Communications / PR Directors / Managers plan, organize, direct, control, and evaluate the activities of establishments involved in commercial, industrial, wholesale, and e-business sales, marketing, advertising, and public relations. They establish distribution networks for products and services, initiate market research studies and analyze their findings, assist in product development, and direct and evaluate the marketing strategies of establishments.
Communications/PR Directors/Managers plan, direct, and evaluate the activities of organizations that develop and implement advertising campaigns and communication strategies. They publicize activities and events, and maintain media relations on behalf of businesses, governments, and other organizations.
They are employed by commercial, industrial and wholesale establishments, marketing and public relations consulting companies and by government departments.
Skills
A Definition
The definition of public relations encompasses a variety of ideas and practices. It is the management of communication between an organization and its audience – employees, customers, and the general public. It is conveying information about a product, company or organization (art, cultural, non-profit and special interest) to the public, customers and potential clients in order to build, manage and sustain a positive image. However, public relations is a two-way line of communication, it means listening and reacting to client and public opinions and feedback.
Strategy and Interaction
Public relations efforts are a key part of the branding strategy of a company. It encompasses everything from the text that appears in a brochure to the interaction of company representatives with customers. As a Communications Manager you design and implement advertising campaigns and communication strategies – print materials, television commercials, radio spots. An Event Coordinator is on the front line, meeting with sponsors and interested investors. A Sales Representative engages customers to evaluate their needs and suggest suitable products.
Educating the Public
Ultimately, the act of promoting and advertising helps an organization achieve its goal of educating the public about their products and services. Integral to public communication is an understanding of individuals, the ability to listen and interpret others needs is what sets organizations apart from one another. A public relations representative is enthusiastic about meeting new people and establishing a network, they are excited to relate with their clients and the public and find a common ground on which to connect.
Leaders, Innovators
Public relations representatives are creative individuals who employ a good sense of judgment and tact. They are problems solvers not afraid to tackle a new situation with an innovative solution. A successful public relations spokesperson has an understanding of communications media of all kinds. They are leaders, keeping current with industry standards and practices.
Manitoba colleges and universities offer a range of diploma and degree programs in various fields of study that may, in time, lead to this management level. The most directly related field of study is commerce, management studies, or business administration, with courses in marketing.