I’ve been wanting to share some interviews with those who are part of the Pursuit Communications universe.

In this first interview, I spoke to our current Intern Lani Beaven.

The Pursuit internship program began in 2010 since then over a dozen individuals have come to Pursuit, to learn what life is like working in a boutique public relations agency.

What did you expect from your internship? & what was the reality of your internship experience?

LB: “I guess heading into an internship in the PR industry you expect all of the glitz and glam that you see on shows like The Hills, however, it was a bit more of a rude awakening. Instead, you find yourself working, for literally nothing. But the old saying goes – you’ve gotta give a little to get a little!

I expected to walk into this industry with an abundance of knowledge that I had accumulated over my University degree and to be a professional from the get-go.

The reality of my internship experience, so far, has proved how much further I need to grow and how much more I need to learn as an individual. It’s showing me that a lot of time, effort and hard work needs to be put in, in order to be successful in this industry.”

Benefits of participating in an internship program?

LB: “Brooke is an amazing mentor and great role model for young people wanting to make their way into the PR/media industries. (edit: aww shucks Lani!)

It’s amazing to see someone flourish in success and I can honestly say that the benefits of participating in an internship program are endless. Real life industry experience, work history to list on your resume, starting to network and build relationships within the industry and the added bonus of motivation to succeed!”

Where do you see the PR industry moving in the next three to five years?
LB: “I remember reading in one of my textbook’s that PR industry professionals are being told to forget everything they ever knew about the way traditional PR works. The industrialisation of the web and social media has revolutionised the way the world and the PR industry operates.

How So?

LB: “I can see the industry moving into a more popular field, which we can already see happening and the services that PR professionals offer greatly expanding to include things like social media, web development, video/photography..”

Any tips for those considering starting an internship program?

LB: “One of the greatest tips that someone once told me was to start participating in internship programs as soon as you begin your degree!

 

 
By the time you graduate you would have an abundance of practical experience to list on your resume.Make sure that you have a resume that stands out, above and beyond everyone else. We are working in a creative industry so show a little bit flair, add some , maybe a pop of scented paper (thank you, Elle Woods!).
Research local businesses in your area and make sure you know what the company does and how they operate. Find who their PR guru is and get in contact with them.
Don’t be afraid to attend networking events, this is where you will meet people who can offer you support in landing an internship that you’ll love.”

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I’d like to thank Lani for her contributions to Pursuit week in and week out.

To my previous interns, Pursuit’s success is your success. You’ve all contributed in your own way and for that, I thank you.

If you’d like details on the Pursuit Communications story, I’m available for speaking opportunities. CLICK HERE for more information.