On Friday, November 15, 2024, public relations managers from East Azerbaijan Province spent a full day at an engaging and interactive bootcamp, organized by the Public Relations Association of East Azerbaijan in collaboration with Sahand University of Technology. The event, titled “A Day in the Role of a PR Manager: Experience, Practice, and Transformation,” provided participants with a unique opportunity to learn, exchange ideas, and practice practical PR skills in a professional yet friendly environment.

Hosted at the Innovation and Technology Center of Sahand University of Technology, the bootcamp commenced at 8 a.m. and concluded at 4 p.m. The day began with a working breakfast, fostering a warm and collegial atmosphere for participants to network and engage in meaningful conversations.

Opening Address and Goals

Ebrahim Molaei, President of the Public Relations Association of East Azerbaijan, delivered the opening remarks, outlining the bootcamp’s objectives. He explained that the event, designed with a limited capacity to ensure high-quality outcomes, was divided into two sections. The first segment allowed participants to give five-minute talks sharing their work experiences, challenges, and concerns in the PR field.

In the second section, participants delved into specific themes, including crisis management, planning communication campaigns for new product launches, developing internal PR strategies to enhance employee morale and organizational commitment, crafting communication strategies for corporate social responsibility initiatives, and managing organizational reputation and image in the digital landscape. Molaei noted that these themes were the result of 20 days of intensive collaboration with prominent national experts and were chosen to challenge participants’ professional skills.

Interactive Sessions and Keynote Presentation

Following the opening session, participants took the stage one by one to share their insights and challenges, fostering an interactive environment that encouraged discussions on real-world PR issues and innovative solutions.

A highlight of the bootcamp was an online keynote presentation by Dr. Amir Abbas Taghipour, editor-in-chief of Communication Management Monthly and Secretary-General of UNESCO’s Communication Club in Iran. Dr. Taghipour offered valuable recommendations and explored critical topics in PR management.

Honoring a Veteran PR Professional

Before the second session, a special ceremony was held to honor Nasser Eskandarian for his 35 years of dedicated service in public relations at Azerbaijan Railways. Molaei emphasized the importance of recognizing the contributions of experienced professionals in elevating the status and professionalism of PR in the province. Eskandarian received a commemorative plaque and a certificate of appreciation from the association.

Collaborative Teamwork and Problem-Solving

The second half of the program focused on teamwork and problem-solving. Participants were divided into five teams, each assigned a pre-defined scenario aligned with the challenges introduced during the opening session. After brainstorming and discussions, each team presented their proposed solutions, with a team representative delivering the outcomes to the broader group. These presentations were followed by feedback and insights from other participants, promoting a dynamic exchange of ideas.

Throughout the day, Mohammad Reza Azizpour, the bootcamp’s coordinator, facilitated discussions and guided participants in developing practical, effective solutions for PR challenges.

Networking and Social Interaction

The bootcamp also served as a platform for networking and building new relationships among PR professionals. Participants shared breakfast and lunch together, enhancing camaraderie and fostering a sense of unity.

A Platform for Growth and Development

The “A Day in the Role of a PR Manager” bootcamp provided a practical and supportive environment for learning and professional growth. By combining hands-on activities with collaborative learning, the event created a memorable and enriching experience for all attendees.