#AskNewPros: Tips on Finding Your Niche

This is part of our recurring #AskNewPros series. Do you have a burning question for PRSA New Pros? Ask us!

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What tips do you have to help PR students find the right fit/sector for them in the industry?

The best way to figure this out is to first think about what motivates you. What’s going to make “work” exciting for you? It could be anything! Is it the brand, the organization, working with social media, or working with traditional media? All of these things play a factor in figuring out the right fit for you.

Honestly, it’s hard to figure out until you’re in it. That’s where the value of interning comes in. I know PRSSA drills this into your head, but it’s true! Interning allows you to try out different roles and sectors so you can figure out your likes and dislikes. Beyond just what sector and roles are good for you, you can also learn what kind of workplace environment you want to work in. Maybe you thrive off the intensity of a start up or benefit from larger teams? You’ll never know unless you try! Plus, you may find out that work climate and team dynamics contribute more to your overall happiness and fit even more than what industry you’re working in.

Your time in college is a great time to explore all of this! Take on as many roles and various sectors as you can while you have the time to explore. It’ll help make your eventual job feel a lot less like a “job” after all.

jenna-mosley

Jenna Mosley is a PRSSA liaison on the PR New Pros executive committee. She works for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids as the International Communications Associate in Washington, D.C.