Understanding the Importance of “No”
By Victoria Holtje
In today’s fast-paced business world, there is a mad dash for everything. Whether it’s finishing a project early or taking on more than you can handle, young professionals are conditioned to fear rejection, rest and aspire for perfection. These same aspiring professionals dread hearing the word “no.'“
The small two-letter word has a big impact. Over the years, it has developed a negative connotation that frightens people. Our brains have been rewired to believe that no means failure and failing is not an option. However, rejection is not something that people should be afraid of. In the world of public relations, young professionals should embrace criticism and utilize it as a platform for growth.
Throughout my time working with and learning from Diana Bassett Public Relations, I have learned to appreciate the word “no.” I can admit that at the start of my internship journey, I was scared of rejection and wanted every assignment I completed to be free of imperfections. That dream was short-lived, but although it was not initially what I had planned for, it ultimately helped me grow. After completing my first project, I received critiques and criticisms. While I was upset with myself at first, I soon realized that this was nothing to be ashamed of. I am proud of my mistakes because that means that I have areas to improve upon.
Looking back now, I came in with the wrong mindset. If I was creating perfect projects, what was I doing at the internship? The point of this position is to grow and experience what it is like working in the real world. Diana helped me understand that and was there every step of the way to help guide me to create stronger materials. I am so grateful for this internship opportunity because I feel that I have grown tremendously as a young professional. Not only have my writing skills improved due to feedback, but also my confidence as an aspiring public relations professional. Due to the critiques and “no,” I was determined to work harder and grow to finally receive a “yes.”
To all young business professionals, don’t be afraid of “no” because they make that one “yes” so much better.
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About The Author:
Victoria Holtje is a spring 2022 intern with DBPR. Currently, Victoria is a junior public relations major and double history and marketing minor at Hofstra University. Holtje has recently been inducted into Lambda Pi Eta, the communications studies honor society, and elected as the Director of Membership for the public relations pre-professional club on campus. Holtje is grateful for the opportunity to intern and grow with DBPR. She leaves her time with the agency a better writer and a more confident aspiring public relations professional.
