Cory Stewart, account supervisor at Cookerly PR, has a variety of corporate and agency experience. But more importantly, Cory graduated a month before September 11 and the dot–com bubble had already burst – both of which severely crippled the economy.
But wait! How did he find a job in a bad economy? He kept his options open.
Cory gave me the following advice for job hunting, and I thought I’d pass it along to all of you!
• Be open to internships!
It may be close to impossible to find a great job in today’s market, but tons of agencies and companies are looking for interns. It’s one of the best ways to get your foot in the door and prove you’re indispensible.
• Don’t limit yourself to an agency!
Even getting an internship at a big firm will require impressive, prior internship experience, because as the economy gets worse, your competition gets tougher. Look at large corporations, marketing firms, small businesses, professional services firms (e.g. legal, accounting, financial services, etc.), non-profit organizations and legislative staffs. Also, don’t limit your search to just public relations internships or entry level public relations positions. Try seeking out other applicable opportunities that might help you land that PR job later down the road – e.g. marketing communications, corporate communications, public affairs and advertising. While it may not be exactly what you had in mind, the experience you gain will make you more well–rounded for when you do apply for that dream job.
• Keep your options open, take any experience that can be later marketed to PR recruiters and learn as much as you can while you’re there!
(Cory has worked at Fleishman–Hillard International Communications, Compass Bank’s Corporate Marketing Division and currently works at Cookerly Public Relations.)
Thanks Cory! I know a lot of us seniors are really freaking out about the economy so this is definitely helpful!!
Yes, thanks, Cory! This is some great information and encouragement. Like Carrie said, we’re all freaking out and hoping there’s some light at the end of the tunnel. Thanks for encouraging all of us to keep our options open! See you on Wednesday!
You’re welcome. Enjoyed meeting some of the PRSSA folks last week. Good luck in your jobs searches and don’t get discouraged. Just keep after it.