Guest blogger Stephanie Florence is an assistant account executive with JSH&A Public Relations.

I’ve used this line a number of times over the last year when speaking with students or recent graduates on the job hunt, but I find it to be extremely relevant. I may only be a few steps ahead of you, but I want to share ALL that I have learned during the time of those steps.

Public relations is an industry that promotes constant learning and, as a result, constant sharing.From the time I have spent speaking with individuals itching to get into PR, I often think, “I wish I had someone like me back then.” And that is not to sound conceited because I have it all figured out. Quite the opposite, actually, as I recognize I have much to learn throughout this journey into PR, but I have picked up some insights. The way I see it, there are two things we all should be doing:

Take a lead from the pros – When I retweeted a comment from @ginidietrich sharing my current life goal of turning social media relationships into real life ones, she asked when our first meeting would take place. I took advantage of the offers from @prtini and @arikhanson to expand their social networks through Skype chats. I chatted on the phone with @jenny_blake like we’ve had conversations for years. Someone recommended @swonderlin as a person to know, and within no time at all, we were en route to connecting. @JasMollica is always the first to share and comment on anything from new pros. When I needed facts for a past PCC blog post, @ValerieSimon explained everything and answered within the shortest timeframe. I’m grateful to be a part of an industry filled with individuals who constantly make themselves available, regardless of a hectic schedule.

Pay it forward – It’s how I met @SJOgborn, @LMSandelin, @briannamnelson, @brittenwolf, @lttsnyder, @smt504, @luckyAndi, @Mikinzie and @lmnovo to name just a few. These individuals are all either on the same page as me (new PR pros) or will be in no time at all. We connected through PCC or on Twitter as a result of shared interests, blog posts or random tweets. I have learned so much from connecting with students and recent grads. These people are where the public relations industry is headed and I couldn’t be more confident in the direction. I embrace the challenges they put forth and look forward to all the success stories that will be shared.

I invite you to take advantage of PR pros offering themselves as a resource. [Tip: Do this. A lot.] Whether it’s the opportunity to Skype, chat on the phone or meet in person, you never know where these connections may take you. Perhaps it will lead to a professional opportunity or perhaps it won’t. At the very least you’ll create a few new relationships along the way. And in PR, isn’t that what it’s all about?

How are you a resource to others? Or do you have someone to thank for being that resource for you?

Connect with Stephanie via LinkedIn, Twitter and Posterous.