New year, new job: PR industry tips for kicking off a new career
As the year begins, it’s not uncommon for workers in any industry to consider a change of direction. In the marketing industries, the requirement for a diversified skillset in the modern digital workplace means it needn’t be too tough to make a switch.
Jobs: Tips for those considering the PR industry
For those who feel their place may be somewhere in the busy PR industry, the news is good. According to the 2013 World PR Report 2013, produced by the Holmes Report and the International Communications Consultancy Organisation, the industry in the UK has “largely rebounded” following tough economic conditions.
However, more than a quarter of respondents in the global study cited mastering digital technologies as one of the biggest challenges facing the industry, indicating that the more digital-savvy candidates may be prioritised for job posts to help bring the industry up to speed with other marketing disciplines.
So what can candidates to help themselves get a foot in the PR door? Suzanne Johns, MD of Approach PR, offered some top tips.
1.) Understand the PR industry and the level you are applying for. We often find that most job applicants are too over or under qualified for the advertised position. Research the job title and company website to see how your skills would complement the current team.
2.) Look objectively at your CV – if there is a gap in your skills, consider doing voluntary PR for a charity or community organisation to get the experience. Oxjam is an excellent example of taking on voluntary work to improve your skills gap. Writing a regular blog also shows copywriting skills and taking initiative.
3.) Research the agency you are applying for and personalise your approach. Any sir/madam emails immediately get discarded at Approach PR because our individual profiles can be found on the website. These key details could be the difference between you and your competition.
4.) Ensure your portfolio is up to date and consider sending it when making your initial approach. We often see candidates turn up with an old portfolio which does not reflect a passionate individual. Equally, we often have applicants profess a love of writing but don’t bring any proof – any creative copy you’ve pulled together, be it a press release, a blog post or a letter, is beneficial to take along.
5.) Go above and beyond. Send a follow up email to thank them for the interview and personalise it – but don’t stalk for a response! The key is to be keen without harassing.
Content created with:
Approach PR
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