What Does a Public Information Officer Do?

Man giving a speech.

Public information officers write speeches, press releases, letters, and help with events. Their main task is to provide the public with information in regard to neighborhood safety, new laws, police reports, and other events that may occur in a community. Tasks may vary widely for a public information officer.

Job Requirements

Every day is different for a public information officer. They may write and deliver press releases, speak to television stations, write newspaper articles, and convey information to the public about relevant neighborhood events. Some public information officers work only for certain agencies, such as the police department, while others offer their services to different groups seeking a PR spokesperson.

Education

There are very few certificate programs available for a public information officer. Most have degrees in political science or literature, and all have a talent for writing and speaking to the public. Many public information officers started off as newscasters or reporters and moved into writing.

Lifestyle

A public information officer may be required to dress up when giving a speech to a group, or may work from a home office writing speeches and press releases for others. Flexibility is a necessity, since a public information officer may need to give or write a speech at a moment's notice in cases of emergency.

Salary

The salary varies for a public information officer. Most earn less than $60,000 per year working full time. Experienced speech writers and speakers can earn more, depending upon the location and the employing agency.

Outlook

The outlook is very good for public information officers. Those with exceptional writing and speaking skills will be in high demand for groups that desire a spokesperson. The ability to convey sensitive information with empathy is important as well.

References

• Vault.com
• National Information Officers Association
• Public Relations Specialist