PR Careers 101: Expert Panel Provides Insight for Students and Young Professionals

With graduation on the horizon for many, learning how to navigate today’s tricky job market is key. At the PPRA and PRSA Public Relations Careers 101 event on Monday, April 4 at PECO’s Energy Hall, our panelists answered a variety of questions pertinent to the young public relations professional. Lots of useful information was shared in the hour allotted, and here are the key points:

Erin Allsman of Brownstein Group

• Writing is a key component of PR, and your portfolio should showcase your ability
•  Internships are generally counted as experience, and you should take initiative, even if there’s no paycheck or job opportunity available    
• Show your conversation skills during an interview, and be able to think abstractly about the industry. Don’t just “be” your portfolio   

Meredith Avakian of DuPont

• Professors are wonderful resources when looking to expand your network
• Don’t treat your first job like a social opportunity! Take on your organization’s culture, be a leader, and strive for daily success
• Showing leadership in areas outside of your company and industry broadens your experience and network 

Marlo DelSordo of Philabundance

• Agencies can offer greater diversity (compared to corporate positions) and allow you to find your niche, while corporate in-house professionals have the ability to focus on one mission
• Networking is extremely important! Spend time putting yourself out there, and take advantage of mentors and informational interviews 

Ike Richman of Comcast-Spectacor

• Social media like Facebook and Twitter provides a quick way to get attention from the media and distribute your message. Social media is becoming the driving force behind the press release
• Make an everlasting impression on a potential employer or contact, and stay in touch after your initial  meeting

Moderator Gregg Feistman, Associate Professor and Faculty Advisor for PRSSA and PRowl at Teemple University

• When asked about salary requirements on an application, try to avoid putting any number down, if possible. During the interview, discuss your desired range to avoid selling yourself short

Though every potential job candidate and situation is unique, these tips and words of advice are great ways for a young professional to build a strong professional foundation. Careers come in all shapes and sizes; as long as you put your best foot forward, there’s one out there for you, no matter how challenging the times may be.

Thank you again to our panel for sharing this invaluable information!

This blog post was writen by Stephanie Parker. Stephanie is a senior at Drexel University studying Corporate & Public Relations, and will graduate this June. She specializes in social media, online marketing, and copy writing and editing. Stephanie has experience working in the entertainment industry as a past intern for a Pittsburgh-based musician, and currently with a video game design firm in Old City. Outside of work and school, Stephanie is a music buff who enjoys singing and going to local shows. Connect with Stephanie on Twitter or by visiting her website.