Whether they are meeting with reporters…
helping to expand a client’s online presence…
or crafting public statements…
public relations—or PR—specialists
create and maintain a favorable public image
for the client they represent.
Also called media specialists or
—when they work in government—
press secretaries,
PR specialists handle
an organization’s communication
with the public.
In government, they inform the public
of government officials’
and agencies’ activities.
Public relations specialists
draft press releases
and contact media
who might print or broadcast their material.
Many news stories start at the desks
of PR specialists.
Press releases typically discuss
an issue of public interest
and how an organization’s work
affects that issue.
Most of the time PR specialists
work in offices,
but they also deliver speeches,
attend community activities,
and occasionally travel.
They tend to work full time
during regular business hours
but long workdays
and overtime are common.
Most PR specialists need
a bachelor’s degree.
Employers prefer candidates
who have studied public relations, journalism,
communications, English, or business.
Internships in a PR role,
experience writing for a college newspaper,
or holding a leadership position
in student activities can be helpful
in getting a PR job.