What do you do if your problem-solving skills are put to the test in a PR interview?

How closely do you listen? Do you listen with genuine curiosity? In my experience, asking the right questions can be more impactful than having the right answers. People love it when someone asks a question that demonstrates insight, an in-depth understanding of the problem, and the context surrounding it because it shows them you are interested and capable of seeing the big picture. Listen close to the question, allow your mind to be curious, and follow those threads with questions to gain clarity and understanding of the whole problem you are being presented with.

As a pr professional, you are expected to identify and completely understand the root cause of issue. This can be done either by reading credible sources, consulting experts or brainstorming with other team members

1. Clarify the Problem: Understand its scope and impact. 2. Brainstorm Solutions: Generate ideas for short and long-term fixes. 3. Prioritize Options: Consider feasibility and potential outcomes. 4. Communicate: Articulate your approach clearly. 5. Propose Solution: Present a well-reasoned plan with evidence.

Stay calm and tackle the situation step by step. First, make sure you fully understand the problem and don't hesitate to ask questions for clarification. Then, brainstorm potential solutions, considering both short-term fixes and long-term strategies. Clear communication is essential, so be ready to explain your thought process clearly and concisely. If you have relevant experiences or case studies, use them to back up your proposed solutions. Highlight your creativity, adaptability, and ability to work well with others.

The 5WH1 is considered a good tool in public relations as it will ensure a systematic and methodological approach to a problem. The fundamental question of who, what, why, where, when and how will make decision making and analytical thinking easier through this process.

During an interview, when tasked with devising campaigns, events, or stories, it’s your moment to wield techniques like brainstorming, mind mapping, or lateral thinking as your brushes, dabbing the canvas with a spectrum of ideas.

Trying to solve problems in any industry without clarity can be frustrating. Design thinking, in this case, helps develop solutions creatively while encouraging innovation. The four factors to consider when following this approach are clarification, ideation, development and implementation. Empathetic observation and insights based on research, asking open end questions and exploring new perspectives will promote a creative approach to problem solving needs

PR interviews love to test problem-solving skills! Here's how to ace those questions and showcase your ability to navigate tricky situations: Preparation is Key: Research the Company and Industry, Understand the types of PR challenges they might face. Are there any recent industry trends or potential issues you can anticipate? Brainstorm Potential Scenarios: Think about common PR hurdles like negative press, product recalls, or social media crises. How would you approach them? If the scenario feels hypothetical, turn it around and ask: "How does your company typically handle situations like this?" This demonstrates your interest in their existing approach and allows you to tailor your response accordingly.