Why Being a Former Journalist Made Me a Better PR Professional

Here’s a confession: journalists and PR professionals often have a love-hate relationship. As a former NCTJ-accredited journalist turned PR consultant, I’ve been on both sides of the email chains—and yes, I’m fully aware how annoying follow-ups can be (I’ve sent those emails). But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that while we may get on each other’s nerves, we genuinely need each other.

Journalism taught me the art of storytelling: how to spot the hook, cut the fluff, and turn even the driest topic into something people might actually read. That instinct has been invaluable in PR. I know how a journalist thinks because I’ve been there—drowning in press releases, trying to find a nugget of something remotely interesting. Spoiler: not every press release is gold, and that’s okay.

PR, however, has taught me some humility (and patience). As much as I want every pitch to be groundbreaking, I’ve learned to embrace the reality that not everything lands—and that’s fine. It’s also taught me resilience, thick skin, and, most importantly, how to work collaboratively. When PR and journalism work together, real magic happens: the PR brings the story; the journalist brings the platform.

Sure, we both have our faults. Journalists can be cynical, and PR pros can be pushy. But at the end of the day, it’s just a job—it’s not life or death (unless you’re PR-ing for a doctor). What we do is connect people with stories, and that’s a pretty cool way to spend the day.

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