Public Relations Workers

Specialties: Campaign Managers, Media Workers, Music Public Relations Managers, Public Relations Production Wkrs., Special Events Coordinators.

What does Public Relations Workers do?

  • Public Relations Workers help public and private organizations, and individuals and groups, build and maintain a favorable public image.
  • They prepare information about the business and communicate this material to the public through radio, television, newspapers, magazines, and direct mail.
  • They maintain good and honest relationships with media so that during crises press personnel will contact them directly to verify information.
  • They prepare information and develop camera-ready copy.
  • Tasks include: They may include writing speeches and arranging speaking engagements for company/agency officials, and participating in community service organizations and community activities.

Salary and Employment Outlook:

EDD Labor Market Information

Occupational Outlook Handbook

Career Info Net

Typical Employers:

Manufacturers, large and small stores, public utilities, public interest groups, political parties and individual candidates, entertainers and athletes all need public relations workers, as do trade associations, labor unions, government agencies and the military. Some workers are employed by public relations firms or some may be self-employed.

Preparation:

Two-years of college is generally required for entry positions in public relations, but a college degree is becoming increasingly necessary. Presently, at least 60% of the employers require a college degree or work experience equivalent. College coursework in Journalism, Communications, English, or Public Relations is preferred. Working on school papers and exhibiting leadership potential in school clubs and organizations are helpful background. Many large employers have trainee positions. You can get experience in the Military.

 

Educational Program(s):

  • Journalism and Communications
  • Related Programs: Area and Ethnic Studies, Business Management and Administration, Communication Technologies, Psychology, Public Administration, Sociology

    Web Resources:

    EDD Labor Market Information

    Occupational Outlook Handbook

    ONet Online

    Career Info Net

    WetFeet.com

    Career Center

    CollegeBoard.com

    Career Zone

     

    Career Center Home Page | Career Info Sheets

    Diablo Valley College Career/Technical Education Homepage