Public Relations Advice from CEO Debbie Mason

"Don't let the "PR" title confine you," said Debbie Mason, the CEO for the United Way of North Central Florida.

Mason graduated from the University of Florida in ’85 with bachelors in journalism on the public relations track. Public Relations was not a stand-alone major in 1985.

Mason is saying that while one is looking for a job position it is not enough to only look for positions titled “public relations” but note that other titles such Communications specialist, Media specialist, Marketing Communications, require the same skills one learn by going through a public relations track.

“Go where you want to be,” said Mason.

She continues on to say not to rule out the non-traditional path as one search for the next step after school. She encourages participating in AmeriCorps, Peace Corps or Teach for America.

Debbie Mason, CEO of United Way of North Central Florida and UF alumnus. photo by Ann-Makir Magloire.

The skill that is necessary to hone and practice is writing. Mason said in whatever she may do requires writing, whether it is in house or press releases. She also stresses the importance of writing for a nonprofit organization that may have to request funds from outside sources.

“What am I willing to do to get what I want,” Mason said.

It is important to be involved in the different aspects of public relations whether it is through volunteering, shadowing a public relations specialist or being involved with the different chapters.

What is behind confidence is knowledge and courage, Mason said. There’s no reason to not pursue a goal if one is willing to find the right information and have courage to pursue it.