Slipper socks and success posts: my first week as a WFH PR intern

Holyrood PR BlogIntern Programme

After a challenging 2020, my 2021 is off to a flyer, thanks to Holyrood PR.

By Lucy Donaldson

AS A YEAR to graduate, 2020 was a weird one. After finishing up my Masters in September, I found myself catapulted into an ultra-competitive job market with minimal experience.

Following what felt like a million applications for internships and jobs, my saving grace came in the form of the lovely Emma from Holyrood PR who offered me a 4-week placement starting in January.

Having been dead set on becoming a journalist, my decision to work in PR was a relatively recent career change.

I was introduced to the world of public relations through my MSc in Journalism, Media and Communications at the University of Glasgow, and ultimately decided a career in PR was my perfect fit – combining my love of writing, creativity and knack for people.

However, due to the pandemic, I missed out on a large portion of the teaching and practical skill-building advertised by my course and felt very underprepared for a career in the industry.

While initially feeling like a deer caught in the PR headlights, one week in to my internship and I think I’ve found my feet.

From the get-go, I was warmly welcomed by the team and given a terrifying amount of responsibility. No messing, my first task was writing a media release for CALA Homes (East). Armed with my fluffiest slipper socks, a cup of tea and a case of imposter syndrome, I got stuck in.

My first week has been mainly orientated around property PR, completing two press releases for CALA and a community engagement proposal for Dundas Estates. Property is something I didn’t have much prior knowledge of, so this has been a big (and very useful) learning curve.

So far, I’ve drafted media releases and success posts, created Canva graphics and presentations, and brainstormed ideas for some of Holyrood’s biggest clients. I’ve learned about SEO, how to deal with journalists at an informative lunch and learn session with the team, and what truly makes for great PR.

This internship has already taught me so many things, the most important one being that I’m far more capable than I think.

If my first seven days are anything to go by, I’m in for an exciting four weeks and a whole lot more learning.

Interested in an internship at an award-winning PR agency?

Fill out the form below or send your CV to recruitment@holyroodpr.co.uk.