PRSA-NY Career Forum

Attention Communications Students, New Professionals and Seasoned PR Pros

You Can’t Afford to Miss THIS Event, hosted by PRSA-NY’s New Professionals Committee . . .

Whether you’re a college graduate or student applying for your first position or internship, a new professional or seasoned PR professional ready to make a move in the industry or seeking information on continuing education…

…come meet HR recruiters from top New York City-based public relations and communications companies and gather information on leading continuing education programs.

Special guest, Peter Shankman, an entrepreneur, author, speaker, and networking extraordinaire will keynote this year’s career forum. Peter is the founder and CEO of The Geek Factory, Inc., a boutique marketing and PR Strategy firm located in New York City, with clients worldwide. Most recently, Peter launched Help A Reporter Out (www.helpareporter.com) which connects journalists with the sources they require using a social media platform. HARO (Help A Reporter Out) already has over 30,000 members and growing, and has a stable of national journalists using the service on a daily basis. Check out Peter’s full bio here: http://shankman.com/about/

When: Saturday, April 18, 2009 from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

9:00 am Attendee registration, networking & continental breakfast

9:45 am Making an Impression: Tips for a Successful Career Forum Experience

10–11:00 am Career Forum

11–12:00 pm Keynote speech by Peter Shankman

12–2:00 pm Career Forum

Where: The Fashion Institute of Technology

Reeves Great Hall

Entrance located on 28th Street between 7th & 8th Avenues

New York City

Cost: $15 *Pre-payment is mandatory

How: Register online at www.prsany.org

RSVP: By Wednesday, April 15th

** Refunds will not be given after the registration deadline. Those who cancel their registration after the deadline or do not attend the event will remain responsible for the registration fee.

Contacts: Heather DiRubba & Abby Ray at

For more information on PRSA or PRSA-NY, please visit www.prsa.org and www.prsany.org or e-mail us at to learn how to become a PRSA-NY Member or PRSA-NY New Professional Affiliate.

Make the Most of PRSA-NY’s Career Forum

ATTENDEE TIPS

Prepare a 60 second verbal summary of who you are and what you have to offer an employer. Preparation, enthusiasm and energy will get you noticed.

Research the companies you are interested in. Most employers provide ample information on their web sites.

Bring plenty of resumes, a pad and pen and dress professionally. A suit is not required, but business casual is recommended.

Speak clearly and concisely to make sure you are heard above all the noise. Don't get distracted when talking to an employer. Maintain good eye contact and focus on what is being said. Manage your time and visit all the employers you are interested in first.

Being hired in a particular field won't happen unless you can prove you belong. Use the language of the industry and relate your experiences to the current job.

You are never wasting time talking to an employer who does not have an opening. Hiring is cyclical. Employers attend because they are interviewing candidates for the future. Get as much information as possible and make a great first impression.

Remember, this is a networking opportunity as well. Strike up a conversation with the other attendees. They might even have contacts or information that could help you get a job.

Last, but not least, send a quick note to thank a recruiter for speaking with you. It’s a great way to stand out.