Are you drawn to the fast-paced world of public relations? PR is where creativity meets strategy, where storytelling shapes reputations, and where no two days are the same. But how do you break into this dynamic industry, and more importantly, how do you know if it’s the right fit for you?
Let’s explore the pathway into PR, from what to study and where to start, to the personal traits that signal you might just have what it takes to thrive in this field.
What is PR?
Public relations is all about managing how a brand, person, or organization is perceived by the public. This involves storytelling, media relations, reputation management, crisis communications, social media, event planning, and so much more. If you’re someone who loves wearing many hats, thrives on a challenge, and enjoys connecting with people, PR could be your calling.
Where to Start
1. High School Subjects That Set the Stage
While PR isn’t typically taught at high school, some subjects can help you build foundational skills:
- English: Strong writing is non-negotiable in PR.
- Media Studies: Learn how media works and what makes a story newsworthy.
- Drama: Boost your confidence and communication skills.
- Business or Economics: Understand the corporate world and how organizations operate.
2. University Degrees to Consider
A specific degree in PR isn’t always essential, but these areas of study can give you a leg up:
- Public Relations: A direct route to learning the basics of PR.
- Communications or Journalism: Develop storytelling and media skills.
- Marketing or Business: Gain insights into brand strategy and management.
- Arts or Humanities: Build critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills.
Many successful PR professionals come from diverse educational backgrounds, so if you’re passionate and eager to learn, you’re already on the right track.
Traits That Make a Great PR Professional
Before diving in, it’s worth considering whether your personality and skills align with what’s needed in PR. Here are the key traits to look out for:
- Great Communicator: You’re confident speaking to a room, crafting an email, or writing a killer press release.
- Creative Thinker: You can find fresh angles and innovative solutions.
- Quick Learner: PR is fast-paced; being adaptable is crucial.
- Resilient: You’ll face tight deadlines and sometimes rejection—can you bounce back?
- Relationship Builder: You’re good at networking and nurturing connections.
- Organised: Balancing multiple projects requires serious time management.
Do You Really Want a Career in PR?
PR can be glamorous, but it’s also hard work. Ask yourself:
- Are you okay with being “on call”? PR often involves responding to situations outside of 9-to-5 hours.
- Do you thrive on variety, or do you need routine? PR is unpredictable.
- Can you handle constructive criticism? Your work will often be revised or challenged.
If the answers are yes, PR could be a great fit for you.
The Importance of Internships
Internships are your gateway into the PR world. Here’s why:
- Experience: Get hands-on exposure to how PR works in the real world.
- Networking: Build connections with professionals who can open doors.
- Skills: Learn practical tools like media monitoring, pitching, and event planning.
Pro tip: Be proactive in seeking internships. Reach out to PR agencies, in-house communications teams, or even local businesses with a strong brand presence.
Steps to Launch Your PR Career
- Build a Portfolio Even if you’re starting from scratch, you can showcase relevant skills:
- Write mock press releases.
- Start a blog to demonstrate your writing ability.
- Volunteer to manage social media for a local nonprofit.
- Network Like a Pro PR is about relationships, and that starts with your career. Attend industry events, join LinkedIn groups, and connect with PR professionals online. Don’t be shy—most people are happy to share advice.
- Stay Curious Read widely to stay up-to-date on media trends, branding strategies, and industry news. Resources like PR Week, Mumbrella, and podcasts about marketing and storytelling can be game changers.
- Practice Your Pitch Whether you’re pitching yourself for a role or pitching a story to a journalist, you need to know how to sell your ideas succinctly and confidently.
- Be Persistent The PR industry is competitive. If you don’t land your dream job straight away, don’t lose heart. Keep gaining experience, building relationships, and refining your skills.
Your Future in PR
PR is an industry that rewards creativity, persistence, and a genuine passion for connecting with people. If you’re ready to hustle, tell incredible stories, and help brands shine, PR could be your dream career.
At raraPR, we’re passionate about helping creators and businesses tell their stories. If you’re just starting out in PR or wondering if it’s the right fit for you, we’re here to help. Let’s create something amazing together.
