (and other symptoms of poor communication), a lightbulb in my brain turned on. Her guest, Victoria Dew, CEO of Dewpoint Communications, made the point that when jumping from manager to director, our success is measured by how we think and how we influence. 

“It’s a really hard leap for people to make, because if you think about it if your whole career has been crossing things off on your to-do list…we feel safe in that because we know what is expected of us,” she says.

Mike Klein was a guest on this podcast for an episode that focused on communication leadership. He says there isn’t a book that exists on effective communication leadership which comes down to having five communication superpowers

If you are at a crossroads and feel uncomfortable leaving your safety zone, I want to let you know that CPRS Edmonton has your back. Changing your mindset can be powerful and a confidence booster. We have two opportunities in October geared to helping you take the next step to becoming a communications leader.

Earlier this month, Sarah Doyle, an internationally accredited coach and communications industry leader, facilitated a workshop, called The Leadership Shift: Cultivating a Strategic Communicator and People Leader Mindset. Sarah equips communications professionals and students with the tools and insights to enhance our leadership and broaden our perspective. Watch the CPRS Edmonton monthly newsletter for key take-aways from Sarah’s session.

An additional leadership path is becoming an accredited public relations professional through CPRS. The accreditation process is a self-directed professional development activity that will broaden your knowledge of communications management and strategy. You can learn more about this opportunity through a free and online information session on Tuesday, October 22, at 7 pm. Bernie Poitras, APR and Crystal Wood, APR will share their insight and the benefits of accreditation. Registration is now open. CPRS National will also be holding an informational session in the near future.

If you need to challenge yourself or help to change your mindset, I encourage you to join us for this upcoming event. Plus, you can turn to your fellow members for support on this path to improving your career. I’m always open to having a conversation over tea or coffee, as well.

Something to add?