By Scott Hanson, of LCI’s PRGN affiliate in Phoenix, HMA Public Relations:
New York Knicks’ guard Jeremy Lin sits on the bench in obscurity until an injury to another player gives him an opportunity. He promptly leads the Knicks to seven straight wins, becomes an international phenomenon and posts a record for most points in the first five games as an NBA starter.
Green Bay Packers’ backup quarterback Matt Flynn watched from the sidelines as NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers led the Packers to a 14-1 record. Rodgers was given a day off against the Detroit Lions, and Flynn stepped in to deliver six touchdown passes and a Packers’ win.
Is your bench deep enough? Does your company have the depth needed to be successful every day?
It’s not just in sports where there are people waiting for the chance to show their stuff. There are countless interns, account coordinators or junior account executives with tremendous skills and talents who are capable of taking the next step toward stardom.
Professional development in any industry is key to the success of the entire team.
For us, the PRSA’s Phoenix Chapter has a new pros group, providing professional development opportunities, along with a relationship-based connection to the industry.
Mid-level practitioners have many options, as well, for seminars, webinars or other continuing education opportunities.
More seasoned PR pros have access to the PRSA’s Counselor’s Academy, where members meet to share information and best-practices designed to improve agency operations, new business development and company profitability.
And for the old-timers in our industry, the PRSA’s College of Fellows offers mentoring and other guidance to help nurture the careers of others in public relations.
But it’s not just organizations like the PRSA that offer professional development. What does your industry do for you – and is your company committed to having a strong bench?
Please comment below or send your thoughts to Scott Hanson, [email protected] or [email protected].
3 thoughts on “LCI Blog: Lin and Flynn – How Deep is Your Bench?”
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Scott, excellent post. Having a strong bench also means more than hiring the right people and mentoring them. In addition it’s up to the individuals who are hired to take responsibility to push themselves to the next level. . .by offering to add value, thinking of new ways to approach the business and not just doing what’s in the job description. Much appreciate your thoughts, thanks for contributing. Cheers, David
David — and to add to that: making oneself an indispensable part of the team.
Agreed!