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For decades, our industry has been built on the backs of intelligent, hard-working PR pros who have exacting standards. You know who you are--?type A people who not only demand control, but crave it.
Recent developments in how we communicate have caused us to realize that control--of message, of outlet, of timing and more--is fast eroding. In turn, we've shifted our thoughts and actions more toward growing influence.
Yet many PR professionals are still exerting excessive control in another area--the managing of their teams.
"Giving up control of a project or task can be the most challenging aspect of my profession. It seems easier at times to just do it yourself, to be sure it's done properly," said Karen Braden, owner of video production firm Mikaren Media Inc. "But I push myself not to do that. How will my employees or associates develop the necessary skills without experiencing that trial and error?"
We've all had that controlling boss at one time or another. The micro-manager. The discontent. The "just do as I say" supervisor. It's inevitable. But it doesn't have...