To become a public relations coordinator, one must complete a bachelor’s degree in journalism, communications, or public relations, gain hands-on experience through internships, and take courses in media, technology, and industry-specific topics. Strong communication skills and the ability to work irregular hours are also necessary.
Public relations coordinators are individuals who oversee their companies’ campaigns to maintain positive images in the public eye. These professionals must have solid verbal and written communication skills and be willing to work irregular hours, including evenings or weekends. A person planning to become a public relations coordinator needs to complete four years of post-secondary education, plus full hands-on experience in a real-world situation.
If you want to become a public relations coordinator, you must complete a four-year bachelor’s degree program in journalism, communications or public relations. Admission to this type of training program involves completing a prospective school application form and providing a copy of your high school diploma or equivalent certification. In addition, you need to be prepared to submit your standardized test scores and a list of your completed classes to your institution’s admissions team.
Media courses provide a useful foundation for anyone wanting to work in this industry. During your training program, you need to take a class on news reporting and editing. This will help you write press releases to distribute to newspapers or television stations that will effectively capture their attention and promote your business to the public. You should combine these classes with courses that cover the industry you are interested in working in when becoming a public relations coordinator, such as healthcare or engineering.
Gaining technology experience during classes is also key in this career area. You need to take courses on how to use computer design software to create newsletters and other promotional materials for your company. In addition, a class on the benefits and role of social media in an organization will prepare you to use interactive websites to encourage Internet users to visit your company’s website and support your company’s activities. Classes also teach you how to create audio and video productions that showcase events and initiatives you want the public to know about as you strive to become a public relations coordinator.
Most undergraduate training programs require students to complete an internship before graduating. These opportunities are available from non-profit associations or for-profit companies in various industries such as higher education or the medical field. You need to keep your organization’s website content up to date and create company brochures and flyers. Gaining experience maintaining a database of important events the business is involved in or important industry awards the property receives will also make you attractive to future employers as you become a public relations coordinator.
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