For the past six weeks, I have been working as a PR intern at Whistle PR, exploring whether public relations is a career I would like to pursue – and I can confirm that it is!
During this time, I embraced Whistle’s positive outlook and inclusive working environment. Initially, I found my tasks challenging, but with perseverance and support from my colleagues, I became more comfortable in a fast-paced PR agency. Through a variety of assignments, I gained skills I hadn’t anticipated. To name a few: I now have greater confidence in using Microsoft Excel, writing photography briefs, conducting research, and navigating various software in day-to-day tasks – all skills I’ll carry forward into my next role.
What did I really enjoy?
Being part of a pitch process was incredibly rewarding. Conducting research on prospective clients and seeing ideas from the brainstorm come together in a polished deck was a great experience. Although the process had its challenges, seeing how it evolved into a content-rich yet succinct pitch made me appreciate the precision PR requires. More broadly, sitting in on meetings and learning about the range of services Whistle PR offers gave me insight into the multifaceted nature of PR agencies.
Additionally, delving into ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) and observing the inaugural Fort Dunlop sustainability network meeting was fascinating, especially as I initially had only a basic knowledge of ESG criteria. Seeing Whistle’s commitment to encouraging other tenants to consider their ESG policies exemplified the agency’s dedication to helping the Fort Dunlop building achieve a more sustainable future.
Learnings from my experience
From PR terminology to client knowledge and the differences between working from home and the office, the lessons I’ve learned at Whistle are comprehensive as I start my career. My main takeaway is the importance of asking for help when unsure of how to approach a task; colleagues were always willing to answer questions. I found that whenever I asked for help, I worked more efficiently and produced higher-quality work. As an intern, I appreciated that no one expected me to hit the ground running – they understood that it would take time for me to become more effective with PR tasks.
From the start, it was clear that PR lives up to its reputation as a dynamic, fast-paced industry. You constantly need to be adaptable and ready for the unexpected, whether assigned to a new client, project, initiative, or brainstorm. The thoughtful nature and attention to detail involved in the work make it highly rewarding.
What will I take forward into my career?
One key takeaway was learning about the potential benefits that AI tools could offer PR agencies. Discussing “dream AI” capabilities with colleagues was eye-opening, as I began to understand AI’s potential impact across industries. Its integration into workplaces and various sectors will be ground-breaking in the years to come, assisting with creativity and streamlining administrative tasks. I will carry forward the insights I gained into my next role.
Additionally, observing client meetings provided invaluable insight into how PR agencies should interact with their clients. The team’s efforts to know their clients well showed me the importance of treating clients like colleagues. For example, discussions about an in-person meeting at the client’s worksite highlighted that relationships are the cornerstone of success – whether with clients, journalists, or colleagues.
What’s next?
I will cherish my time at Whistle PR and the opportunities it gave me to progress my career. Just before my final week, I received a job offer from a tech PR agency, and I am convinced that my internship was the decisive factor. Most of the interview questions focused on my internship experience, and being able to discuss it in detail impressed my interviewers, demonstrating my understanding of PR. In short, gaining experience in PR, whether through work experience or internships, is invaluable. It helps you stand out in a competitive job market and demonstrates a clear understanding of the industry and role.
Writing this blog has shown me that no two days are the same at Whistle PR. From working with Whistle’s B2B and B2C clients, I will carry the skills I’ve gained into my next role. However, as I reflect on the past six weeks, the quarterly walk at Sutton Park and the weekly team meetings are the memories that stand out most. Getting to know everyone through these wellbeing initiatives highlighted the healthy working environment at Whistle PR, and I feel truly privileged to have been an intern here.
Authored by Theo Barnes, PR Assistant
