Q&A: SEARCHING FOR YOUR FIRST PR ROLE? A FEW SIMPLE THINGS TO SET YOURSELF APART
It’s nearly graduation season, and college seniors now ready their resumes and stalk LinkedIn for the shot at their dream PR jobs. I remember this feeling all too well, with the exception of LinkedIn. Instead, I stalked PRSA functions with my freshly made business cards. It is a time filled with excitement, pride and often fear of failure, which is why I am always happy to speak to budding PR rock stars to help them on their journeys.
Recently, I had the honor of joining a number of inspirational women in PR who were asked to share our “wisdom” about setting yourself apart and building a career in PR with the next generation of PR leaders – a Zoom classroom full of San Diego State University Seniors.
After the event, I realized their questions likely apply to a lot of job seekers, so I thought I would share their questions and my responses.
Q: If you were telling your soon-to-be-graduating-from-college self about how you got HERE (as a founder, partner, president, VP), what would you say?
A: If I was giving myself advice, my tip would be to be relentless and embrace your authentic self. When I’ve stumbled, it has always been because I was following some else’s approach to a T and I didn’t take what resonated with me and make it mine. We’re not carbon copies… Take what you learn, do the research and read everything you can to be better, but make it yours. You’re going to make mistakes, but learn from them and be kinder as a result.
Q: What do you see as the strengths of Gen Z in your office?
A: I look at this as less Gen Z but more the up-and-coming workforce. I think their strength is resiliency – you’ve had your share of adversity and a broader world view. Use it! I look to folks who come to the table with different ideas and perspectives, and I think this is an area where Gen Z is really going to shine.
Q: What skills expected in new grad hire?
A: Read the media. For example, if you’re interviewing for a tech role, read Axios, Protocol and Wired and spend some time watching CNBC. If you’re in energy, do the same with energy reporters and outlets. The simple idea of reading the media will make you a better writer. It will make you a better media strategist and a stronger PR person.
Q: What are common pitfalls you see new pros have difficulty with as they acclimate to the professional workplace?
A: Not taking the time to listen to learn. It is great to be eager. But the greatest struggle I have is when folks don’t slow down to read the room, learn the client and learn about your colleagues. This business is about relationships – coming in too hot can really slow you down in the long run.
Q: What is one interview question you always ask? Do you look at social media?
A: For me the question where you win or lose the interview is, “What questions do you have for me?” This is the question that makes candidates stand out to me. Have questions, show you were listening to the conversation we had, leave me with your elevator pitch.
Is the cover letter relevant?
The cover letter is your intro to get your resume reviewed. I think that approach has changed a lot just given how we apply for jobs. LinkedIn tends to be the new cover letter. Recruiters aren’t shy about being on LinkedIn, and I look for proactive candidates who go beyond the online application – this step also shows hiring managers that you can research, which is critical for any entry-level PR role.
If you’re interested in speaking more, feel free to reach out on LinkedIn.
Amber is a corporate communications counselor known for her ability to see around corners and drive programs that advance business results. This includes communications programs to create successful outcomes, including mergers and acquisitions, financial communications, media relations and executive positioning.
