Courses in advertising, business administration, political science, psychology, sociology, creative writing, and computers are highly recommended by PR professionals. Public contact and persuasive skills can also be gained in sales jobs. Some employers seek applicants that demonstrate solid communication skills and experience in a field related to the firm s business specialty. Successful PR Reps have a thorough understanding of people and human psychology. In large organizations, beginning PR Reps may start as trainees in a formal training program .
Promotions come as employees prove they can handle more demanding assignments.
Non-profit organizations often provide many opportunities for PR Reps to learn new tasks. A typical PR career path within a public relations firm may begin as a research or account assistant then to account executive and account supervisor. Some PR Reps become vice president and eventually senior vice president. In addition, continuing education is a means of earning more income and making oneself more valuable within the PR industry. Reps are getting a master s in business to complement their PR background.