The public relations specialist creates and executes a customized PR plan by gauging a client’s specific communications needs. They then evaluate their own PR methodologies and tools, and isolate which ones are most applicable to this precise situation.
Public relations specialists often deviate from a traditional agency path when opting for this in house position, and believe in tailoring their PR plans toward a client’s needs instead of following a PR formula. They often have a wider communications background rather than just specific PR experience. Their campaigns generally consist of key messaging, media relations/publicity, special events, conferences/speaking engagements, social media programming, and other applicable creative solutions. They focus heavily on research, set specific objectives, apply creative tactics, and evaluate the results. Because they’re often focused on just one client, they’re constantly evolving their campaigns.
Public relations specialists can function independently, or report to marketing and/or communications directors. Depending on the company, they may report to the business owner or CEO. They may have a supporting team, but it’s typically a small team with less traditional positions than you would find in a PR agency or firm.
This role requires you to have a strong grasp on the multidimensional field of PR, serving as a jack-of-all-trades rather than just rising up to specific responsibilities. You should be organized, creative, research-intensive, and committed to be a PR specialist. Not only do you have to be an expert in PR, but you also need to have a very clear understanding of your client’s brand and function, as well as the industry that they are in.
If you’re considering applying to be a PR specialist, your resume should show that you have a thorough understanding of every public relations component, and knowledge of the industry that you’re applying to be in. It should also show that you’re independent and can craft a campaign from start to finish.
Public Relations Specialist Resume Builder Power Words: results-oriented, problem solver, communications, branding, independent, organized, writing, research, manage, creative.