That said, I think the relationship you have with your boss or your editor affects how you react. I had one of those bosses mentioned above who wanted everything to sound like she wrote it. She had a very formal, stiff style, and I don’t, so we weren’t a good fit. My last boss thought I was the greatest writer since Ernest Hemingway, so when he changed something, I something was off. He also sent me his stuff to edit and never questioned any of my edits, so I felt we were a team trying to produce great copy, not two writers jockeying for best position.

There’s also the reality that some people in the organization are extremely close to the “news” behind the release and can’t communicate it to you before you write the release. It’s in their head, and they don’t get it out until they are forced to look at a press release in front of them.

I think it’s difficult at times for PR pros to have the team mentality, especially when they start the press release. I’m not really sure why this is.

If the change improves the release, accept it as a great addition. If it muddies it or causes further confusion, or is just plain wrong, communicate your disagreement and why. And then allow whoever is the decision make to decide what stays/goes.

But, most of all, don’t fight style changes. Often, I’ve found clients and colleagues that edit mostly for a different selection of words or overall voice style. If it’s the brand’s style (and you haven’t learned it yet), great. Learning is good. But, even if it’s just a case of your client hating a certain word or pushing their writing style, but the content is still strong. Let it go.

You will save yourself tears and energy for something bigger and better.

If you think of the press release a group effort, as you mention, versus a personal reflection of our writing, the changes aren’t as painful.

You bring up a great point here: Maybe being thin-skinned is the way to go. The fact that you’re worried about the quality of your work says a lot about your character. Never stop being concerned about how your work is perceived by others.

I think that trying to give your best quality is always a good idea, as well as learning from constructive criticism. I always tell people that they must be able to differentiate between constructive and edits that don’t make sense/are just to make edits.

Thanks for reading and offering up some very valid points!

When it comes from another professional in my field, whether their specialty is public relations, design or marketing, it’s a little easier to take. Within that context, revisions and criticism are part of the process. They are the final polish on a project.

Maybe being thin-skinned is the way to go. The fact that you’re worried about the quality of your work says a lot about your character. Never stop being concerned about how your work is perceived by others. You don’t have to work with one eye over your shoulder, but you never want to get so thick-skinned that you mistake a lack of criticism for positive feedback.

It’s a difficult balance, and I’m glad you’re addressing the topic, Lauren.

The great thing about collaboration is that much of the time, they see things you don’t, with fresh eyes.