What NSS Taught Me as a Young PR Practitioner

My one-year National Service journey taught me that every work environment, whether it aligns perfectly with your field of study or not, can be a powerful learning ground for a young professional.

A little background story

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In September 2023, my NSS journey began with an unexpected twist. Initially posted to a basic school, I requested a reposting for a "PR"-focused role, only to find those slots filled when I had the chance. I was then reposted (again) to the Ghana Book Development Council (GBDC) - which one is that? Well, it can only get better. Knowing the value of every opportunity, I decided to give it my best shot. And I’m so glad I did.

Present Moment

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The staff I met at GBDC transformed me and my attitude towards a working environment, (note that this is an institution I didn't think was PR-focused) and now I appreciate the concept of Public Relations even more than before I went to serve.

Lessons I learnt

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Working at GBDC taught me more than I anticipated, thanks to the supportive team. Among others, these are the key lessons I've learnt

• Hands-On Skills: From document management, memo writing, and minute-taking, I sharpened the core administrative skills that keep any organization running smoothly.
• Public Relations Insights: Despite being in a not-PR-focused institution, I learned the value of PR in organizational settings and connecting with the public, as every organization serves the public.
• Teamwork & Respect: Working alongside experienced professionals and managers taught me to value authority, time, and collaboration.
• Adaptability: Every task, from internal communications to literacy promotion, expanded my perspective on the flexibility needed in PR roles.

Words for Future NSS Personnel

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To the next cohort of National Service Personnel, you can pick these tips from a virtual sister and friend

• Embrace Adaptability: Your field of study is applicable anywhere you find yourself - it's great to get what you wanted, it's priceless to make meaning from whatever the outcome may be.
• Master small Tasks: These little skills, like using a photocopy machine, build a foundation for bigger responsibilities. This I took from Arik Karani when he visited Ghana few months ago; You need to know how to use the photocopy machine.
• Be humble and Embrace growth: Running errands subtly teaches you respect for order and authority. You may meet your business partner, potential employer, or even discover different perspectives from different people.
• Work with Integrity: In all tasks, "work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people."

Gratitude

Special thanks to Madam Ernesticia Asuinira Lartey (the Executive Director), Daniel Ofosu-Asamoah (Senior Literacy Promotion Manager), Mavis Asante (Senior Distribution Services Manager & Ag. Admin), Sandra Amihere (Asst. Administrative Manager), Kofi Asante Twumasi (Senior Production Services Manager), Lawrence Okai (IT Manager), Kwame Adjei (Auditor), Afua Pomaa Antwi-Dako (Senior Finance Manager), Emmanuel Appiah Owusu (M&E manager), Richard Mude (Accountant), MICHAEL KWAKYE, MIoD,CA,MBA,Bcom (Principal Accountant), Ishmael Aryeetey (Records Manager) Jennifer Nabil Akologo (Literacy Promotion Manager), Emmanuel Ekow Arhin (Production Services Manager), Francis and Emmanuel Nyarko (Transport Managers) you made each workday a meaningful step in my journey.

Then there's Mr. Gershon, one of the Security officers, he won't allow you to enter your office with a straight face, you'll smile to brighten up your day.

The memories are endless, especially with the caliber of cohort I served with - Offei Elizabeth, Isaac Berko, and Ansly Naa Addy - good luck to us

My time at GBDC was priceless, and I’ll carry these lessons forward with gratitude and purpose.

The Ghana Book Development Council (GBDC) is an arm of the Ghana Education Service that is responsible for developing the nation's book industry through a plethora of programs including Literacy Promotion, Advocacy for Policies for the book industry, Research, and Promotion of Standards for the book industry.

For those considering authorship and publishing, GBDC warmly welcomes you.

Please leave me any practical tip in the comments as I embark on my next journey.