Public relations specialists establish and maintain relationships between organizations and the public by keeping both parties informed of each other's concerns and activities. They typically work 40 hours per week with some flexibility and travel, and have a college degree in a communications field plus experience. There are over 275,000 PR specialist jobs concentrated in large cities within industries like services, finance, media, and government.

1. The World of Public Relations

2. Job DescriptionEstablish and Sustain Relationships.Keep public informed about activities and accomplishments within the company.Keep management up to date on the concerns and opinions of the public.

3. Working ConditionsTypical 40 hour work weekOn call during busy timesFlexible schedule to meet deadlinesTravel when necessary

4. Education and QualificationsCollege degree in Public Relations, Advertising, Journalism, or CommunicationsPublic Relations experienceStrong interpersonal skillsAbility to write wellGood personality

5. Job OpportunitiesPR Specialists held 275,200 jobs in 2008.Most jobs in service-providing industries, financial institutions, communication firms and government agencies.Concentrated in large cities

6. Employment ChangeEntry level positions are very competitive.High profile nature of the work.Success of a company depends on its relationship with the public.