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Advice From the Pros
Internships
Intern is a formal term for "apprentice," most often applied to white-collar professions. Webster's New World Dictionary describes an apprentice as, "a person under legal agreement to work a specified length of time for a master craftsman in a craft or trade in return for instruction and, formally, support." Today's modern public relations internship is rooted in the early careers of the profession's pioneers, most all of whom began their careers as print journalists.
Are Internships Necessary?
No, but you might have a difficult time finding your dream job without at least one or two internships under your belt. It is possible to start your career without doing an internship. However, the extra knowledge and skill you will develop can place you far above fellow job candidates without internship experience. Although the public relations job market in the Puget Sound region is great right now, competition for entry-level jobs can be stiff, particularly in the spring and early summer when the majority of college seniors graduate.
Most young professionals choose to do their public relations internships while enrolled in a college or university communications program, and many arrange to receive college credits for their work experience. Some public relations degree programs even require internships before graduation. Other recent graduates choose to continue developing their skills while simultaneously seeking steady employment in the profession (most all public relations employers are willing to accommodate your job search during an internship). Some interns are simply exploring public relations as a new career alternative. Whatever the reason--the age of interns, their work history and skills vary greatly.
Why Do Employers Sponsor Internship Programs?
Many public relations employers utilize their internship programs as a method of reviewing an individual's skills prior to offering him or her full-time employment. More often, public relations employers use interns as temporary employees to meet fluctuating labor demands. Thus, an offer of an internship does not guarantee an offer or full-time employment regardless of how hard you work. However, if an entry-level position becomes available with that employer, you would most likely be considered for employment before other candidates, provided you are doing satisfactory work for the company. You would also likely be considered first should your supervisors be notified of any openings with other public relations employers.
What Should I Look For in an Internship?
A good internship experience will offer you the opportunity to exercise the skills you learned in college and introduce you to new skills you will need to compete successfully for permanent employment. It should offer you the chance to work on numerous communications materials that you can add to your portfolio. In addition, look for a sponsor that is willing to help you meet other in the profession that can help you in your job search.
It's a good idea at the beginning of any internship to sit down with your sponsor and outline the tasks you feel you want to accomplish throughout the course of the internship. While the sponsor will have his or her own list of required tasks, this will assure you will get the most out of the position and the company. The sponsor has hired you not only because the company needs extra help, but because he or she recognizes the need to prepare young professionals for the job market.
