National Careers Week: Why I switched from journalism to public relations

Changing career path can be a daunting experience. Particularly when the role which you’re leaving behind is one you wanted to do since childhood.

But that was the predicament I found myself in six months ago. After close to six brilliant years working in local journalism, and fulfilling a long-term dream to be a football reporter, it was the right time to seek a new challenge.

I knew I wanted a change of scenery away from journalism, but I still thoroughly enjoyed writing.

There’s something about starting with a blank page and drafting an article from top to bottom which gives me a rush and a sense of pride. It might sound odd, but it’s true.

A new career path

With the skills I’d picked up in journalism, there were some intriguing options when exploring for a new career.

But the one that stood out was communications and PR. The opportunity to use transferable skills from journalism, while also developing myself in a new environment.

Naturally there were mixed emotions about leaving behind a beloved role covering Oxford United for the local newspaper, apprehension about switching careers, and a general feeling of uneasy nervousness.

However, as I now swiftly approach six months at Fortitude Communications, I know I’ve made the right decision – and that’s not PR speak!

Agency life

Life at Fortitude has allowed me to learn new skills, meet new people, and grasp new opportunities.

No two days are the same, while working at an agency means no two clients are the same either. Interviewing and writing remain critical skills, but I’m also developing photography, graphic design and social media capabilities too.

Supportive colleagues have guided me through new paths, while I’ve also been able to impart some of my own experience and wisdom from journalism.

Job satisfaction

At the heart of what I do though remains creative storytelling. Writing front page splashes or back page sport stories have been replaced by creating imaginative media releases for varying local and trade press.

Delivering results for clients, whether that be media releases landing in the press or social media posts performing well, gives me an immense job satisfaction, as does being involved with new clients, and watching the relationship blossom with a clear strategy and meaningful communications.

If this National Careers Week, you’re considering a career in PR, then do explore the many varying opportunities out there. Whether that be comms, PR, social media, marketing or elsewhere, get researching and find what’s right for you.

Half a year in at Fortitude, and I’m enthusiastic about what the future holds. Roll on the next six months!