A Look Ahead: Developing the Skills Needed to Get a Job When You Graduate

Kami,

What got me hired at my current job, as a marketing assistant at an architectural firm, was when I said that I knew how an office system worked.

They liked what they saw with the other candidates, but me knowing “the system” was what set me apart.

One skill that can’t be emphasized enough is writing and grammar skills. I work with architects and these people are really good with numbers, dimensions, and geometry–they’re married and have kids my age–but they aren’t so hot with grammar. The sigh of relief I get from a vice president when I hand back a sheet full of red correction marks on a document that would have been part of a big-client proposal is rewarding, and I think it demonstrates my value.

I think what’s important is to approach getting the job as if your fellow job seekers have the same skill level as you. Next, you have to think: “All things being equal, what will set me apart?” It could be your attitude, the way you dress, or some other value that you might not think of initially.

I hope that helps!

I’ve hired many marketing professionals over the past fifteen years, and I’m a firm believer (as Michael commented before me) that your writing skills are of utmost importance to a hiring company.

As businesses are dealing (or sometimes merely coping) with on-demand, digital media more and more; the ability to tell a good story - from captivating headlines to tight copy - is going to set you apart from your peers.

And a history of doing so (which is exactly what you’re building here) is going to also set you apart. So think about that every time you hit the publish button on any blog or comment. Your digital footprints are being tracked. They’re always going to ‘haunt’ you!

For an interesting discussion from a hiring manager’s point of view, check out this post at Jive Software.

I am at the point in my college career when I am searching desperately for an internship. I am finding, as you said, most employers are requesting knowledge of photo editing as well as website design software. As you probably know, I am writing this comment for a class called Style and Design in Public Relations Messages in which we learn several different types of computer programs (html, Photoshop, Indesign, etc.). I am excited about taking the class because I know it will make me a valuable asset for an employer in the future. I just wish I was able to take the class earlier in my college career than the first half of my senior year. Unfortunately, the way Auburn University’s Public Relations curriculum is designed, that is impossible.

If I had any advice for students pursuing a career in Mass Communications, it would be to start becoming familiar with these programs on your own. I have found that there are a lot of really helpful tutorials on the internet. I, personally, am a huge fan of http://www.planetphotoshop.com. I wish I had known this before now as I am finding myself in a rut–I should be applying for internships with a secure knowledge of these programs, but I am just learning them.

While I recognize the value of great writing skills, I truly believe that in a few short years, knowing how to use a computer will be the difference between literate and illiterate. Getting a head start on these programs is not only beneficial, but imperative.

I am a senior at Auburn University majoring in public relations. I am currently searching for job and internship possibilities as well. Though terrified at the process that lies ahead, I am eager to prove to possible employers what I am capable of.

I feel that the public relations program here at Auburn provides more of a comprehensive curriculum than many colleges and universities. Several of my friends studying public relations at different schools are not offered a class where they learn skills like, designing and creating computer graphics and web pages, photo imaging and editing or making and editing video. I am grateful to have this advantage.

I know that showing possible employers that I am capable of these skills is important when interviewing, but I have also been told that it is more important to show off your character and personality strengths. I believe that proving that you possess the personality and a respectable work ethic that matches that of the prospective employer is the most reliable key to getting the job. Am I wrong about this? I just think that skills can be learned and forgotten and everyone is capable of acquiring them. Your personality and degree of work ethic is something that isn’t going to change.

In reference to your statement about sharing resources with fellow students I would encourage all students to get involved with organizations on campus where they can gain relevent experience. I have been involved with an organization at Auburn University called University Program Council or UPC. This organization plans all the major entertainment for students. This has been a wonderful opportunity in gaining experience in the PR and Communication field.

I have gotten the chance to work my way up from a committee member, to Assistant Director of Publicity, to to Director of Public Relations, to the current Vice President. Through this process I have not only learned to work in an office setting but had the ability to learn various computer programs, send out press releases, do various forms of publicity for our events, and plan events, etc.

I would encourage PR students at every college to find their school’s program like this so they can get hands on experience with things we will be faced with in future jobs. Being involved with organizations such as UPC allows students to get out of the classroom and tone their skills in these areas. From UPC alone I already have press release clippings from events and brouchures I made in programs like InDesign. Like Kami said it is a combination of skills large and small that make you stand out, and I believe being involved in organizations like this help you gain them. Beyond this I would advise students to start as young as possible, because every year I have learned more and more.

Honestly, I agree. I believe it is a good idea to be versatile in writing, computer and camera skills. In today’s society of constantly changing technology, it’s important to have more then one of those aspects down in order to keep up with an evolving world. It’s not only important to attract an employer or audience with words, but with the capability to add online images or videos that stick out and enhance the quality of the virtual page.

I also believe that the focal point should not just be about having enough skills to parade for a job, but also to enhance your own knowledge. True enough, the more you can do, the more you can look impressive to an employer. However, the more you know how to do, the more you can feel good about yourself as well.

While news of the weakened job market in 2006 and 2007 is surprising to me, I must say that fear and depression are not my first reaction. I am beginning my senior year as a public relations major and have come to the realization that this is a competitive field. I readily admit that I am a competitive person and therefore feel that this is the perfect fit for me. So news of a decreased job market doesn’t scare me, it excites me. It makes me want to conquer any skills that I have not yet acquired.

Skills such as writing, reporting and editing are obvious necessities for finding a job. However, I believe that in order to get your foot in the door you must have something extra. When it comes to learning and mastering skills I am not concerned because I know that I am capable, but finding that extra something that sets me apart from the rest is a challenge. Do I rely on my experience in professional office settings, my positions held in related committees, my participation in PR oriented activities or my own drive and personality?

I don’t think that I can narrow it down to a checklist of skills I must acquire in order to get hired. If there is a checklist out there I would love to see it, but even then I would be on the same page as everyone else. All I can think to do is to be as involved as possible, to absorb as much as my brain can handle and to continue to love the work that I do.

At this point in our senior year I know a lot of students can agree with me when I say I know nothing about what I’m doing or what I’m getting myself into. One might even ask the question is this the major for me even though it’s a little late to be asking that. That’s why I’m glad I attend Auburn University.

This last semester is the key to unlock the door of understanding. The classes that I’m currently enrolled in like PR Writing and PR Style and Design are going to give me the knowlege I need to go out in search of any job with the skills needed, and they’ll be current. I’m learning more about computers and cameras than I ever knew existed. I guess I’m just reiterating what was said about the need for knowledge of these things.

My advice is to jump in head first, be willing to learn in class and outside of class. Take that extra step to advance your knowledge and skills on your own with practice outside the classroom. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and when it comes time to apply for that first job don’t hold anything back. You want to set yourself apart and show what worth you could have to the company. Learn all you can now because as we’ve just read it’ll definitely pay off.

I have just started my senior year at Auburn University. To be honest, I still have not really accepted the idea of graduating. It is something I have always looked forward to, but never really thought would happen. What scares me the most is I do not know exactly what I want to do with my life. Public Relations, it is a relatively new major at many schools, and most who are not in the major have no idea what it entails. Honestly, neither did i when i signed up.

I started taking PR classes towards the end of my sophomore year. At the end of that semester, I still was not quite sure what I was doing. It didn’t all really click to me until the last semester of my junior year. I enrolled in a case studies class with a pretty rigid teacher and also took a PR writing class. I felt like I actually acquired all the skills I would need to become a good practitioner. I was wrong. Everything I learned in those two classes will be extremely helpful in my PR career, but it won’t be that impressive in an interview.

I am now currently enrolled in PR style and design. I won’t lie, I am very nervous about the assignments that lie ahead and have not been looking forward to taking this class. However, I realize how ahead I will be when I finish. I will have a digital resume and knowledge that hopefully will impress a future employer in an interview! My best advice, even for myself, is stay ahead and be willing to learn. I am still a bit hostile toward social media, but that is only because i don’t yet understand it. I am sure that will change by December.

Learning about website writing, social media and blogging seemed so foreign to me even as recently as a year or two ago. Since I wasn’t much into computers as a kid, I assumed that meant I should always steer clear of anything in the family of technology. Apparently it’s not as bad as it seems, and my preconceived idea of doing anything in that field had been way off base.

It excites me to keep hearing the importance of writing and editing skills. Seeking a job in public relations is intimidating, as would surely be the feeling leaving college with any degree. However, what a reassuring thought to know that these tasks and skills which have been such a part of my life and education can have so much impact in the initial stages of my career.

Still, I have no idea what to expect as I go into an interview or send in an application. Thankfully, though, this article and these figures are certainly reassuring and tangible to go back to in a time of not knowing what I will be doing four months from now.

I am also beginning the search for an internship and potentially a job. I take refuge in seeing the percentages of skills needed in PR today. I feel that I am learning so much of what I will need, yet the idea of a job, much less an internship, is abstract to me. Public relations opens so may doors that it creates a problem when trying to choose a career path.

I chose PR as my major because it had some direction but also left the field open to branch in so many different directions. It seems that what I once revered as a positive aspect of the major, has turned into a problem. I know that I will once again appreciate the diversity of my choice, but as far right now, it is making my decisions much harder.

I am thankful, however, for the experience and direction that I am receiving from my classes and advisors. The classes I am taking are preparing me for what to expect next year in the real world, and I feel that I am going to have an edge that many other universities do not create in their students. I agree that the best way to gain insight to the rat race of a job search is to hear from others that are walking your same path.

I am extremely excited about the knowledge I’m picking up in my last year as a public relations major. In the years to come, I feel like the ability to work with web pages, video editing and social media in general will become just as important as basic writing skills.

However, I think the capability and willingness to learn new skills will be the most important ******. While interviewing for my summer internship, there were some required skills that I wasn’t proficcient in or had no experience with whatsoever. But, I was honest about this and showed an eagerness to pick up new skills, and as Lauren said, my personality and work ethic carried me the rest of the way.

In the first few weeks of the internship I was definitely tested and had to learn things on my own (usually not on the clock, but when I got home after work). So, I feel that the computer skills and knowledge of social media will help me to stand out from other job applicants, but the ability to write well, competancy when interacting with clients and a good work ethic are what will allow me to keep a job.

I am currently a senior in public relations at Auburn University and will be graduating in December. The job situation is creeping up on me faster than I would like to admit. However, the course curriculum at Auburn has done nothing but prepared me tremendously for the job market.

Our classes include everything from basic public speaking classes to learning how to use social media in the idustry and everything you can think of in between. Basic journalism and PR classes have taught me better writing skills that will make me more marketable in the field. I cannot stress how much every single professor I have had has instilled in our heads how important it is to be able to write well and to be well-informed of the changes happening around us constantly.

But, to take it even a step further, my professors have also been stressing the changes in technology and how important it is that we know how to use this technology to our advantage. I am currently enrolled in a class which teaches us solely just that; how to build web pages, how to blog properly, how to network using social media, how to do podcasts, etc.

It will be so helpful to have a porfolio of all these skills behind me when I begin interviewing for jobs. I did not really understand the importance of all this until I interned this summer with a management company in the music industry. I used everything I have learned in my career at Auburn to help me become more credible in the industry. And I am thankful that an internship is required pre-graduation or else i would have been completely lost with not knowing what to expect.

I am currently a senior in public relations at Auburn University and will be graduating in December. The job situation is creeping up on me faster than I would like to admit. However, the course curriculum at Auburn has done nothing but prepared me tremendously for the job market awaiting me.

Our classes include everything from basic public speaking classes to learning how to use social media in the idustry and everything you can think of in between. Basic journalism and PR classes have taught me better writing skills that will make me more marketable in the field. I cannot stress how much every single professor I have had has instilled in our heads how important it is to be able to write well and to be well-informed of the changes happening around us constantly.

But, to take it even a step further, my professors have also been stressing the changes in technology and how important it is that we know how to use this technology to our advantage. I am currently enrolled in a class which teaches us solely just that; how to build web pages, how to blog properly, how to network using social media, how to do podcasts, etc.

It will be so helpful to have a porfolio of all these skills behind me when I begin interviewing for jobs. I did not really understand the importance of all this until I interned this summer with a management company in the music industry. I used everything I have learned in my career at Auburn to help me become more credible in the industry. And I am thankful that an internship is required pre-graduation or else i would have been completely lost with not knowing what to expect.

The process of acquiring the knowledge and skills needed to qualify for and be successful in a communication or journalism position is largely due to hands on experience. Over the last three years I have spent studying public relations, I have found that I learned the most about my major through on and off campus activities where I had to directly apply my knowledge to complete a task. While sitting in a classroom and learning these skills is still a necessary and productive way of familiarizing yourself with this field of study, you eventually come to a point where the only way you are really going to fully understand what is expected of you is by physically getting out there and performing these tasks in a real work environment.
This summer I was given the opportunity to do an internship with the federal government under U.S. Customs and Border Protection with their Congressional Affairs Office. Walking into the office, I had little to no clue as to the way the office functions, the tasks they perform on a daily basis and what they expected me to do. But, I learned very quickly by observing others and actually having to attempt working on tasks myself while being given minimal guidelines pertaining to the way in which I do them. The workplace will hone the skills you already have and cause you to develop new ones you never thought you could. Kami, like you stated in your article, this actual work experience will help you acquire unique skills in a certain subject area that can set you apart from other applicants when applying for jobs.
Although I am still anxious about applying for jobs and seeing what my future holds, the fact that I was given the opportunity to be in a real work environment, performing communication and journalism tasks, has somewhat put me a ease. I am now more confident in my ability to be successful in my future career. Therefore, I highly encourage every college-aged student that is going to be looking for a job in the next couple of years to go out and get actual experience in your field of study because it will help you to fully grasp what is going to be expected of you in your future.

In the same boat as many of my fellow classmates, I am a Senior in Public Relations and will be graduating next spring. I have to admit that I have never been proficient in any type of activity involving computers or technology of that nature. However, I have come to realize that these skills are vital in order to be competitive in the job market.

After seeing the skills that employed graduates are using in their jobs today, I feel confident that I will be prepared for the job market once I leave Auburn. I have already mastered some of these skills, and the rest I will be able to master after this semester. But as many people before me have commented, I agree that it takes more than in class time to perfect these skills. You have to set aside time to practice skills learned in class in order to become better in your performance.

I believe that building a strong work ethic during college is necessary to maintaining a strong work ethic throughout your career. This article has helped me realize what standards are being set in the job market now, which will help me parepare for my future.

After attending my first weeks of senior level classes at Auburn University, I realized just how close I am to being thrown out into the “real world.� While knowing my degree, GPA, involvement on campus, and other skills I’ve obtained these four years will help me be a strong candidate for a position in public relations, I would be lying if I didn’t say I was a little nervous.
I am currently searching for an internship and it is exciting to learn about the many areas of public relations and the countless directions I could take after graduating.
It was shocking to learn about the decline in jobs, but that information makes me want to work even harder to master the skills taught in my final classes.
I am grateful that after this semester I will have accomplished courses specifically directed at teaching me how to write as a public relations’ practitioner, as well as the many ways to incorporate technology to relay messages. I know this information will help me stand out amongst the crowd and become a more attractive candidate.

By this time next year I will have just finished my internship and graduated from college (hopefully). I have mixed emotions about this. I’m excited, scared, nervous and anxious. I’m looking forward to having an actual job, like a real career (crazy thought).

The future excites me, but also causes me to feel overwhelmed and stressed out. I can feel the internal ulcer forming right now. Before I freak out too much, I should consider the following… The classes I am taking right now, such as Style and Design for PR, will put me in a competitive position in relation to other candidates in the industry. Also, my knowledge of social media may help “land� me a job. I’m not a huge fan of social media yet, but I do think it is a good idea. I think the more comfortable I become with it, the more I will appreciate its features.

Networking is also very important. It kind of goes back to “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.� Not to say that knowledge of the industry isn’t important (we all know it is!). Meeting people in the industry can never hurt you, but only help. I am an officer in the Auburn chapter of the Public Relations Council of Alabama and I have met many professionals through the organization. Get involved! It can help you in more ways than you realize.

When I really start to feel the anxiety building up, I also must think to myself- you are young and you will make mistakes. I don’t know everything. It’s ok to make mistakes-everyone does. You can only learn from your mistakes. Work hard, but don’t put so much pressure on yourself that you crack!

I would recommend to students to take advantage of all of the opportunities around your campus. On Auburn’s campus, for example, the Plainsman newspaper is available to anyone willing to write articles. If you are on the track to a career in public relations or journalism, take the time to submit an article. What better way to showcase the writing skills that these employers are looking for?
Also, take classes that might not be required for your major, but will give you additional skills to help you be a stand out in an interview. Classes such as Photojournalism, Advanced Reporting, or PR Style and Design give students skills such as working with QuarkXPress, Photoshop, blogs, HTML and CSS, Macromedia Flash and many other skills mentioned in this article that would catch the eye of a potential employer. As well as give you additional skills for a resume, these classes will give you the opportunity to create relationships with teachers and others who have been in the field you are studying. They can help open doors for you, the potential graduate.