How To Become a PR Manager: Salary & Career Paths for 2025

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Public relations managers devise strategies to make their clients or employers more appealing to their targeted segments. Their effectiveness has led to the number of PR firms in the United States reaching a notable 49,747 as of February 2025, and this excludes the internal PR departments of enterprises.

Given the relevancy of public relations in today's landscape, this guide shines a light on PR managers, their general responsibilities, and the steps aspirants can take to become one. It also provides key information that aspirants will find useful, such as salary projections, relevant software, critical skills, and job outlook.

Key Things You Should Know About Becoming a PR Manager in 2025

PR managers strategically build and protect the public image of organizations and individuals.
79% of PR managers have a bachelor's degree, 11% earned a master's degree, 6% completed an associate degree, and 2% have a high school diploma.
The employment of PR managers is projected to increase by 7% from 2023 to 2033.
The US states with the highest employment levels for PR managers are California (9,580), the District of Columbia (8,220), Texas (8,040), New York (6,960), and Florida (3,460).
The average annual salary of PR managers in the United States is $159,420, while the median annual salary is $134,760.
The industries that offer the highest average annual salaries to PR managers are oil and gas extraction ($248,460), motion picture and video industries ($239,840), computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing ($235,270), merchant wholesalers of nondurable goods ($231,500), and couriers and express delivery services ($230,030).

What does a PR manager do?
How does one become a PR manager in 2025?
What degree does an aspirant need to become a PR manager?
What skills do employers prioritize for PR managers?
What are the software systems typically used by PR managers?
What are the best certifications for PR managers?
How does one write a compelling PR manager resume?
What are common jobs for aspiring PR managers?
What are the key challenges PR managers face?
Can targeted advanced degrees elevate a PR manager's career?
What is the job outlook for PR managers?
What is the average salary of PR managers?
What are the biggest PR trends shaping 2025?
Is Further Education a Worthwhile Investment for PR Managers?
Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a PR Manager

What does a PR manager do?

PR managers strategically build and protect the public image of organizations and individuals. They drive positive perception by managing communication with the media, stakeholders, and the public. Success in this role often hinges on the ability to anticipate and respond to evolving public sentiment.

Their key responsibilities include the following:

Developing PR Strategies: Creating and executing public relations campaigns to promote brand awareness and positive publicity.
Managing Media Relations: Writing press releases, pitching stories to journalists, and maintaining relationships with media outlets.
Crisis Communication: Handling negative press or public crises by developing response strategies to protect the organization's reputation.
Social Media & Digital PR: Overseeing online brand presence, engaging with audiences, and managing PR-related content on social platforms.
Event Planning & Sponsorships: Organizing press conferences, product launches, and networking events to enhance public image.
Monitoring Public Perception: Tracking media coverage, analyzing public sentiment, and adjusting PR strategies accordingly.
Internal Communications: Ensuring employees and stakeholders stay informed about company news, changes, and key initiatives.
Collaborating with Marketing Teams: Working closely with marketing departments to align PR efforts with advertising and branding strategies. Speaking of marketing teams, this includes working hand-in-hand with content marketing specialists. Check out how to become a content marketing specialist if this is an area you also want to explore.

How does one become a PR manager in 2025?

Becoming a PR manager requires a combination of education, hands-on experience, and strong communication skills. Public relations professionals must develop expertise in media relations, crisis communication, and brand management to succeed in this role. The following steps outline the most effective path to becoming a PR manager.

Earn a Relevant Degree: Most PR managers begin their careers by earning a bachelor’s degree in public relations, communications, journalism, marketing, or business administration. A formal education provides a strong foundation in media strategy, corporate communication, and digital PR. Some professionals choose to pursue a master’s degree in public relations or corporate communications to gain advanced knowledge and leadership skills. Those who prefer to focus more on business can take online MBA no GMAT programs.
Gain PR Experience Through Internships: Internships are a crucial first step in a PR career. Many aspiring PR professionals start as interns in PR agencies, corporate communication departments, media organizations, or nonprofit organizations. Internships provide hands-on experience in writing press releases, coordinating media outreach, and managing public relations campaigns. They also help students and recent graduates build a portfolio of work that can be used to secure entry-level jobs.
Start in an Entry-Level PR Role: Before becoming a PR manager, professionals must gain experience in junior positions. Entry-level roles include Public Relations Assistant, Communications Coordinator, Social Media Specialist, and Junior Account Executive at a PR agency. These positions allow professionals to develop key skills such as writing press materials, managing social media communications, and assisting with media relations. Working in these roles helps individuals gain the experience necessary for leadership positions.
Develop Strong Writing & Media Relations Skills: PR managers must be skilled at writing and storytelling to create compelling brand messages. They should focus on improving their ability to write press releases, speeches, and media pitches. Additionally, building relationships with journalists and media outlets is essential for securing news coverage and managing a company’s reputation. Strong writing and media relations skills set successful PR professionals apart from their peers.
Grow a Professional Network: Networking plays a vital role in advancing a PR career. PR professionals should actively participate in industry events, conferences, and networking meetups to establish meaningful connections. Joining organizations like the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) offers valuable access to job opportunities, mentorship programs, and industry insights. Additionally, fostering relationships with journalists, editors, and influencers enhances media outreach efforts, increasing the chances of securing press coverage for clients or brands.
Obtain PR Certifications to Strengthen Credentials: While not required, obtaining PR certifications can give professionals a competitive edge in the job market. Certifications like the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) from PRSA validate advanced expertise in public relations. Additional credentials, such as the HubSpot Content Marketing Certification and the Google Analytics Certification, help professionals refine their skills in content strategy and campaign performance analysis. Earning these certifications strengthens a PR professional’s resume and demonstrates a commitment to ongoing professional development.
Gain Leadership Experience to Move Into a PR Manager Role: To advance to a PR manager position, professionals must develop leadership skills and demonstrate their ability to oversee PR campaigns. Taking on leadership responsibilities within an organization, managing client accounts, and coordinating media strategies are essential steps in this transition. PR managers are responsible for leading teams, handling crisis communication, and shaping the public image of a company or brand. Gaining leadership experience is crucial for career advancement.
Stay Updated with PR Trends & Digital Strategies: Public relations is a fast-moving industry where staying ahead of trends is key to long-term success. With the rise of digital PR, influencer engagement, and real-time media analytics, PR professionals must continually expand their knowledge. Engaging with leading PR experts, attending industry conferences, and leveraging online learning platforms can provide crucial insights. Additionally, keeping up with essential PR tools like Cision, Meltwater, and Hootsuite ensures professionals can execute high-impact campaigns. By embracing innovation and continuous learning, PR managers can stay at the forefront of the industry.

According to Zippia, 79% of PR managers have a bachelor's degree, 11% earned a master's degree, 6% completed an associate degree, and 2% have a high school diploma.

What degree does an aspirant need to become a PR manager?

Most PR managers earn a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, gaining essential skills in media relations, messaging, and crisis communication. While various academic paths can lead to a PR career, certain degrees offer more specialized training for long-term success. Here are some of the most common degrees aspirants should pursue:

Bachelor's Degree in Public Relations: A public relations degree is the most direct path to a PR career. It covers essential topics such as media writing, crisis communication, campaign strategy, and brand management. Many programs also include hands-on experience through internships and industry projects.
Bachelor's Degree in Communications: A communications degree focuses on effective messaging, audience analysis, and media studies. It helps students develop strong writing, public speaking, and interpersonal skills—key abilities for PR managers handling corporate communications and press relations. Students who intend to further deepen their knowledge in communicating can pursue an affordable online master's degree in communications.
Bachelor's Degree in Journalism: A journalism degree can be beneficial for PR professionals, as it provides expertise in media relations, storytelling, and news writing. PR managers with a journalism background have a deep understanding of how the media works, making it easier to pitch stories and secure press coverage.
Bachelor's Degree in Marketing: A marketing degree offers valuable insights into branding, consumer behavior, and digital marketing strategies. PR managers often collaborate with marketing teams, making this degree a useful alternative for those interested in integrated marketing communications (IMC). Digital marketing specialists are also in high demand these days, so a marketing degree would come in real handy. What does a digital marketing specialist do? Check out our separate article on the topic.
Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration: A business degree with a focus on marketing or communications can prepare aspiring PR managers for leadership roles. It provides knowledge in corporate strategy, management, and organizational communication, which is beneficial for PR professionals working in executive positions.
Advanced Degrees & Certifications: While a master’s degree is not required, some professionals pursue a master’s in public relations, strategic communications, or an MBA with a PR focus to enhance their leadership and strategic decision-making skills. Additionally, obtaining certifications like the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) can further strengthen a PR professional’s credentials.

Based on Zippia data, 21% of PR managers in the United States are communications majors, 13% are journalism majors, 11% are public relations majors, 11% are business majors, and 44% have other majors.

What skills do employers prioritize for PR managers?

To excel as a public relations manager, professionals must have exemplary communication, strategy, leadership, and analytical skills, partially similar to the skills developed in online social work degree programs. Employers look for candidates who can represent a brand effectively, manage crises, and build lasting relationships with media and the public.

Below are the core skills that hiring managers typically prioritize when evaluating PR professionals:

Strategic Communication: Employers value PR managers who can come up and deliver communication strategies that align with an individual's or an organization's goals. After all, they are tasked with composing press releases and collateral for brand and product imaging. This involves crafting key messages, identifying target audiences, and selecting the right communication channels to maximize impact.
Media Relations: Strong media relations skills are essential for earning press coverage and maintaining positive relationships with journalists and editors. Employers seek PR managers who can pitch stories effectively, respond to media inquiries, and build a trusted media network.
Crisis Management: The ability to navigate a public relations crisis calmly and effectively is a top priority. Employers want professionals who can assess a situation quickly, communicate transparently, and protect the brand’s reputation under pressure.
Writing & Editing: Clear, persuasive writing is at the heart of successful PR. PR managers must excel at writing press releases, speeches, media pitches, and executive communications. Strong editing skills also ensure all content remains polished and professional.
Digital & Social Media Expertise: PR in today's landscape requires competency in social media and other relevant digital platforms. Employers prefer individuals who are adept at stimulating engagement for different social media portals, leveraging the most suitable influencers, and using digital solutions to track conversations and trends of targeted demographics.
Project Management: PR managers typically handle multiple projects or campaigns simultaneously. These professionals need to multitask and practice proper time management to coordinate with their teams, meet deadlines, and manage project budgets. This skill is also instrumental to students of construction management degree programs.
Leadership: PR managers lead teams of public relations specialists. They need to manage, inspire, and foster engagement among their staff for the team to perform optimally. In addition, PR managers frequently collaborate with other departments, like HR, accounting, and marketing, which requires skill in collaboration.
Creativity & Innovation: Creative thinking helps PR managers develop compelling stories, plan unique campaigns, and differentiate their brand in a crowded media landscape. Employers value originality and a forward-thinking approach to communication.
Data Analysis & Reporting: PR is increasingly data-driven. Employers appreciate candidates who can interpret analytics, evaluate the success of campaigns, and use insights to optimize future efforts. Familiarity with PR metrics, SEO, and media monitoring tools is a major plus.
Public Speaking & Presentation: Confidence in speaking publicly—whether addressing stakeholders, leading a press conference, or delivering a campaign pitch—is another highly valued skill. Employers want PR professionals who can represent the company with poise and authority.

How do you become a manager? Note that all these skills are very essential for managers in all industries and work settings.

Zippia reports that the most common skills on the CVs of PR managers in the United States are writing press releases (19.8%), web content (4.6%), PR campaigns (4.4%), marketing campaigns (4.3%), digital marketing (3.6%), Facebook (3.3%), and fact sheets (3.2%).

What are the software systems typically used by PR managers?

PR managers leverage a variety of software systems to help them streamline workflows, manage media relationships, monitor brand reputation, and evaluate campaign performance. These tools are essential for running successful PR campaigns and maintaining a strong public image. Below are the key types of software systems commonly used in PR:

Media Relations Management Tools: These platforms help PR managers build and maintain relationships with journalists and media outlets. They typically include media contact databases, outreach tracking, and tools for crafting and sending press releases.
Press Release Distribution Software: PR distribution tools are designed to distribute press releases to targeted media outlets, ensuring broad coverage. These often include features for multimedia integration and performance tracking.
Media Monitoring and Listening Tools: These systems monitor mentions of brands, competitors, or keywords across online platforms, including news outlets, blogs, and social media. They provide insights into public sentiment and help identify trends or potential crises.
Social Media Management Tools: Tools for managing social media allow PR managers to schedule posts, track engagement metrics, and analyze social media performance. They are essential for managing brand presence on platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Analytics and Reporting Software: Analytics tools measure the effectiveness of PR campaigns by tracking metrics such as share of voice, audience reach, sentiment analysis, and ROI. They help PR managers refine strategies based on data insights.
Customer Relationship Management Systems: PR-specific CRM tools enable managers to organize media contacts, track interactions, and manage outreach campaigns effectively.
Content Creation Tools: These include platforms for creating press releases, blog posts, or multimedia content (images, videos) that align with PR campaigns.
Influencer and Partnership Management Software: These applications help identify influencers or partners relevant to the brand’s goals while managing collaborations and tracking outcomes.
Crisis Communication Tools: Specialized tools in this category offer real-time alerts for potential crises and templates or workflows for managing communication during emergencies.
Online Newsroom Platforms: These systems host press kits, news updates, and brand assets in a centralized location that journalists can easily access.

To be able to optimize these tools, you may want to collaborate with IT consultants and experts. Check out IT consultant requirements if you want to know more.

What are the best certifications for PR managers?

PR managers gain a significant advantage if they obtain some of the discipline's top certifications like the APR, PCM, and CMP since they stand to gain knowledge in key areas of public relations. In addition, having the top PR certifications boosts their employability, with the documents serving as proof of competency, akin to a bookkeeping certification.

The ideal certifications for PR managers include the following:

Accreditation in Public Relations (APR): For experienced PR professionals, the APR certification from PRSA signifies a high level of expertise. It validates mastery in strategic communication, ethical practice, crisis management, and leadership through rigorous panel review and examination.
Professional Certified Marketer (PCM): The PCM certification, provided by the American Marketing Association, covers key marketing principles such as branding, digital strategy, and analytics, making it ideal for PR managers who work closely with marketing teams or oversee integrated campaigns.
Communication Management Professional (CMP): Offered by the Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC), the CMP certification validates skills in managing communication strategies, stakeholder engagement, and organizational messaging, suiting PR managers seeking to demonstrate leadership in communication management.
Certified Manager Certification (CM): The CM certification centers on leadership, team management, and organizational effectiveness, benefiting PR managers who oversee teams or manage large-scale projects.
Certified Social Marketing Associate (CSMA): The CSMA certification emphasizes social media strategies, analytics, and campaign execution, making it ideal for PR managers leveraging social platforms to enhance brand visibility.
Certified Resume Specialist: Public Relations and Marketing Communications (CRS+PR): The CRS+PR certification, offered by Career Directors International, enhances skills in crafting compelling resumes and communications materials tailored to the PR industry.
Certified Internet Marketer (CIM): The CIM certification, provided by the Internet Marketing Association, offers foundational knowledge in digital marketing, including SEO, content strategy, and analytics—skills increasingly relevant for modern PR managers.
Public Relations Management Certificate: Offered by various institutions like Udemy or the Metropolitan School of Business, this certification provides comprehensive training in media relations, crisis communication, and strategic planning, helping PR managers refine their tactical skills.
Certified Economic Developer (CEcD): The CEcD certification benefits PR managers working in economic development or government sectors by enhancing their understanding of public policy and community engagement.
Accredited Business Communicator (ABC): The ABC certification validates expertise in business communication strategies and is ideal for senior PR professionals focused on aligning messaging with organizational goals.

The chart below shows the US industries that employ the most PR managers.

How does one write a compelling PR manager resume?

Applying also to aspiring health psychologist professionals, writing a compelling PR manager resume requires a blend of strong storytelling, quantifiable achievements, and industry-specific keywords to stand out. Here's a step-by-step guide to crafting a resume that will impress hiring managers:

Craft a Powerful Professional Summary: A PR manager’s resume should begin with a brief but compelling professional summary. This section should highlight experience level, industry knowledge, and major career accomplishments in public relations.
Emphasize In-Demand Skills: A dedicated skills section should showcase a balance of technical expertise and interpersonal strengths. Hard skills should include media relations, content strategy, digital PR, crisis communication, and event management. Soft skills should highlight creativity, leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
Demonstrate Impact in Work Experience: The experience section should go beyond listing job duties. Instead, it should focus on measurable achievements, such as the number of media placements secured, improvements in public perception, or engagement increases from PR campaigns. Employers value concrete data that shows direct contributions to brand growth.
Showcase Education & Certifications: A bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, or journalism is essential. Complement this with certifications such as the APR or HubSpot Content Marketing. This proves an aspirant's practical skills and increases their marketability in the competitive PR landscape.
List PR Industry Tools & Technologies: Proficiency in essential PR tools is a strong advantage. Including platforms like Cision, Meltwater, Google Alerts, Hootsuite, Sprout Social, Mailchimp, and PR Newswire demonstrates technical competency in modern PR strategies.
Optimize for SEO & Applicant Tracking Systems: Applicant tracking systems (ATS) scan resumes for relevant keywords. Including terms like “brand reputation management,” “media strategy,” “press release distribution,” and “stakeholder communication” improves the chances of passing ATS filters.
Use a Visually Appealing Yet Simple Layout: A clean, well-structured format ensures readability. Using bullet points, bold headings, and consistent font sizes helps make key achievements stand out. Limiting the document to one or two pages keeps it focused.

What are common jobs for aspiring PR managers?

Aspiring PR managers typically begin their careers in entry-level or mid-level roles that build the communication, writing, media relations, and strategic planning skills essential for management positions. These early roles serve as stepping stones, offering hands-on experience and exposure to various aspects of public relations. Below are some of the most common jobs that pave the way to a PR manager role:

Public Relations Assistant: This entry-level role involves supporting PR teams by writing press materials, compiling media lists, scheduling interviews, and tracking coverage. It helps new professionals learn the fundamentals of media outreach and campaign logistics.
Communications Coordinator: To build a strong foundation in communications, aspiring PR managers sometimes start as communications coordinators. This role involves managing newsletters, social media, and PR events, providing practical experience across a broad spectrum of communication channels.
Social Media Specialist: These digital specialists create and curate content for widely used social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Taking on the role of a social media specialist is an ideal entry point for aspiring PR professionals looking to build skills in digital storytelling, brand voice, and audience engagement.
Media Relations Specialist: Media relations specialists forge and strengthen relationships with journalists as they secure strategic media placements. They write press releases, pitch stories, and serve as a liaison between the company and the press—key responsibilities of a future PR manager.
Content Writer or Copywriter: Many PR professionals start in content creation roles, where they develop articles, blog posts, website copy, and marketing materials. This helps build strong writing skills and an understanding of brand messaging and audience targeting.
Public Affairs Associate: This role involves managing communication between an organization and government agencies or the public. It’s particularly common in nonprofits, education, and the public sector, and it helps build skills in advocacy and strategic messaging.
PR Account Executive (Agency Role): Account executives in PR agencies work with multiple clients, managing campaigns, coordinating media outreach, and reporting on results. This fast-paced role provides strong experience in multitasking, communication strategy, and client relations.
Marketing Coordinator: Though not strictly a PR role, marketing coordinators often work closely with PR teams and gain experience in campaign development, event planning, and promotional strategy—skills that transfer well to public relations management.

What are the key challenges PR managers face?

PR managers must continuously navigate a complex environment marked by rapid digital transformation and evolving stakeholder expectations. One significant challenge is adapting communication strategies to various digital platforms while ensuring consistent messaging. Another is managing crisis situations in real time where decisions must be both swift and strategically sound to protect a brand’s reputation. In addition, measuring the impact of PR initiatives remains a persistent issue, as quantifying qualitative outcomes requires sophisticated analytics and ongoing adjustments. Addressing these challenges might involve targeted professional development, such as pursuing a low cost online MBA degree in healthcare management, to enhance strategic decision-making and analytical capabilities.

Can targeted advanced degrees elevate a PR manager's career?

Specialized education can substantially enhance a PR manager's strategic outlook by deepening industry-specific expertise and fostering cross-disciplinary communication skills. For professionals eyeing roles in sectors such as healthcare or technology, advanced degrees provide a competitive edge by integrating rigorous analytical training with creative messaging strategies. Pursuing targeted programs can facilitate a smoother transition into specialized fields and unlock niche segments of the market, thereby broadening career prospects. For instance, aligning PR expertise with specialized technical knowledge may involve exploring online PharmD programs accredited to gain insights into pharmaceutical communication and regulatory requirements.

What is the job outlook for PR managers?

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of PR managers is projected to increase by 7% from 2023 to 2033, nearly double the national average (4%). With this, the number of PR managers in the country will grow from 78,400 in 2023 to 83,800 by 2033.

Finding a job in this field is not too challenging. According to job portal Indeed, more than 33,000 openings are currently available in the United States. The BLS, on the other hand, reports that there are around 8,900 openings for PR managers each year from 2023 to 2033.

Certain sectors and US states offer employment to more PR managers than others. The industries that employ the highest number of these professionals are advertising, public relations, and related services (8,810); company management (7,230); business, professional, labor, and similar organizations (5,720); colleges, universities, and similar educational institutions (5,540); and local government units (3,060).

As for the US states with the highest employment levels, California (9,580), the District of Columbia (8,220), Texas (8,040), New York (6,960), and Florida (3,460) come as the top regions.

What is the average salary of PR managers?

PR managers are highly paid professionals. Data from the BLS indicate that the average annual salary of PR managers in the United States is $159,420, while the median annual salary is $134,760. The average salary is more than three times higher than the collective median annual salary of all US professions ($48,060). Notably, PR managers can receive even higher compensation if they work in high-value industries and locations.

The industries that offer the highest average annual salaries are oil and gas extraction ($248,460), motion picture and video industries ($239,840), computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing ($235,270), merchant wholesalers of nondurable goods ($231,500), and couriers and express delivery services ($230,030).

Meanwhile, the US states that endow the highest average annual pay are the District of Columbia ($224,110), New York ($214,080), Virginia ($182,610), New Jersey ($182,190), and Massachusetts ($170,600).

What are the biggest PR trends shaping 2025?

To navigate the rapidly changing media landscape, PR professionals must remain acutely aware of emerging technologies, shifting consumer expectations, and the critical need for authentic communication. Adhering to them and making the necessary adjustments can impact one's PR strategy considerably. The trends PR managers should take note of include the following:

AI-Powered PR Strategies: Artificial intelligence is transforming PR workflows, enabling professionals to analyze large datasets, monitor media, and craft tailored pitches. Generative AI tools are increasingly used for press release creation, proofreading, and trend analysis, offering greater efficiency and precision.
Authenticity and Transparency: Audiences demand genuine communication and transparency in brand messaging. PR professionals must prioritize ethical practices and disclose the use of AI or other automated tools in campaigns to maintain trust.
Data-Driven Decision Making: PR strategies are increasingly reliant on analytics to measure campaign performance, track KPIs like brand awareness and engagement, and justify resource allocation to stakeholders. Data-driven approaches are essential for optimizing results.
Localized PR Strategies: Global campaigns are giving way to hyper-targeted regional strategies that resonate with specific cultures and communities. Localization involves tailoring messaging, collaborating with local influencers, and addressing regional concerns.
Influencer Marketing: Influencer partnerships remain a cornerstone of PR campaigns. Collaborating with micro-influencers and niche creators allows brands to reach highly engaged audiences in a personalized way.
Digital PR Expansion: The decline of traditional media is accelerating a significant shift towards digital PR. Social media, online news, podcasts, and short-form video are now the primary channels for reaching target audiences and executing effective PR campaigns.
Crisis Management Preparedness: With the rise of instant communication via social media, organizations must be ready to respond quickly to crises. Crisis management strategies focusing on monitoring channels and activating communication plans are more critical than ever.

Is Further Education a Worthwhile Investment for PR Managers?

In today’s competitive environment, pursuing advanced education can offer PR managers a strategic edge. Specialized programs not only deepen industry-specific knowledge but also refine leadership, digital communication, and crisis management skills. Candidates exploring these options often consider programs that integrate practical experiences with management theory. For instance, an affordable online MBA can provide a comprehensive curriculum that addresses both the creative and analytical aspects of public relations while preparing professionals for broader managerial responsibilities.

Here's What PR Managers Have to Say About Their Jobs

"As a PR manager, I get to shape narratives that truly resonate with audiences. Whether it’s launching a campaign or managing a brand’s reputation, I love the challenge of turning complex messages into compelling stories. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing the direct impact of my work on public perception." – Alina

"Being a PR manager offers me the creative freedom to think outside the box and develop innovative campaigns that capture the essence of our brand. I enjoy collaborating with diverse teams to bring ideas to life, from brainstorming sessions to media launches. It's a thrill to see our stories make headlines and inspire meaningful conversations." – Tim

"Every day is a new challenge, and that's what I love. Seeing a well-crafted campaign resonate with an audience and build positive relationships is incredibly rewarding. It's a career where strategic thinking meets creative execution, and you see the results of your work in real-time." – Cairo

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a PR Manager

What is the difference between PR and advertising?

The primary difference between PR and advertising lies in how they achieve their objectives. Advertising involves paid promotions to directly control the message and placement, aiming to drive sales or awareness through media like TV, social media, or print ads. In contrast, PR focuses on earned media by building relationships with journalists and stakeholders to create organic, credible exposure for a brand or organization.

What is the difference between PR and marketing?

Marketing drives revenue through product promotion and sales strategies, while PR focuses on building and maintaining a positive brand reputation. Marketing sells products; PR sells credibility. They differ in core objectives and focus areas. Ultimately, PR aims to cultivate long-term goodwill, whereas marketing seeks immediate sales impact.

How does one write a PR plan?

To write a PR plan, one should start by defining clear goals, identifying target audiences, and crafting key messages that align with the brand’s objectives. The plan should outline specific strategies and tactics, such as media outreach, events, or social media campaigns, along with a timeline and measurable metrics for success. It also includes a budget and methods for evaluating results to adjust future efforts.

What is a PR campaign?

A PR campaign is a coordinated series of strategic communication efforts designed to achieve specific public relations goals, such as increasing brand awareness, improving reputation, or launching a product. It typically involves media outreach, content creation, events, and social media engagement aimed at influencing public perception. Successful PR campaigns are targeted, time-bound, and measured by clear performance indicators like media coverage, audience engagement, or sentiment shifts.

References:

BLS (2024, April 3). 11-2032 Public Relations Managers. BLS
BLS (2024, August 29). Public Relations and Fundraising Managers. BLS
Govdysh, A. (2025, February). Public Relations Firms in the US - Market Research Report (2015-2030). IBISWorld
Zippia (2025, January 8). Public Relations Manager Education Requirements. Zippia
Zippia (2025, January 8). Public Relations Manager skills for your resume and career. Zippia