7 PR life lessons from ‘Parks and Recreation’

Comms pros, take these insights from Pawnee to heart to succeed both in and out of the office.

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About 4.2 million people watched the “Parks and Recreation” series finale Tuesday night, marking the show’s highest viewership since 2012.

On Twitter, #ParksFarewell trended with sentiments from cast members and fans as viewers watched the team from the fictional town of Pawnee come together one last time. Though it brought many laughs, PR pros can glean several life and career lessons from the show’s memorable characters.

Here are seven PR life lessons, direct from Indiana:

1. Donna Meagle: Follow your heart.


Donna Meagle never settled for anything. Whether it had to do with her dating life, work (and co-worker) endeavors, her car or the “treat yo’self” lifestyle, Meagle made sure she got what she ultimately wanted.

Whether you travel the world or work for a nonprofit, follow your heart. PR pros who do what they love are more passionate and effective at their jobs—and, ultimately, more successful.

2. Ben Wyatt: Know your stuff.

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