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Today’s technology and smart business practices have allowed some companies to accomplish great feats. With successful and struggling businesses alike, come customers and members of the public who are affected by the company’s actions and policies. Business communicators take on the responsibility to relay accurate information to the public, in good times and bad. These professionals are known by several titles, including:
• Public relations specialist
• Communications specialist
• Media specialist
To reach the people who will be receiving public relations or communication messages, the communication specialist has many tools at his or her disposal. These include media contacts who will publish or broadcast information, press releases, speeches and other special events.
Government agencies also employ business communicators. Some alternate job titles for these government employees might be:
• Press secretary
• Information officer
• Public affairs specialist
• Communication specialist
No matter the client or employer, business communication specialists typically spend their work days in busy offices. This profession can involve pressure to complete tasks to high standards and on strict deadlines. Also, communications professionals may have their schedules change at a moment’s notice to meet new deadlines, to travel, to attend special events or to deliver speeches and presentations.
The communication specialist’s employer dictates many of his or her responsibilities. In some large companies, business communicators serve as a vice president who develops the company’s plans and policies in cooperation with the other executives. This individual would also supervise the public relations department, which is responsible for:
• Writing
• Researching
• Preparing speeches, presentations or press releases
• Maintaining press contacts
• Responding to inquiries from the media or public
Salary Range:
$29,500 — $197,500
Education Level (minimum):
Bachelor degree in business administration or similar
Growth Outlook (2002 – 2012):
10 – 20%
