5 Job Opportunities With a Public Relations Degree
- Public Relations Specialist
- Marketer
- Event Planner
- Social Media Specialist
- Writer
A degree in public relations opens up several career options for those who earn one. While holders of this degree often go on to get a job in public relations, that is not the only option. Public relations degrees teach many valuable skills that help majors land jobs in related fields. The following are some of the potential choices.
1. Public Relations Specialist
This is the most obvious choice of job to pursue a degree in public relations. These professionals are tasked with controlling and maintaining a positive image for their employers or clients. This is typically a company or other organization although it can be an individual person as well. Public relations specialists act as intermediaries between the general public, the media and whoever they represent. They must be excellent communicators and be able to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. Working closely with executives and advising them on matters relating to public image is also a significant part of the job.
2. Marketer
It is relatively easy for someone with a background in public relations to make the jump into marketing. Public relations professionals coordinate heavily with marketing departments to keep companies on brand. Marketing professionals, especially if they move into management, can make very high salaries between commissions and the fact that their role is necessary in keeping organizations afloat. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, positions in management are even sought after by managers in other departments.
3. Event Planner
People trained in public relations tend to make good event planners due to their attention to detail and training on effectively dealing with the public. Many events are put on by businesses or organizations that are hoping to draw attention to themselves. Event planners often work on a freelance basis, making this a good career option for public relations degree holders who want to work for themselves. This is a role for detail-oriented individuals who enjoy working with others to ensure events go off without a hitch. They may be responsible for booking speakers, arranging catering, securing venues and more.
4. Social Media Specialist
The need for more public relations professionals has largely been driven by increased digital exposure for businesses, particularly when it comes to managing social media channels. Social media specialists are growing in demand as businesses seek to engage their customers through these digital channels. Public relations students learn about social media and how to manage a company’s image through it. Many employees working as public relations specialists monitor social media feeds and reply to customers to some degree anyway. For this reason, dedicating one’s career solely to managing social media is among the good options for those who hold a public relations degree.
5. Writer
Public relations students are taught how to write well and much of their contact with the public is done via writing, such as press releases and social media posts. It is therefore very easy for someone with training in public relations to become a writer. Copywriters in particular help companies build their brands, generate online content and reach out to both existing and new customers. Those with strong writing skills can also find work as technical writers, digital content writers, book writers and writers specializing in other subjects.
Related Resource: 25 Most Affordable Online Master’s Communications and Public Relations Degrees
Public relations is a versatile field that does not force students into a single career path. A degree in public relations paves the way for several fulfilling careers going forward.