Former Journalists Are a Game-Changer for PR/Communications Agencies. Here's Why.

By Alexandra Elich-Burr , Director of Communications & Media Relations

As a former reporter who spent eight years in the trenches of journalism before pivoting to PR/communications, I’ve experienced firsthand how my skills seamlessly translated to the corporate comms world. However, many hiring managers often overlook the immense value former journalists bring, mistakenly assuming they belong in entry-level roles. This oversight is a missed opportunity because former journalists are one of the best-kept secrets in the industry. Here’s why hiring them could be a game-changer for your agency:

1. Deadline-Driven Dynamos

Journalists live and breathe deadlines. Turning one to two stories a day is more than a job—it’s a way of life. My routine involved getting assigned a story, finding someone to interview, completing the interview, transcribing it, writing and sometimes editing the story, presenting it for the newscast, and then crafting an AP style web story. This rigorous process makes journalists exceptionally well-suited for the fast-paced environment of PR, where timing is everything. Their ability to produce high-quality work under tight deadlines ensures that your agency stays ahead of the curve.

2. Versatile Subject Matter Experts

Journalists are masters of adaptation. Every day, they dive into new and varied topics, from government affairs to crime stories, becoming quick experts on any subject matter. In PR, this translates to professionals who can handle a diverse client portfolio with ease, providing insightful and authoritative communication on any topic.

3. Hardworking and Tenacious

If there’s one thing journalists are known for, it's their work ethic. Long hours, challenging stories, and the constant pursuit of truth build a resilience that's invaluable in PR. They’re not just hard working—they're relentless. I used to find people’s addresses online and show up at their doorstep to get them to talk to me. This tenacity is particularly useful in media relations, where persistence can mean the difference between getting a story picked up or passed over.

4. Insider Knowledge of the Media

Former journalists know the media landscape inside and out. They understand what makes a story compelling and what catches an editor's eye. This insider knowledge is a tremendous asset for crafting pitches that resonate. They speak the same language as current journalists, which can help build stronger, more effective media relationships.

5. Master Storytellers

At their core, journalists are storytellers. They know how to weave narratives that capture attention and engage audiences. This skill is directly transferable to PR, where creating compelling stories about brands and clients is essential. They can craft messages that not only inform but also inspire and persuade.