Smile. Say Cheese. And Mean It.

Ali Glemser

Some people really love having their picture taken, some are indifferent and a lot of people truly dread it. I’ve heard a thousand excuses why somebody can’t be in a picture. I admit I’ve thrown out a few myself before. 

Typically, I fall in the indifferent category when it comes to having my picture taken. I prefer some advanced notice, but if someone really must have a picture, I’ll give it a big smile and hope for the best. I stumbled across a magazine article not too long ago on this subject that I thought was worth sharing. It addressed simple things you can do to help show your best side in any photo. Below are the tips I learned:

Courtesy of Flickr

Avoid keeping your hands right by your sides. This can appear awkward or unnatural in many instances. Instead, opt to clasp your arms in front of or behind you, hold onto a glass if you have one or place your arms around others in the photo. 

The light is your friend. The illuminating effects of light on your skin actually help to diminish the appearance of skin imperfections, not broadcast them. 

Get rid of the double chin. You want to be at eye level or below the camera to make sure this doesn’t happen. You run the risk of creating the illusion of multiple chins when the photographer is below you. Also, focus on protruding your chin out about an inch to ensure this doesn’t happen.

You can’t always control what you’re wearing or where you are when someone wants to snap a picture of you, but these simple steps are things you can make count no matter the situation. Next time you are having your photo taken at work, at an event or out with family and friends, don’t shy away from the camera! Stand tall, in the light and with your chin held high because you know how to make that snapshot count.

Tips for Networking Introverts

Epiphany Woods

During a recent staff meeting, we were told we would be attending a networking event. Thankfully, it was on a day that I had class because I avoid networking events at all costs! Small talk has never been my forte, and being around a huge group of people makes me exhausted. #IntrovertProblems. But as a future PR professional, I have to get better at starting and building relationships. It’s an essential part of public relations.

I want to help my fellow PR introverts in being more comfortable with networking, so here are a few tips that I use when I have no other choice but to attend a networking event.

Open your mind: On your way to the event, clear your mind of every negative thought. If you go into a situation thinking it’s doomed from the beginning, then it will be. Try not to think at all. But if you must, think positive.

Be Prepared: If you didn’t clear your mind enough and still think you might freeze up, make a list of general talking points that can start a conversation. Staying current on the news is the best way to have something to say for small talk. But you already do that, right?

Courtesy of Flickr

Start small: Ease your way into the networking scene with an event with 50 companies listed (or fewer), so you won’t feel overwhelmed. If you’re a student, ask if the career center hosts a job/internship fair on campus. You will be more familiar with the area and the people around you.

Practice: The only way you’ll get better at doing absolutely anything is through practice. Go to a networking event to see how it’s done. At the next one, make a move you didn’t do at the last event. For example, if you didn’t meet a person and hold a conversation, make an attempt to do so at the next event. And always have your 30-second elevator speech about what you do perfectly rehearsed beforehand.

Always smile: With a smile, you look more approachable and friendly. People will gravitate toward that, and you won’t even have to start a conversation – just keep it going.  

There’s nothing wrong with being an introvert in the PR world. Just make sure you’re as good as those born-with-the-gift-of-gab people at networking events.