4 Expert Tips to Launch Your PR Career

Fall is nearly here, a time when many college students will be looking to explore a career in public relations.  To help get your foot in the door, here’s a bit of expert guidance.
 

• Decide on Your Area of Interest:  one of the best things about a career in PR is that once you’ve mastered the basic skills, you can apply that knowledge to a wide range of fields, from technology and sports to entertainment.  Decide what area appeals to you and consider geographical considerations.  For instance, if you live in Northern California, naturally you’ll find many PR opportunities in the technology field. If entertainment is your calling, focus on Los Angeles.
• Do the Research:  for many, the best path to a successful career in PR is to start at an agency, where you can develop the basic skills and build a professional network that will last throughout your career.  Research PR agencies in your area and review their client list online as well as career openings.  Visit online career sections of trade associations like the Public Relations Society of America, and trade publications such as PRWeek.com.  You can also look at the home page of companies that you’d like to work for and see if you can identify either an opening or a PR contact that you can approach. 
• Craft Your Pitch:  the foundation of PR is communicating value, from one partner (usually your client) to another (typically a media outlet).  In job seeking, you are also “pitching” yourself as a desirable candidate to your potential employer.  Along with a polished resume, demonstrate that you have this essential skill by crafting a compelling but concise cover letter that demonstrates your interest, background and capability.  Showcase any relevant work experience you may have and show your potential employer that you’ve done your homework by weaving in thoughtful messages throughout your cover letter – for example, you can congratulate the agency on a recent award, or mention a previous campaign they handled.  Candidates that do so always stand out, and those that don’t, won’t make it past the submission stage. 
• Demonstrate Passion: true passion shines through.  If you’ve felt the calling to enter the field of public relations, harness your enthusiasm and energy and communicate that in your writing as well as in any interviews.  Just be sure to back it up with the appropriate level of knowledge and research.