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Are you graduating from a PR program this spring? I remember that nervous feeling all too well. Graduation is near, and you’re not sure what will happen next.  How or where will you get an internship? What do you really want to focus on: media relations, social media content, account management or creative strategy? What is it like to work at a PR agency?

While I am new to Edelman, I definitely understand the feelings and questions that accompany a looming graduation. Everyone wonders how they’ll adjust to the working world, and where their passions and unique attributes lie. At Edelman, our interns get the chance to jumpstart their careers in PR. Being new to the workplace and to PR, you may be  unsure of what to expect, but don’t fret. While things at Edelman change daily, we can give you an idea of your day-to-day.

  • Learn, Learn, Learn. Apply your learning in the real world! Our interns write media materials, plan events, interact with press, develop social media content and support clients day-to-day.  You’re going to learn how to use new tools, discuss emerging trends with thought leaders and have the opportunity to test your ideas –  just a few of the  reasons why Edelman is recognized as one of Canada’s 50 Most Engaged Workplaces and one of Canada’s Best Workplaces, too!
  • Not work 9-5. It’s true – agency hours are unpredictable, but we believe in a healthy work-life balance. So while your hours can be a little unpredictable, the energy and excitement of the work and the positivity of team spirit can be incredibly fulfilling.
  • See PR in its entirety. Event planning, media tours and innovative campaigns are supported by a lot of behind-the-scenes work. You’ll play an important role in program planning and execution, giving you the opportunity to demonstrate your attention to detail, writing skills and strategic thinking.
  • Give a lot, and get a lot back!  Interns are encouraged to ask questions, share ideas and volunteer for projects. While not all internships promise full-time jobs, a positive recommendation from your manager will go a long way to help grow your PR career.
  • Gain new insights into you. At the end of your internship, you’ll have a better understanding of who you are – your strengths, areas where you may need to improve and the type of management styles that work best for you. These insights will help you make the right career moves, right from the start.

And for those who still have that nervous feeling, we all have been there!

Because of this, we pooled our office for some perspectives on “things I know now that I wish I knew then.” Have a read below!

  • “I learned that I am not expected to be an expert on everything.  I will be most successful when I am confident in what I have to offer, but equally confident in identifying where I need to reach out to others for involvement.  The success of a project doesn’t rely on me. It relies on the team I was foresighted enough to pull together when I was honest about where my own needs and gaps lie. ”

                          – Lee Cappel, Senior Account Director, Health

  • “Your fellow interns are great resources – befriend one another, share experiences and work on projects together. In this case, all ships rise with the rising tide.”

                           – Erica Adelson, Account Executive, Consumer Marketing

  • “Think of each mistake or challenge as an opportunity for learning and don’t spend time or energy allowing those mistakes to diminish your confidence and growth. Don’t beat yourself up over the little things. They happen to everyone and are part of the journey.”

                            – Allison Daisley, Account Director, Consumer Marketing

  • “Don’t be shy or intimated due to lack of experience – be confident and ask for what you want.”

                            – Melanie Preece, Office Service & New Business Coordinator

  • “Valuable ideas can come from anyone, anywhere, anytime… so never feel like you’re too inexperienced to take a chance and share something you believe in.”

                            – Jennifer Cartwright, Director, Editorial Services

  • Good luck with internships, careers and everything!