PR jobs require you to have an interest in news and current events. Being plugged in to the world of news gives you ideas and inspiration for advising clients.
You will also need to have very good communication skills. Holding conversations with a range of different people confidently is a requirement for effective PR work. Your job will entail meeting with very important people, and you need to conduct yourself like a professional. You need to be able to write press releases, newsletters and articles well in this role.
The fundamental skills and qualities required for a career in PR include:
- Written and verbal communication skills
- The ability to multi-task
- Organisational and planning skills
- Following and having an interest in all forms of media
- You need to be flexible
The job requires commitment. Being highly organised is vital to completing all your jobs on deadline. Extra hours are common in this role, as normal office hours do not usually apply, which means you need to have the flexibility to adapt to the demands. PR jobs require attending events outside of work hours, and sometimes working late to meet deadlines. Working on the weekend is not uncommon.
If you choose this career it will be a major factor in shaping the way you live your life. Usually your work friends are incorporated into your social life.
The nice thing about the job is meeting interesting people and the variety of work you do.
Media studies, advertising, journalism or English qualifications are good educational foundations for a career in PR.
