It may be a tired cliché, but the saying “there’s no substitute for experience” is advice that any PR worth his or her salt would give to anyone looking to start a career in the fabled world of public relations. It’s advice that stood me in good stead when I was looking for a job all those years ago.

I don’t know whether it still is, but when I left university in 2001 public relations was one of the most popular career choices for eager graduates keen to make their mark – and their millions – in PR. This meant that competition for places was fierce, and none more so than in the Midlands.

So with a degree under my belt and a spring of optimism in my step I set out on my search for my first job. Unfortunately, little did I know that without any relevant experience, despite being fresh out of university, I stood little chance of getting a toe, let alone a foot, through the door.

Undeterred, I decided to do work experience with a few local agencies in order to get that all-important experience that employers were looking for. The exercise was invaluable.

Despite having had no real exposure to the world of PR, other than what I had gained from the six weeks of work experience, doors began to open. In the competitive PR job market it turned out to be the edge I needed over my competition. 

So if you’re a budding Max Clifford or Matthew Freud, take my advice and get out there. Afterall, I’m proof that there really is no substitute for experience.

 

The DOs and DON’Ts

If you are looking for work experience in PR, here are my five dos and don’ts:

1.     DON’T get your mom/dad to ring on your behalf to enquire about a possible placement, as we recently experienced. Communication is a pretty key element in PR, so if you can’t string a sentence together on the phone, give up now.

2.     DO be prepared. Research the companies you want to work for and find out as much as you can about them. Be clear on what you’re looking for, why you want to do it and what you hope to get out of the experience.

3.     DON’T expect an easy ride. You’re there to work and contribute to the business. Remember who’s doing whom a favour. You’re there to benefit from the experience so make the most of it.

4.     DO be enthusiastic. If you finish your work and have nothing to do don’t just sit there twiddling your thumbs, texting your friends or looking at Facebook. Ask for more work.

5.     DON’T waste our time. PR agencies get constant calls from people looking for work experience. Do it because you want to, not because you feel you have to.

Filed under: Online PR