Public+Relations

=**Public Relations Specialist** = (All information is provided from [|www.careercurising.com])

**Career Description:**

In an information-hungry society, getting the right message across is vital. Whether it’s a chemical company wanting to manage the news coverage of a toxic spill and minimize damage to its reputation, or a new coffee shop looking to attract customers, most businesses can benefit from the expertise of a public relations specialist. Public relations specialists are experts in communication and persuasion. They persuade certain target groups, such as customers, shareholders, or the public, to adopt a belief, buy a product or service, or act in a certain way. For example, a public relations specialist might be hired by one organization to boost public participation in a recycling campaign and by another to lobby advertising regulatory authorities to relax their standards on prescription drug ads on TV. Specialists also keep clients informed of relevant changes in government policy, public opinion, or business climate. Public relations work requires strong oral and written communication skills and often an in-depth knowledge of certain industries or public institutions. Specialists research products, companies, and organizations; organize the results and design publicity campaigns; write and edit documents intended for decision-makers, the media, and the general public; plan special events; deal with politicians and media people; and raise funds for political parties, labor unions, and charities. They usually specialize in certain areas, such as employer-employee relations, government lobbying, consumer affairs, or community relations. Political “spin doctors” are members of one well-known specialty. They help politicians “package” their views and policies in a way that will appeal to voters.

**Skills Needed:**
 * Creative
 * Persuasive and decisive
 * Problem-solving skills
 * Able to multitask
 * Enjoy planning and organizing

**Education/Certification/Other Requirements:**
 * A bachelor’s or associate degree in public relations or a related field
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 9pt;">An internship is recommended
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 9pt;">Accreditation is helpful

<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">**Salary Information:** <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">**Related Careers** <span style="color: #990000; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">[|Advertising Account Executive]
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 9pt;">$31,000 to $97,000 a year for most
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 9pt;">The median is about $52,000 a year
 * <span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif; font-size: 9pt;">Earnings depend on education, reputation, location, and employe

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<span style="color: #000000; font-family: 'Times New Roman',Times,serif;">(Lauren Patterson)