Communications Careers Information
In today’s business world, running a company well and delivering a useful good or service isn’t enough to remain competitive. It is crucial, in atmosphere of 24-hour news networks and the scrutiny of countless websites and blogs, that organizations try to craft public messages that seek to frame the organization’s positive aspects.
Communications Careers & Degrees
Though there are a variety of positions within the field of communications, the underlying motivation for all of them is the same: to act as the public advocates for their organizations or clients.
The duties and position titles of jobs in communications can range widely. Some are responsible for relaying organizational messages directly to the media, or serving as the public face of the company by appearing on television and programs.
Editorial positions within communications departments create the public message in the form of press releases and are responsible for ensuring brand consistency in tone, message, and style across multiple formats.
Very recently, the expanding social media universe has sparked the creation of social media positions, which are solely focused on giving the organization a face within sites like Facebook and Twitter, as well as monitoring news, blog posts, and social media “buzz” about the company.
Communications Careers Path
Communications professionals can come from a broad range of backgrounds. However, most entry-level communications positions require a bachelor’s degree in public relations, journalism, marketing, or communications. Coursework or experience in business, economics, psychology, or advertising is often helpful.
Communications Careers: Compatible Personality Traits
Creativity, exceptional research skills, excellent communications and writing skills, self-confidence and the ability to express a point of view assertively, ability to meet deadlines individually and as part of a collaborative team
Communications Careers: Salary Expectations
Communications salaries are as varied as the positions within it. Most communications writers and editors earn between $43,500 and $57,000.
Communications managers working in marketing often earn between $71,000 and $94,500. With a great deal of experience and success, communications executives can earn between $143,000 and $234,000.
Communications Careers: Job Outlook
Communications positions are expanding much more quickly (almost twice as fast) as the average for all occupations, and are expected to continue to do so for much of the coming decade.
The increasingly competitive global market, and the need to differentiate your company and brand just as much as your product is fueling this need, as well as the increased necessity of social media expertise.
Slightly Off the Footpath
Sources: salary.com; bls.gov/oco/ocos086.htm
