10 do’s and don’ts for landing your first PR job

Landing that first PR job is tougher than most people care to admit.

That’s because there is no paint-by-numbers career trajectory for communicators. Some people take a year off and travel, some move home to save money, others go abroad and begin a new journey elsewhere.

 1. Research the companies to which you’re applying. Make sure you have a solid understanding of their offerings, culture and values. Doing your homework beforehand provides you with the foundation for thoughtful questions.

When interviewing, having a firm understanding of the company also demonstrates your enthusiasm and aptitude for the organization and industry at large.

Pro tip: Come prepared with at least one or two questions.

2. Build your network. Don’t be shy to ask for business cards or LinkedIn profiles when you meet someone new. You never know who you’re going to meet down the line and when they might be able to help you (and remember, that’s a two-way street).

You’d be surprised at the vast number of strangers you will meet who are ready and willing to help a new college graduate. Returning favors is a large part of networking, so be sure to pay it forward or offer a helping hand if you can. If you can’t help, find someone who can.