Communications Management

Chirag Mahajan | Communications Manager | Waste Warriors

What is Communications Management?

There are many nuances of a Career in Communications Management. Understanding Why one wants to choose a Career in Communications Management is phenomenally more important than figuring out How to get into Communications Management. Just like you would normally not trust a non Doctor with names of medicines, you should also not trust opinions about Communications Management from non professionals.

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

The Journey of a Communications Manager: Chirag Mahajan’s Insights into Effective Storytelling In the fast-evolving world of communications management, few can provide as personal and insightful a perspective as Chirag Mahajan. With roots in Hyderabad and experience gained in diverse environments, including a radio station in Vancouver, Chirag embodies the multifaceted nature of this profession. Today, he serves as the communications manager for Waste Warriors, sharing his journey through education, skills, and the dynamic nature of his role. This article delves into Chirag's experiences and insights, offering readers a glimpse into a day in the life of a communications manager while highlighting the positives and challenges inherent to the field. What Is Communications Management? Communications management serves as the backbone of any organization, ensuring that the vision, mission, and objectives are effectively conveyed to the public. As Chirag explains, it is not just about creating content; it’s also about maintaining clarity in communication among team members. From social media engagement to crafting reports and facilitating internal exchanges, the core goal of communications management is to articulate ideas in an uncomplicated yet impactful manner. This discipline requires a deep understanding of various communication channels and the audiences each serves, making it essential for organizations striving to make a difference in today’s world. Education Media Studies Studying media studies equips aspiring communications managers with the tools needed to convey their ideas across different platforms, each with its unique audience. Chirag highlights that the approach to communication in areas like film, television, and social media varies significantly, necessitating a tailored message for each medium. This educational foundation helps professionals grasp the nuances of audience engagement and develop strategies that resonate with diverse stakeholders. English Literature & Language Pursuing English literature and language fosters an appreciation for clear and concise communication. By immersing in the wealth of perspectives and character studies encountered in literature, individuals learn to convey complex ideas simply and engagingly. Chirag remarks on how this knowledge aids communication by emphasizing the importance of clarity and relatability in messaging—skills that are invaluable in any communication role. Mass Communication Mass communication education prepares professionals to convey intricate ideas to large audiences, including those unfamiliar with specific industries. As Chirag points out, the ability to simplify complex topics and make them accessible is vital for garnering public interest. This field teaches critical techniques in persuasion and storytelling that are essential for successful communication strategies. Journalism A background in journalism provides insights into current events and societal responses. Chirag notes that this discipline encourages an understanding of the broader context in which organizations operate. Journalists learn to distill important information and present it in an engaging manner, a skill set that translates seamlessly into communications management. Graphic Design In communications, the visual presentation of information is as important as the message itself. Graphic design skills enable professionals to transform mundane content into captivating visuals that attract and inform audiences. Chirag emphasizes that an appealing design can significantly enhance communication efforts, making it essential for effectively engaging the public. Film Studies Film studies contribute to a deeper understanding of storytelling techniques and visual communication. By exploring character development, cinematography, and thematic emphasis, students learn to craft compelling narratives that resonate. Chirag suggests that these insights enhance the storytelling capabilities of communications managers, allowing them to formulate messages that captivate and inspire. Creative Writing Creative writing is not limited to fiction; it involves understanding the mechanics of storytelling. As Chirag explains, it teaches individuals how to effectively share narratives while knowing when to adhere to and break conventional writing rules. These skills are particularly useful for communications managers who must convey messages that engage and resonate with audiences. Skills Research & Analysis In an information-saturated world, research and analysis skills are crucial for communications managers. Chirag emphasizes that discerning credible sources and relevant data is essential for effective messaging. These skills empower professionals to navigate vast amounts of information, extract what is pertinent, and ensure that communication is factual and impactful. Critical Thinking Critical thinking is indispensable in assessing the information gathered during research. As reported by Chirag, professionals must evaluate the validity of various claims and sources to ensure accuracy in their communications. This analytic mindset enables them to filter noise from valuable content, ultimately fostering trust with their audience. Language Fluency Proficiency in relevant languages enhances communication effectiveness. Chirag points out that clarity in language—whether English, Hindi, or others—plays a pivotal role in delivering messages without errors that could undermine authority. Language fluency enables communications professionals to express their ideas confidently and authentically to various audiences. Interpersonal Skills Maintaining diverse relationships is vital in communications management. Chirag notes the importance of interpersonal skills, especially in a collaborative setting where differing perspectives abound. The ability to connect, listen, and communicate effectively with colleagues and external stakeholders bolsters the effectiveness of a communications manager. Content Creation Creating content demands a blend of creativity and organization. Chirag discusses the multifaceted nature of this skill, involving everything from drafting and editing to designing and proofreading. The combination of these elements ensures that the final product meets high standards of clarity and engagement, ultimately amplifying the organization’s message. Software Skills Familiarity with various software tools is essential for modern communications professionals. Chirag underscores the importance of learning platforms for design, video editing, and data management. Continuous learning in this area equips communications managers to handle the evolving landscape of digital communication efficiently. Data Management Managing extensive files and data is a significant aspect of communications work. As noted by Chirag, good data management practices help organize important documents and resources, ensuring easy access for collaborative projects. This skill supports not only personal efficiency but also the overall organization’s functionality. Time Management Effective time management allows communications managers to prioritize tasks and remain productive amidst changing demands. Chirag illustrates the need for planning and scheduling, particularly when balancing routine tasks and unexpected projects. Strong time management skills facilitate smooth operations and successful project completion. Positives Creating Awareness One of the most rewarding aspects of communications management is the ability to create awareness around important issues. Chirag finds fulfillment in using his skills to inform the public about waste management solutions, demonstrating how effective communication can lead to social change. This aspect fosters a sense of purpose that drives many professionals in the field. Supporting Teams Chirag emphasizes the satisfaction derived from being an integral support system for his team. By ensuring clarity and facilitating communication, he helps his colleagues effectively share their ideas and initiatives. This role not only enhances team cohesion but also enriches the collective mission of the organization. Bringing Clarity Providing clarity amidst complexity is an essential contribution of communications managers. Chirag notes that his role involves distilling data into understandable messages for various audiences. This clarity enhances trust and understanding, ultimately leading to better engagement with stakeholders. Creative Satisfaction The creative opportunities within communications management offer significant personal gratification. As Chirag explains, designing awareness materials and exploring innovative communication strategies brings joy and motivation to his work. This element of creativity allows communications professionals to express themselves while achieving organizational goals. Challenges Delegating Creative Tasks One of the challenges in communications management is the ability to delegate tasks effectively. As Chirag points out, learning to entrust work to others is crucial for advancing projects without compromising quality. This skill helps communications managers focus on more strategic aspects of their work while fostering team development. Meeting Deadlines Time-sensitive projects require adherence to tight deadlines. Chirag highlights the necessity of balancing creative freedom with the urgency of delivering content promptly. This pressure can be challenging, but it also reinforces the importance of planning and proactive communication. Constructive Criticism Receiving and incorporating feedback can be difficult, especially in a creative environment. Chirag acknowledges that being open to criticism from colleagues is essential for growth. This willful reception of feedback helps professionals refine their work and foster a more collaborative atmosphere. Creative Block Creative blocks can pose a significant hurdle for communications managers. Chirag admits to experiencing periods where creativity wanes, but he emphasizes the importance of continuously generating ideas and content to overcome these challenges. Strategies like engaging with diverse media can stimulate creativity and reinvigorate one’s work. A Day Of Communications Management A typical day as a communications manager is a blend of structured and spontaneous activities. As Chirag describes, his mornings often start promptly, with a mixture of scheduled meetings and ad hoc tasks that require immediate attention. Balancing the demands of varied projects while remaining flexible is crucial for successfully navigating a communications role. He maintains a planner to manage his priorities and ensure no critical tasks fall through the cracks, embodying the need for organization in a vibrant work environment. In conclusion, the career of a communications manager, as highlighted by Chirag Mahajan's journey, is a tapestry of creativity, strategy, and engagement. It plays a vital role in shaping how organizations share their messages and connect with the public. The blend of educational grounding, skill development, and the ability to navigate both challenges and opportunities makes this field a dynamic and rewarding path for those who are passionate about communication. As industries continue to evolve and the importance of effective messaging grows, the impact of communications professionals becomes ever more significant.

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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.

The 14 hour process, guided by a LifePage Career Advisor, will help you introspect and check whether your interest in Communications Management is merely an infatuation or is it truly something you wish to do for the rest of your life.

Next, your Career Advisor will help you document how you can get into Communications Management, what education and skills you need to succeed in Communications Management, and what positives and challenges you will face in Communications Management.

Finally, you will get a Career Plan stating which Courses, Certifications, Trainings and other Items you need to do in the next 7 years to become world’s best in Communications Management.

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LifePage Plan will not stop at saying "to become an Architect study Architecture". It will guide you on which Certifications, Trainings and Other items you need to do along with your Architecture education to become the world's best Architect.

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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