A new survey conducted, found that 52% of American workers have considered a job change, and as many as 44% have a plan in place to make the big shift.
With the public relations field expected to grow at an above-average rate of 11% from now until 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, PR is a promising field to jump into.
The duties of a PR professional vary widely, and as a result, there is a lot of overlap in skill sets required for other professions. This is good news if you’re planning on making the jump into public relations from a different career field.
Typically public relations professionals hold a degree in public relations, journalism, English, or business because these fields of study prepare them with the tools necessary to succeed in the PR field. PR professionals are storytellers and relationship builders, they use their exceptional writing, people skills, and social media savviness to connect their clients with their public.
If you want to learn more about PR, check out our previous blog that will answer any questions you have about public relations.
There are a few career fields, like the ones listed below, that make for a smoother transition into the PR field. The tools and experience they have gathered will prepare them for the challenges of PR. As you will notice, these fields often require strong communication skills, creativity, adaptability, and a personable attitude.
-Journalism
-Marketing
-Advertising
-Copy Writing
-Communication directors/managers
-Event Planning
-Sales Manager
-Market Research Analyst
-Social Media Coordinator/Manager
-Graphic design
-Non-profit development coordinator
If you don’t see yourself on this list, don’t be discouraged, it’s never too late to start building your portfolio.
If you have found a PR position you want to apply for, use the job description as a guide to help you develop the skills you need to build a strong resume and portfolio. Research your dream job and learn as much about what they do as possible. Take on projects at your current job or do some pro-bono freelance PR for small businesses that will help you gain experience you can add to your portfolio. Rebrand yourself and optimize your social media to reflect where you want to be.
The jump into PR can be daunting but all the tools you need are at your fingertips. About 29,200 openings for public relations specialists are projected to open up each year, this decade. (BLS) As you take the dive into public relations, know that Sammis|Ochoa has your back.
We are always looking for new talent, so reach out to us at jobs@sammisochoa.com to inquire about any open positions or visit www.sammisochoa.com/careers to apply today.
By: Jocelyn Sandoval
Sammis|Ochoa is San Antonio’s fastest-growing public relations and digital marketing agency. It is the 2020 recipient of the TinyAward for Happiest Employees in Public Relations. It also ranks as one of San Antonio’s best PR firms by Design Rush. The firm is headquartered in San Antonio and serves clients in Austin, Houston and San Antonio. Email mario@sammisochoa.com or call 210.390.4284 to amp up your PR game!
