How to become a public relations professional
Portray an organisation’s role, services, products, and effectiveness in a positive way to the public.
What does a public relations professional do?
PR professionals use their excellent communication, analytical, and strategic abilities to manage their clients’ reputations. They shape public opinion by crafting various comms including press releases and social media messaging.
Duties and tasks
Develop and implement communication strategies and publicity activities.
Inform staff that policies, programs and conduct will affect public relations.
Organise public opinion research initiatives and evaluate results to create public relations strategies for the organisation.
Plan activities and publications that will enhance reputations including commissioning photographs, illustrations, branding and representing organisations at conferences and social events.
Plan and organise events, benefits, performances and partnerships to support positive publicity.
Select and review materials from publicity media, photographers, graphic designers and news agencies to promote advantageous publicity.
Work with executives to issue news and press releases, organising meetings with publicity media when appropriate.
Industry bodies
Related jobs
Communications officer
Corporate affairs officer
Media liaison representative
Media relations officer
Public affairs officer
Publicity agent
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Craft powerful narratives and drive change
Develop communication skills for the digital age. Explore media production and strategic messaging across print and emerging technologies. Build a strong network and a professional portfolio. Graduate career-ready to lead in journalism, PR and digital media.
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- Duration
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- Entry requirements
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Available majors
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