PRFest launches new buddy scheme

PRFest volunteers are all passionate about supporting our industry colleagues, especially right now when getting into the industry is tough, roles are being made redundant and there is a sense of unknown.

Each of the steering group have generously volunteered their time to a very light touch ‘buddy scheme’. Those practitioners who identify that they need some guidance would simply look through the biographies of the steering group, hit the relevant ‘contact’ email link (from the biography) and ask for a quick call to discuss whatever area they need support in.

The steering group member would then either say they were or were not available and you’d either agree a suitable time or you could ask someone else.

Calls are restricted to 45 minutes to ensure focus and allow for other people to make use of the new support measure.

Laura Sutherland, founder of PRFest said: “I think this new short and instant opportunity could be a good solution for people who are looking to ask a specific question, need a pointer or two or just generally need to check-in with someone.

The various hangouts PRFest has pioneered through lockdown have demonstrated the need for peer-to-peer support and the other mentoring I run for clients, has so much take-up, that it signals we need to all be doing what we can for our colleagues.”

In addition to the buddy scheme, remember that #PRsUnite takes place on the last Wednesday of every month, and this includes anyone who need to check-in and ask for support.

Steering group member Jaitika Dhir said: “I encountered Laura at an event during the first lockdown and initiated a chat with her via Instagram. She mentioned PRFest and I instantly knew that this was something I wanted to be a part of.

“After having worked as a journalist and now as a PR consultant, in different environments, I now realise how much of a difference one perspective can make.

“Now I look back and wish I could have faced less challenges because I had advice from someone who worked in the industry. We are so thrilled that we will be able to elevate the futures of as many PR professionals as we can through the buddy scheme.”

Please feel free to get in touch with any questions.