Do I have an interest in what's going on around me? PR practitioners need to be aware of current trends and issues. Keeping up to date with the world around you is vital when advising clients or brainstorming campaign ideas. See Be news aware below.

Do I have good communication skills? PR practitioners must be confident talking to a wide range of people – for example, your role may involve presenting to clients, dealing with journalists and meeting with groups of people important to your organisation or client. You also need to have excellent writing skills as you could be producing press releases, annual reports, articles and newsletters.

There are certain essential qualities and skills that you will need to get ahead in PR. These include:

• Good verbal and written communication skills
• An ability to multi task and manage your time effectively
• A good level of organisation and planning
• An interest in all forms of media
  Flexibility