Who is a PR / Communication Officer ?

Public relations Officer build and maintain a positive public image for a company or organization. They create media, from press releases to social media messages, that shape public opinion of the company or organization and increase awareness of its brand. Communications Officers write and distribute content to promote an organization’s brand, activities or products. They act as a liaison between the organization, the public, and the media to ensure that the brand remains top of mind.

DUTIES:

• Responding to requests for information release or press conference from the media or designating a spokesperson or source of information.
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with consumer, community, employee, and public interest groups.
• Writing press releases and other media communications to promote clients.
• Planning or directing the development of programs to maintain favorable public and stockholder views of the organization’s agenda and accomplishments.
• Coaching client representatives in effective communication with the public and employees.
• Studying the organization’s objectives, promotional policies, and needs to build public relations strategies that influence public opinion and promote products, ideas, and services.
• Preparing and editing organizational publications, including employee newsletters or stockholders’ reports, for internal and external audiences.
• Updating and maintaining Web content.
• Conferring with managers to identify trends and group interests and providing advice on business decisions.
• Collaborate with management to develop and implement an effective communications strategy based on our target audience.
• Write, edit, and distribute content, including publications, press releases, website content, annual reports, speeches, and other marketing material that communicates the organization’s activities, products and/or services.
• Respond to media inquiries, arrange interviews, and act as a spokesperson for the organization.
• Establish and maintain effective relationships with journalists, and maintain a media database.
• Seek opportunities to enhance the reputation of the brand, and coordinate publicity events as required.
• Maintain records of media coverage and collate analytics and metrics.
• Proficiency in design and publishing software.
• Manage conflict as it arises and escalate to management.

REQUIREMENT:

• Bachelor degree in journalism, PR, marketing or related field.
• Experience handling a press conference.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to pitch to media.
• Knowledge of consumer marketing.
• An ability to work on big strategy plans as well as day-to-day tasks.
• Ability to think both creatively and strategically.
• Ability to run PR campaigns that deliver measurable results and meet objectives.
• Deadline-oriented, inquisitive, with great follow-up and reporting skills.
• Creativity in securing coverage and buzz with traditional outlets.
• Understanding of social media and solid experience working with bloggers.
• Project and budget management skills.
• Responds well under pressure with strict time limit.
• Quick and enthusiastic learner.
• Minimum of 2 – 5 years’ relevant experience in a communications role.
• Knowledge of desktop publishing software ( InDesign/Photoshop).
• Excellent verbal, written, and interpersonal skills.
• Good time management and organizational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, content management systems, and social media platforms.

CONCLUSION

Public relations officers use a wide range of media to build and sustain a good image for a company, organisation or brand through planned publicity campaigns and PR activity.