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An insight into working within the PR industry

Making a career change or new to the industry? Davina Williamson, Major Players Recruiter for PR and Communications roles, offers an overview of working within the industry, from salaries to career development opportunities, entry requirements and more.
 

Not got time for a video? Check out the main points below…

What are the salaries like?
“They really tend to vary depending on what area you work in, so for example if you're working in entertainment PR  the salaries are likely to be lower, however there are usually more perks such as being able to attend premiers or gettking client freebies. As far as starting salaries go you're looking at around £16-20k, they can stay pretty stagnant but then the jumps can be huge.”

What about the working environment?
“The hours in PR can be excessive, as the sector is hugley reliant on the media's activity, so if you're working on a global account then you can expect to be putting in the hours due to time difference issues. However, the majority of people working in PR have a passion for it so the long hours don't really become an issue."

Do you need a degree?
“There used to be a prerequisite that everyone working in PR needed a degree in PR but thats not really the case. Many people with degrees in different subjects become hugely successful. The same goes for people without degrees - its about who you know and making connections, so if you get yourself some good experience it can be just as useful.”

What key skills and personality traits do you need?
"Good communication skills are a must and excellent writing skills are essential. You need to be able to write comprehensively and creatively and of course have a passion for PR.”

What about career progression?
"An Account Exec is usually in that position for around 6-24 months, Account Managers 3-5 years, Account Directors 6 years+ .”

How can I get more clued up on the sector?
PR Week is probably the most widely recognised and also Gorkana PR - this is a relatively new PR hub, great for industry news."

Check out more sector focus videos here or search for the latest PR and Communications Jobs.

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