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I am anxious to move on from the job I've had for 15 months. I took it simply to pay the bills and have benefits. I have an MA in journalism but had difficulty finding a full time job in news after graduation. I realize now I should've networked more and done more freelancing. I considered giving news another chance, but at this point in my life, I do not want to work overnights and holidays, and the field is giving way more to freelancers anyway. I still intend to freelance on the side, though, because I like to inform and communicate that way.
So, now I am looking for other fields to work full time. I think either advertising or PR is good for me, not just because of my skills, but because I enjoy writing, using images to communicate and just overall communicate with others. Yeah, I know PR is the dark side, but it is the livable side too! Plus, its a new way of brainstorming, analyzing and being creative.
But these days I am just a receptionist at a law firm. I want to start working towards a job in PR or advertising, but I do not know where or how to get started. I can't do an internship because there is little or no pay and its only temporary. I've thought about volunteering at non-profit organizations to build up a portfolio, but how do I approach them and which ones would give me a chance? Would starting off as an admin or receptionist at a firm or agency really help? I mean, I know it gets my foot into the door, but would it really get me anywhere?
What about doing communications work for your current employer? Most large firms have a communications manager/director on staff. Can you help him/her? If not, look at larger firms in your area. Since you have worked in the industry and have a master's degree in journalism, law firms may be very interested in your background.
For volunteering, just find an organization you want to work with, and send an email or call. Stress the value that you can bring to their organization - media relations, web content, etc. The organization can be a local non-profit, or you can always volunteer with a professional organization in your area (Chamber of Commerce, alumni groups, etc.) While you are building your portfolio, you should also focus on networking with other professionals.
What about doing communications work for your current employer? Most large firms have a communications manager/director on staff. Can you help him/her? If not, look at larger firms in your area. Since you have worked in the industry and have a master's degree in journalism, law firms may be very interested in your background.
For volunteering, just find an organization you want to work with, and send an email or call. Stress the value that you can bring to their organization - media relations, web content, etc. The organization can be a local non-profit, or you can always volunteer with a professional organization in your area (Chamber of Commerce, alumni groups, etc.) While you are building your portfolio, you should also focus on networking with other professionals.
The law firm I work for is a small one with no PR manager or the like. It doesn't even have a website, which is odd. Its been around for well over ten years and business is booming. But the partners are living in the Stone Age.
I am making a list of organizations I'd like to volunteer for. I would network but because I have little to bring to any PR job now, I think I should hold off until I get more experience. I mean, I've thought about going to networking events for PR professionals, but what would make them think I'd be worth hiring or interviewing? Sure, I may have enthusiasm, good writing skills, and I'm personable, etc., but wouldn't I need to show results first? Whenever I look for entry-level PR jobs, I see requirements are always for internships and proven results.
The law firm I work for is a small one with no PR manager or the like. It doesn't even have a website, which is odd. Its been around for well over ten years and business is booming. But the partners are living in the Stone Age.
I am making a list of organizations I'd like to volunteer for. I would network but because I have little to bring to any PR job now, I think I should hold off until I get more experience. I mean, I've thought about going to networking events for PR professionals, but what would make them think I'd be worth hiring or interviewing? Sure, I may have enthusiasm, good writing skills, and I'm personable, etc., but wouldn't I need to show results first? Whenever I look for entry-level PR jobs, I see requirements are always for internships and proven results.
So you work for a law firm that does not have any PR/communications support - right? Why are you not offering to help them in that area? Show some initiative, and you might be surprised where it leads you.
As someone that worked in advertising for 2 years, if you aren't willing to work in the evenings - it is not the profession for you.
There can be some extremely long hours.
Just saying "I want to work in advertising" is very broad. Are there specific disciplines you are interested in? Creative? Account Management? Strategy/Account Planning?
I have seen people working the front desk make their way into other areas over time. It's not unheard of. But most people get their foot in the door through an internship or having a very polished resume with the internship experience already behind them.
Being that you are in the NY area, if you are really interested in pursuing a career in creative advertising - I would urge looking into a portfolio school as well.
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