Be a Standout Contender for a Corporate Communications Job

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By Sarah Clark

Employment opportunities in the field of corporate communications are expected to grow faster than the average of all occupations through the year 2012, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. But competition is keen for entry-level communications jobs. Here are a few tips on how you can stand out from the crowd.

Master Written and Oral Communications Skills

Develop your communication skills as an undergraduate. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential to any aspiring communications professional. Take classes that will hone your communications skills, such as business writing classes and courses that require you to write and give presentations.

Major in a Communications-Related Field

Corporate communications executives usually hire entry-level candidates who have earned a degree in English literature, journalism, communications, or a related field. Taking a marketing course could be helpful too, especially if you decide to enter more creative areas of corporate communications. Imagine using your skills to create brochures, advertisements, and other marketing collateral for a marketing firm.

Follow the News

You'll learn a lot about how corporate communications professionals communicate with the media, just from reading the news. National business news is especially relevant. Pay attention to how company representatives are quoted by journalists. Compare business news stories with a company's press release (if there is one) on the subject. Study word choice, tone, and content.

Understand the Issues

Every industry has unique corporate communications issues. The oil industry, for example, must often issue press releases or statements relating to sensitive environmental issues. Tobacco companies must be careful in how they target new consumers and communicate the adverse effects of its products to consumers. Research these relevant topics to get a sense of the primary hot-button issues for each industry.

Finally, try to get a little experience while you're in college. Apply for an internship with a company or a media organization. The practical experience you'll gain will distinguish you as you pursue your first real business communications job.

Sources:

The Bureau of Labor Statistics

About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer based in Arlington, Virginia.