A Communications Specialist creates and delivers messages to promote a company, organisation, or individual. This involves writing press releases, managing social media, handling media enquiries, and developing internal communications. The role requires excellent writing and verbal skills, creativity, and the ability to adapt messages for different audiences. Communications specialists often work in corporate organisations, charities, government departments, or public relations agencies. Their main aim is to build and maintain a positive public image for their clients or employers, ensuring clear and consistent messaging across all platforms.
Communications specialists in the UK typically earn between £22,000 and £40,000 per year, with experienced professionals in larger organisations earning up to £50,000.
There were over 70,000 positions in public relations and communications roles in the UK as of 2023, with steady growth projected in the sector.
The communications and public relations sector is expected to grow by around 8 percent over the next five years in the UK, creating new job opportunities.
Focuses on managing and improving communication between different departments and staff within a company or organisation.
Works to build and maintain positive relationships with journalists and media outlets, often preparing press releases and media statements.
Plans, creates and manages content across social media platforms to engage audiences and promote an organisation's message.
Achieve good GCSE results, especially in English, Media Studies, or related subjects.
Having strong English skills is essential for a career in communications. Consider taking GCSEs in English Language and Literature, Media Studies, or Business Studies if available. These subjects will help you develop your writing, analysis, and critical thinking abilities.
Study A-levels or equivalent in subjects like English, Media Studies, or Business.
After GCSEs, taking relevant A-levels such as English, Media Studies, Sociology, or Business will strengthen your application for university courses or apprenticeships. Alternatively, consider a BTEC in Media or Business if that suits your learning style.
Obtain a university degree or higher national diploma in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or similar.
Many Communications Specialists hold degrees in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, Marketing, or English. Some universities offer specific courses in corporate communications or media relations. Alternatively, you can look for an apprenticeship in public relations or digital marketing.
Gain hands-on experience through placements, internships, or volunteering in communications roles.
Experience is highly valued in communications careers. Look for opportunities with local newspapers, radio stations, charities, or marketing agencies. Volunteering to help with social media, newsletters, or event promotion can also provide useful skills for your CV.
Create a collection of your written, digital, and media work to showcase your abilities.
A strong portfolio might include press releases, blog posts, social media campaigns, or event summaries. You can start your own blog or contribute articles to school or community publications as well.
Look for roles such as Communications Assistant, PR Assistant, or Marketing Coordinator.
Entry-level jobs offer a chance to learn on the job and develop your skills further. These roles often involve supporting more senior staff, helping with media monitoring, writing press releases, or managing social media accounts.
Attend training courses and join professional bodies like the Chartered Institute of Public Relations.
Ongoing learning is vital in communications, as the field evolves with new media and technology. Conferences, workshops, and membership in professional organisations can help you network and keep your skills up to date.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Communications Specialist. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
Both Communications Specialists and Community arts workers focus on engaging and informing the public through creative and conversational means. They utilise communication skills to promote understanding, participation, and community involvement, making them closely aligned in terms of qualifications and skill sets.
You can get into this job through:
To become a community arts worker, you could take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in:
You'll usually need to be qualified and experienced in a certain art form, such as visual arts, dance, drama, music or creative writing.
You'll usually need:
You may find a community arts qualification useful for getting a job as an assistant.
You could take a:
You may need:
You may be able to do a cultural learning and participation officer advanced apprenticeship.
This usually takes a year and 6 months to 2 years to complete. It includes a mix of learning in the workplace and studying in a classroom.
You'll usually need:
It's important you get experience before you apply for jobs. You can do this by volunteering which can often lead to paid work.
You can find out about local community arts projects from the arts officer at your local council or by checking:
You can apply directly for jobs if you have experience working in the community.
Good examples include working in adult education, art teaching or youth work. Experience of working with disadvantaged or vulnerable groups will also be helpful.
Experience is just as important for getting onto a community arts course as it is for finding paid work.
You'll find more on working in community arts and creative careers from Discover Creative Careers.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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