In the fast-moving world of media and communications, having a strong CV is key to standing out. Whether you’re aiming for a job in journalism, public relations, or digital media, your CV is often the first impression a potential employer has of you. It’s your chance to show off your skills, experience, and why you’d be a great fit for the role.
The media and communications field is diverse, with many different types of jobs. Some involve writing stories, managing social media, or handling a company’s public image. No matter what position you’re targeting, your CV should highlight what makes you the right person for the job. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to structure your CV in a way that grabs attention and increases your chances of landing the job you want.
Overview of Public Relations, Media, and Communications Roles
The media and communications field offers a wide variety of roles, each with its own set of responsibilities and skills. Whether you prefer writing, managing public perception, or creating digital content, there’s a role for you. Let’s look at some of the most common positions in this field and what each one involves.
Journalism
Journalism focuses on researching, writing, and reporting news. Journalists work for newspapers, TV stations, websites, or magazines. They need to have excellent writing skills and the ability to work under tight deadlines. Curiosity and attention to detail are also key traits. Journalists dig for facts, interview sources, and tell stories in a clear and engaging way.
Key skills: Strong writing, research, ability to meet deadlines, critical thinking.
Public Relations (PR)
Public relations professionals manage a company’s image and handle communication with the public. They create press releases, respond to media inquiries, and often plan events to help promote their organization. In PR, you need to be good at managing relationships and controlling how a company is viewed by the public.
Key skills: Relationship-building, strategic communication, crisis management, writing press materials.
Digital Media
Digital media roles are all about creating and managing content online. This can include handling social media, writing blog posts, or producing digital marketing campaigns. Those in digital media need to be creative and up-to-date with trends across different platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. Success in this field often depends on how well you can engage an audience online.
Key skills: Content creation, social media management, creativity, digital marketing strategies.
Corporate Communications
Corporate communications involves managing how a company communicates both internally (with employees) and externally (with the public). This role may include writing newsletters, handling corporate announcements, and managing media relations. You need to be organized and strategic in how you deliver messages to ensure consistency and clarity.
Key skills: Clear writing, strategic communication, media relations, internal messaging.
Each of these roles requires specific talents, from storytelling and creativity to managing public perception and crafting strategic messages. No matter which path you take in media and communications, the ability to communicate clearly and effectively is always at the heart of the job.
Formatting Your CV for Public Relations, Media, and Communications
When writing your CV for media and communications roles, it’s important to structure it in a way that highlights your skills, experience, and achievements clearly. Here’s how to format key sections to make a strong impact.
Contact Information
Your contact section is a simple but essential part of your CV. It should include your name, phone number, professional email address, and location (city, country). You can also add links to relevant online profiles or portfolios, especially for media and communications roles where showcasing your work is important.
Here’s what to include:
- Name: Use your full name as it appears on official documents.
- Phone Number: Ensure it’s a number where you can easily be reached.
- Email Address: Use a professional email address that includes your name (e.g., john.doe@email.com), avoiding casual or unprofessional addresses.
- Location: City and country are enough; no need for a full address.
- LinkedIn Profile: If you have an active LinkedIn account, include the link to your profile.
- Portfolio/Website: If you work in content creation, journalism, or any role where your portfolio is relevant, include a link to your online portfolio.
Example:
John Doe
Phone: +123 456 789
Email: john.doe@email.com
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/johndoe
Portfolio: www.johndoeportfolio.com
Professional Summary
Your professional summary is the first thing potential employers will see, so it needs to be short and impactful. Aim for 2-3 sentences that give a quick overview of your background and what makes you a great fit for media and communications roles. Tailor this summary to the specific role you’re applying for. Focus on your years of experience, key areas of expertise (like media strategy or public relations), and your career goals. Conclude with a statement about what you aim to achieve in your next role. This shows that you’re focused on growth and have clear professional aspirations.
Example:
Creative media professional with over 6 years of experience in journalism and corporate communications. Skilled in content creation, media relations, and managing successful PR campaigns. Eager to bring my strategic communication expertise to help drive brand awareness and audience engagement.
Tips for Writing Your Professional Summary:
- Be Specific: Avoid vague statements. Instead of saying you’re “good at communication,” mention specific skills like “media relations” or “crisis management.”
- Tailor to the Role: Customize your summary for each job application. Highlight the skills and experience most relevant to the position you’re applying for.
- Keep It Concise: Your professional summary should be short and to the point. Aim for a few impactful sentences rather than a long paragraph.
- Use Action Words: Start sentences with strong action verbs like “experienced,” “skilled,” or “proven” to create a confident tone.
Key Skills
This section should highlight the skills most relevant to media and communications roles. Think about the tools and abilities you’ve used in past jobs and align them with what employers in this field are looking for. Here are a few examples of in-demand skills:
- Copywriting: Writing clear, engaging content for articles, blogs, and press releases.
- Media Strategy: Planning and executing media campaigns that reach target audiences.
- Social Media Management: Handling social platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to increase engagement and brand awareness.
- Stakeholder Management: Building and maintaining relationships with clients, media outlets, and internal teams.
- Content Creation: Producing visual and written content for various digital platforms.
Including a variety of skills relevant to the job you’re applying for helps show employers that you have a wide range of capabilities that are suited to the role.
Work Experience
List your work experience starting with the most recent position, and focus on the jobs most related to media and communications. Use bullet points to keep things clear and easy to read. For each role, mention the main responsibilities, but also focus on achievements and results you contributed to. Mention when you started and ended your job, using the month and year. For example, “June 20XX – Present.”
Example:
Public Relations Specialist | XYZ Media Agency | Nairobi June 20XX – Present.
- Managed press releases and media inquiries to enhance company’s public image.
- Coordinated media events and campaigns, resulting in a 15% increase in client media coverage.
- Developed strategic communication plans that improved brand engagement by 25%.
Make sure to include details that show what you accomplished in each role rather than just listing tasks.
Achievements
Quantifiable achievements are a key part of standing out on your CV. Use numbers, percentages, or specific outcomes to show the impact of your work. Did you increase social media followers? Boost brand visibility? These measurable results demonstrate the value you bring.
Examples:
- Increased social media engagement by 40% over six months through targeted content creation.
- Secured media placements in top-tier publications, increasing brand awareness by 20%.
- Led a PR campaign that boosted client visibility by 30% within three months.
By including numbers and results, you give employers a clear sense of your accomplishments and how you can contribute to their team.
Education Section
A strong educational background plays a significant role in showcasing your qualifications for media and communications positions. Employers often look for candidates with relevant degrees and certifications, as these indicate that you have the foundational knowledge and specialized skills required for the job.
Importance of Relevant Education
For roles in media, public relations, and communications, degrees in fields such as media studies, journalism, communications, or public relations are highly valuable. These programs provide a solid foundation in communication theories, media ethics, and content creation strategies. If you have a degree in one of these fields, it demonstrates that you are well-versed in the industry’s core principles and practices.
Even if your degree is not directly in media or communications, you can highlight any related coursework or projects that align with the role you’re applying for.
Example:
Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies
University of Nairobi, Nairobi
Graduated: May 2017
Relevant coursework: Media Ethics, Digital Communication, Public Relations
Certifications: Enhancing Your Credibility
Certifications provide a great way to further boost your qualifications. Industry-specific certifications show that you have up-to-date knowledge in certain areas, especially when it comes to skills like digital marketing, PR management, or media relations.
Some widely recognized certifications for media and communications roles include:
- Certified Digital Marketing Professional
- Advanced Media Relations Workshop
- Content Strategy Certification
These certifications not only reflect your commitment to professional growth but also make you more competitive by proving that you possess specialized, in-demand skills.
Example:
Certified Digital Marketing Professional
HubSpot Academy
Completed: March 2020
Including education and certifications in your CV helps employers understand your qualifications and commitment to the field, giving them confidence in your ability to succeed in the role.
Additional Sections to Strengthen Your CV
Including additional sections in your CV can provide a more comprehensive view of your skills and experiences, making you stand out to potential employers. Here’s how to effectively use these sections:
Portfolio or Work Samples
Why Include Them: Portfolios and work samples offer concrete evidence of your abilities and accomplishments. They allow employers to see firsthand the quality of your work and your contributions to previous projects.
How to Include Them:
- Portfolio Link: Provide a link to an online portfolio where employers can view your published articles, media campaigns, digital content, or other relevant projects. This could be a personal website or a platform like Behance or LinkedIn.
- Work Samples: Highlight specific examples of your work that demonstrate your skills. For instance, if you’ve written an impactful article or led a successful social media campaign, include these samples to showcase your expertise.
Example:
Portfolio Link
Your Online Portfolio
Includes: Articles on digital media trends, PR campaign case studies, and video content examples.
Work Samples:
- Article: “The Impact of Social Media on Modern Marketing” – A feature article published in an industry-leading magazine.
- Campaign: “Holiday Sale 2023” – A social media campaign that led to a 30% increase in brand engagement.
Languages and International Experience
Value of Multilingual Abilities: Being fluent in multiple languages is a significant advantage in media and communications roles. It allows you to engage with a broader audience and manage communications across different regions.
Value of International Experience: Experience working in or with international markets shows that you can navigate diverse cultural contexts and handle global communication challenges effectively.
How to Include Them:
- Languages: List any languages you speak and your proficiency level. This information is valuable for roles that require interacting with a global audience or working in multilingual environments.
- International Experience: Mention any work or projects involving international teams or markets. This demonstrates your capability to handle cross-cultural communication and expand global reach.
Example:
Languages:
- Spanish: Fluent – Able to create content and communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking audiences.
- French: Intermediate – Basic communication skills for French-speaking regions.
International Experience:
- Global Campaigns: Managed a campaign for a global brand, collaborating with teams across Europe and Asia.
- Cross-Cultural Communication: Experienced in handling media relations in diverse cultural contexts, enhancing global outreach efforts.
Reference Section
Including a reference section or stating that references are available upon request is a professional touch. It shows that you have credible sources who can vouch for your skills and experiences.
How to Include Them:
- References Available Upon Request: If you prefer not to list specific references directly on your CV, simply include a line stating that references are available upon request. Make sure to have a list of references ready in case an employer asks for them.
Example:
References Available Upon Request
By adding these additional sections, you provide a fuller picture of your qualifications and make it easier for potential employers to see the value you bring to the role.
Hobbies Section
Including hobbies in a CV for Public Relations, Media, and Communications roles can be beneficial but should be done thoughtfully. Here’s a breakdown of when and why to include them:
When to Include Hobbies:
- Relevance to the Role: If your hobbies align with the skills and qualities needed for the job, they can enhance your CV. For instance, if you run a blog, engage in public speaking, or are involved in media-related projects, these hobbies demonstrate a genuine passion for the field and can be relevant to PR, media, or communications roles.
- Showcase Skills and Traits: Hobbies that reflect skills applicable to the role can be valuable. For example, if you volunteer as a media coordinator for a non-profit, it showcases organizational and communication skills. Hobbies that demonstrate creativity, leadership, or teamwork can also be beneficial.
- Fit with Company Culture: In more creative or informal work environments, showing your personal interests can help demonstrate how well you might fit into the company culture. It can offer a glimpse into your personality and how it aligns with the company’s values.
When to Omit Hobbies:
- Irrelevant or Generic Hobbies: If your hobbies do not add value to your application or do not relate to the job, it’s better to focus on more relevant sections. Generic hobbies like “reading” or “traveling” might not make a strong impact unless they have a direct connection to the role.
- Space Constraints: If your CV is already full with relevant experience and skills, it may be better to prioritize those sections. Hobbies should not overshadow key professional details.
How to Include Hobbies:
- Brief and Relevant: If you choose to list hobbies, keep it concise and ensure they are directly relevant to the role. For example:
- Example: “Active Blogger on Media Trends” – Demonstrates ongoing engagement with industry developments.
- Example: “Volunteer Event Organizer” – Shows organizational skills and experience in managing media events.
- Placement: Place the hobbies section towards the end of your CV, after the professional experience and skills sections. This ensures that the core professional details are prioritized.
Customizing Your CV for Public Relations, Media, and Communications Roles
Tailoring your CV for specific job roles is a crucial step in making a strong impression. Here’s how to effectively customize your CV to match the job you’re applying for:
Customizing Your CV to Specific Job Descriptions
Why It Matters: Customizing your CV ensures that it aligns closely with the job requirements outlined in the job listing. This approach helps your CV stand out to both human reviewers and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) that scan for relevant keywords.
How to Do It:
- Analyze the Job Description: Carefully read the job listing to understand the key skills, experiences, and qualifications the employer is looking for.
- Match Your Skills and Experience: Highlight the skills and experiences in your CV that directly correspond to those mentioned in the job description. This alignment shows that you are a strong fit for the role.
- Use Keywords from the Job Listing: Incorporate specific keywords and phrases from the job description into your CV. This practice helps your CV pass through ATS filters and demonstrates that you meet the job criteria.
Example:
If the job listing emphasizes “strategic communication” and “media relations,” make sure these terms appear in your CV, particularly in the skills and work experience sections.
The Importance of Matching Skills, Experiences, and Keywords
Skills and Experiences: Focus on showcasing skills and experiences that are most relevant to the role. For instance, if the job requires expertise in media strategy and crisis communication, emphasize your experience in these areas and provide examples of how you’ve successfully used these skills.
Keywords: ATS often screen CVs for specific keywords related to the job. By including these keywords, you increase the chances of your CV being seen by hiring managers. Pay attention to terms and phrases used in the job listing and ensure they are reflected in your CV.
Example:
If a job description highlights “content creation” and “stakeholder engagement,” your CV should feature these keywords prominently, especially in your professional summary and key skills sections.
Example of Customizing a Professional Summary for a Corporate Communications Role
Generic Professional Summary: “Experienced media and communications professional with over 5 years in content creation and public relations. Proven success in developing engaging content and managing media campaigns.”
Customized Professional Summary for Corporate Communications: “Seasoned corporate communications specialist with over 5 years of experience in managing internal and external communications for major organizations. Skilled in crafting clear and effective corporate messages, overseeing media relations, and enhancing employee engagement through strategic communication initiatives. Excited to bring my expertise in corporate messaging and stakeholder management to Safaricom Limited to support and elevate their communication strategies.”
By customizing your CV in this way, you demonstrate a focused interest in the specific role and show that you have the skills and experience the employer is seeking. Customizing your CV not only improves your chances of getting noticed but also increases the likelihood of securing an interview.
Conclusion
A well-structured, customized CV is essential for standing out in the competitive field of media and communications. By clearly showcasing your skills, experiences, and achievements, and customizing your CV for each application, you increase your chances of catching the eye of employers and securing interviews.
Remember to keep your CV updated and adjust it according to industry trends and job-specific requirements. This proactive approach will help you stay relevant and effective in your job search
