Tell us a little about your role…
I recently completed my apprenticeship with the PRCA and have begun working as a Junior Content Writer at Wessex Water. Every day is different. One day I’ll be gathering information and writing press releases, the next I could be writing content for our website to highlight our community work across the region.
Which three words best sum up your experience of being an Apprentice?
Creativity, resilience and commitment.
What enticed you to pursue a career in PR and Comms?
After doing English language, economics and media studies at A level, I felt the skills I developed were well suited to pursue a career in PR. I’d always been interested in PR and was considering going to university to study it. However, I opted to do an apprenticeship because I felt like it would enable to get me hands-on experience that I wouldn’t have been able to get at university. Earning money while I learned was also attractive!
What’s your best PR moment to date?
My best ‘PR moment’ was when I found out I had received a distinction. It meant my hard work throughout my apprenticeship and End-point Assessment had paid off.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve had to date?
One of the best pieces of advice I have received is to try things outside of your comfort zone. Throughout my apprenticeship I was doing things I had never done before. Challenging myself in this way has helped me to grow and progress my skills.
What do you believe is the biggest challenge facing the industry at the moment?
Fake news is a massive challenge facing the PR industry. Thanks to social media people can broadcast whatever they want at the click of a button which can have a negative effect on a brands reputation. It’s a big challenge for PR professionals to combat fake news effectively.
We all love the South West but what do you consider the key benefits of working in this region?
One of the key benefits of working in the South West is the variety of comms job opportunities across the region. It’s a good place to be if you are young, driven and passionate about working in the industry.
What’s your PR secret?
Always be willing to learn. If you’re new to the industry people with more experience will be able to help you grow and learn. Conversely, if you have been in the industry for a while, don’t be stubborn! Listen to people with less experience who may have new and creative ideas.