Masters in Strategic Communication |Digital Marketing |Copywriter |Content Creator
Assumptions I Had About the Communications Industry Before I Started Working 1. I thought communication jobs were fun. This has proven to be true, it is a lot of hard work, but it is work that I enjoy. Our work allows us to be creative and do tasks that are outside of “traditional” work duties. Some of our tasks involve writing, which I love, conceptualising and implementing marketing campaigns, taking pictures, designing product packages and logos, planning events, social media management, media liaison, and crafting catchy messaging amongst other tasks. All these tasks need to be strategically aligned with the organisation's goals. 2. I thought communications was all glitz and glam. This is not true, yes when you work for certain organisations you get to organise and attend glamorous events. But you are usually not enjoying the flashing lights, but rather responsible for ensuring that the lights do flash when they need to. You are responsible for ensuring that the venue is branded accordingly, in some organisations this means carrying heavy material and branding items to do the actual setting up. You are responsible for ensuring the program runs smoothly and all the speakers are lined up as should be. Not so glamourous after all, but very rewarding when you see an event you have planned for weeks or months come together beautifully. 3. I thought career progression would be quicker. This has proven to be harder than imagined, as an experienced communications professional I now know that you need to work very hard to get ahead. Even hard work does not guarantee growth, you need to either study further, network with people who have influence, do a short course, or any other avenue that will help you set yourself apart from other candidates. The reality is that our industry is saturated, we are all trying to progress in our careers, and competition is tight. What assumptions did you make about your industry before you entered the job market? #LessonsFromMyCareerJourney #CorporateCommunicationsProfessional
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Specialist in Strategic Communications & Stakeholder Relations | PRISA Accredited | Media & Public Relations | Advocacy | Marketing | Brand | Content Creation | Social Media | Events Management
8moWell said, my sister! I used to think communication was all about being witty. Yoo, was I mistaken! It turns out that wit is just the icing on the cake. Most days, I feel like the cake, trying to hold it all together while everyone enjoys the icing! 🎂 Honestly, if I had a dollar for every pun I came up with, I could afford to hire someone to manage them for me. I thought I’d always have the answers. Ha! Now I realize it’s more about asking the right questions. Sometimes, I feel like a detective on a case, but instead of a magnifying glass, I’ve got my laptop and a lot of coffee. “Who took the budget? Was it the marketing team, or did it just vanish?” It’s true that the journey can be tougher than we initially expect, even for seasoned professionals. However, it's essential to remember that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. While the competition is fierce, it’s also a reminder that our industry is filled with talented individuals who are just as passionate about their work. Embrace the journey—each step, even the tough ones, is part of your unique path.