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working on that. I might be describing
programming that will then be translated into
Portuguese and sent to a Brazilian cable guide.
On a daily basis, I'm writing copy for
one of our programs that's going to be in a
cable guide, or a description of one of our
networks that is going to be used in a
marketing piece. I write press releases to
announce the good news and the transitional
news. I do a lot of planning to make
sure everything I do contributes to the overall
vision of the company."
POINTERS FOR THE JOB SEARCH
"Public relations is not a glamorous job. It
can seem that way because you're
setting up interviews for Garth Brooks, or
walking Deana Carter through a press-
room and flashbulbs are going off all around
you. You have to do this job because
"To any employer, there are skills that get you
hired, and there are skills
that keep you in your job. It's important to be
constantly learning and
progressing."
"It is crucial for a publicist to look at the
big picture and consider how
each release affects the overall vision. When I
put out a press release that
announces a promotion, I look at what it says
about our company as a
whole. How can I tie in that announcement to
foreshadow something
that is happening next month?"
"Knowing Spanish or Portuguese would be a
tremendous help.
Languages are a big plus; that, and studying
different cultures."
Written and verbal communications skills are
crucial for success. Find a
local band and volunteer to write their
biography and press releases to
practice your writing skills and build a
portfolio.
CAREER
TIPS
THE BEST AND LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS
JOB:
"What I love and what I dislike are the same.
It's the fact that I never
know what my day is going to be like. There is
a part of me that wants to
be able to control the day and have my agenda.
Sometimes I hate that my
schedule, and what I want to accomplish in a
day, are thrown off by an
outside influence. I also love that my job
constantly surprises me. It keeps
me on my toes; it excites me; it's a blessing
and a curse."
VOICES
OF
EXPERIENCE
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