Exploring Three Different Types of PR
There are many different areas that an entry public relations professional can go into. The options are pretty much endless, and match up with different levels of individual skill and expertise. You can do anything in the PR industry if you are interested in the topic, brand, or company. Let’s discuss just a few of the different types of PR one can choose to work in when going into the industry.
Community Relations
If you love bringing people together, then community relations might be a good fit. Community relations is an organization’s participation within a community to maintain and enhance its environment, to benefit both the organization and the larger community. Community relations could involve teaming up with surrounding companies to plan a community mixer or planning a bonding event. The overall goal of community relations is to build a foundation within the community for future prosperity. This is very crucial to any brand that is looking to build stronger foundations with its community.
Crisis Management
Do you have a knack for problem-solving? Are you always on alert? Crisis management is a good fit for people that are able to work well under pressure in stressful situations. These people are able to think rationally about a crisis and quickly come up with a solution. Whether it be a recalled product, accident, or so on, those working in crisis management are prepared to deal with the worst. Crisis management could look like answering a client’s call not on a typical workday to make a statement in regards to a campaign launch after a horrible public interpretation of a campaign.
Government Relations
Government relations involves different organizations reaching out to influence government officials at the local, regional, national, and even global levels. This is often the foundation of political campaigns. The people that work in government relations are ready to be on the go and help the target audience understand their client and voice the message of the client. They also need to have a strong understanding of the issues at hand and of specific government officials and agencies.
Important Skills to Have
It’s also important to consider the skills that go along with these roles are crucial. Networking is important and so is understanding the public around you. It is hard to play the bridge between a brand and its public if you do not understand your surroundings. Being flexible is key in all aspects of PR, and you have to bend with the public and the media to make it relevant to today. Also, consider being open to learning every day. Everything does not stay the same, so stay updated and informed with the latest.
As you can see, there are various different areas to work in within the PR industry. You just have to figure out your strengths and weaknesses, and find a space that fits your needs and can enhance your skills!
About Damaiya
Damaiya Harper is a senior studying Advertising and Public Relations at Grand Valley State University. This is her second semester with GrandPR and she is excited to work with a wonderful group of people. Currently, Damaiya works at the GVSU's Development Office as a student communications assistant. After graduation Damaiya hopes to spread her wings and continue to keep learning new skills about PR.