Photo: What to wear to the office
Many people have recently asked for my advice on breaking into the public relations industry. There are many students eager to graduate and hop into their dream job. Don’t get me wrong, having a fire in the belly is a wonderful thing but you must be careful. It is a different world out there and nothing is what it seems. Everyone is fighting to save their job or land a job, so it is important to be smart and careful.
Are you graduating soon and planning on job searching or currently seeking a new job? Here are a few things to remember before tackling the job market during this economy:
#1 Know the market. It is important to asses the nature and activity of top companies within the industry. Lay-offs, budget cuts and even stock prices determine whether or not there is better chance for you to score a job in fashion or consumer public relations.
#2 Be open to new opportunities. Of course you don’t want to flip burgers for the rest of your life, but what if you could flip burgers while offering your public relations skills to that burger joint? Aside from fast food, you may find yourself looking at thousands of non-PR jobs within your desired industry. Take a chance on one of those jobs and you may find out that the company actually needs PR! You can then offer your skills and gain experience!
#3 Stay active. Keep blogging and join PR organizations even if you end up at a job that does not involve practicing public relations. PRSA is a wonderful way to stay updated on the industry and build networks. Blogging and micro-blogging also exercises and refines your writing skills. Also, keep reading your favorite blogs and newspapers to stay current on trends and industry news. You never know when a potential PR job could present itself.
#4 Take your time. Don’t take the first job that falls in your lap. It’s also important to move on if you’ve been job searching for over three months without result. Moving back home with the parents or a few roommates will save you money and help build a nest egg. It’s never too early to start adding to your nest egg or emergency fund.
#5 Show your worth! Don’t be shy because modesty won’t get you anywhere in the world of public relations. Be confident in what you have learned in class, internships or previous jobs by building a portfolio of related work. Share every single piece of media you’ve earned and any tactics you’ve helped implement, even if you think your job was insignificant. Every helping hand is the building block for a successful brand!
#6 Stay positive. It’s always important to keep a positive outlook. Talk yourself up before entering into a job interview. I always say to myself, “You’re the best and they would be nothing without you!” I know, it’s a pretty bold statement but it tricks your brain into staying calm and collected. Also, remember to never give up. Don’t be discouraged if over five companies have turned you down. There’s a job out there for you, I promise!
