Hammers and Nails

There are many ways to divide the world - if one is so inclined. For instance, you can begin with the obvious that all people are either mail or female. Or can say there are those who either like vanilla ice cream or those who prefer anything but that. Or you can classify folks by suggesting there are those who live their lives as a hammer or nail. The implication here is that those inclined to live a hammer-like existence are ones who address challenges and/or problems head-on versus ones in the nail-campus who prefer playing things a bit more safely and are more inclined to avoid confrontation whenever possible.


Without question, there are men and women who fall more under one of those label than the other. More likely, however, is the fact that many - depending upon the circumstance - who fall under both. This is particularly true of professional communicators. Or at least it should be. No two situations are the same. Consequently, how one conducts themselves and handles each should vary. Public relations practitioners need to be nimble in how they ply their trade. Not only are so many of the communication challenges they face different, but so, too, are the people they represent. As a result, being flexible is a key characteristic to possess.   


Some may find being seen as a hammer more appealing than being viewed as a nail. Without question, when one is direct and forceful they certainly give off vibes of being strong, in-charge, and a real leader. But let us not forget that it is the nail that provides meaningful security, is the glue that holds things together, and serves as the foundation on which things are built and remain sturdy. Come to think of it, being a nail does not sound so bad after all. For one to be successful in public relations, they must be both - at times at the same time with the same client. Dealing with people is not an easy thing. Often, it requires the vision of a hammer and sensitivity of a nail.