Build trust-based relationships on transparency, integrity & mutual respect: Surbhi Dahiya
Surbhi Dahiya¸ Professor and Course Director, English Journalism, IIMC, was awarded as the ‘Educator of the Year’ at the e4m Women Achievers’ Awards 2023
To celebrate the spirit of Indian women leaders who embody resilience, determination, and the ability to break barriers in the PR and Corp Comm industry, exchange4media launched the 4th edition of e4m Women Achievers' Awards 2023.
The awards honored remarkable contribution of numerous incredible women leaders, achievers and trendsetters who have shattered glass ceilings, overcome challenges, and paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse future in the PR and Comm Industry.
In this series, we feature and celebrate the achievements of the outstanding achievers. Today, we have Surbhi Dahiya¸ Professor and Course Director, English Journalism, IIMC who was awarded as the ‘Educator of the Year’ at the e4m Women Achievers’ Awards 2023.
Excerpts:
How do you feel after winning the e4m PR and Corporate Communications Women Achievers Awards 2023?
Winning the e4m PR and Corporate Communication Women Achievers Award 2023 for ‘Educator of the Year’ has been an incredibly humbling and gratifying experience for me. E4M has given me wings. It's a testament to the dedication and passion I've poured into my work as an educator and author, and it reinforces my belief in the transformative power of education. This recognition not only validates the efforts I've put in but also inspires me to continue striving for excellence in my field. I feel immensely honoured and grateful to be acknowledged among such accomplished women, and I'm excited to leverage this platform to further advocate for education and empower future generations.
What inspires you on your journey and endeavours?
There are several sources of inspiration that fuel my journey and endeavours as an educator. Firstly, I feel that there are 24 hours in a day so one should spend them doing positive things and use one’s energy in productive work. I draw inspiration from the ever-evolving landscape of education itself. The opportunity to innovate, explore new teaching methodologies, and adapt to changing needs keeps me engaged and excited about my work. Collaborating with like-minded individuals who share a common commitment to excellence fosters a sense of camaraderie and pushes me to push my boundaries further. Also, when I write books and people appreciate my efforts, I get motivated to write more and contribute to media education in India.
Secondly, witnessing the growth and development of my students is incredibly motivating. Every time I see them overcome challenges, grasp new concepts, and achieve their goals, it reaffirms my passion for teaching and reinforces the impact that education can have on individual lives.
In what ways have you witnessed the PR and Corporate Communications industry change and evolve over the years? What global practices you see implemented in India?
Over the years, I've witnessed significant changes and evolution in the PR and Corporate Communications industry, both globally and within India. Some key trends and practices I've observed include Data-Driven Insights and Digital Transformation. There's been a growing emphasis on data analytics and measurement in the PR industry. Professionals are leveraging data to gain insights into audience behaviour, track campaign performance, and demonstrate ROI to clients or stakeholders. This data-driven approach allows for more targeted and impactful communication strategies. This has led to an increased focus on digital storytelling, influencer marketing, and online reputation management.
Companies are recognizing the importance of aligning messaging across different channels and disciplines to create cohesive brand narratives and maximize impact. PR and Corporate Communications are increasingly being integrated into broader marketing and branding initiatives. There's a greater focus on building and nurturing relationships with various stakeholders, including customers, employees, investors, and the community. Also, companies are increasingly investing in corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and sustainability reporting, aligning with global best practices in corporate communication
Tell us about your most valuable learning from the industry. Where do you foresee the PR and corporate communication industry in coming days?
The landscape of communication is constantly evolving, driven by advancements in technology, shifts in consumer behaviour, and changes in societal norms. To stay relevant and effective in this dynamic environment, professionals in our field must be willing to embrace change, be open to learning new skills and strategies, and remain agile in their approaches. The key takeaways are adaptability and learning from the best people around. I foresee several trends shaping the future of the PR and Corporate Communication industry. The major ones include purpose-driven Communication, adopting digital transformation and Artificial intelligence. The industry also needs to focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion in communication practices and organizational culture. PR professionals will need to proactively monitor, manage, and respond to online reputation management.
What would be your message to the future generation of professionals?
My message to the future generation of professionals in the PR and Corporate Communication industry would be to approach their work with a sense of curiosity and a willingness to explore innovative solutions. They should embrace creativity and carve out a niche for themselves. Communication is fundamentally about connecting with people – so invest in building authentic relationships. Take the time to listen, empathize, and understand the perspectives of others. Build trust-based relationships on the basis of transparency, integrity, and mutual respect. Stay adaptable and resilient.
