Throughout my time at Cancer Support WA, I’ve been exposed to tasks to
refine my skills in Public Relations, marketing and event management.
The key skills I have learnt/honed during
my internship include the following:
Writing to suit the organisational house style. Since I wasn’t working
in a corporate setting, I had more creative leeway and didn’t have too many
restrictions on how I wrote fact sheets and media releases.
However the basic rules of correct grammar, punctuation, and structure had
to be followed in order to maintain quality and professionalism in my work. I
was appreciative of the honest and constructive feedback I received from the
helpful staff at CSWA.
I also became familiar with the importance of networking and
communication whilst in a professional setting and beyond. One of the main ways
CSWA raised funds was by contacting previous event sponsors, ie: Individuals in
the community, organisations and public figures across the state. From there we
contacted people in their professional circle, and so our email database (of
sponsors) began to grow.
This reinforced in my mind the importance of maintaining strong
professional relationship with clients and stakeholders even after said business
transactions are completed. You never know when their assistance (or contacts)
may be needed in the future.
Today I attended an afternoon tea as part of 2014 National Volunteer
week in Australia (12-18th May). It was basically an opportunity for
the team at CSWA to get better acquainted, and reinforce that sense of
community that has been established in our organisation over time. It was a
really enjoyable experience as it added that personal touch to the organisation,
and solidified our motives for being here (ie: to support a good cause, break
into the media industry).
All in all, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time here at Cancer Support WA.
From the moment I started I was welcomed into a professional, friendly and team
oriented environment. I have not only honed my writing skills, but adapted new
skills which will assist me in being an even better PR practitioner for future
years to come.
Natasha Scekic 15498315
Curtin Bentley
Natasha Scekic 15498315
Curtin Bentley
2 comments:
Hi Natasha,
I couldn’t agree more with your comment about needing to communicate with clients and stakeholders. I’ve been interning at a not-for-profit events management company and I understand how necessary it is to keep in contact with those you do business with. One thing I’ve learnt is that it is so important to communicate well with potential sponsors, as you don’t know if or when they will come on board with your organisation. Keeping communication going and keeping them informed allows a strong relationship to grow.
I’m glad you enjoyed your internship!
Kiara Bonasera
15523055
Hey Natasha,
So great to hear that you have enjoyed your internship! I have also been doing my internship placement at a non-for-profit organisation called Momentum Forum Events. They organise fantastic charity events such as the Pink Ribbon Ball raising money for breast cancer and the Men In Black Ball raising awareness and funds for mens mental health.
One thing i can definitely agree on is the importance of good quality writing and grammar. Although sometimes there may be the creative leeway given when writing media releases and news pieces, it is still important to keep that writing professional.
I can also agree with your comment about the importance of networking. The PR and Events sector is definitely an industry where it is so important to be a good communicator. Maintaining healthy business (as well as social) relationships is the key to carrying out successful charity/fundraising events.
Good luck with your final report!
Stacey Morrison
14862663
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