If you’re interested in public relations and if you think you have the skills necessary for the job, this is the best time to get into the thick of things.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, entry-level jobs in public relations are expected to increase by 24% by the year 2018; so now is as good a time as any to learn more about what you need to do to break into the PR field and climb up the ladder to glitz and glamour.
Although there are people who have achieved success in this field without a college degree, it’s best to be armed with a degree in journalism, public relations, advertising, marketing or mass communications before you apply for a job. It also helps your case if you’ve completed an internship in the field, have excellent communication skills and know how to use all the tools in the media business effectively and efficiently. In spite of all the rewarding experiences you may have in this field, be warned however that you will be working long hours and your days and nights will be filled with erratic schedules.
You’ll also have to deal with tough competition, what with many aspiring candidates looking to find a toehold in the world of public relations. To strengthen your position, apply for and complete courses accredited by the Universal Accreditation Board and the International Association of Business Communicators. The average salary for entry-level jobs is around $30,000 a year, but you may make less or more depending on where and who you work for, and how efficient you are.
Most entry-level PR professionals start out as a junior employee in a PR agency, so before you finish your college degree, scout out organizations that are looking for talented young staff and apply for these positions. It is to your advantage if you have additional qualifications in the fields of finance and accounting.
A few entry-level PR jobs include intern, account coordinator, assistant account executive, and PR assistant.
The designation is not all that important; what’s more significant is your job description and the actual amount of responsibilities you’re given. You’ll most probably be dealing with client relations and event management. Sometimes, the work you’re required to do go beyond your job description, but you’ll have to do what’s asked of you without complaining because that’s the only way to get ahead in this industry. You can demand a higher salary of course, but be prepared to work hard to prove yourself in the PR arena.
Chris Jacobson is a freelance writer for a variety of organizations, including Criminal Justice Degree. He can be reached at chris.jacobson7@gmail.com.