The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Junior PR / Communications Executive
2-3 yearsSkills to master
- Strong writing and editing, media relations basics, internal communications support, event management support, foundational understanding of brand messaging.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently delivers high-quality written content for various channels.
- Can manage multiple small projects or tasks with minimal supervision.
- Has demonstrated an interest in crisis or reputation management through projects or self-study.
- Receives positive feedback on collaboration and attention to detail.
- 2
Marketing or Digital Content Creator (with Comms focus)
2-4 yearsSkills to master
- Digital content creation, social media management, basic analytics, understanding of online audience behaviour, ability to adapt tone of voice.
You're ready to move on when
- Proven ability to manage social media channels and monitor online conversations.
- Experience in drafting public-facing content under tight deadlines.
- Shows a keen awareness of online sentiment and potential reputational risks.
- Can quickly pivot content strategy based on real-time events.
- 3
Internal Communications Specialist
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Employee engagement, change communications, internal channel management, drafting sensitive internal messages, understanding organisational culture.
You're ready to move on when
- Excellent track record in drafting clear and empathetic internal communications.
- Experience in communicating sensitive or difficult news to employees.
- Understands the importance of consistent messaging across an organisation.
- Has helped manage internal communications during minor incidents or changes.