Tips to Navigating the APR Process

According to the PRSA website, the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) is an internationally recognized accreditation that "integrates timeless communications principles with contemporary strategies and tactics." Earning this accreditation will not only help take your PR skills to the next level, but will also make you more attractive to employers.

Photo by praccreditation.org.

The APR process is not something to take lightly. It starts with an application, completing an online study course and passing the computer-based exam. It might not sound like a lot, but earning this accreditation can take up to one year to study and advance through the process, if you meet the established requirements and make it through the application process.

Below are some tips that I have found from PR professionals for successfully completing the requirements for earning your APR accreditation.

First, commit to earning your accreditation. It might not sound like a lot, but not being dedicated and willing to spend time and energy on earning this accreditation can affect how well you prepare yourself for the final examination. Once you have decided to move forward with the APR process, find ways to commit yourself to the process. Tell family and friends, write it down as a goal you are setting for yourself, and post it on your social media. Find an accountability partner, or group, that you can go through this process with.

Second, find a way to study that best fits your learning style. Take advantage of all of the resources that PRSSA, PRSA, and the Universal Accreditation Board (UAB) have to offer. Make use of the APR Study Guide provided by the UAB by putting together a binder with the study guide and all other available study resources. If you have found an accountability partner or group, then plan study session with them. Also, utilize the #StandOutInPR APR toolkit that is full of resources to help you through the APR process.

Third, plan to attend pre-conference sessions hosted by APR's, participate in the APR Boot Camp and find webinars, podcasts and blogs dedicated to the APR process and educational opportunities. Attending conferences will give you the opportunity to learn from other PR professionals and gain insight to their APR experience and knowledge. Conferences will also help you to network with others who may have knowledge that you do not have and vice-versa. Finding webinars, podcasts and blogs are more interactive and interesting ways to expand you knowledge of APR and the practice of public relations.

Photo by thebalance.com.

Finally, update and organize your portfolio. Make sure that your portfolio is attractive and comprehensive. Create a portfolio that you will be proud to present to employers as well as to the panelists at your APR panel presentation if asked to do so. Here is a list of 10 Things Every PR Portfolio Must Have.

Photo by Florida Public Relation Association.

If you commit to this process and work hard, you will be be rewarded with an accreditation that will set you apart from all the other PR Professionals and give you the leg up that you need to get the job you want.