The communications field has changed drastically in the past decade. More and more newspapers are adding an online version to accommodate web-savvy readers. Some magazines, like Salon, are published solely online. Budget cuts are forcing many companies to make deep cuts, often leading to fewer internal communications specialists or public relations representatives. The changing economy is forcing all communications professionals to wear numerous hats and work in varied roles.
According to the United States Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment is projected to grow faster than most in the field of Public Relations, although competition is also expected to increase due to the saturated job market. Companies may be altering their budgets, but the smart CEOs know that PR pays off in the long run. Public Relations Specialists with additional language abilities are especially in demand at this time.
Employment of writers and editors is expected to grow by ten percent by 2016, which is considered as fast as average. The demand is mostly increasing because of web-based opportunities. Technical writing and interactive media knowledge are looked highly upon in the midst of this digital age. The majority of company newsletters are now online and many organizations have sophisticated intranets that need to be maintained. The best job prospects are for technical writers and those with training in a specialized field.
Job openings for news reporters and news anchors are few and far between in this current day and age. The news industry revolves around advertising revenue so if other companies are struggling financially, the news industry will also suffer. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that employment in this area is expected to undergo little or no change through 2016. The market will be tight as improving technology is leading to more efficient workers.
Freelance writers and journalists may have some of the best opportunities in the communications sector through this economic downturn. Often companies turn to outside sources when they consider their own staff tapped out so new graduates may have opportunities to gain a lot of professional experience right away. Companies are also combining roles to save money. Oftentimes one employee will manage the organization’s e-newsletter while also serving as a media contact. Internal communications departments may merge with marketing departments as well. Reporters will most likely be required to post their own stories online and adapt the content to be more web-friendly.
For those interested in the communications field to be successful, they must embrace new technologies and be open to multiple and varied job responsibilities. Core writing skills are more important than ever and new graduates will need those skills to lean on in this new and changing environment.
