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Member Spotlight: Emily Drzewiecki, McDougall Communications

Emily Drzewiecki is a counselor at McDougall Communications and is very involved in multiple PRSA Rochester committees. We sat down with her to discuss what she's gained from her involvement in PRSA, her upcoming panel presentation at the PRSA 2016 International Conference in Indianapolis, and her advice for young professionals. 

You’re very active in PRSA Rochester on quite a few different committees. How has your involvement helped you?
I credit PRSA for helping me kick start my career. It’s through a mentorship program in 2013 that I was connected to an internship opportunity which eventually lead to my role at McDougall Communications. I give back by serving on different committees because not only does it keep me connected with PR professionals in Rochester, I get to flex my communications muscles in different ways than I do every day at work.

Congratulations on your recent promotion to counselor at McDougall Communications! What do you enjoy most about your career in public relations?
I love the relationships I have developed with my clients. Each organization I work with is different and it’s my job to adapt to their preferences and communication styles. There is nothing more rewarding than when a client seeks your counsel because they trust in your understanding of their brand and know you have their best interest at heart. Through these relationships I have been able to explore my own capabilities and try new communication techniques.   

When you’re not busy working, what do you like doing in your spare time?
I love being outside and disconnecting from the world. Whether it’s a weekend hike through the Adirondacks or paddle boarding to middle of Irondequoit Bay, I try to re-center myself every once in a while so I can stay laser-focused during the week. 

You’re presenting at the upcoming PRSA 2016 International Conference in Indianapolis. Can you tell us more about your panel and this exciting opportunity?
Everyone is aware of the controversy surrounding the increasing number of Millennials in the work force. What I want to share in October is how our chapter is debunking many current misconceptions. The number of YP leaders within our Chapter is impressive. So many of us are striving for excellence and this is because of the culture of communication, opportunity and purpose that has been fostered by past leaders of the chapter. Myself and two other exceptional YPs (Former PRSA President Rich Pulvino and current PRSA President Jim Mignano) will be presenting the panel discussion, “Building a Millennial Pipeline: Securing a Vibrant Future for Your Organization.” We’ll be highlighting trends and ideas that will help organizations understand how an inevitable shift in workplace culture is an opportunity to recruit and retain top performing Millennials.

What advice do you have for young professionals entering the field of public relations? 
Swing big and be bold. No one can ever fault you for trying too hard, being too eager or dressing too well. Whether you’re still interning or have already secured your first job, ask questions and use your own critical thinking to make each project better. Hand-write thank you cards at the end of each experience and volunteer your time to expand your professional network.