Is a Career in Public Relations Right For You?
Are you looking for a new career path? Maybe you are thinking about going back to school or attending school for the first time and you want to be sure you choose the right program. For most people, picking that “right career” means examining a few different factors, and being honest with what you expect from your job and your life in the future. If a career in public relations has been on your radar, then you’ll want to read on.
What is the Field of Public Relations
It’s hard to figure out if something is right for you if you aren’t clear on what it entails. The field of public relations is one that has really grown and morphed over the last decade. With today’s digital age there is a new focus on social media and social marketing that didn’t exist 10-15 years ago. It’s opening new doors and opportunities.
In very simple terms, the role of a public relations specialist is to tell a story or message about a company or a brand. This message is shared with potential clients/customers and often the public. They conduct and analyze consumer research in order to be more successful in getting their story across, they manage crisis situations that may occur, they are the face that speaks to the media, and they plan promotional events.
How to Get a Job in Public Relations
Getting a job in public relations takes work and confidence and you should begin by getting your degree. Today, you can do that by enrolling in an online PR degree program at a school such as George Washington University.
Online degrees are widely respected in the industry, can be faster to complete, and tend to cost less money for students. There’s also the fact they are flexible and can be completed from anywhere, so you don’t have to attend a school in person. Obtaining your online PR degree will provide you with the knowledge you need in the field.
Once you have your degree, networking can prove to be the most beneficial technique for you. Get out there and start making a name for yourself. Attend industry events, start following the news where PR content is concerned, find an internship, and don’t be afraid to start in those entry-level positions.
What Kind of Skills Do You Need?
As far as what kind of skills you need to succeed in public relations, there are a few that can prove to be quite helpful. The top skills needed are writing skills, research skills, communication skills, and creativity. Because PR has taken on a more global approach thanks to social media, language skills can also prove to be quite handy.
An Exciting Path
A career in public relations is one that sees new and unique challenges each day, and for many people this is exactly what makes the job so challenging, rewarding, and fun. It’s an opportunity to be creative and reach out to people on a daily basis.