This week, we caught up with one of our account managers, Meaghan Moroz, to talk about her career in public relations.
Where did you go to school and what did you study?
I studied political science and history at the University of Western Ontario. I also completed my Master of Arts in Journalism at the University of Western Ontario.
How did you decide to pursue a career in Public Relations?
I decided during my Masters that while I loved journalism, I was more interested in the PR side of telling a story. I enjoy the challenge of thinking of new and creative ways to share my client’s messages and I knew working at an agency would be the best fit for me because I love the fast paced environment. I took the opportunity to meet with various PR professionals while I was still in school so that I could understand the skills they would look for when I graduated.
Where was your first job and how did you get it? How did it lead you to your current position?
My very first job was at a horse back riding stable – although there is not a strong connection between that and working in PR it certainly taught me a lot about hard work! My first PR related role was working as an intern at a large corporate communications firm.
What is the best advice you would give to individuals aspiring to get into PR?
My best piece of advice for individuals aspiring to get into PR is to always be over prepared and think one step ahead. If you’re going for an interview, take writing samples, know the agency’s clients, recent work they have produced and any new industry trends. If you’re asked to complete an assignment or writing test don’t simply complete the task, ask yourself what you can do to make your work stand out, think outside the box and take it above and beyond what is required.
What is the best advice you would give to individuals looking for internships?
I started in PR as an intern and the experience and opportunities it provided were instrumental in helping me grow personally and professionally. I would recommend that anyone looking for or entering into an internship really take the opportunity to push yourself into trying as many new and challenging projects as you can. Working at an agency is exciting and fast paced, take the opportunity to learn as much as you can from as many people as you can!
What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt to date (in regards to your career)?
Network, network, network! From personal career growth to business development having a strong, solid base of media and industry contacts is so beneficial in PR.
If you were on a desert island what is the one item you could not live without?
Coffee!!
