Top 5 Must-Have Attributes to Develop Your Career in Public Relations

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What is Public Relations?

Public relations ("PR") is a strategic communication process where individuals, companies and organizations use to build mutually beneficial relationships with the public. Making it an essential aspect in almost every industry. With the rise of the importance of digital media in Malaysia and around the world, the need for specialized PR practitioners are increasing significantly.

However, having that degree certificate may not be enough to guarantee you that PR career that you have been hoping for. To become successful, you need to be an all-rounder with various set of skills ranging from research and communication to writing and problem-solving.

Feeling uncertain? Don't worry, I have listed the FIVE important must-have attributes that will help you develop your career in Public Relations.

1. Expert Communication Skills

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If you’re considering a PR career, you will have to be a good communicator. Having strong communication and social skills represents a fundamental key when it comes to handling PR successfully. A PR practitioner must always be tactful and sensitive to subtle changes in language and culture because the job itself requires you to communicate with different types of people.

2. Do Your Homework

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Knowledge is Power. A PR practitioner must be willing to conduct researches because you have to always be on top of the news, current issues, modern technology or popular trends. For example, gaining more information will allow us to provide the necessary information that will benefit the public(s), leading towards becoming a professional communicator.

3. Writing Skills

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A PR practitioner is expected to be writing countless content for clients in many forms such as writing for a magazine, case study, blog writing or even press releases. Precise words, sentences and language will help deliver your message more efficiently. As a result, employers are seeking PR graduates that are capable of writing and creating engaging content for clients and organizations.

4. Computer Skills

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Typing is a must. As a PR practitioner, you’ll be doing a lot of email work, proposals, email alerts, etc. Knowing how to navigate and use Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel and Outlook is crucial. Not forgetting, having the knowledge on how to use Adobe Photoshop, InDesign and other relevant web site-creating programs are also a plus point.

5. Good Problem-Solving Skills

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As a PR practitioner, being resourceful and having good problem-solving skills is important for you in order to solve problems in a calm manner. PR often requires critical and creative ideas that will help create awareness and maintain the brand's reputation. With time, you will eventually find a better way to organize specific tasks and advance forward as a PR professional!

There you go, now you have the 5 attributes that will lead you towards developing your Public Relations Career. Here is a short video to share with you some of the career opportunities in the PR world, enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKF_8OWez74

*References

Feedough. (2018) What is Public Relations? PR Functions, Types, & Examples. [online] Available at: https://www.feedough.com/what-is-public-relations-pr-functions-types-examples/ [Accessed 10 September 2018].

Greives, R. (2013) 10 Things to remember when applying for a PR job. | Ragan’s PR Daily. [online] Available at: https://www.prdaily.com/Main/Articles/10_things_to_remember_when_applying_for_a_PR_job_15144.aspx [Accessed 10 September 2018].

Neal, R. (2018) Public Relations Skills You Need to Succeed | MediaBuzz. [online] Available at: http://mediabuzz.monster.com/benefits/articles/600-public-relations-skills-you-need-to-succeed [Accessed 10 September 2018].

Ryan, L. (2016) 12 Qualities Employers Look For When They’re Hiring | Forbes. [online] Available at: https://www.forbes.com/sites/lizryan/2016/03/02/12-qualities-employers-look-for-when-theyre-hiring/#3a2a0acc2c24 [Accessed 10 September 2018].

Turner, A. (2013) Five must-have skills for a career in PR. |The Guardian. [online] Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/careers/pr-five-must-have-skills [Accessed 10 September 2018].