Communications Management

Chirag Mahajan | Communications Manager | Waste Warriors

What is Communications Management?

A Career in Communications Management is very intriguing. Understanding Why one wants to choose a Career in Communications Management is phenomenally more important than figuring out How to get into Communications Management. The internet is a great source of information on Communications Management, but it is second best to learning about the same from a real professional.

Communications Manager Chirag Mahajan has 7 years & 1 month of professional experience in Communications Management. Communications Manager Chirag Mahajan describes Communications Management as:

Communications management is the systematic planning, implementing, monitoring, and revision of all the channels of communication within an organization, and between organizations; it also includes the organization and dissemination of new communication directives connected with an organization, network, or communications technology.

How Communications Manager Chirag Mahajan got into Communications Management?

After graduating in English Literature from UBC, Vancouver in 2011, I worked at CiTR 101.9 FM for 3 years, hosting broadcasts and producing podcasts. I then did a Professional Diploma in Audio Post-Production from Nimbus School of Recording & Media in 2015, and assisted Audio Engineers and Record Producers in Vancouver for a year. I then moved to New York, freelancing as a Multimedia Designer. I left USA in late 2016 to travel across India. I joined Waste Warriors in Dharamshala in mid-2017 as a Project Assistant, then became Project Manager, and finally moved to Dehradun as their Communications Manager in June 2018, focusing on content writing, designing, branding, public relations, and fundraising.

Communications Manager Chirag Mahajan's Talk on Communications Management

A Career in Communications Management: Bridging Voices and Ideas Communications management is a dynamic and vital field that serves as the backbone of effective interaction within organizations and between entities and the public. This profession breathes life into aspirations and objectives, ensuring messages resonate with target audiences through careful planning and execution. In the age of information overload, the ability to communicate clearly and engage audiences has never been more critical. Chirag Mahajan, a communications manager at Waste Warriors, shares valuable insights into this rewarding career, highlighting the importance of education, skills, and the challenges faced, all while providing a glimpse into a day in the life of a communications professional. What Is Communications Management The Essence of Communications Management Communications management is the process of strategically disseminating an organization's vision and mission to a broader audience. It encompasses all forms of communication, from internal team dialogues to public outreach through various mediums. Managing these communications effectively is essential to ensure clarity and conciseness, allowing both team members and the public to understand the organization's goals clearly. As Chirag points out, "Whether it's all the little things you do every day, to sharing on social media, to writing the right reports, it's really important to talk about these things simply and concisely." Education Media Studies Studying media studies equips aspiring communications managers with the necessary skills to convey messages effectively across diverse platforms, including social media, television, and radio. Each medium presents unique challenges and audience expectations that must be understood and navigated adeptly. According to Chirag, knowledge from media studies provides a foundation to tailor communications to resonate with specific audiences, ensuring that the message doesn’t just reach them but engages them. English Literature & Language Pursuing a degree in English literature and language enhances a communications manager's ability to articulate messages clearly and precisely. This discipline emphasizes the importance of storytelling, which is crucial in creating compelling narratives that can captivate audiences. Chirag notes that "learning about various perspectives in literature helps in understanding how to communicate complex ideas simply," a skill that proves invaluable in his work. Mass Communication Mass communications studies focus on conveying complex ideas to the public effectively. Students learn how to present information in a digestible format, which is essential for any communications manager tasked with translating intricate concepts into relatable messages. Through courses in mass communication, professionals like Chirag become adept at identifying their target audience and tailoring their communications to meet their needs. Journalism A background in journalism helps communications managers stay informed about current events and societal trends. This training teaches them to analyze information critically and report on it accurately. As Chirag points out, understanding the world and how to communicate these realities is crucial, especially for an organization focused on making an impact, like Waste Warriors. Graphic Design Graphic design plays an essential role in communications management by transforming text into visually appealing content. Having a grasp of design principles allows communications managers to create eye-catching materials that enhance engagement and convey messages effectively. "Graphic design is about taking something that looks boring and giving it life with good design," Chirag emphasizes, showcasing how design contributes to successful communications. Film Studies Film studies contribute to an understanding of visual storytelling and the art of filmmaking. This knowledge can be pivotal in crafting video content that engages and informs viewers. Chirag notes that comprehending lighting, framing, and character portrayal from a theoretical perspective aids in shaping influential visual messages, which further enhances the reach of an organization's campaigns. Creative Writing Creative writing is not solely about crafting stories; it also involves understanding narrative structure and the nuances of compelling writing. For communications managers, this skill is essential in producing engaging content that captivates an audience's attention. Chirag explains, "Knowing the best way to tell a story helps in ensuring that your audience listens to and engages with your message,” indicating the powerful role of creative writing in effective communication. Skills Research & Analysis In today's information-rich environment, research and analysis stand out as critical skills for communications management. Professionals must sift through vast amounts of data to identify reliable sources and relevant information. Chirag highlights that "being able to look up information accurately is crucial, as it's important to ensure that what you report to the public is factual," underscoring the need for diligent research practices. Critical Thinking Critical thinking is essential for assessing the credibility of information and determining its relevance. For communications managers like Chirag, this skill ensures that the messaging shared with audiences is not only persuasive but also factually accurate. He points out, "you must be able to discern what's true or false, which is foundational for effective communication." Language Fluency Fluency in the primary language used within an organization is vital for clear communication. Whether in English, Hindi, or any other language, being grammatically correct and articulate can significantly impact how messages are received. As Chirag notes, “Effective communication is put to use best when language barriers do not exist,” reinforcing the importance of language fluency in successful communications. Interpersonal Skills Working in communications management involves collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders. Interpersonal skills are crucial for building relationships and fostering understanding among team members with different perspectives. Chirag emphasizes that “being able to relate and communicate ideas in a respectful manner is of utmost importance” in achieving organizational goals. Content Creation Creating compelling content is a hallmark of successful communications management. This process includes drafting, editing, and proofreading materials that convey messages effectively. Chirag notes that this often requires synthesizing researched data creatively to ensure clarity and engagement in the public domain. Software Skills Familiarity with various software programs for design, data management, and content creation is vital in today’s digital landscape. Communications managers must continually adapt and learn new tools to streamline their workflows. Chirag advises that “there are plenty of online resources to help you learn these necessary skills,” emphasizing the accessibility of learning in this field. Data Management Organizing and managing data is fundamental to maintaining an efficient workflow. In communications management, professionals often handle numerous files—ranging from images to reports. Chirag points out that "being organized helps not just you but also your team and the entire organization operate smoothly," illustrating the need for effective data management practices. Time Management Effective time management is paramount in communications management to meet the demands of various projects simultaneously. It enables professionals to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, as Chirag describes needing to organize his day to handle both scheduled work and unexpected demands efficiently. This skill is essential for staying productive in a fast-paced environment. Positives Creating Awareness One of the most fulfilling aspects of communications management is the opportunity to create awareness about important issues. Chirag finds joy in using his communication skills to elevate understanding of waste management solutions, demonstrating the impactful role that thoughtful messaging can have on community engagement and awareness. Supporting Teams In his role at Waste Warriors, Chirag emphasizes the satisfaction derived from supporting his team and amplifying their voices. "When I can communicate their ideas properly, it reassures them," he states, showcasing how effective communication fosters teamwork and collaboration. Bringing Clarity Another positive aspect of Chirag's work is his ability to bring clarity to complex data and ideas. He believes that by presenting information in an accessible manner, he helps both his team and the public fully understand the organization’s mission. “Clarity in communication is crucial for operations,” he remarks, highlighting its importance in teamwork and goal achievement. Creative Satisfaction Engaging in creative design work provides Chirag with a sense of satisfaction, as it allows him to explore innovative ways to communicate with the public. The creative aspects of communications management, such as designing awareness materials, let him fuse aesthetics with purpose to leave a lasting impact. Challenges Delegating Creative Tasks One challenge in communications management is learning to delegate tasks effectively. Chirag discusses the importance of allowing others to handle specific duties so that managers can focus on high-priority projects. Balancing delegation with maintaining control over quality requires ongoing practice and trust within the team. Meeting Deadlines Adhering to deadlines can be particularly challenging in communications, especially when creative processes are involved. As Chirag mentions, "It's vital to set expectations and meet deadlines,” emphasizing the need for discipline in project management to keep content relevant and timely. Constructive Criticism Receiving and giving constructive criticism without taking it personally can be difficult. Chirag notes that being open to feedback enhances the final product and encourages a healthy environment for growth. "Being willing to change designs based on different perspectives can lead to better outcomes,” he states, showcasing the value of adaptability in creative roles. Creative Block Experiencing creative blocks is a common challenge for professionals in communications management. Chirag advises continually pushing through by generating content and exploring new ideas as a way to overcome these blocks. "Keep turning out content to spark creativity," he suggests, indicating the importance of perseverance in creative work. A Day In The Life A Typical Day A day in the life of a communications manager can be fast-paced and filled with unexpected challenges. Chirag starts his workday around 9:30 AM and frequently engages in a mix of scheduled meetings and a variety of urgent tasks. He manages everything from drafting communications to editing creative materials on the fly. “Keeping a day planner helps me prioritize my tasks and stay organized,” he shares, emphasizing the importance of effective planning in achieving productivity throughout the day. Despite the demands that may extend beyond regular hours, Chirag believes that dedication and commitment are essential. "You must be positive and patient, especially when deadlines are looming." His approach highlights that passion for communications can fuel perseverance through the challenges, leading to rewarding experiences. In conclusion, communications management is a diverse and impactful field that requires an amalgamation of education, robust skills, and a commitment to ongoing learning. As demonstrated by professionals like Chirag Mahajan, this career offers opportunities to create awareness, support teams, and engage creatively while navigating challenges with resilience. For those drawn to the art of communication and storytelling, the rewards of such a career can be both immense and fulfilling.

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How to get into

Communications Management?

If you are want to get into Communications Management, start by investing in a Career Plan.

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Links for this Talk

Communications Manager Chirag Mahajan's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/chiragmahajan

LifePage Career Talk on Communications Management

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/communications-management

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20190127-0001

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szS5eN2Nq34

(Communications Management, Chirag Mahajan, Waste Warriors, Communications Manager, Editor, Content, Broadcast)

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