The economy and job market is on the minds of most undergraduate and graduate students, even those in PR. The realization of the possibility that it may take longer to get a position or first job is becoming a reality for most students, and it is creating anxiety and stress in the process. The current job status for communication and journalism majors (usually where PR is housed in undergrad and graduate programs) is steady, but there are some underlying issues that need to be made. The University of Georgia just released the Annual Survey of Journalism and Mass Communication Graduates survey results, and the survey found that the job market for PR graduates have been steady, and that more students are getting communication technology and social media experience before they graduate.
The steps in which students and others are taking to address this is either to continue to search for a position, or do internships to gain experience in the field. Others are applying to graduate school programs to get more education and experience in the academic and research realm of PR. All of these are good options to take – but the key is to make sure that you continue to grow as a person and professional by expanding your horizon and invest in your future. Here are some things to consider when you are looking for a position right after graduation, or thinking about where you want to be in the future before graduation (both undergrad and graduate programs):
- Set goals and keep your eye on the prize: Always do a little bit each day to get to your goals. Whether it is writing on your blog or networking with people to ask about potential internships or jobs, it all needs to be done on a regular and consistent basis.
- Don’t be afraid of being different: Separating yourself from the rest of the crowd by offering a new perspective or by having unique experiences and expertise in certain areas – determine what you want to be know as in terms of your reputation and see what characteristics and experiences would do this.
- Invest in your future: Travel to international conferences, take on international internships, and make sure that you have the proper tools for success in your workplace. All of these will help make you more marketable.
- Focus on content and personality both in person and online: You may have all the expertise and skills in the world, but it does come down to personality and etiquette for most places.
- Don’t just try to be on social media, become social: It is one thing to be on social media, and it is another to become social. Live, breath, and engage socially across platforms and mediums – and in real life as well. Understanding the overall purpose and functions of social media will allow you to become social. Becoming social is the next step you need to take to solidify your reputation with employers, fellow students and PR professionals, and the online community.
- Get experience both in practice and research: It is never too early to start on research projects or studies – ask to see if you can do an independent study with a professor on a project and get involved presenting at conferences and networking.
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