Public Relations Careers

Public Relations Careers Information

The success of a company or organization depends largely on fostering a strong relationship with the public, and public relations (PR) specialists play a key role in helping institutions develop a positive image. Main job components involve research, writing, responding to outside inquiries, and establishing meaningful contact with the public. For example, they often compose favorable publicity materials and seek out media outlets in which their pieces are featured.

Public Relations Careers & Degrees

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Public relations careers also orchestrate programs or events to put company/organization representatives in contact with the public. Speeches and presentations given at such events are generally prepared by a PR team. Specialists work in a variety of institutions such as businesses, nonprofit organizations, universities, and hospitals.

Public Relations Careers Path

A Bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, advertising, or communications. Previous public relations experience, typically in the form of an internship, has grown increasingly important.

Public Relations Careers: Compatible Personality Traits

Creative, analytical, excellent problem solver and decision maker, outgoing, takes initiative, confident, exercises good judgment, superior written and oral communication skills

Public Relations Interview

To find out about a day in the life of a public relations career, Read More from a Public Relations Professional…

Public Relations Careers: Salary Expectations

The median annual salary for public relations specialists is approximately $51,280, with the middle 50% earning between $38,400 and $71,870.

Public Relations Careers: Job Outlook

Employment opportunities are expected to increase 24% through 2018. The mounting need for public relations specialists will be driven by the competitive business landscape as well as the increasing importance for institutions to instill a sense of confidence and trust within the public. Opportunities for entry-level jobs will become increasingly competitive due to an influx of qualified candidates.

Public Relations Associations and Resources

Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)

Slightly off the Footpath

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, Psychologists, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos086.htm (visited November 9, 2011).