PR careers have become extraordinarily popular in the last decade or so, meaning the business has become highly competitive. Public relations jobs can entail a number of different responsibilities, but the aim is always the same: to manage and maintain the reputation of an organisation or brand. There are several routes into PR jobs, and this guide outlines some of the ways you can get yourself into the industry.
Qualifications
Although there are not strictly any set qualifications that are required to get most PR jobs, a degree or HND will help a lot. Traditionally, there have not been too many PR courses at degree level, however now that public relations jobs have become some of the most sought after positions for graduates, the opportunities to study it are increasing quickly. It is now possible to find whole degrees centred on PR, as well as modules in Media Studies specifically designed for this industry. Other relevant degrees that are useful in applications include:
• Communications studies
• Media studies
• English or English lit.
• Business/management studies
• Marketing
Postgraduate qualifications in PR could help but do not guarantee you entry into PR careers. It is worth considering the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) who have introduced the Introductory Award in Public Relations. This is a great way of gaining valuable skills and qualifications.
Experience
Experience in the industry is always a plus when applying for public relations jobs, although be prepared to work for free. It is very rare to find paid work experience placements. Volunteering at local charities can be a great way of getting the right experience, including events planning, reaching out to media outlets and writing press releases. Charities are normally very happy to take on work experience due to low funding.
Getting involved at university in the student paper or radio station is another way of landing yourself marketing PR jobs later on. This shows that you have taken an interest from as early as possible and that you have experience.
PR careers have become extraordinarily popular in the last decade or so, meaning the business has become highly competitive. Public relations jobs can entail a number of different responsibilities, but the aim is always the same: to manage and maintain the reputation of an organisation or brand. There are several routes into PR jobs, and this guide outlines some of the ways you can get yourself into the industry.
Qualifications
Although there are not strictly any set qualifications that are required to get most PR jobs, a degree or HND will help a lot. Traditionally, there have not been too many PR courses at degree level, however now that public relations jobs have become some of the most sought after positions for graduates, the opportunities to study it are increasing quickly. It is now possible to find whole degrees centred on PR, as well as modules in Media Studies specifically designed for this industry. Other relevant degrees that are useful in applications include:
• Communications studies
• Media studies
• English or English lit.
• Business/management studies
• Marketing
Postgraduate qualifications in PR could help but do not guarantee you entry into PR careers. It is worth considering the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) who have introduced the Introductory Award in Public Relations. This is a great way of gaining valuable skills and qualifications.
Experience
Experience in the industry is always a plus when applying for public relations jobs, although be prepared to work for free. It is very rare to find paid work experience placements. Volunteering at local charities can be a great way of getting the right experience, including events planning, reaching out to media outlets and writing press releases. Charities are normally very happy to take on work experience due to low funding.
Getting involved at university in the student paper or radio station is another way of landing yourself marketing PR jobs later on. This shows that you have taken an interest from as early as possible and that you have experience.
Related posts:
- Public Relations Jobs: Job Description
- Key Skills For Public Relations Jobs
- Public Relations Jobs Guide
- PR Courses – Getting the Right Qualifications
- What Do PR Jobs Involve?
