A public relations intern assists with various tasks like planning events, writing releases, creating media kits, and updating social pages. Interns conduct research, suggest strategies, perform administrative duties, and build relationships with media contacts. Successful candidates are detail-oriented with communication, writing, speaking, time management, creativity, and leadership skills. An internship offers experience in PR strategy, meetings, presentations, crises, and technology. You will gain visibility into public relations by providing deliverables and learning top to bottom, ready to enter any fast-paced firm.
I served a five month internship at a PR consultancy in the UK between September last year and February this year. This professional experience taught me a lot. It proved I made the right career choice. I want to share what I learned and advise others interested in PR. I gained insights into how a PR agency functions and establishes client relationships.
Set Your Schedule
Set your schedule at the beginning to avoid working too much. Use judgement on working late or weekends when needed.
Research Companies
Research companies you want to work for to get the most out of your internship. This helps you understand the work and how it fits their strategy.
Enhance Writing Skills
Brush up on writing skills. PR is about effective communication so make your writing clear, concise and error-free.
Build Media Relationships
Learn about pitch angles, press releases and PR tools and tactics. Understanding these will better prepare you to assist the PR team.
Before plunging into getting an internship at a PR agency, you should know the roles of a PR intern. Interns work with the PR manager, assist with creating content, write media releases and newsletters, update social pages, create media kits and information packages.
The internship offers visibility into public relations, provides deliverables, and helps learn the field. Benefits include honing skills like multitasking, time management, adaptability.
To get hired, research companies to understand their work and strategy. Learn about PR tools like pitch angles and press releases to assist the team.
In the interview, be ready to share why you chose PR. Review the job description and ensure you can demonstrate the required skills. Come prepared with media contact ideas relevant to their clients. Share any PR experience you have. Ask insightful questions to show interest and initiative.
Follow up after with a thank you note. Highlight something specific discussed. Mention looking forward to hearing their decision. This makes a memorable final impression.
With preparation and passion, you can get that coveted PR internship. Use this time to network and shine. It may lead right into a full time job offer.