After graduating from Sheffield Hallam University, Sophie Howard joined Cannon PR in November 2014:
Despite studying Public Relations at university for three years, as well as having an interest in the media from an early age, I had absolutely no idea what to expect when I first started working at Cannon PR in November.
This is my first graduate job; I am a Junior Account Executive! Every time I tell people my job role I’m always filled with pride. But I am always asked the question: “So what do you do, exactly?”
Well, no day is the same when you work in public relations, which is what I love about my job. One day I can be writing press releases and case studies for clients; the next day I might be conducting phone interviews or attending meetings with existing and potential clients.
I remember in my first week at Cannon PR. I was asked to travel to Doncaster to do some research on an old building. I got the train and loaded up Google maps so I could find the local library and the said building, so I could take photographs. It was the simplest of tasks but I was terrified yet excited. This was my first task, out of the office, researching something I had no idea about; and I loved it.
Since then I have worked on a variety of different projects and events, created too many press releases to keep count of and worked with all of our clients to create content, copywriting, campaigns and social media support. Some days are hectic and stressful, others are easy going and interesting.
Thinking back to my first day I remember how nervous I was. I thought everything I had learnt at university would somehow leave my little knowledge collection and I would be sat slack jawed and confused at how to even start a press release. Now, six months later, I love coming into work every day and feel I have found my work balance.
There is no better feeling than seeing your work published in print or online. The first time a press release of mine was published I felt happy, proud and gobsmacked that my work was being read by hundreds, if not thousands of people. Six months into my job the same feeling exists. If this is what working in PR feels like then bring on the next six months!