How to handle rejection at your PR job | PRmoment.in
If there is one thing that PR professionals have to get used to very fast, it's the word 'No'. Rarely, politely said. A 'No' from clients on budgets and of course a 'No' from journalists. How do you handle it? PR professionals share their best tips.
Jovan Saldana on Handling Rejection
"I think it's all about showing the other person 'What's in it for them?' And that means changing your perspective of No to Not Yet", shares Jovan Saldana, an experienced communications professional.
"So every time we get a No, we try harder to give people reasons to say YES", she adds.
Priyanka Bhatt's Advice
Priyanka Bhatt, founder of Equations PR & Media, agrees, "Start by framing the situation as a learning experience. Objectively analyze the feedback and identify areas for improvement. Acknowledge your emotions, but don’t let them cloud your judgment."
Bhatt further suggests following up with an inquiry to gain more detailed feedback, which helps you understand their decision and demonstrates your commitment to improvement. Use the constructive feedback to refine your approach.
Shefali Khanna's Perspective
Shefali Khanna, co-founder & chief marketing officer, Astrum - Reputation Advisory says, "As a reputation management consultant, 'No' from a stakeholder is an insight. It informs my strategy and refines my approach. It challenges me to explore alternative possibilities to achieve the desired outcomes as long as they are legitimate, ethical and feasible", adds Khanna.
Supriya Debnath's Approach
Supriya Debnath, PR account executive at Avian WE, shares, "Rather than being discouraged, I focus on refining my pitches and tailoring them more effectively to suit the audience. When I’m confident that a pitch is strong, I make sure the core message stays intact while adapting the objectives to align with the journalist’s narrative or my client’s brand goals".
Rupali Soni's Insights
Rupali Soni, assistant manager of On Purpose comments, "Rejection is an inevitable part of the PR world, and while it can sting a little, I’ve learned to embrace it as an opportunity for growth. When a client, journalist, or management says ‘no,’ one should see it as a chance to refine their approach and sharpen their strategies."
Mayank Jha's Advice
Mayank Jha, a senior hospitality PR professional recommends, "My best tip to get over a 'no' is to reframe it. A 'no' doesn't always mean rejection; often, it means 'not right now' or 'not this way.' Persistence, adaptability, and patience are key. In PR, it's crucial to remember that today's 'no' could turn into tomorrow's 'yes' if you find a different angle that resonates."
Navin Rochiramani and Nishi Singh on Dealing with Rejection
A customized approach in public relations is a must to achieve your targets. Reaching out to the right media platform, the right journalist with the right story is the way to overcome your 'no", advises Navin Rochiramani, founder of Neosparks.
Nishi Singh, corporate communications & PR at M3M India says, "'NO' is not a reflection of one's worth, but rather an opportunity to refine and refocus."
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