A Fresh Perspective in Corporate Communications: How Academic Knowledge Breeds Success
Transitioning from an educational background to a career in corporate communications can seem daunting for new graduates, but this is where they shine. Many of the skills and knowledge developed in the classroom are transferable, bringing fresh perspectives to your organization.
Even as they begin their careers, many new grads possess the abilities and tools that marketing professionals use daily, making them valuable assets to your team.
Essential Personal Skills for Success
Transitioning from academics to a communications role involves leveraging a range of personal skills that new graduates often have.
Time Management
Everyone has dealt with some sort of time management, especially when it comes to academic work and deadlines. Juggling different tasks and managing multiple projects is essential in the fast-paced world of marketing. Tools like Excel or simple to-do lists can help keep new hires stay organized and on track.
Willingness to Learn
Communications is such an evolving field that it requires a constant hunger to learn. The good news is that because new grads have an academic background, they are already familiar with the process. Industry trends and new and improved tools are a constant when it comes to the marketing field. Being proactive in seeking out these changes increases the effectiveness of your marketing outreach and visibility for both the individual and the company.
Facing Adversity
Adversity is a part of life, and this is particularly true in public relations. New graduates must be prepared to handle various challenges that come their way. While PR is often rewarding, it can also become overwhelming at times. When faced with conflict, the key is to finish stronger. Academic experiences, including challenges with coursework, classmates, or teachers, provide valuable lessons that translate well to PR. It is essential to build resilience and maintain a positive attitude in the workplace.
Leveraging Industry Tools and Platforms
Another key to successfully transitioning from academia to a career in corporate communications is understanding key management tools and platforms. These tools are not only valuable for academic purposes but are essential in the marketing industry. To be fully prepared for an early career, it is important to become familiar and flexible in learning your organization’s resources, even if they are different than ones you have used in the past. Some of the most popular tools are as follows.
Trello/Asana
Some top management platforms in the industry include Trello and Asana. Each platform offers a free starter account to allow people to get familiar with their features. Both Trello and Asana provide calendar and task organizers for all things marketing, making it easier than ever to manage tasks and collaborate with team members. Using one of these platforms to organize daily, weekly, and monthly tasks for a variety of subjects or clients is a great way to stay up do date on progress and collaborate effectively on assignments.
Muck Rack
For those familiar with Muck Rack, media relations becomes second nature. Muck Rack is a platform that pulls from hundreds of media databases to aid in finding all the information needed. It offers the opportunity to pitch to media outlets, develop detailed media lists, and create a network of professionals. Managing press coverage has never been easier. Muck Rack also offers numerous certifications that can help new grads set themselves apart and elevate their skills.
MailChimp
MailChimp is an excellent platform for executing successful email campaigns. It enables marketers to create and set up visually appealing email newsletters to garner successful communication that engages key audiences. MailChimp is user-friendly, easy to learn, and is a skill that can be mastered to establish a position as a successful marketer.
Applying Academic Knowledge to Real-World Campaigns
Practical Experience
The best way to prepare for a career is to gain practical experience. Whether through classes, internships, or projects, hands-on marketing campaign work will provide perspective into corporate communications. It is important to understand the industry and its demands, and learning firsthand is the most effective way.
Conclusion
Preparation is crucial when it comes to marketing strategies and the field of corporate communications and new grads who are willing to learn, flexible in their approach, and keep an open mind, can be perfect fits for organizations.
New graduates often enter the workforce with a strong academic foundation, yet there is always room for further growth and refinement. Encouraging them to expand their knowledge will significantly enhance their readiness for the industry. By recognizing and leveraging their existing skills, these individuals can thrive in corporate communications. Supporting their development will not only benefit them but also strengthen the overall team.
For more information on how Chartwell Agency can assist with your marketing efforts through our team of young and experienced team members, contact us today!
