Alpha’s 2024 Ins and Outs

January might be out, but this trend should still be in. We’ve been thinking about how to make 2024 the best year yet, and after trying vision boards and New Year’s resolutions, we’ve come up with the best way to set ourselves on the right path. Here are Alpha’s ins and outs for 2024:

In: Staying TikTok trendy

TikTok is making it easier to go viral and share your message with millions of people. Staying on top of trends allows you to gain more views and relevance. Say, “I think I like this little life,” while showing why people should apply to work at your agency.

Out: Apologizing via ukulele

One of the biggest PR disasters of 2023 was Colleen Ballinger’s “apology” video featuring a 10-minute ukulele ballad. 2024 is the year of owning up to our past mistakes and making meaningful apologies when necessary…instrumentless.

In: Routinely revamping your resume

Gone are the days of submitting the same resume for each application. Each job or internship looks for different skills from its applicants, meaning an untailored resume won’t cut it. In 2024, we’re customizing our resumes to showcase the skills that fit the role we’re applying for.

Out: Procrastination breakdowns

Stop putting things off until the last minute! In 2024, we’re planning our time and working ahead of schedule. This means hopping on trends early, creating that content ahead of time and doing our best work.

In: Omitting the Oxford comma

Save yourself some time and memorize the AP Style basics. Not only will you stop embarrassing yourself with repetitive grammatical errors, but you’ll also pass reporting with an A.

Out: Not media training (except for Reneé Rapp)

As PR professionals, we are responsible for making statements on behalf of others and communicating frequently with the media. Media training is crucial for answering complicated questions with confidence. Everyone needs media training (except for you, Reneé. We love you).

In: Networking to make Kris Jenner proud

If Reece Feldman, our favorite guy with a movie camera, taught us one thing this year it’s to meet everyone. If going from production assistant to interviewing red carpet celebs sounds like your kind of career boost, there’s no better way to learn about job openings, insider tips and professional advice than from those in the industry that you’ve connected with through seminars, career fairs and internships.

Out: Mistaking Five Nights at Freddy’s for Submarine Screams

Social media allows information, both true and false, to spread like wildfire. In June 2023, a video went viral that broadcast the screams of the five passengers aboard the lost OceanGate submersible in their final moments. But it wasn’t actually their screams; it was a clip from the video game Five Nights at Freddy’s. 

With misinformation spreading faster than ever before, it is crucial for PR professionals to be seekers and spreaders of truth.

In: Being on LinkedIn

It’s 2024, and you still don’t have a LinkedIn profile. You’re missing out on the best way to boast about your skills, share your experiences and connect with professionals in your field. Plus, it’s a great way to find internships and jobs!