Digital and Technical Writing










	Communication Officer
	Description A communication officer coordinates the promotion of products, services and public image of an organization which may include the publication of news and press releases, brochures and/or related materials. Alternative Titles Communication Coordinator Communication Manager Information Officer Media Relations Officer Public Relations Officer Publicity Officer Tasks and Duties Communication officers may do some or all of the following: develop communication objectives and communication plans identify users, and decide what to communicate to them and the best forms of communication to use arrange publicity for the organization through different outlets compose, edit, design, record, produce publications such as newsletters, leaflets and brochures write news releases, speeches and articles edit and organize the publication of documents write and implement communication or promotional plans keep staff and clients up to date with company news provide the public with information when it is requested coordinates and approve the work of artists, photographers and printers and monitors work in progress assist with web development and technological enhancements negotiating rates and orders advertising for print, television or radio Skills Communication officers need to have: excellent communication skills (both written and oral) time-management and organizational skills (not only for yourself working on many projects at once but also the time of others) flexibility (there are many different crisis happening at once) computer, desktop publishing skills, experience in web design creativity to communicate in different ways excellent interpersonal skills the ability to form and maintain relationships through teamwork and networking Knowledge Communication officers need to know about: the organization they are working for, how business is done and what services the organization offers how to use different media for different purposes how to develop a communication plan design and printing methods Personal Qualities Communication officers must work well under pressure and be able to juggle several projects at once. They are generally outgoing and comfortable meeting new people. Due to the nature of the work they must be accurate, flexible, enthusiastic, and responsible. Education/Experience The job requires a four-year college degree in Professional Writing, Journalism, Communications, or Public Relations. Job experience is often required for a communications officer position. Experience can be gained through internships and volunteer work. Equipment Equipment a communication officer uses includes a computer, fax machine, cellphone, camera, and various office equipment. Hours Communication officers often work long hours to meet deadlines and complete the large workload. Salary Salary varies, but communication officers usually earn between $31,000 and $66,000 per year. More information can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website under earnings. Contact with People "Communication officers work alone on some tasks, but they are often part of a project team and a communication team who they work closely with. They deal with a wide range of people from all levels of the organization. They interact with other relevant organizations, the public and the media, including television, radio and newspaper reporters. They also spend time working with designers and suppliers." (Kiwi Careers, Contact with People, 2004) Job Outlook "Employment of public relations specialists is expected to increase faster than the average for all occupations through 2012. The need for good public relations in an increasingly competitive business environment should spur demand for public relations specialists in organizations of all types and sizes. The value of a company is measured not just by its balance sheet, but also by the strength of its relationships with those upon whom it depends for its success. And, in the wake of corporate scandals, more emphasis will be placed on improving the image of the client, as well as building public confidence. Employment in public relations firms should grow as firms hire contractors to provide public relations services rather than support full-time staff. In addition to those arising from employment growth, job opportunities should result from the need to replace public relations specialists who take other jobs or who leave the occupation altogether." (U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2004-2005) Information taken from: U.S. Department of Labor Kiwi Careers UK's official graduate careers website Page created by Christine Kaye Last updated: 11.13.05