Public relations officer

 

 

What is a public relations officer?

A public relations (PR) officer manages the image and reputation of a business.

This is done by using the media to communicate the policies and interests of the organisation to the public, showing it in the best possible light.

A PR officer constantly monitors the public’s opinion of the organisation, always working to improve it.

What sort of tasks would I be doing?

 

 
  • Planning PR campaigns and strategies
  • Measuring the results of campaigns such as media opinion of the organisation
  • Writing press releases, internet content, speeches, newsletters and leaflets
  • Maintaining contact with the media
  • Arranging events such as press and product launches and exhibitions
  • Preparing statements and giving interviews to journalists 
  • Managing the PR aspect of a potential crisis situation

What qualifications would I need?

There is no set route for entry into PR though qualifications and work experience are really useful. 

Have a think about doing the following courses:

  • The Diploma in creative and media
  • BTEC Higher National Certificates/Diplomas (HNCs/HNDs) in marketing and advertising
  • A foundation degree in business and marketing – this will often include PR modules
  • CIPR Foundation Award or Advanced Certificate
  • PRCA Foundation Course, Advanced Certificate or Advanced Diploma
  • CAM Diploma in Marketing Communications or CIM Introductory Certificate in Marketing, which include modules on PR

Employers also really value work experience – why not have a look in your local area to see if there are any charities that you could volunteer at. You could help to plan events, generate some media coverage and write some press releases.

Doing unpaid work experience or an internship is great exeprience and looks fantastic on your CV - have a look at the CIPR and PRCA websites give advice on finding placements.

 

Would I suit it?

Do you...

  • Have lots of enthusiasm?
  • Have strong communication and influencing skills?
  • Enjoy writing and being creative?
  • Have some knowledge of the media?
  • Feel confident speaking in public?

You'll have to be willing to work hard and work your way up but if you're committed, PR can be an exciting and hugely rewarding industry to work in.

Career Prospects

The great thing about working in PR is that it is needed in just about every industry – for example a PR officer could work in places from advertising agencies to government departments.

Salaries and promotion opportunites tend to vary depending on the company you're working for and your level of experience. If you're ambitious and love working in PR, you can do really well.

 

The great thing about working in PR is that it is needed in just about every industry - you can pick somewhere that you find really interesting.

 

 

 

 

Where can I go for more information?

The CIPR website gives lots of information on what’s involved. Also if you’re interested in studying for a degree, the site gives a list of approved PR degrees and postgraduate courses. Some of these can be studied online or via distance learning.

Find out about studying for a diploma

 

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