Communications Specialist Job Description

Communications Specialist Job Profile and Description

The reputation and the image that a company has determine its products’ acceptability to its markets and, thus, its profitability.  Its continued existence also hinges on the same reputation. Communications Specialists, also known as Public Relations Specialists or Media Specialists in other industries, serve as advocates for companies, organizations and individuals seeking to build and sustain positive relationships with the public.   It’s based on the premise that good public relations are good business.

Communications Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

• Secure guaranteed spots in broadcast and print media for press releases, announcements and appearances as needed.
• Provide support to executives and personalities appearing on any media
• Draft advertorial articles to be used in printed media.
• Recommend strategic redirection of failed marketing and promotional campaigns based on the public image perceptions.
• Participate actively in any corporate or individual’s public image positioning initiatives such as crafting new logos, taglines, brand naming, etc.
• Supervise the conduct of corporate events with high media visibility.
• Prepare invitation list for media in any corporate or celebrity event.

Communications Specialist Skills and Specifications

• Must have the sensitivity to gauge public perception about the company or individual based on media, survey polls and online opinion
• Must have excellent tact and diplomacy in dealing with the press and the media
• Must be able to work long hours often under extreme pressures
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Communications Specialist Education and Qualifications

• A BS/BA college degree in Mass Communication, Sociology, Industrial Psychology, Advertising or relative courses is basic
• 2-3 years of experience in an advertising, promotions and public relations work in any industry is an advantage

Communications Specialist Salary

The median annual compensation for salaried Media/Communications/public relations specialists stood at $51,300 in 2008. The middle 50% earned between $38,400 and $71,700 with the lowest 10% earning around $30,100 while the top 10% earned about $98,000.