PR Internship Insights: 5 Lessons for Success

As a college senior navigating the transition to the professional world, the PR industry can be intimidating. Fortunately, internships are the perfect liaison between college and a career, enabling you to apply educational knowledge to real-world situations and gain valuable insights. Whether you are looking for your next internship, or are ready to start your career, these tips will help you stand out and make an impact.

Embrace Challenges

While a PR education lays a foundation, internships provide opportunities to acquire new skills. Embrace tasks beyond your classroom assignments, as they contribute to your growth as a PR professional.

For instance, drafting a press release for a client initially may seem daunting, but with guidance, it becomes a manageable task. Further, exposure to various industries can broaden your understanding of PR strategies and hone your strengths and weaknesses.

Take Initiative and Be Proactive

Taking initiative is key in the fast-paced PR industry. Instead of waiting, reach out to team members for opportunities to assist or take on tasks. If downtime occurs (a rarity in PR), invest in other beneficial activities such as researching clients, suggesting campaign ideas, or staying updated on industry trends and PR tools.

Double-Check Everything

Despite the industry's speed, avoid rushing through tasks. Take the time to review your work before submission to ensure accuracy and maintain credibility. A thorough check can prevent grammatical errors in press releases and guarantee the precision of media lists with up-to-date contacts.

Ask Questions

Internships are a learning phase where mistakes are expected. Don't hesitate to ask questions - your colleagues are there to guide you. Seeking clarification not only enhances your understanding but may spark ideas for improvement.

Collaborate

While independent work is crucial for personal growth, collaborating with PR professionals enhances learning. Engaging with colleagues on projects, especially those outside your comfort zone, offers a wealth of learning opportunities. Collaboration allows for the exchange of ideas, feedback and insights into the expectations of the PR industry.

Interning with a PR agency before graduation offers numerous benefits, providing real-life experiences that complement your education. The takeaways gained during this period will undoubtedly shape your professional journey and the next chapter of your personal life.

This is an abbreviated version of a blog written by Paige Duffany , a public relations assistant at Impact PR & Communications . The full post can be read here.