How to Become a Publicist
Step 1: Understand the job description and responsibilities of a Publicist
What does a Publicist do?
A A publicist is a person whose job is to generate and manage publicity for a company, a brand, or public figure - especially a celebrity - or for a work such as a book, film, or album. Publicists are public-relations specialists who have the role to maintain and represent the images of individuals, rather than representing an entire corporation or business. Publicists are also hired by public figures who want to maintain or protect their image. Publicists brand their clients by getting magazine, TV, newspaper, and website coverage. Most top-level publicists work in private practice, handling multiple clients. The term publicist was coined by the legal scholar Francis Lieber to describe the public-like role of internationalists during the late nineteenth century. Publicists are sometimes called flacks which traces back to Gene Flack, who was a well-known movie publicist in the 1930s.
Most top-level publicists work in private practice, handling multiple clients.
In the world of celebrities, unlike agents or managers, publicists typically take a monthly fee for serving a client (whereas agents and managers tend to take a percentage of their client's gross income).
Publicists can be on a local, regional or national level.
For example, a small restaurant seeking only local publicity would want a local publicist – whereas an author seeking nationwide visibility would want to search for a national publicist.
A publicist manages campaigns and performs other public relations functions.
Step 2: Learn best tips to become a Publicist
Best tips for those who want to become a Publicist
Here are some tips to become a Publicist.
Don’t be afraid to take a unique path to your goal.
Just because you walk a celebrity down a red carpet does not mean they are your new friend.
Don’t ever ask to take a picture with a celebrity while you’re working.
Don’t invite your “friends” to your red carpet event.
Create a press release with all the key details a journalist will need to cover your story.
Step 3: View best colleges and universities for Publicist
Best colleges and universities for Publicist
- Butler University
- Carroll College
- Cooper Union
- High Point University
- Princeton University
- Providence College
Step 4: Think about whether is it worth to be a Publicist
Is being a Publicist Worth it?
Behind every successful business, celebrity and notable figure, there’s a publicist working to make sure that they get media coverage and maintain their reputations.
The Quintessential Gentleman asked one of the industry’s leading publicists about his role as a Lifestyle Publicity Director and the ins and outs of the PR world.
The intern will work closely with the SVP, Director, Manager & Publicist of the WarnerMedia Ad Sales team, supporting WarnerMedia's ad sales department.
Solid relationships with national and local media outlets within the Country Music industry and mainstream music/entertainment industry including publicists,….
After sexual assault allegations were leveled against Nashville publicist Kirt Webster, public relations industry group PR News has rescinded a Publicist of the Year award that was given to Webster, citing the allegations, the Tennessean reports.
Step 5: Prepare relevant skills for being a Publicist
What skills do you need to be a Publicist?
In order to succeed at this level, when working with both management positions and positions more junior, a variety of skills are required. A strong grasp of the following skills is needed to perform this role: Crisis Communications, Media Relations, Public Relations, Public Speaking. You would need to be proficient in the following: Public Relations (PR) Software. Although there may be many skills for success in this role, some companies may be willing to provide on the job training if you excel in other areas.
A publicist's salary varies based on the area of expertise, level of experience, education, certifications, and other factors.
Many publicists develop and write their own press kits, so strong grammar and writing skills are essential.
Although the majority of publicists hold regular office hours, they must be available to their clients when needed.
Use creativity to stand out from the competitionThrough humorous, informative anecdotes plus user-friendly tips and exercises, Be Your Own Best Publicist will arm you with the confidence, knowledge and tactics to help you market yourself in the workplace.Jessica Kleiman and Meryl Weinsaft Cooper have a combined 30-plus years experience in the public relations industry, having worked both in-house and on the agency side.
If you want to become an entertainment publicist, you have to possess the education, experience and skills to succeed in the cutthroat entertainment industry.
Step 6: View average salary for Publicist
How much does a Publicist make?
The average salary range for a Publicist is from $47,331 to $62,061. The salary will change depending on your location, job level, experience, education, and skills.
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Step 7: Find relevant Publicist jobs, and apply.
Looking for Publicist jobs?
Here are some Publicist jobs in the United States.