She Strengthens

Unraveling the Mystery of Public Relations

When it comes to career paths, some industries seem shrouded in mystery, leaving many wondering what they entail and how to break into them. Public Relations (PR) is one such field, often misunderstood and stereotyped. My friend Anna, an Account Executive at a global PR firm, sheds light on the realities of working in PR, debunking common misconceptions and sharing her experiences.

A Day in the Life of a PR Professional

Anna works on the public affairs team, focusing on issue management, advocacy, government, and regulatory affairs. Her company has over 20 offices globally, with around 100 employees in her office and a team of 10. As an Account Executive, Anna is responsible for managing client relationships, developing communication strategies, and crafting media materials.

Breaking into the Industry

Getting a job in PR can be competitive, but Anna believes that specializing in a particular skill set can widen one’s opportunities. She landed her job after a swift three-week interview process, which involved a phone screening, writing samples, in-person interviews, and a writing test.

Why PR?

Anna’s passion for storytelling, public speaking, and issues advocacy led her to consider communications as a career path. She was drawn to PR because it allows her to use her critical thinking, writing, and social science skills. While the job has its challenges, Anna loves working with smart, creative, and funny people, and the constant learning opportunities it provides.

The Realities of Working in PR

Anna’s job is not without its challenges. The industry is fast-paced, and the constant state of change can be overwhelming. She also dislikes the emphasis on billable time, which can add stress to an already demanding work environment. Additionally, the profit-driven priorities of her company’s parent conglomerate can impact her team’s workload and morale.

Debunking Stereotypes

PR is often misunderstood as simply being about setting up photo shoots or following celebrities around. In reality, it’s a complex and dynamic field that involves data analysis, social listening, and storytelling. Anna believes that the “mean girl” stereotype is unfair and inaccurate, and that most PR professionals are passionate, engaged, and clever individuals who care about their clients and work.

The Value of Education and Networking

Anna’s Master’s degree in PR helped her build a valuable network of contacts, including her mentor, who referred her to her current job. She believes that her graduate education provided her with practical skills and a deeper understanding of the industry.

The Price of Success

Working in PR can come at a personal cost. Anna often works long hours, which can make it difficult to maintain a work-life balance. She has learned to prioritize self-care, making time for activities like yoga, writing, and alone time to recharge.

By sharing her experiences, Anna hopes to dispel common misconceptions about PR and provide a more accurate understanding of what it takes to succeed in this field.