1020. A Day in the Life: What's It Really Like to Be a Public Relations Professional?

“There are a lot of young people that are entering the field of public relations that still do not have a clue what it is that we really do. It’s really important to understand that public relations is a field that offers a lot of variety because there are so many industries that you can go into: from fashion to the film business and countless others. If you’re interested in business, you can join a company as a part of their corporate communications department. If you like giving back to the world, you can join a nonprofit and be their public relations director. I think it’s important for young people to study what the field is, and to recognize that there’s a big difference between the publicist you see on TV versus real public relations professionals.”

Alexis Davis Smith is the president and CEO of PRecise Communications, an award-winning marketing communications firm. With more than 20 years of experience and a reputation as a trusted communications strategist, Alexis is a leader in Atlanta’s public relations industry and a national voice for multicultural marketing. She is responsible for creating breakthrough, strategic communications programs for major consumer brands, including Coca-Cola, Toyota and Pfizer. A Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, native and proud graduate of Florida A&M University, Alexis has a passion for women and giving back to the next generation of public relations professionals and entrepreneurs.