Strategies for staying composed under pressure
In public relations, staying composed under pressure is not just beneficial—it’s essential. Let us show you some of our top tips on how to keep calm when in difficult situations.
In public relations, staying composed under pressure is not just beneficial—it’s essential. At Peppermint Soda, we understand that high-stress situations can arise at any moment, whether it’s managing a crisis, meeting tight deadlines, or navigating client expectations. Here are several strategies from our experienced team that can help professionals remain calm, ensuring that both clients and colleagues can rely on them when times get tough.
Be prepared
Preparation is the key to composure. By anticipating potential challenges and developing strategies to address them, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of becoming overwhelmed and panicking. At Peppermint Soda and during our Media Training and Crisis Comms sessions, we emphasise the importance of thorough planning, especially when talking to the media. Detailed timelines, clear roles, contingency plans for crises, and having plans in place just in case things go wrong make it easier to maintain focus and composure.
EXAMPLE – If a brand is conducting a major product launch, having a well-prepared team with established communication protocols, media lists, and key messaging points will help get the message out smoothly. If a last-minute issue arises, having a team fully in the know means things can pivot quickly and effectively, limiting any mistakes or panicking and still launching the product effectively.
Prioritise communication
Clear communication is vital, especially in high-pressure situations and in PR. With constant lines to the media, keeping lines of communication open helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and can respond swiftly to any changes or challenges. At Peppermint Soda, we prioritise regular check-ins and updates among clients and our team. This not only builds trust but also fosters a collaborative atmosphere. We often say that an outsourced PR team should act as an extension of any business and work collaboratively as one entity.
EXAMPLE – Quick and transparent communication can help mitigate a crisis management scenario. By having a strong line of communication between our team and our clients, we can all stay informed and be involved in the decision-making process, ultimately working together to navigate the crisis effectively.
Develop a supportive team and environment
A supportive team culture can significantly alleviate pressure when things get tough. We’ve all heard the phrase ‘when the going gets tough, the tough get going’, which couldn’t be more accurate.
When team members rely on one another and feel a sense of security and respect, it helps everyone stay composed. At Peppermint Soda, we prioritise building and strengthening relationships and encourage collaboration. By creating an environment where team members and clients feel comfortable seeking help and offering support, we can better manage stress and issues collectively and head-on.
EXAMPLE – In the lead-up to a major campaign, if any team member feels overwhelmed, knowing they have the backing of the rest of the team means no one has to feel like they’re struggling alone. This not only enhances performance but also reinforces the team dynamic.
Maintain a healthy work-life balance
We should all strive for a balanced lifestyle, as not only is it healthier to have time for work and life, but it’s also crucial for sustaining composure under pressure. Employees who are well-rested and have time to recharge their batteries outside of working hours are better equipped to handle stress. At Peppermint Soda, we think that flexible work arrangements and encouraging team members to take breaks and take time off when needed are really important. This not only boosts morale but also increases productivity and resilience.
EXAMPLE – If a team member is approaching burnout, taking a few days off to recharge can give them the mental clarity needed to tackle their projects more effectively upon return.
Focus on the solutions, not the problem
When the press is on, and everything is getting a bit hectic, it’s easy to become bogged down by problems. But really, focusing on the problems can often make things feel worse. Instead, adopting a solution-oriented mindset and focusing on how to solve the problem and not the problem itself can help you stay composed. Encourage yourself and your team to brainstorm potential solutions rather than dwelling on the issues at hand. At Peppermint Soda, we have cultivated a culture of innovation where challenges are seen as opportunities for creative problem-solving.
EXAMPLE – When facing a media backlash, rather than focusing solely on the negative aspects, our team will gather to discuss potential strategies for addressing concerns and turning the narrative around, enabling us to act decisively and confidently.
Set realistic expectations
Setting realistic goals and timelines is crucial for managing stress. You need to be realistic about what you can do and when. At Peppermint Soda, we work closely with clients to ensure that expectations align with what can be realistically achieved. This transparency helps to prevent last-minute pressure and allows for more measured responses during busy periods.
EXAMPLE – When launching a new initiative, if the client understands the timeline and potential hurdles, they are less likely to expect the unachievable and more likely to support the team during challenging times, contributing to a calmer working environment.
Learn from experience
Every high-pressure situation is a learning opportunity. Reflecting on past experiences can provide valuable insights that help you develop resilience and composure in future challenges. At Peppermint Soda, we always look back at campaigns to identify what worked, what didn’t, and how we can improve. This reflective practice encourages growth and enhances our team’s capability to handle stress.
EXAMPLE – After a particularly challenging campaign, discussing what went well and what could be improved helps everyone feel more prepared and confident when facing similar future challenges.
Stay physically active
Physical health has a direct impact on mental well-being. Regular exercise can reduce stress levels, increase energy, and improve mood. Promoting physical activity through team sports, yoga classes, or encouraging walks during breaks helps morale, productivity and stress management.
EXAMPLE – A team that engages in regular group fitness activities is more likely to support one another during stressful periods, leading to a more cohesive and composed working environment.
Look for professional development
Investing in personal and professional development can equip you with the skills necessary to handle pressure effectively. Workshops on stress management, time management, and communication can provide valuable tools that enhance your ability to stay composed. Encouraging teams to pursue ongoing education and training to bolster their skills can enhance positive feelings at work.
EXAMPLE – A team member attending a crisis management workshop can bring back insights and strategies to help the team navigate stressful situations more effectively.
Our final thoughts
Staying composed under pressure is a vital skill in the public relations industry. By embracing preparation, mindfulness, effective communication, and a supportive team culture, professionals can enhance their resilience. Implementing these strategies makes it easier to navigate challenges with confidence, ultimately delivering better results.
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