You’re considering a strategic communications job. How can you tell if it’s the right fit?

2 Your skills and strengths

What are your core skills and strengths as a communicator? Strategic communications requires a combination of analytical, creative, and interpersonal skills. You need to be able to research, analyze, and understand your audience, your message, and your context. You need to be able to craft clear, compelling, and consistent messages that resonate with your audience and support your objectives. You need to be able to use various channels, platforms, and tools to deliver your messages effectively and efficiently. You also need to be able to collaborate, network, and build relationships with various stakeholders, such as clients, partners, media, and influencers.

3 Your goals and challenges

What are your professional goals and challenges as a strategic communicator? Strategic communications can offer you many opportunities for growth and development, but it can also pose some challenges and risks. You need to be clear about what you want to achieve and what you're willing to overcome. For example, do you want to work in-house or as a consultant? Do you want to specialize in a specific area or be a generalist? Do you want to work on long-term or short-term projects? Do you want to work independently or in a team? Do you want to work in a stable or a dynamic environment? Do you want to work with a diverse or a niche audience?

5 Your readiness and willingness

How ready and willing are you to take on a strategic communications job? Strategic communications is a rewarding but demanding field that requires constant learning, adaptation, and innovation. You need to be prepared and motivated to face the challenges and opportunities that come with it. You need to be flexible and resilient to cope with change and uncertainty. You need to be curious and proactive to seek new knowledge and skills. You need to be confident and humble to acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses.

Strategic communications is a field that can suit different people with different backgrounds, interests, and goals. However, it's not a field that can suit everyone. By asking yourself these questions and following these tips, you can have a better idea of whether a strategic communications job is the right fit for you or not.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?