What do you do if you're considering a career change to public relations?

Before assessing your own skills, review the different arenas of public relations to determine what interests you the most – marketing, issue management, speech-writing, storytelling, pitching stories or public affairs. Then compare your subject area of interest to relevant skill sets – social media, videography, story pitches, infographics, research and writing. Finally, see how your prior experience matches with the critical skill sets in different PR arenas. This will enable you to target your job search and hone the skills most relevant to the PR arena where you want to be.

Look for opportunities to support your current company with journalist outreach through platforms such as Twitter (#journorequest), Qwoted and Connectivity. Keep a close eye on news topics and reach out to journalists writing about topics related to the services or products your company wants to promote.

Considering a career change to public relations? Follow these steps: 1. Self-assessment: Evaluate your communication skills. 2. Knowledge acquisition: Learn PR principles and media landscape. 3. Networking: Connect with PR professionals and join relevant communities. 4. Gain experience: Seek internships or freelance projects. 5. Education: Consider certifications or further education. 6. Craft your story: Tailor your resume and online profiles. 7. Stay updated: Continuously learn about industry trends. Commit to each step and embrace the journey! #PublicRelations #CareerChange #PRCareerAdvice

the first step is always understanding what PR really is. Once you've got a grasp on what it entails, it's time to assess your own arsenal of skills against what the field demands. PR isn't just about having the gift of the gab; it's about strategic thinking, exceptional writing, and the ability to pivot and adapt in fast-paced environments. Reflect on your experiences: Have you ever written compelling content, or handled a crisis? Even skills cultivated outside of PR, like project management, analytics, and digital proficiency, are invaluable assets. Map your current skills to PR functions and identify any gaps. Pinpointing areas for growth can guide your next steps.

Also Evaluate your current skills, strengths, and interests to see how they align with a career in PR. Skills such as communication, creativity, problem-solving, and strategic thinking are crucial in PR.

Networking is a cornerstone of public relations. Start building your network by connecting with PR professionals on social media platforms like LinkedIn, and join industry groups where you can participate in discussions and attend events. These connections can provide valuable insights into the PR industry and might lead to mentorship opportunities or job leads. Remember that networking is a two-way street; be prepared to share your experiences and knowledge as well. Establishing a robust network can significantly aid your transition into PR.

Learn, read and talk to people in PR to understand how each day looks like. Talk to them and research about the growth prospects and what best can come out of it in 5-10 years from now. Understand the need and future of this industry.

Easing into a PR career? Start by wrapping your head around the essentials. Dive into media relations—cultivating journalist ties—and crisis communication, where you tackle reputation threats head-on.

If you want to be successful in the long term, you have to start small - learn the ABCs. Start by familiarizing yourself with the core principles—understanding what PR really entails, from managing public perception and building relationships with the media to crafting compelling narratives and handling crisis communication. Practice writing. Train your curiosity. Ask a lot of questions to people who know the field, even if the questions sound silly to you. And always volunteer to give things a try with every opportunity that presents itself - the best way to learn is by doing.

It helps to learn PR terminology and understand the differences between marketing PR and crisis communications. While solid writing is always important, visual communication skills have become increasingly valuable in PR. There are PR fundamentals starting with ethics, positioning, framing, strategic plans and maintaining positive relationships with journalists and influencers. Like most professional fields, PR requires adaptation to new tools and new communication channels. An open mind and eagerness to learn are essential PR competencies.

If you're serious about getting into PR, hit up industry events, join PR groups on LinkedIn, and don't be shy to slide into those DMs with a well-crafted message. Remember, every person you meet has something to teach you or a door they can open. But be mindful that it's not just about numbers. Your focus shouldn't solely be about collecting contacts—it’s about building relationships that last and learning from the pros who’ve already paved their paths.

Networking is the best – and often the only – avenue to look for an opportunity that matches your interest and your skill set. Local PR chapters, online PR groups and industry meetings are fertile places to network. If you come across someone who has your idea of dream job, ask to talk with them and gain insights on how they do PR. Be willing to start at a modest level in an unexpected place such as a local nonprofit that needs PR help but can't afford to hire a PR firm. Get experience and work samples that can be added to your evolving resume.

Experience is king in PR - especially for career changers! There are lots of transferrable skills that can help build a successful PR career, from relationship building, content writing, presentation and client relations which can all be gained in other positions. However, there are things specific to PR like media relations and press releases that you may not have exposure to in your current role. So get out there and volunteer or freelance! Charities, small businesses and even agencies can always use another pair of hands. This can be done in your spare time alongside your current role to really start gaining those practical skills. It not only gives you an edge on others entering the profession, it shows you're serious!

After you land a job, learning doesn't stop. PR is a constantly evolving profession and change due to technology has accelerated the evolution. For example, artificial intelligence may be useful in carrying out routing PR assignments such as research and first drafts of press release. Become proficient in using AI for those and other purposes and make yourself valuable to an established PR team that doesn't have that experience. The key is make yourself valuable and marketable in the PR space.

There is a wealth of resources to help you transition into a career in public relations. In particular, plug into all the support provided by the local chapter of your professional association, such as PRSA, IABC, or another. And don’t ever be afraid to ask for one or more mentors.

With 17 years of navigating the PR landscape under my belt, I've come to realize that curiosity isn't just useful—it's essential. Staying inquisitive about our ever-evolving industry, the shifts in media landscape, and the unique stories of our clients is what fuels lasting success. The secret sauce to a thriving PR career? It's simple: never rest on your laurels, believing you've learned all there is or seen every scenario. Approach every project with the eagerness to discover and the zeal to innovate. This mindset, more than any other skill, is the key to not just moving forward but truly standing out in the field.