Careers and Employment Outlook

Public Relations
Public relations professionals help companies develop strong relationships with investors, media and the public. They do this by designing campaigns that communicate goals and strategies to the outside world. Public relations professionals may work in an agency, for a company or in government.

Public Relations Professional Occupational Outlook
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicted employment opportunities for public relations (PR) professionals to increase 24% from 2008-2018, although more applicants may be available than entry-level positions (www.bls.gov). The need for companies to maintain a positive public image in an increasingly competitive global market creates demand for these professionals. The BLS indicates that some skills, such as speaking a second language or having international experience, are favored by employers. PR internships can help career entrants gain the experience many employers seek.

Salary Information
In May 2010, the BLS reported that the median annual salary for a PR professional was $52,090, while the top ten percent earned over $95,000. Of the top-paying industries that the BLS listed, the federal government and the computer systems industry employed the most PR professionals. PayScale.com indicates that PR professionals may go on to become PR managers or directors, who have a higher earning potential.