Nurturing the Next Generation

As an agency, we’re passionate about supporting the next generation of PR professionals - helping aspiring communicators develop their own skills as well as nurturing their own genuine love for our industry.  Which is why we’re committed to regularly inviting enthusiastic, talented and downright lovely people to spend some time with us and gain valuable insight into the fabulous world of PR.

Our latest blog comes from Maisie, who is currently studying for her A levels, and who spent a week with the Zen team learning all about agency life…

“I’m Maisie, a 17 year-old student on my final day of a brilliant week’s work experience here at Zen.  I have enjoyed every minute, surrounded by an amazing team of friendly, supportive, and knowledgeable individuals who went above and beyond to help me with any questions I had.  It has been beneficial as I have gained a deeper insight into what PR is like, as well as what a ‘typical’ day in an agency is like.

I first stumbled across ‘PR’ following an online quiz entitled ‘what career is right for me?’.  Yes, I was relying on Google to decide what I do for the rest of my life! I thought a career in journalism would be interesting, but I wasn’t totally convinced it was for me.  I enjoy English Language, Psychology, German, Business, and Politics, but I saw this long list of potential subjects as a problem.  How on earth was I supposed to narrow it down?  This week has taught me that with PR you don’t need to.  It’s such a diverse profession with a variety of opportunities.  It captures the creativity of writing, the psychology underpinning marketing tactics, the importance of reputation and good publicity in business, and more.

The team at Zen has enabled me to get a taste of the different specialist sectors, whether that be research for Harriet for her upcoming book or forward feature research for Guy for trade clients.  A highlight of my work here would have to be helping Jen with research for a significant and amazing environmental campaign focused on saving the rhino from poachers after their horns (Rhinos’ Last Stand).  I learnt about the importance of media coverage and the hard-work that goes into creating something that could potentially be seen by millions.  PR is more important than ever before, as we are steered by a society heavily influenced by social media.  The team at Zen has taught me about the importance of reputation management and the impact that it has on its clients.

Finally, I would like to thank everyone at Zen for expanding my knowledge of PR, and most importantly a thoroughly enjoyable week – it was great!”

By Maisie Smith