Management skills, communication skills, being people friendly and excellent writing skills are some of the criteria needed to become a publicist.
We spoke to publicist Catherine Lyn Scott about her job role and what’s needed to be a good publicist. You probably won’t be able to steal her job, but if you are witty, hard-working and have excellent management skills, you may just be able to tweet her for a job (fingers crossed).
Job Title: Publicist
Company: London Flair PR
What does your job role entail?
My job really is diverse, but the main part of it is creating press coverage for films, celebrities or events. It also involves building the profiles of actors and celebrities.
Describe your working day or week?
Every day or week is completely different. We could be working on a press campaign for an actor in a TV series of film, arranging for them to attend events or attending television and radio interviews or photo shoots with them. When we work with films, we could be attending film festivals or even the Oscars with a film, working with film press to create reviews and interviews and so much more. With regards to events we could be inviting celebrities and media to attend, or running the red carpet at a film premiere.
What key skills do you need to do your job?
Excellent writing skills, communication skills, people skills, management skills and computer skills.
What made you decide to go for this job role?
I was an actress for years and also had a background in corporate public relations. It was whilst working at the BAFTA’s in Los Angeles where I had to look after Sean Penn, that his publicist said I was a natural and it gave me the idea to become a publicist.
Best part of your job?
Helping people’s careers move up to the next level, it is very satisfying.
Worst part of your job?
I can honestly say there isn’t one, but it can be tough if you have spent all day in the office and have to go to an event in the evening. I wouldn’t suggest this job if you are afraid of hard work or working long hours.
Most memorable moment at work?
When a film we were working on was nominated for an Oscar and a client we were working with won an EMMY.
If I’m choosing a course to study, what type of course suits this job best?
A PR degree.
Does work experience really help you to get the dream job?
Yes, apply for internships to get experience. This job is very sought after, we receive at least 3 job applications a day. You are going to be taken much more seriously if you have some work experience, especially when applying for a job. Serious contenders don’t go travelling in the summer holidays, they use that time to get work experience.
Give us a tip on how to steal your job.
I own the company, so it may be a little hard to steal my job 😉
Follow at @londonflairpr