Preparing for Careers in Communications

Communication may be an art possessed by the gifted – but that does not mean you cannot enhance and perfect your own communication skills, and meet or beat the standards set by naturally gifted communicators. The expanding range of communications courses and specializations on offer at universities around the world reflects the popularity of careers in communications, and the diversity of opportunities in this industry.

For those studying communications, at undergraduate or postgraduate level, it’s never too soon to start developing your professional communications portfolio and preparing for entry into this highly competitive jobs market. First of all, you must know that you are not supposed to be an eloquent orator or perfect writer to pursue a communications degree, though a genuine interest in the art of storytelling is of course essential. Also, you must be aware of the broad scope of the communications industry. Communication is not just about talking to others. As a communications graduate, you could go on to write for newspapers and magazines, broadcast on radio and TV, make your name in the new media sphere, edit books and texts, shoot documentaries and feature films – and much more.

It is useful to have a specialization in mind when you enrol in a communications degree, including some idea of where you want to go after graduation. If you have not thought about possible careers in communications, the early stages of your degree are the best time to do so. It’s important to take up as many challenges and opportunities as possible, to raise your market value after graduation. Here are my tips on how to start preparing for careers in communications while still studying.

“Read everything under the sun.”  That’s what my teacher told me when I was completing my degree in mass communication. I was never able to live up to his expectation of reading everything, from  a newspaper telling hard news to billboards trying to convince you to buy things you don’t need. However, I did understand the importance of what he was saying. Whether you want to become a writing professional or join the broadcasting world, it is essential to have a good grip on copy writing. This skill develops with reading: the more you read, the better you can write. Don’t assume that when you finish your degree you will automatically have these essential communication skills. The only thing you will have then is a piece of paper certifying completion of your degree. The rest is up to you.