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PA Public Affairs Specialist
Overview
Public Affairs Specialists conduct media relations, community relations, and internal information activities, including arranging interviews and serving as spokespersons. They write and edit news releases and feature stories, capture still and video imagery, design publication layouts, and maintain websites.
Core Skills
- technical and non-technical writing
- content creation and editing
- digital media production
- visual communication and design
- social media management
- public speaking and briefing
- stakeholder and media relations
- crisis communication support
- photography and videography
- research and fact checking
Civilian Software & Tools
- Adobe Creative Cloud software
- Adobe InDesign
- Adobe Photoshop
- Canva
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
Civilian Career Paths
- Public Affairs
- Training and Education
- Administration
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design Using Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Certified Professional in Print & Digital Media Publication Using Adobe InDesign · Funded
- Adobe Certified Professional in Digital Video Using Adobe Premiere Pro
Career Growth
- Communication Management Professional (CMP)
- Digital Ad Operations (DAOC)
- Digital Media Buying and Planning (DBPC)
Also Common
- Certified Technology Specialist (CTS)
What the Work Involves
- Respond to requests for information from the media or designate an appropriate spokesperson or information source.
- Plan or direct development or communication of programs to maintain favorable public or stockholder perceptions of an organization's accomplishments, agenda, or environmental responsibility.
- Post and update content on the company's Web site and social media outlets.
- Write press releases or other media communications to promote clients.
- Establish or maintain cooperative relationships with representatives of community, consumer, employee, or public interest groups.
Related Occupations
- Public Relations Managers
- Advertising and Promotions Managers
- Market Research Analysts and Marketing Specialists
- Writers and Authors
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into PA. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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