Job Description of External Relations

External relations officers are employed to manage a company's reputation.

External relations officers are employed to manage a company’s reputation. They deal with outside media and make communications on behalf of a company. External relations officers are also referred to as public relations specialists, communication officers and media specialists.

Education

The preferred entry method to a career in external relations is a bachelor’s degree in mass communications, journalism or public relations, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Internships and work experience are also beneficial ways to gain experience.

Skills

Those working in external relations must be confident communicators with good spelling and grammar. The ability to work with strict deadlines is essential as is working well under pressure.

Responsibilities

Those working in external relations are responsible for contacting media, issuing statements on a company’s behalf, drafting press releases and preparing and delivering speeches, according to Career Planner.

Considerations

Working with tight schedules and deadlines can be stressful. The BLS reports that many in the industry work 34-40 hours per week, and overtime is common. The industry has been projected to grow by the BLS by 24 percent from 2008 to 2018.

Salary

The average annual salary of a public relations specialist in May 2008 was $51,280, according to the BLS. The highest 10 percent earned over $97,910.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Public Relation Specialists
• Career Planner: Public Relations Specialists

Resources

• Public Relations Society of America