As students finish their exams, the world of work beckons and it can be daunting to know where to start.
Some will be thinking about a career in Communications – if you’re a strong writer, creative thinker, or on the pulse with social media and digital – but what is it really like on the inside?
I’ve been busting some of the common myths and misconceptions, to show what the Communications sector and life at an agency like PLMR Genesis is all about…
Myth: You need a relevant degree
A career in Communications doesn’t require a specific PR or Digital Marketing degree – or a degree at all! The majority of colleagues at PLMR Genesis graduated in a different field, while some colleagues experienced different careers before finding their strengths in Communications, or started off through an apprenticeship scheme.
All studies, whether degree or apprenticeship, offer transferable skills like writing, teamwork and managing deadlines, which are relevant for so many career options. Don’t let a degree subject dictate what jobs are open to you.
Myth: It’s a glamorous career for extroverts
The likes of ‘Emily in Paris’ and ‘Ab Fab’ characterise PR as a glitz-and-glamour career, suited for party-going socialites and extraverted personalities. A career in Communications varies depending on the clients and sectors you work in, but it generally requires a calm, professional mindset and a diligent, reassuring personality.
While the TV cliches rely on chance encounters and publicity stunts, the reality involves building a client’s brand over time, working closely to understand their goals, develop strategic plans and connect with their audiences in a meaningful way.
Myth: You’re stuck behind the desk
Communications isn’t just desk-based like a scene from ‘The Office’. There are regular opportunities to be out and about – by hosting or attending events, coordinating media interviews, attending photoshoots, and meeting with clients on site. When it comes to being in the office, the atmosphere is welcoming and conversational and we like to share ideas and socialise together as a team.
PLMR also offers secondment placements abroad through the Global Communications Alliance (GCA) where colleagues enjoy a few weeks immersed in the culture of a partner agency oversees.
Myth: Doesn’t PR just mean press releases?
Press releases still hold value but, as the world evolves, so does our consumption of news. Press releases are just one part of the marketing mix – all content is repurposed to reach wider audiences. For example, one story can appear as a press release, bulletin on the news, social media post, digital leaflet, digital advert and more. We also work very closely with colleagues who specialise in digital marketing – including website development, videography, design, and targeted advertising – to deliver fully integrated comms campaigns.
Myth: The dark art of ‘spinning’ the truth
PR aims to establish and preserve a client’s long-term reputation, the opposite of ‘spinning’ which withholds or manipulates the truth to achieve short-term goals. The role of a Communications professional is to be informative and build trust for clients over time, shaping their public image through transparent communication, adhering to ethical boundaries set out by the CIPR.
Fundamentally, PR is about giving organisations a voice. We’re proud to have worked on incredible campaigns which have made a positive difference to society, from raising awareness of health issues or promoting cleaner energy, to pro-bono work with local foodbank charities.
If you think a career in communications is for you, get in touch with our expert team for more insights and inspiration.