Dealing with Distraction

By Michael Mustradi

With the NHL playoffs in full swing, I have been distracted during the time of year when I should be most focused.  Everyone suffers from distractions daily, and while some may be affected more than others, it is important to limit the amount of distractions.  There are a few ways to limit simple distractions and get things done.

One of the largest distractions of modern day is social media.  You are not alone if you have the itch to check your Twitter feed every fifteen minutes.  It’s very discouraging how an hour on Twitter can feel like you have only been on for five minutes.  When I need to get work done, I usually disconnect from the Internet.  Social media, games, and news can all be major distractions and prevent you from meeting deadlines.

Planning ahead can also limit the amount of time that we waste on distractions.  If I know a game is going to be on, I know that I will not get much done, so I instead work hard before or after the game with the TV off.  Also, take breaks!  If you have a large workload, plan to take a breather because otherwise you will find yourself losing focus frequently.

So, deal with distractions first and make getting things done easier!

Success from Sports

By Michael Mustradi

For many, some of the best memories of childhood are traced back to sports.  Not only are sports excellent for keeping children physically active, they can set a foundation that may not be noticed until later in life.  While playing both team and individual sports, adolescents learn numerous invaluable skills that will help them become successful in their later years.

Discipline

Having to deal and respect authority is crucial when entering any career.  I have been “constructively criticized” many times.  It doesn’t feel too great, but you learn to deal with it and move on.

Teamwork

Working with others to accomplish a common goal is one of the most important skills that can come from sports.  No matter what career path you may take, everyone will have to work with others eventually to be successful.

Respect

Hopefully, your coach taught you to respect the opposing team.  But, I found this to be even more important when dealing with a teammate that you do not like or do not get along with.  This teaches you to put your feelings aside and focus on the task at hand.

Hard work

Sports would not exist without competition.  Competitive play drives athletes to work harder and be committed to becoming better.  This skill will be needed if you plan on advancing your current position.

Stress

The coach tells you that you are taking the last second shot for the win.  Oh man.  Experiencing this situation can allow you to transform the stress into positive energy.  Eventually, your boss will be telling you that it is up to you.

Even though these are just a few skills learned while playing sports, it is imperative to know that a competitive game of hockey can have more importance than you may think.

Keeping Up with the Evolution

By Michael Mustradi

In the past decade, public relations has been evolving rapidly.  Social media, such as Facebook and Twitter, have played significant roles during this evolution.  These free sites give organizations the ability to directly communicate with their publics in real time, along with receiving valuable feedback.  PR practitioners can use social media to its advantage by staying ahead of the competition while being on a tight budget. 

Authenticity is a concept that makes social media as successful as it is.  A politician, for example, will receive many more followers on Twitter because of the authenticity of the tweets.  Publics enjoy the more personal communication and are more willing to spread the word and provide feedback.  In addition to authenticity, brand awareness and brand loyalty can be maximized through the use of social media.  Providing incentives for publics that are active on social media is an excellent way to keep the public wanting more.  Whether it is breaking news, coupons, or any other form of a giveaway, publics receiving these incentives will be more willing to share a positive message and spread the word.

Keywords, what’s trending, and common threads can all be utilized quite easily on social media sites.  Organizations can use these to attract potential customers, clients, etc.  A brand such as Nike can see what users on these sites are interested in sports and fitness and a follow/friend request can be sent.  This strategy is much more successful when wanting to reach out to a larger audience because the user will be much more willing to follow and learn about that specific organization.

Simple metrics such as the number of users in a network, the number of followers receiving information, and feedback from posted surveys or polls can give an idea of just how many publics you are communicating with.  More advanced technological tools such as Radian 6 can also be used to take a deeper look into social media.  Metrics in social media should not be overlooked, as analyzing them can be crucial to see just how successful a PR practitioner can be with social media.

Though there are many technological advances and breakthroughs in the past few years, social media, by far, takes the crown of being the one to single-handedly evolve PR and how companies communicate with their publics.  Not only is it free, it encourages two-way symmetrical communication with active and aware publics, it is an excellent way to utilize word of mouth, and it provides an authentic edge that no other technology can achieve.

My Experiences

By Michael Mustradi

Albert Einstein once said, “The only source of knowledge is experience.”  Throughout my experiences, I have learned so many lessons and valuable ideas that have shaped me to become who I am today.  Three internships have showed me that learning in the classroom is essential, but it is entirely different to personally experience it.  

My three internships have provided me not only with excellent experience, but they gave me a variety of experiences.  My first true PR experience at Business Solutions Group gave me a taste of what my career may look like.  The owner, Dan, was an ambitious man with a brain full of ideas.  On my first day he said to me, “I will not be giving you much direction so it is up to you to make things happen.”  Since this was my first internship in the field, his words startled me a little.  However, I listened.  I took the initiative to edit the company’s website, fixing grammar mistakes and providing its publics with an even-toned voice.  Later into the internship, as my confidence grew, I worked on the beginnings of a non-profit benefit dinner for Worldwide Impact Now; a non-profit that Dan was thoroughly involved with.

Once my internship with BSG had come to an end and I was back on Purdue’s campus for the 2011 fall semester, I was hungry for more experience.  I wanted to build upon what I had started while at BSG.  This is when I obtained an account associate position with Boiler Communication.  This student-ran PR firm was my best experience yet.  Working with a team, I managed the PR for Operation Christmas Child’s Purdue branch.  I had freedom to do what I thought was best for our client.  Obtaining donations, pitching PSAs, advertising, and administering social media was what I was doing in order to make our event, “Operation Ship a Smile” a success.

While many of my classmates were planning on taking a break during their last semester of college, I was about to take on the most challenging internship I had yet.  I obtained an internship with Purdue’s Liberal Arts Career Development office, working with a team of interns to put together “Career Week”.  This week involved 16 events in a four day stretch.  As donation coordinator, I managed over $2,500 in donations to give away as prizes to students who attend our events.  I am also currently utilizing my editing skills and editing the student career handbook.

During these experiences I have learned many different PR tactics and strategies.  However, I believe that it is not the most valuable things that I have learned.  I have shown that I have been able to take what is given to me and adapt to the situation. 

Are You Ready for Your Interview?

By Michael Mustradi

As graduation nears, many seniors (such as myself) are scrambling to get their resumes and cover letters out to as many companies as possible to ensure that they will be employed after graduation.  Obviously, applying is only the first step becoming employed.  Your resume is nothing more than an advertisement for an interview.  So, an employer is interested in meeting you and sets up an interview date.  What do you do?

This article serves as an excellent check list before heading through the doors of a potential job opportunity.  Even though the list is self-explanatory, there are a few tasks that really jump out at me and should be a priority.

Review your resume.

This is crucial.  Not only should you know what is on your resume, you should know what you did not include.  The interviewer is going to want to know more about your experience and background, so review every position that you have had and be ready to go into detail about your successes.

Get back on-line.

This is an easy, yet effective way to really impress the interviewer.  Researching what the company has been up to recently, and being aware of some upper management names shows interest in the company and proves that you can do your homework.  Just glancing over the company’s website for 20 minutes can truly make the difference between getting the job, or getting the boot out the door.

Develop a list of questions.

Like the article states, the interview should not be an interrogation session.  The interviewee should be asking questions, too.  But, asking obvious questions that can be seen on the company’s website (going back to #2) is not effective and will actually hurt you in the end.  Instead, ask detailed questions about what your job description entails.  This shows that you are eager and ready to learn.  It will also keep the interviewer on his/her toes and will prevent a boring interview!

Gather your materials.

Getting a portfolio ready to go is essential before attending an interview.  The interviewer wants to see your work and wants you to brag a little bit about what you have done in the past.  Try to include a variety of documents from different positions if possible and be sure that everything is neat and in a professional briefcase or binder.

The entire list is a great way to know that you are fully prepared for the interview!  So, be prepared and be successful!

Office Makeover

By Michael Mustradi

All of us could use some organization and a little change.  Well, at least I know I do from time-to-time.  I recently read an excellent post about how to give your office a makeover at a decent price.  From organizing, decorating, and even lighting, this article pointed out that there are a few things that we don't realize could be changed for the better.

Organization in itself can really do the entire makeover.  If your desk is not a desk at all, and instead a mountain of papers, this paragraph will most likely pertain to you.  A filing cabinet is a quick and easy way to store papers that you may need in the future and works as a fantastic desk-cleaner-upper.  Adding a whiteboard is also a nice way to save on paper and visually map out your day.  This is exceptionally essential for visual learners.

If you find yourself squinting or feeling tired, you may not have the proper lighting in your office.  Improving the lighting can drastically give your workplace energy and help prevent eye strain.  So, open the blinds or replace the lighting system you have from the 90s.  You will be glad you did.

Arguably the most important item on this list is the USB cup warmer.  Whoever invented this should be given a Nobel Prize.  Seriously, no more cold coffee!  When you are swamped with work and totally forget that you have a delicious cup of java on your desk, it will still be warm when you feel you need a caffeine fix.

Apple or PC?

by Michael Mustradi

As Apple builds its empire and continues to overshadow the PC world, one question still remains.  Which is better, Mac or PC?  An excellent breakdown of this unanswered question is located here and provides interesting pros and cons to both machines. 

The pros/cons of owning a Mac

One of the most desirable benefits that come with a Mac is the security system.  PCs are much more vulnerable to viruses and identity theft and need an antivirus system for protection, while Macs come protected right out of the box.  Macs are also built to last.  Most Apple products have aluminum cases rather than cheaper plastic cases that come with PCs.  The higher-end Macs can handle a heavy workload much more efficiently than a PC, too.  Most design offices will rely on Macs to assist them in completing their best work due to the smoother, more durable operating system.  However, with these perks that Apple offers, comes a high price.  Macs are much more expensive than PCs, with less options and customizations.  Even though this issue is improving, many Apple products are not fully compatible with Windows products, making it difficult to share and work on projects between a Mac and a PC.

The pros/cons of owning a PC

The nicest perk about owning a PC is that you can go out and purchase a decent, well-rounded machine for less than $600.  With Apple, you would be lucky to buy one for around $1,000.  Not only is the price attractive, the selection is too.  Windows offers many different brands to choose from with each one having unique designs, specs, and power.  Not only is the machine itself cheaper, the numerous accessories that you can buy for a PC are much less pricey compared to the few accessories that Apple offers.  When it comes to troubleshooting, PCs are usually cheaper to repair, even though many users believe that PCs are more vulnerable to break down. 

In the end, I would say that one’s budget really comes into play when deciding on a Mac or PC.  A college student short on cash will most likely buy a PC to get them through college, while someone with a higher spending limit may want to spend a little more on a Mac.

Be Healthy. Be Successful.

By Michael Mustradi

Too many people are more focused on their work and less focused on their health.  Most are either unaware or ignore the fact that making unhealthy decisions can sacrifice not only health, but performance in the workplace.  Obviously not everyone has the time to grapple a six-day-a-week workout program and maintain a perfect diet.  However, there are many enjoyable habits that one can get used to in order to improve their overall health.

Eat more often

Most would not associate eating more with being healthy, but eating smaller meals four or five times a day will keep your metabolism up and help keep you focused.  No matter how busy you are at work, always find time to fuel up your body.

Eat more protein

Consuming protein helps with hunger cravings since proteins take longer to digest.  Having a high protein breakfast, such as egg whites or a protein shake, will help you feel full longer and prevent overindulging.

Find an exercise that you love

Let’s face it.  If you try a workout program that you simply do not enjoy, you are not going to stick with it.  Instead, find something that brings you joy and that you look forward to doing.  Doing something is better than doing nothing!

Workout with a buddy

Find or convince a friend to workout with you.  This may not be as difficult as it sounds as many people may have the same goals as you.  Not only does exercising with a friend make the workouts more enjoyable, it helps build solid relationships.

Not only will you feel and look better, you will have more energy and be more focused when it matters the most.  These are only a few basic tips to get started, but they are essential to success.  So, do yourself and your career a favor and live a healthy lifestyle!

There is No I in Team

By Michael Mustradi

There is no better feeling than when a team comes together and fires on all cylinders.  Most of the time, great sports teams, such as the World Champion ’96 Chicago Bulls, come to mind when thinking about excellent teamwork.  However, teamwork is what drives both individuals and companies to success in the workplace.  Even though it is not always easy to be a team player, the advantages of meshing like a team can make life (and work) more tolerable and much more fun.

                                        

In order to be an affective teammate, you must know your skills or strengths and use them to your advantage.  For example, if organization is your strongpoint, be the one to keep the team organized and on track.  Not only will this make it easy on you since you are playing your strengths, you will feel like you have an important role on the team.

Also, being a communicator helps a team immensely.  A team that does not have open communication will not be as successful as one that does.  This doesn’t mean you have to be talking nonstop and speaking up when you shouldn’t.  Asking quality questions, challenging your teammates, and discussing possible solutions to any encountered problems are crucial to affective communication.  With communication, comes reliability.  If you say you are going to do something, you better get it done. 

If a teammate is pushed for time and is trying to meet a deadline, step up to the plate and help him/her out.  Then, when you are pushed for time (which you will be), he/she will remember your help and give it right back to you.  This brings up an important point: flexibility.  Being on a team does not mean tasks will get completed on your own time.  Sometimes you have to sacrifice a night out with friends to meet with the group and be productive.  Not everyone has the same schedule so being flexible will help the team continue to meet deadlines and increase the likelihood of success.    

Accomplishing a goal: Be S.M.A.R.T. about it!

By Michael Mustradi

Everyone has goals they would like to accomplish throughout their lifetimes.  These goals can be career related, such as becoming an account executive or obtaining that dream job you always wanted.  However, setting a specific goal can be applied to just about anything in life.  Stopping a bad habit, improving overall fitness, or simply being a better person are all goals that many face throughout their lifetime.  But, identifying a goal is the easiest part of the whole process.  The effort and hard work come in when you are figuring out how to achieve the goal.  So, one must select a S.M.A.R.T. goal.  Let me explain:

S= Specific

Vague goals will not get you to where you want to be.  Goals that are achieved successfully are specific and must include a detailed set of actions.  For example, “doing my part to help the environment” is not the best goal, but instead say “I will recycle all paper products.”

M=Measurable

You will be much more successful if you have a goal that allows you to measure your progress.  Instead of “being less stressful”, say “exercising on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to relieve stress.”

A=Achievable

Setting an impossible goal will leave you feeling unfulfilled and overcome with the feeling of failure.  But, at the same time, setting a goal that is too easy to attain will not give you the joy of accomplishment.  So, the goal here (no pun intended) is to set a goal that will be challenging but also possible.  If a student earned a GPA of 2.0/4.0, the goal would not be to get a 4.0 next semester, but instead, set a goal of earning a 3.0.

R=Reward

Rewarding yourself for your hard work plays a crucial role when obtaining your goal, but this should be a well thought out reward.  The reward should not undermine the goal.  For example, if your goal was to advance your career position, your reward should not be taking a few days off of work.  Or, if your goal was to lose 15 pounds, you don’t want to reward yourself with a Big Mac and a hot fudge sundae (as good as that may sound).  Instead, when you reach a milestone, reward yourself with getting a massage or purchasing new shoes, etc.

T=Time-defined

Having deadlines will keep you motivated and on track.  If you plan on running in the marathon during the summer, have deadlines that will help you get to your goal.  The bigger the goal, the more likely you will need more time to achieve that goal.

Even though there are many ways to achieving a goal successfully, the S.M.A.R.T. acronym provides a solid foundation when thinking about goals that you would like to accomplish.