Diversity Month continues at PRSA and I am here to share a little of what I have learned along the way.

When I was asked by Henry Cervera Nique, diversity liaison for the New Professionals Section and fellow member of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee, to share five tips on how to embrace diversity and inclusion for new PR pros – I was honored.  While I have been in the PR and communications field for a bit, I still consider myself a student of the practice as I am constantly learning.

Like Henry, I am a storyteller and a diversity superhero.  Throughout my life, I have championed diverse and inclusive stories and points-of-views, from high school to college, and now, in my professional career. And, what have I learned along the way?  LOTS!  The most important thing I have learned is to use your voice – there is power in one.  Your voice is strong.  Your voice is influential.  Your voice matters.  Never forget this.

With that said, here’s five tips to help new PR professionals embrace diversity and inclusion:

#1 – Mentoring

As new professionals we are often concerned about finding a mentor, someone to guide us, and give advice – to help with transitioning to the professional world.  But remember, there is also great value in you serving as a mentor, too.  This can be peer to peer, reverse mentoring, and traditional mentoring. By being a mentor and sharing your experiences, background, advice – you’re adding to the story, one which is diverse and inclusive.  Plus, if you’re reverse mentoring with a senior professional, you’re automatically gaining exposure and visibility for you!

#2 – Networking

You may have heard the saying, ‘you never know where that next connection will lead you.’  Well, it’s true.  The key to networking is to be yourself.  Be authentic.  Take a genuine interest.  Take initiative when sharing your story, your elevator pitch.  And, when you’re first starting out, talk to everyone.  And, talk to them again.  This is the time to build your network.  Be open minded with who you talk with and soon, you’ll have an amazing strong and diverse network to support you.  Most importantly, now that you’ve made these great connections – don’t drop the ball.  Follow up and continue to nurture those relationships.  Your next gig will most likely come from your network.

#3 – Personal brand

What is your personal brand?  Do you know what your personal brand is?  Your personal brand will help you stand out and be part of the diverse and inclusive fabric of your company or organization.  When it comes to your personal brand, remember your online self.  Are your snaps and FB posts reflective of your brand?  Once you define what your brand is, be consistent – this will help to strengthen and reinforce your personal brand.   You’re building value.  Remember, no one else will do this for you – only you have that control.  Be true and be you!

#4 – Taking risks

This may seem simple in theory but when it comes to practicing it, taking risks can be intimidating.  Turn that fear into an opportunity.  Taking risks is fun.  Taking risks is challenging.  Taking risks is rewarding.  When it comes to embracing diversity and inclusion, some may see this as taking a risk.  Imagine if we all took risks and embraced change, how much more an inclusive environment we would have?  Go ahead and take risks – what have you got to lose?  It could be your most amazing career experience yet!

#5 – Managing change

Similar to taking risks, managing change in today’s economy is more important than it’s ever been.  Change is all around us.  Change drives innovation.  Change disrupts.  While change can be scary, it can be very liberating.  Think of all the stress you’d let go of?  Bring on the change!  Once you do, you’ll automatically build a more inclusive way of thinking, in turn, embracing a more diverse and inclusive environment!

These are a few tips I have learned along the way to help new PR pros on how to embrace diversity and inclusion.  As the next generation of leaders in PR, your voice is critical.  Be vocal, be the change agent you are, and cheers to your continued success in making our profession the most diverse and inclusive ever!

Laarni Rosca Dacanay is an award-winning communications professional with expertise in the entertainment and media industry. Currently, she is the External Communications Manager for Comcast and her other experience includes:  NBCUniversal, Focus Features, and NBC. Laarni also serves on the PRSA National Diversity & Inclusion Committee. Follow her on Twitter @laarnid1.