Tips and Tools: Successful Group Chemistry

Group work has become prominent throughout all upper level classes. Case Studies, Advertising Strategies, PR and Ad research, IMC— all of these classes require group work. And we all know that after college public relations careers require even more reliability and interdependent work between colleagues.

But working in groups can sometimes become tough when egos collide and work is not properly allocated. To avoid future group problems I have compiled useful tips on successfully working in a group and how to avoid conflict.

1. Get to know each other. As obvious as this may seem, coming together on a social level can avoid an awkward working environment. Before even discussing plans for working members should be honest about the way they work, their schedule, and what they are good at.

2. The first step is admittance. It’s okay to be a leader. It’s okay to need control. But acknowledge it. People will respect you for it— even make you group leader. Admit your peeves and strengths.

3. Secondary communication. Meeting face to face is not the only form of communication. There is so little time in each day. If schedules collide have online meetings. Use Facebook groups, chain e-mails, or even private chat rooms to do your work.

3. Meeting conditions are key. If you are meeting face to face, where you meet is important. Groups should meet at large flat surfaces so everyone can see each other as well as write. Only hover around one computer when necessary. A large table is the ideal condition for group work— no distractions. The library rents soundproof rooms with white boards and a table free of charge. They are easily accessible for groups to use.

4. Food softens a meeting. Use the first five minutes of your meeting to talk, unwind, and EAT before diving into work.

5. Let everyone talk— one at a time. Groups will gain so many more ideas if everyone stopped and listened. One person should talk at a time. One idea at a time. Tangents are sometimes unavoidable, but should not take away from the idea at hand. Jot down ideas and thoughts you might have about the conversation or an idea instead of interrupting group members.

Check out more helpful tips at:

The Eight Secrets of Starting a Successful Work Team

Fast Facts: Group Work

Tips for working successfully in a group

Tell us, what worked for your group?

Rowan University: Most Outstanding Chapter in the Nation

Hello and welcome to RU PRestige, Rowan PRSSA’s blog. As I travel back to New Jersey from Detroit after spending six days at PRSSA’s 2008 National Conference: Driven to Distinction, I cannot think of a better time to start a new initiative for Rowan PRSSA.

I intended to keep the first blog entry short and sweet, simply outlining what we plan to write about and how we will keep you up-to-date on the chapter and the public relations industry.

Instead, I am inviting you to come along for the ride with us, because this chapter is revved up and ready to go. I am privileged to update you on the Anthony J. Fulginiti Chapter of PRSSA’s most recent success.

Rowan University left the PRSSA National Conference in Detroit with 12 awards and honors—more than any of the 290 chapters in attendance. They are:

- Most Outstanding Chapter in the Nation: Presented to the AJF Chapter of PRSSA

- Most Outstanding Faculty Advisor in the Nation: Presented to Professor Larry Litwin, APR

- The Plank Center Ethics Advocacy Award: Presented to the AJF Chapter of PRSSA

- Lawrence G. Foster Award: Presented to Rosie Braude

- National President’s Citation: Presented to Rosie Braude, Amy Ovsiew and Rebecca Timms

- Norman S. Fenichel Scholarship: Presented to Christina Marcus

- National Golden Key Awards: Presented to Rosie Braude and Amy Ovsiew

- Codispoti Technology Grant: Presented to Brianna Rozzi

- A bid to host a Regional Activity: Presented to the AJF Chapter of PRSSA



Not only did Rowan receive awards, chapter President Brittany Vella presented the Rowan University NODAC Award to the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh for their hard work creating campaigns to educate their communities on organ donation.

Twenty-seven current members of our chapter, three alumni, advisor Larry Litwin and his wife Nancy attended the awards ceremony. When all 32 of us ran on stage to receive the award for Most Outstanding Chapter in the Nation, I felt a great rush of pride.

Detroit was my first conference for PRSSA. Until now, my only record of Rowan’s decorated reputation was from the plaques wallpapering our communication building. This year I got to be a part of it, and the experience was invaluable.

So with the close of our 2008 National Conference, I am opening RU PRestige. Check back frequently for updates on our chapter, current events, information about trends in the industry, and tips and tools for success in college and beyond. Subscribe to us through RSS, and feel free to comment. We have a lot to say, and so do you.


Click here for more information on PRSSA awards and scholarships

Click here for more information on Teahan Chapter Awards


Were you at National Conference? If so, what was your favorite part?

If you missed out, do you have any questions?