This week I completed work experience at Higginson Strategy. I didn’t know much about Public Relations before joining the team so this placement was such a useful opportunity to find out exactly what it is and how it works.
I did lots of interesting tasks that aligned with my passion for making the world a better, more sustainable place. For example, I created an Instagram and LinkedIn post about climate change driving the UK heatwave and how we can reduce our carbon footprint in everyday life. I also found breaking news stories relevant to Higginson’s ecological clients so that the team could write reactive comments on behalf of the client, outreach to journalists and gain coverage in publications. This really gave me an insight into how campaigners or businesses can ensure they are a leading voice in the media on an issue particularly relevant to their aims.
On Tuesday, I joined a team meeting in which we discussed next steps for Empower; Higginson Strategy’s pro-bono campaign group currently focused on the need for free period products in the UK. I also worked on an international political campaign that combines both public affairs work alongside PR.
Later in the week, I had the privilege of compiling a list of potential sponsors to join in supporting Preet Chandi MBE’s journey to the Arctic, following her 2021 solo-expedition to Antarctica. She’s now hoping to set the record for the first woman to complete a solo expedition to the North Pole.
The highlight of my experience has been the support the entire team has given me. There’s always been someone to answer my questions and point me in the right direction. Also, the hot chocolate is really good here which is a bonus!
I would definitely recommend work experience at Higginson Strategy to anyone interested in learning about the world of PR and Public Affairs.
5 key takeaways from my experience:
- You don’t have to be at the forefront of the action to make a difference. No one thinks of the PR or public affairs team when a policy shifts or they see a headline on a national newspaper. But without that “behind-the-scenes” action, these conversations wouldn’t be getting the attention they deserve.
- Being tech-savvy is a key skill in many careers today and I learned how to find credible sources efficiently.
- Enjoying your career is essential.
- It’s important to have a good work-life balance.
- Reflecting on any work experience you do is super useful as it helps you figure out what you enjoyed and why that matters.
Lora Slavkova, Intern at Higginson Strategy