Communications majors can find opportunities to work in nearly any industry. If you enjoy interacting with new people, working in fast-paced environments, and using your mind to solve problems, then a job in communications may be the right fit for you. The key is understanding what kind of focus you want as a communications specialist before choosing a degree.
Perhaps you’re a seasoned pro but were always interested in communications. As a result, you want to make a career change. Or maybe you have a bachelor’s degree but would like to consider an online communications master’s degree. Whatever the reason, this article takes you through everything you need to know. You’ll learn more about a degree in communications, the types of jobs, and even tips for getting hired. So, let’s dive in!
Why is a degree in communications the best choice for you?
As we know, with the rise of social media, smartphones and other digital devices, the world is more connected than ever. As a result, media and communications roles are some of the most in-demand careers. Obtaining a communications degree allows you to pursue a career in media and other areas and helps you stand out when applying for jobs.
A communications degree prepares you for many future job opportunities. There are so many ways that this degree can be helpful. For example, let’s say you’re interested in working in music or advertising, or you just want to work behind the scenes as a consultant. In short, all brands and companies need communications specialists to help them promote.
Why a degree in communications is good for your career
One of the best reasons to pursue a degree in communications is its versatility. Every company and industry needs to understand how their audiences behave – and why. Communications majors learn how the human mind works and how to best communicate with people. Because of this expertise, communications majors can work in various industries and projects.
Communications majors learn how to communicate with people orally and in writing effectively. As you know, this is extremely useful in any industry as there’s always a need for people who can effectively convey ideas and information easily for people to understand. They can also get applied in many different capacities in a company – from an account manager in marketing to a public relations manager.
Working in media and communications
If you’re interested in working in media, you’ll likely want to pursue a degree in communications. Although there is some overlap between the two fields, they are not the same. Communications majors study all aspects of communications, including marketing and media theory. As a result, students can learn various topics, including advertising, public relations, media studies, and more.
A major in communications prepares you for many different jobs in media. For instance, you could decide to work in the arts, films or public relations. You have the chance to work on fascinating projects and meet talented people. One thing’s for sure: whatever you choose, working in media and communications is exciting.
Broadcasting and journalism jobs
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in broadcasting, you’ll want to major in communications. In fact, many people pursuing a career in broadcasting have communications major. Broadcasting majors study all aspects of broadcasting, including how to create and produce content for streaming, radio and television. Broadcast journalists learn how to use the latest technology in their productions.
Those who enter broadcasting and journalism learn about its history, ethics and media law. They also know how to use interviewing and other journalistic techniques to get information from sources and put it in a way that’s easy for audiences to understand. Broadcast journalists can work as hosts, producers and in other roles in media. They can also work as communications directors in other industries, such as marketing and advertising.
Digital marketing careers
A degree in communications is a good choice if you’re interested in marketing. In fact, many people who major in communications go on to work in marketing. If you choose to major in communications, you can also choose to specialize in marketing. Here are a couple of the subjects you might study in a communications major with a marketing emphasis:
- Branding – Critical to every company, you’ll learn what makes a brand successful. Also, you’ll learn how to brand and position your company and its products properly.
- Customer relations – Pursuing a communications degree will teach you how to best interact with customers.
- Sales – As we know, sales are vital to company profitability. Communications students learn how to sell effectively.
Advertising careers
Advertising majors study the history of advertising, branding, marketing and media analysis. Communications majors specializing in advertising can work in various industries, including retail, travel, and more. They can also work in different roles, such as account managers and creative directors.
If you enter a career in advertising, you’ll learn how to choose the best methods for advertising a product or service. Advertising majors can work in many companies, such as ad agencies, public relations firms, and more. You can also find yourself working in roles such as marketing director.
Marketing communications jobs
Perhaps you would like a job in marketing communications or MarCom. MarCom specialists know how to sell their brands to audiences. They do it by strategically raising brand awareness and market positioning. If you enjoy working with people and have a creative mind, then a job in MarCom could be right for you. Let’s explore seven specific roles in marketing communications.
1. Advertising and marketing communications specialist
Like the specialization in marketing communications, as an advertising and marketing communications specialist, you would be responsible for creating marketing and advertising plans and campaigns for your employer, whether a large corporation or a small business. You’ll use your understanding of human psychology and business practices to create effective marketing strategies. The specialization in advertising versus marketing communications is that those in advertising are responsible for the creative and message strategy. In contrast, the marketing communications specialist is accountable for creating the campaign.
2. Digital communications specialist
The digital communications specialist is responsible for all aspects of digital communications. These include content creation, web design and development, social media promotion and management, and online marketing. As a digital communications specialist, you should be fluent in the latest digital technologies, from management platforms to graphics apps. If you work as a freelancer, a company may employ you to create or update its website or social media channels. You may also work for a marketing or advertising agency or public relations.
3. Media relations specialist
A media relations specialist, also known as a public relations specialist, is responsible for building and maintaining relationships with media members. These include editors, producers and writers at newspapers, magazines, radio and television stations, and online publications. You’ll create media pitches and work with other PR team members to strategically create newsworthy events for your organization. If you enjoy building relationships and want to be at the center of the action, then a career as a media relations specialist may be the right fit for you.
4. Advertising coordinator
An advertising coordinator is responsible for streamlining the workflow within an agency or company. If you think that being an advertising coordinator means sitting in a cubicle all day, reading spreadsheets and attending meetings, we have some good news for you. The role of an advertising coordinator is more dynamic. These professionals get tasked with planning, coordinating and controlling the entire workflow of a marketing campaign. It’s their responsibility to ensure that it reaches completion smoothly and efficiently. Also, they may choose where the advertisements run and negotiate ad rates. Of course, they also monitor the advertisements’ performance and evaluate each campaign’s success or failure.
5. Marketing communications manager
A marketing communications manager works closely with the upper management of their organization. They look to create a marketing strategy that helps to sell products, expand their brand, or advance their company’s non-profit goals. It may include developing marketing strategies and creating marketing materials such as advertising campaigns. They may also manage the organization’s social media presence. A marketing communications manager may work closely with outside vendors and contractors who help the organization create marketing campaigns. Of course, they need to understand the digital marketing landscape.
6. Digital marketing manager
A digital marketing manager oversees the development and implementation of marketing plans online. Their role is to devise strategies to improve the visibility of a business online so that it can sell more products or services. They also ensure that the company meets its targets for growing its online presence and sales. As a result, they achieve it through digital channels such as social media, search engines, websites, mobile apps, videos, images and ads.
7. Media relations manager or specialist
A media relations manager or specialist manages a company’s relationship with the media. They may work for a government organization, non-profit or private company. A media relations manager is responsible for helping the organization’s management team prepare for media interviews. They also respond to media inquiries or provide other media relations services. If you think that this career may be for you, it’s one where no two days are the same. You need to have excellent coaching and communications skills.
Strategies for finding the right job in communications
No matter your stage in life or career, having a job you love is essential to living a happy, healthy life. The task can seem overwhelming and scary for many people looking for work. However, preparation is critical. So, with the proper research or even an online master’s communication degree, you’re setting yourself up for success. As you see, plenty of communications jobs exist and are waiting for the right candidate to step up and take them.
Fortunately, with today’s technology making almost everything virtual and online, finding a new job is easier than ever. You no longer have to wear your best suit and head out into the real world to hunt down potential employers. Instead, you only need an internet connection, a computer (tablet or smartphone), patience, and a little know-how. Now, let’s explore some tips for landing the right communications job.
1. Know what you want in a communications job
Before doing anything else, you should ensure that you’re clear on the communications job you want. Sure, you want something in the communications field, but what sort of communications job? In what industry do you want to work? Are there specific skills or experience needed by a potential employer? What is your ideal work environment? Make a list of these things, and then start searching from there. It will help you to have a clear idea of what you want and don’t want in a job. As a result, it will make your search a lot easier and more focused.
Beyond that, you also want to ensure that you’re looking for the right communications job for your goals and interests. For example, if you’re fresh out of school and looking for your first job, you may want to look for entry-level jobs in PR and marketing. As a seasoned professional, you may want to look for management or director-level positions in PR or marketing. Either way, it’s essential to look for the right type of job that fits your current skillset and experience level.
2. Network, network, network
Let’s face it, lots of people apply for most communications jobs out there. So, you’re going to be in a very competitive field. Moreover, you may feel like the odds are stacked against you. However, the one thing you can control is the effort and time you put into your job search. You have to be diligent and put in the work. To do that, one of the most effective and proven ways is through networking. So, if you’re serious about excelling in the communications field, one of the best things you can do is to network. People prefer to offer jobs to people they know and who make a memorable impression.
Networking involves connecting with others in your industry or field and staying in touch with them regularly. You can join the industry and communications-related groups on social media (such as LinkedIn). You could also attend networking events, conferences and trade shows where your industry is present. Follow up with people when you meet them. Also, keep in regular contact with them through emails and social media posts. You never know when an opportunity will arise or who may be able to help you out.
3. Go through recruiting firms
Another option to find communications jobs is to go through recruiting firms. A good recruiting firm will partner you with a company hiring for a communications job. The company will assess your skills and experience and then partner you with a company that has a communications job matching what you seek. Plenty of recruiting firms exist in your desired industry, so ask around.
A recruiting or headhunting firm is a great way to find communications jobs as they connect you with companies actively hiring communications professionals. Some recruiting firms may also help you with interview preparation and career advice. If you decide to go this route, research different recruiting firms to find one that fits your needs.
4. Find events where employers meet talent
Another great way to find communications jobs is to attend industry events where employers meet and network with potential talent. For example, you can find a list of events for communications professionals on the PRSSA events page. Some great events to search for include meetups, networking events, conferences and exhibitions.
You can also find events in your area through sites such as Eventbrite and Meetup. These events are a great way to meet people in your industry, make connections, and get your name out there. They’re also a great way to find communications jobs. Beyond that, many events also have job boards where employers can post communications jobs and are looking for talent.
A degree in communications gives you a great career
A communications degree is an excellent choice for anyone interested in learning how to best communicate with people. Communications majors learn how to effectively create and distribute content through various mediums, including print and digital. They also learn how to find and analyze relevant information for their audiences.
Communications majors learn how to effectively communicate with large groups of people through platforms such as social media and one-on-one interactions. They also know how different media affect their audience. Because of this, communications majors can work in almost any industry and pursue various job options.
As you can see, there are multiple paths to a successful communications career. And with the internet and social media, you can post your resume and apply for jobs at any time or place. There are plenty of communications jobs, and the right one is waiting for you. All you need to do is find it and secure the position. Be patient and diligent in your search, and network, and be open to different opportunities.
