A Career in PR.. what are the benefits?

I was recently asked for feedback to some questions, posed by university students who are currently studying a PR module, which looked at how to step on to the PR career ladder. The questions covered everything from how to prepare for a job interview, typical day-to-day tasks, what qualities are most valued, through to career progression and what its like to work in PR.

Here are some of the advantages to a career in PR:

• Dynamic Work Environment: PR professionals often work in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment, keeping the work interesting and engaging.

• Creative Opportunities: Crafting compelling stories, developing innovative campaigns, and finding unique ways to promote clients allows for significant creative expression.

• Networking: PR roles involve building and maintaining relationships with media, clients, and influencers, providing extensive networking opportunities.

• Skill Development: Working in PR helps hone valuable skills such as communication, writing, strategic thinking, crisis management, and media relations.

• Impactful Work: PR professionals can see the direct impact of their work through media coverage, public perception shifts, and overall client satisfaction.

• Variety of Industries: PR professionals can work across diverse sectors including fashion, technology, healthcare, entertainment, and more, offering a wide range of experiences and knowledge.

• Career Advancement: With experience and proven success, PR professionals can quickly move up the career ladder, from entry-level positions to senior management roles.

• Personal Growth: The challenges faced in PR foster personal development, resilience, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations effectively.

• Global Opportunities: PR skills are highly transferable and in demand worldwide, providing opportunities for international work and travel.

• Influence and Reputation Management: PR professionals play a crucial role in shaping public perception and building the reputations of individuals and organizations, making their work highly impactful and rewarding.

But this all made me think about the path I've taken - working through the ranks of several agencies since I was 17, before setting out on my own in 2006. I think the one thing I value the most, above all else, is the people that I have worked with (and continue to work with) - who have become lifelong friends.

Here are two of those lovely people who I had pleasure in catching-up with this week. I won't scare Gina Hough and Josie Herbert in reminding them just how many years we have known one another, but its safe to say that the one thing we can all smile about when it comes to our careers in PR is that the support we receive from those around us definitely lifts and inspires us (and is probably one of the big reasons why we continue doing what we do)!

(Sorry that Paul Stallard couldn't join us this time round - next time!)

#PRlife