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public relations

A public relations director
fields questions from the press.

A public relations career puts you in charge of a company's communications. In addition to maintaining your company's image to the general public, you may be responsible for supplying internal information to employees or external information to stockholders or business partners.

Public relations specialists create copy for media distribution, act as a liaison to the media and sometimes purchase advertising.

At some companies, public relations specialists arrange public exhibits, meetings or conferences that generate goodwill among the target audience. Some PR professionals may give lectures or speeches on behalf of their employers.

The ability to communicate well is arguably the most important skill a PR specialist can possess. Because the job hinges so much on presentation and perception, it is imperative that you are able to write clearly and effectively, talk easily with others (including media contacts) and speak comfortably in front of a group. You will also find that research skills, the ability to work quickly and efficiently, and creativity will all come into play in your public relations career.

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Public Relations Career Path

Entry Level Mid Level Senior Level

Types of Roles

Public relations specialist, research assistant

Account manager

Vice president, public relations director

Experience

0 - 3 years

3 - 10 years

10+ years

Getting There

  • Communications, marketing or public relations bachelor's degree
  • Some work experience, in the form of part time job or internship
  • Strong language and writing skills
  • Understanding of media and human behavior in the marketplace
  • All entry-level requirements
  • Professional accreditation
  • Management experience
  • Proven problem solving skills

Salary*

$40,000

$95,000

$120,000

Description

  • Develop informative, convincing promotional materials that advance company image
  • Forge professional contacts with media
  • Direct team of internal public relations specialists
  • Manage public relations for an external client
  • Oversee all aspects of company image and promotion
  • Develop high-level public relations strategies

* Depends on company size, specific job, and location
Sources: Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA), Princeton Review, Salary.com, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Monster.com

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Spotlight Schools

Northeastern University - College of Business Administration

Northeastern offers its AACSB-accredited MBA program in a 100% online format. They are a world leader in practice-based education focused on expanding students' managerial skills and knowledge base.

Select a Campus: Online

Strayer University

Strayer University is dedicated to helping busy, working adults achieve their educational goals with a valuable, real world education in a fast, convenient format offered online or at one of many campus locations.

Select a Campus: Online | Lower Bucks County, PA | Nashville, TN | North Raleigh, NC | Birmingham, AL | Cranberry Woods, PA | Alexandria, VA | North Charlotte, NC | Washington, DC | Center City, PA | Anne Arundel, MD | Arlington, VA | RTP Campus, NC | Chamblee, GA | Chesapeake, VA | Chesterfield, VA | Cobb County, GA | Delaware County, PA | Fredericksburg, VA | Greenville, SC | Henrico, VA | King of Prussia, PA | Loudoun, VA | Manassas, VA | Rockville, MD

Walden University - School of Management

Walden University has unique and flexible online delivery models, world-class faculty and customizable programs which are all geared to help adult learners achieve their career goals.

Select a Campus: Online