Internet of ThingsDigital public relations officers build as well as maintain a positive public image for a company or organisation. They create messaging for the media, from press releases to social media messages, that shape the public’s opinion of the company or organisation. In addition, this messaging increases awareness of the brand. Managing a company’s reputation, particularly with the explosion of social media incidents, is vital to guard a company’s brand and assist with building a positive relationship with consumers, clients, and its employees.

What is a Public Relations Manager?

The public relations manager role is a mid-level management position for someone who has between six and eight years of experience in the PR field. PR managers produce and sustain a favourable public image for their employer or client. They do this by communicating programmes, accomplishments and/or points of view.

Public relations managers are entrusted with fielding media questions as well as pitching stories to the media. In addition, they are responsible for:

  • Preparing media kits,
  • Organising press conferences,
  • Writing press releases and speeches,
  • Developing advertising and marketing communications material, as well as
  • Preparing articles for corporate newsletters.

Public relations managers are also responsible for releasing information that will counter negative publicity. These individuals are skilled in handling crisis and emergency communications. Should they need to PR managers may hire and manage freelance copywriters, graphic designers as well as other freelance professionals that they require. PR manager will also typically manage the public relations department budget and typically report to the head of a unit or department.

What skills does a digital PR officer need?

There are five essential skills that every digital PR officer needs these are the following:

  1. Communication

Both written and verbal communication are the main skills that a digital PR officer will  use every day when working in this field. It is necessary for them to communicate their thoughts clearly and be an excellent listener. A digital PR specialist needs to be socially aware while communicating. It’s vital that he or she is able to pick up on the slightest change in tone or emotion during a conversation. In addition, they can’t let their own emotions colour their message.

  1. Writing Ability

A digital PR officer must possess the ability to write captivating content. A strong grasp of grammar as well as attention to detail is a plus in this industry. An aspiring digital PR officer should be able to walk into a job interview and present samples of articles, press releases or copy that they have written.

  1. Understanding of Social Media

Social media has redefined communication between Digital Public Relations Officers and their audiences. Today everyone is giving importance for Social media reputation. Youtube is one of the top video social sharing platform and we can create and publish videos. The top influencer Jeff Bullas blog suggests on how increase social credibility, performance and get more likes on Youtube by getting or buying more likes. Having a strong grasp of social media does not just mean that these individuals know how to like a friend’s Facebook post or frequently post status updates. It means that they:

  • Are knowledgeable about the best way in which to use social media to manage a brand voice,
  • Comprehend the fundamental differences between the individual social media platforms,
  • Understand how to use social media platforms as tools for interacting with the public.
  1. Multimedia

Multimedia skills play a big part in presenting content online content. it is vital for a digital public relations specialist to have at least a basic knowledge of how to use various types of media. He or she may not be a blogger but they need to be familiar with where and how to post a blog.

  1. Creativity

Creativity is not just a skill that artists need to have. Digital Public Relations Officers are called upon to be creative all the time. Digital public relations officers are constantly required to be creative. They need to think outside the box in addition to coming up with ideas that others haven’t.

It is predicted that, over the next few years, there will be employment growth for Digital Public Relations Officers. Those who have these key skills will be in the best position to reap the rewards.