Career Exploration Project

Media Relations Manager

Area of Communication
Media Relations is a form of public communication. As the media speaks to the public, developing and maintaining a relationship with the media helps insure a good relationship with

the public. While it does not speak directly to the public, it does work and speak through those
who do.

Position Description
The PSRA Job Center says that the job of a Media Relations Manager is responsible for handling all communication between their employer and various media outlets. Their responsibilities includes issuing press releases, handle media events, and create successful relationships with journalists and media outlets.

Required Education and Experiences

According to HumanResourcs.Hirvint.com, becoming a Media Relations Manager requires a Bachelors degree and five years of experience in the media field. My interview subject, Kenneth Marshall, worked as a reporter for fifteen years before going in to media relations. He said that being the person who asked the questions prepared him for being the one has to answer them.

Strong writing skills are required for a career in media relations.

Interview
Kenneth Marshall is the Media Relations Manager of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. The interview took place by email on March 12, 2014. Marshall express both the negative and positive points of working in media relations in our interview.

1) One in this field can work for cause they believe in. For him, it is public education.
2) Due to the varying tasks, the job is very stimulating. Marshalls responsibilities range from writing press releases and brochures to radio and television interviews. 3) It is excellent field for those who enjoy writing. Negative points include: 1) Due to the small number of jobs in media relations, one most likely has to move or commit to a long commute. 2) For the same reason, it is difficult to got your foot in the door.

Summary
Media relations is an excellent career for those who skilled in writing, public relations and have a charismatic personality. It broad range of tasks and responsibilities make it a good for those who desire variety in their careers. While it may difficult for people to get started in this field, it can prove to be a rewarding career.

References
Marshall, Kenneth. Personal Interview. 12 March, 2014. Media Manager Job Specification. HumanResources.Hrvinet.com. N.p. N.d. 5 April, 2014. Media Relation Careers. PRSA.org. The Public Relations Society of America. N.d. 5 April, 2014.