New Year’s resolutions don’t have to be about pretending you’ll go to the gym more. As a public relations professional, the new year offers an opportunity to reflect, reset, and recommit to the principles that define our work, especially in this rapidly shifting media landscape. This list of resolutions isn’t just about improving our craft—it’s about embracing honesty, integrity, and purpose in everything we do. From cutting out jargon to standing up for freedom of press, we should all strive for an impactful and ethical approach to PR in the year ahead. Below is our wish list of what we hope PR professionals will resolve to do in 2025 and beyond.
I resolve to cut out the jargon and hyperbole, reserving the word “revolutionary” for discussions about overthrowing governments—not for describing a laundry delivery app.
I resolve not to lie—to my clients, the media, the public, or myself.
I resolve not to propagate lies. I will investigate everything my client tells me to ensure its veracity.
I resolve not to make the world a worse place. I will not represent dictators, abusers, oppressive regimes, polluters, exploiters, scam artists, snake oil salesmen, or corporations that profit from human misery.
I resolve to give back to my community. Whether it’s mentoring aspiring PR professionals, teaching a PR class, or providing pro bono assistance to nonprofit organizations, I will put my money where my mouth is.
I resolve to foster a culture of diversity and acceptance, to give people a chance, and to provide the tools they need to succeed.
I resolve to read more, write more, and listen more.
I resolve not to spam-blast media lists of 500+ contacts sloppily culled from Cision or MuckRack.
I resolve to appreciate journalists, value the hard work they do, and uphold and fight for the freedom of press in our democracy.
I resolve to take pride in what I do and to enjoy every moment.