A public relations manager maintains a good rapport with the media.
A public relations manager is responsible for maintaining a positive public image for a company or organization through distributing news releases, holding news conferences and fulfilling speaking engagements. With his expertise, a public relations manger builds a strong rapport with the media, company employees and the public.
Job Titles
Public relations managers are also called PR managers, media relations managers and public affairs managers.
Staff and Policies
A public relations manager oversees the staff members of a public relations department. He develops and enforces policies and procedures for a company's public relations department.
News Releases
A news release is a written statement that is prepared and distributed to newspaper, radio and television reporters. The public relations manager ensures that all news releases contain appropriate information and are issued in a timely manner. Additionally, she creates fact sheets, handouts and promotional videos to be used by the media. Questions from the media are directed to the public relations manager and answered by her or a member of her staff.
News Conferences
The public relations manager must organize news conferences for the company executives or representatives. Often he is on hand during the news conference to help field questions.
Speaking Engagements
When a company is asked to attend a special function, such as an industry conference or award ceremony, the public relations manager may be asked to prepare a speech to be given by an executive or herself.
Web Site
In maintaining the company website, a public relations manager must ensure that all its information is accurate and updated regularly. He may also work with social media such as Facebook and Twitter to create a favorable image of the company.
Education
In hiring a public relations manager, companies expect candidates to have at least a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations or a related field. Many companies and organizations require a master's degree.
Skills
Strategic thinking, excellent written and verbal skills, and leadership qualities are all important for a public relations manager. The individual must also have a strong grasp of how the media work.
Salary and Benefits
According to Salary.com, as of December 2010, the median annual salary for a public relations manager in the United States was $85,441. Benefits vary depending on the company or organization, but may include health, dental and life insurance, retirement benefits or pension, tuition reimbursement, sick leave and vacation time.
Promotion
Because of his rapport with media and the public, a public relations manager is often considered for top-level executive positions in a company.
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